The first step in joining the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) is determining if the Coast Guard is right for you. You should research what your options are and understand what life will be like in the Coast Guard. The USCG job of protecting America involves highly sensitive information and deals with National Security issues. Do you meet the requirements? Coast Guard recruitment includes several requirements:
- You must be a U.S. citizen or a resident alien.
- You must be between the ages of 17-27 (up to age 32 if attending an ‘A’ school) for Active Duty. (If you are 17, you’ll need parental consent.)
- Reservists must be between 17-39. Prior service personnel should contact their local recruiter for specific programs.
- You must have a high school diploma. GEDs are accepted in very rare circumstances.
- You can have no more than two dependents.
In addition to the above requirements:
- You will have to pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test with a minimum score of 54.
- You will have to pass a military entrance medical exam.
- You will undergo a credit check.
- You with have to pass security clearance check.
- You will have to pass a criminal record review. (2nd and 3rd degree misdemeanors and or felony convictions disqualify you from joining the US Coast Guard)
If you meet the requirements for the Coast Guard, are the Coast Guard’s Core Values of Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty in line with your beliefs?