Intro
Discover the National Guard age limit and eligibility requirements. Can you still join if youre over 35? Learn about the maximum age limit, exceptions, and requirements for enlistment, including education, citizenship, and physical fitness. Explore your options and find out if you can still serve in the National Guard.
If you're considering joining the National Guard, you may be wondering about the National Guard age limit. The age limit for joining the National Guard varies depending on several factors, including your prior military service, education, and career goals. In this article, we'll explore the National Guard age limit and provide guidance on whether you can still join.
What is the National Guard Age Limit?
The National Guard age limit is 35 years old for those who have never served in the military before. However, if you have prior military service, you may be eligible to join the National Guard even if you're older than 35.
Age Limits for Prior Military Service
If you have prior military service, your age limit for joining the National Guard may be higher than 35. Here are some general guidelines:
- If you have prior military service and are under 60 years old, you may be eligible to join the National Guard.
- If you have prior military service and are between 60-64 years old, you may be eligible to join the National Guard, but you'll need to receive a waiver.
- If you have prior military service and are over 64 years old, you may not be eligible to join the National Guard.
Can I Still Join the National Guard if I'm Over the Age Limit?
If you're over the National Guard age limit, you may still be able to join, but you'll need to receive a waiver. Waivers are considered on a case-by-case basis and are typically granted for individuals who have unique skills or qualifications that are in high demand.
To be eligible for a waiver, you'll need to meet certain requirements, such as:
- Having a critical skill or qualification that is in high demand
- Being able to serve for at least 3 years
- Meeting the National Guard's physical fitness and medical standards
- Passing a background check
What are the Benefits of Joining the National Guard?
Joining the National Guard can provide a wide range of benefits, including:
- Education assistance: The National Guard offers education assistance, including tuition reimbursement and student loan forgiveness.
- Career advancement: The National Guard offers career advancement opportunities, including training and certification programs.
- Health insurance: The National Guard offers health insurance, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Retirement benefits: The National Guard offers retirement benefits, including a pension and healthcare coverage.
- Camaraderie: The National Guard offers a sense of camaraderie and esprit de corps that is hard to find in civilian life.
How Do I Join the National Guard?
To join the National Guard, you'll need to follow these steps:
- Meet the eligibility requirements: You'll need to meet the National Guard's eligibility requirements, including age, citizenship, and education.
- Take the ASVAB test: You'll need to take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test to determine your career options.
- Choose your career: You'll need to choose a career path, including a Military Occupational Specialty (MOS).
- Enlist: You'll need to enlist in the National Guard, which typically involves a 6-year commitment.
- Complete Basic Training: You'll need to complete Basic Training, also known as Basic Combat Training (BCT).
Conclusion
If you're considering joining the National Guard, you may be wondering about the National Guard age limit. While the age limit is 35 for those who have never served in the military before, you may still be eligible to join if you're older than 35 and have prior military service. Additionally, you may be able to receive a waiver if you're over the age limit. Joining the National Guard can provide a wide range of benefits, including education assistance, career advancement, health insurance, retirement benefits, and camaraderie.
National Guard Gallery
What is the National Guard age limit?
+The National Guard age limit is 35 years old for those who have never served in the military before. However, if you have prior military service, you may be eligible to join the National Guard even if you're older than 35.
Can I still join the National Guard if I'm over the age limit?
+If you're over the National Guard age limit, you may still be able to join, but you'll need to receive a waiver. Waivers are considered on a case-by-case basis and are typically granted for individuals who have unique skills or qualifications that are in high demand.
What are the benefits of joining the National Guard?
+Joining the National Guard can provide a wide range of benefits, including education assistance, career advancement, health insurance, retirement benefits, and camaraderie.