Requirements for Joining the Army National Guard

The Army National Guard is the ground forces component of the National Guard. The National Guard can be called to duty by the State for domestic service or the President for service abroad. Candidates must meet a few requirements for joining the Army National Guard.

Age

Persons must be between the ages of 17 and 40 to enlist in the Army National Guard. Candidates under 18 must get parental permission.

Education

A high school diploma is preferred, but an equivalent credential such as a GED is also accepted.

Health

Candidates must be in good health and capable of passing a fitness test. Persons with major physical defects cannot enlist.

Citizenship

Persons born in the United States, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia can enlist as well as those born overseas at a military base or to U.S. born parents who still have citizenship. Persons born abroad who have obtained U.S. citizenship may also enlist but may have limited security clearance.

Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude Battery Exam

Candidates must obtain a minimum qualifying score on the Armed Forces Vocational Aptitude Battery exam.

References

• Army.com Requirements - Joining