How to Reenlist in the US Military

Every year many men and women serving in the US military are given the option to reenlist. The choice is made easy for some because of the many benefits afforded by the military. All branches of the U.S. military offer a vast array of incentives to attract and retain quality service members.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Reenlist in the U.S. Military

1. Visit your Army Career Counselor or Recruiter to determine if you meet the Army's criteria for reenlistment. Understand there is a specific time frame within which you must apply to qualify to reenlist.

2. Check with your Army Career Counselor about the available career opportunities. It may be necessary for you to consider retraining in a more relevant specialty in order to advance your career in the military.

3. Read the reenlistment eligibility code on your military discharge documents. The assigned number determines if you are eligible to reenlist in any military service. An Army RE Code 1 indicates you can reenlist without any problem, where a Code 4 will most likely prohibit you from enlisting in any branch of military service.

4. Take your separation papers from your previous military service to show the RE Code associated with your discharge. Individuals separated from one service may be eligible to reenlist in another branch of the military. Check with a Recruiter in the service you desire to enter to determine if you are eligible.

5. Discover your reenlistment options, which are often based on the length of your previous service. Each branch of service has distinct criteria for qualifying to reenlist and the choices that can be made at the time of reenlistment. Ask your Army Career Counselor about the BEAR (Bonus, Extension and Retraining) Program.

6. Consider reenlisting in the Reserves if you're not ready to take on another tour of active duty. Your NCO or career counselor can guide you through the steps to changing status.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with your NCO or a recruiter to learn what incentives the various branches are offering for reenlistment with your experience.
• An RE Code of 2 or 3 may indicate ineligibility for reenlistment or limited eligibility--depending on the branch of military service. The Air Force will not accept the reenlistment of an RE Code 2, but the Army may accept the reenlistment.
• Read and clearly understand the reenlistment contract before signing. Make sure you and your Recruiter or Counselor are in agreement with your plans for future military service.