Can I join the military with a old felony?

Asked by: Brady Wolf  |  Last update: February 7, 2025
Score: 4.4/5 (50 votes)

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.

Can felons join the military in 2024?

If I have a previous felony or a conviction, can I still join? Generally, felons and those with several convictions can't join the Army, but waivers are available in some cases.

What military branch accepts felons?

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.

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 Join the Military? (Understanding the Rules and Options)

21 related questions found

What is a felony waiver?

When you are facing a felony charge for the first time, there are alternatives to a prison sentence if you are facing a felony conviction. A First Time Felony Waiver gives a judge the option of imposing a lighter sentence than it otherwise might have to by law.

Can a convicted felon get a passport?

Who can and cannot get a passport? According to USA Today, most felons can get a passport without a problem. This is assuming a person is not currently awaiting trial, on probation or parole or otherwise banned from leaving the country.

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.

Which military branch is most lenient on criminal records?

1. U.S. Army: Sometimes considered more lenient because they may allow more waivers for misdemeanors and minor non-traffic offence charges. 2. U.S. Navy: May allow waivers for enlistment based on minor non-traffic offences and misdemeanors, dependent on individual assessment.

Can you join the military instead of going to jail?

With the exception of the United States Navy, each of the four branches of service has a regulation that specifically prohibits military service in lieu of incarceration or other forms of sanction for criminal events. Army Regulation 601-201 (4-35) states: Recruiting personnel will not— a.

Does the military look at your driving record?

Arrest records may appear to military agencies conducting a background check. However, misdemeanor and especially felony records are of greater importance. Civil infractions and non-criminal citations, such as traffic tickets, usually won't appear in these checks.

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 ...

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.

How much does the Air Force pay?

The average U.S. Air Force salary ranges from approximately $34,000 per year for Firefighter to $138,127 per year for Lieutenant. Average U.S. Air Force hourly pay ranges from approximately $13.55 per hour for Guest Service Agent to $35.42 per hour for Aircraft Mechanic Supervisor.

Will the military ever accept felons?

United States military recruiting standards vary according to branch; however, most felonies are excluded from the felony waiver. A felony that occurs below the age of criminal responsibility is more likely to be waived; likelihood decreases if the felony occurred as an adult.

What is the hardest military branch to get into?

Marine Corps - The Marine Corps is often considered the toughest branch of the military both physically and mentally. It has the most rigorous basic training, known as boot camp, which lasts 13 weeks. Marines are trained not only physically but also mentally, to have a "first to fight" mindset.

Can I join the military with a bad record?

While a criminal record can pose significant challenges to joining the military, it does not necessarily disqualify an individual from serving. The waiver process allows those who have made mistakes to demonstrate their rehabilitation and commitment to serving their country.

What states follow the 7 year rule background checks?

The following states limit criminal background checks to a period of seven years:
  • California.
  • Kansas.
  • Maryland.
  • Massachusetts.
  • Montana.
  • New Hampshire.
  • New Mexico.
  • New York.

What background checks are done for military enlistment?

This entails looking into a range of factors including your legal record, financial history, education, employment, personal references, and in some cases, a check of your internet activity—particularly if you're interested in a position that requires security clearance.

Do background checks go back 30 years?

Code 1786.18(a)(7), California mandates that a conviction can't be reported when it's older than seven years. Arrests that didn't lead to convictions can't be reported regardless of how much time has elapsed. However, pending criminal cases can be reported.

Can a felon go on a cruise?

Cruise Line Background Checks

As a result, you could be denied boarding if you are a sex offender or have a violent felony conviction on your record, such as for armed robbery.

Can you fly with a felony charge?

Can Convicted Felons Travel? Yes, but it depends on your country of citizenship. If you're a US citizen, then yes. You can travel to most countries worldwide as long as you have a passport and a visa (if necessary).

Can felons go to the Caribbean?

Caribbean. Most Caribbean nations, excluding Jamaica, will not limit entry for those with criminal records.