Can felons join the military?

Asked by: Jeremie DuBuque  |  Last update: May 14, 2025
Score: 4.7/5 (53 votes)

Generally, felons and those with several convictions can't join the Army, but waivers are available in some cases. The offenses and moral behavior-related issues that cannot be waived include: If you are under civil restraint, including parole, confinement, or probation.

Does the US military accept felons?

A potential recruit may still have the ability to join the military with a felony on their criminal record. Officially, recruiting felons is prohibited by U.S. Code, Title 20, Section 504. In reality, however, convicted felons may still join the military after obtaining special waivers.

What disqualifies you from enlisting in the military?

All interested individuals must clear a criminal background check and have no felony convictions. Individuals who have been convicted of a felony as an adult or juvenile for offenses involving violence, domestic violence, illegal drugs or sexual misconduct will be disqualified.

How to get a felony waiver to join the military?

To be eligible for a moral waiver, you must:
  1. Have a felony conviction that is eligible for a waiver.
  2. Provide documentation, such as court records and police reports.
  3. Undergo a thorough review by the military.

Can a felon get military clearance?

Any person convicted of a felony cannot obtain or renew a security clearance unless you are granted a waiver due to mitigating conditions of your conviction. These conditions include: Your criminal behavior and conviction are not recent. Your crime was an isolated incident.

Can I join the military with a felony/criminal background?

44 related questions found

What jobs can a felon not have?

They're typically restricted from credentials for occupations in the Department of Public Health's jurisdiction or in real estate, the distribution of drugs or pharmaceuticals, pest control, embalming and insurance sales.

What is the easiest branch to join with a felony?

What Is The Easiest Military Branch To Get Into With A Criminal Record? In general, it's easier to join the Army or Navy if you have a criminal record. The most challenging military branch to get into with a criminal background is the Marine Corps.

Can you join the military instead of going to jail?

A great amount of anecdotal evidence exists that suggests a number of people have performed military service instead of doing time in prison, but from a legal perspective, this is prohibited.

Can a felon get a passport?

Yes, a convicted felon can usually get a passport, but it depends on the felony and other factors: Felony typeSome felonies can automatically disqualify you from getting a passport, including: International drug trafficking Trafficking minors "Sex tourism" offenses Treason.

Who cannot join the military?

Generally, felons and those with several convictions can't join the Army, but waivers are available in some cases. The offenses and moral behavior-related issues that cannot be waived include: If you are under civil restraint, including parole, confinement, or probation.

Can MEPS see your medical records?

Yes, they are allowed to look at any medical records that can demonstrate a preexisting condition, many of which occur well before someone is 18. Yes, if there is a disqualifying condition it would keep you from joining.

What fails a military background check?

You may be disqualified from a high security clearance job if your record contains any of the following: a single serious crime, a series of lesser offenses, embezzlement, income tax evasion (or other financial crimes), sexual offenses, crimes related to excessive alcohol or drug consumption, a history of personality ...

How far back does a military base background check go?

All investigations cover the last 10 years of an individuals' background and consist of checks of national records and credit checks. They can also include interviews with individuals who know the candidate. Determining whether to grant a security clearance is based upon these guidelines: Allegiance to U.S.

What will disqualify you from the military?

Medical Disqualifications
  • Vision Disqualification. ...
  • Dental Disqualification. ...
  • Ears and Hearing Disqualification. ...
  • Allergic Conditions Disqualification. ...
  • Skin Disqualification. ...
  • Psychiatric Disorders.

What stops you from joining the Army?

Anyone wanting to join the army has to pass a tough medical . People with heart problems, back problems, hearing or vision problems, among other things, will struggle to make the grade. But a range of other conditions can also affect candidates' chances of being accepted.

At what age will the military not accept you?

The Army and Navy accept applicants up to age 35; the Air Force accepts recruits prior to their 28th birthday, and the Marine Corps age limit is 29.

How long do you go to jail for not joining the Army?

Penalties for Failing to Register

If required to register with Selective Service, failure to register is a felony punishable by a fine of up to $250,000 and/or 5 years imprisonment.

Does FBI hire felons?

FBI Eligibility

Be a U.S. citizen. Public record must be in good standing with no felony convictions. Adherence with FBI drug policy. Pass urinalysis and background investigation.

What's the best career for a felon?

12 highest-paying jobs for felons
  1. Digital marketer. ...
  2. Freelance copywriter. ...
  3. Freelance designer. ...
  4. Painter. ...
  5. Maintenance worker. ...
  6. CNC machinist. ...
  7. Car sales executive. ...
  8. Entrepreneur.

How to get a felony waiver?

Waivers must be approved by an officer who is ranked as a brigadier general or above, and recruits must have written recommendations and endorsements from community leaders illustrating they would be a good candidate for military service.

Do felonies go away after 7 years?

Dismissed felony charges can usually be sealed or expunged right away. In California, a felony conviction stays on your record forever if you do not get it expunged. You may be eligible for an expungement if you did not serve time in state prison.

What states are felon friendly?

These Are the States Most Likely to Hire Former Felons
  • California.
  • Colorado.
  • Kansas.
  • Maryland.
  • Massachusetts.
  • Montana.
  • Nevada.
  • New Hampshire.

Does FedEx hire felons?

Yes, FedEx has been known to hire felons in the past and currently. However, that does not mean all felons can get a job with the company. Like all employers, FedEx wants to protect itself from negligent hiring lawsuits. The company might be negligent if it hires a felon who goes on to re-offend on company time.