How to Get Into the Army With a Criminal Record

Entering the military with a criminal record is not easy, but it's possible.

People with criminal records often find that their pasts limit their job opportunities. Depending on the offenses they have committed, a career in the United States Army is still a possibility for those with a criminal record. Enlisting in the Army with a criminal record is no different from enlisting without a criminal record, with one exception. A potential recruit who has been convicted of crimes must file a request that the Army waive its prohibition on recruits with criminal records.

Instructions

1. Speak with a recruiter to determine whether or not your criminal offenses are waiverable. Minor offenses, such as traffic tickets, are of no concern provided you have fewer than six. Misdemeanors and offenses committed while under the age of 18 do require a waiver. With rare exception, felonies cannot be waived.

2. Talk to a lawyer about having convictions expunged or otherwise cleared by the court. Having convictions listed as cleared, expunged or vacated can help you in the waiver process.The Army considers your waiver request on a "whole person" basis.

3. Ask your recruiter to file the waiver in the proper channels. Depending on your criminal record, the waiver should be filed with a recruitment battalion commander or the Commanding General of the Army Recruiting Command.

Tips & Warnings

• Since the waiver itself counts as an appeal, there is no appeal process if your waiver is declined. Do everything in your power to make a positive case in your initial appeal, as it is your only opportunity.

References

• Talk Left: Army Accepts More Recruits with Criminal Records
• Record Gone: Join Military With Criminal Record