How to Join the Naval Reserves

Joining the Naval Reserves is a way to take part in the military while still retaining a mostly civilian life. It requires minimum service of one weekend a month and two weeks a year, and may involve deployment in a time of war. There is more than one way to join the Naval Reserves.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Go to a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) for the enlistment process. You can find a Military Entrance Processing Station through the Navy Reserves' website: navyreserve.com.

2. Pre-screen with a recruiter. This is a preliminary physical exam, and the recruiter will fill out a basic medical report, which must be approved for the process to move forward.

3. Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test, which will help to determine if you are a good candidate for the Reserves, and what work you are best suited to do. You can study for the test in advance using one of many study guides found in bookstores.

4. Provide all necessary documentation. MEPS will need to see: a driver's license, social security card, and direct deposit form 1199. If applicable to your circumstances, it will also require college transcripts, notarized copies of your marriage certificate, divorce decree and/or separation order, an affidavit of support from your parents, notarized copies of your minor children's birth certificates, court documents regarding child support, proof of citizenship, information about an enlisted spouse, and copies of lease agreements for dependents living off of government quarters.

5. Report for a physical evaluation. You will be required to give your medical history, undergo standard hearing, vision and flexibility tests, as well as provide urine and blood for testing.

6. Meet with a career classifier. The career classifier will help you select which career you want to undertake within the Navy Reserves.

7. Undergo a pre-enlistment interview. The interview will involve questions about your background to ensure that you are well-suited for the Navy Reserves, and include any additional testing required for your chosen career.

8. Sign your enlistment contract and undertake an oath of enlistment. This will be done with your Naval recruiter.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure to copy all paperwork, documents and orders provided to you during the process. You may be required to consult and/or produce these at a later time.

Resources

• Ways to Join the Navy Reserves
• Navy Reserve Locations

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