5 Steps To Join The Us Coast Guard

The United States Coast Guard is a unique branch of the military that operates under the Department of Homeland Security during peacetime, but can be transferred to the Department of the Navy during wartime. With its rich history and diverse range of responsibilities, joining the Coast Guard can be a rewarding and challenging career path for those who are passionate about serving their country and protecting its citizens. However, the process of joining the Coast Guard can be complex and requires careful planning and preparation. In this article, we will outline the 5 steps to join the US Coast Guard and provide detailed information on each step.

Step 1: Meet the Basic Requirements

To be eligible to join the Coast Guard, you must meet certain basic requirements. These include:

• Being a US citizen
• Being between the ages of 17 and 27 (with some exceptions for older candidates)
• Being a high school graduate or having a GED certificate
• Scoring a minimum of 40 on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test
• Passing a physical fitness test
• Meeting the Coast Guard's body fat percentage requirements
• Not having any felony convictions or serious misdemeanors
• Not having any medical conditions that would prevent you from serving

It's also important to note that the Coast Guard has strict grooming and tattoo policies, so if you have any tattoos or piercings, you may need to remove them before joining.

Step 2: Choose Your Career Path

The Coast Guard offers a wide range of career paths, known as "ratings," which are similar to jobs in the civilian world. Some of the most popular ratings include:

• Aviation Maintenance Technician
• Boatswain's Mate
• Coast Guard Diver
• Information Systems Technician
• Marine Science Technician
• Port Security Specialist

Each rating has its own unique requirements and qualifications, so it's essential to research and choose a rating that aligns with your skills, interests, and career goals.

Step 3: Apply to the Coast Guard

Once you've chosen your career path, you can start the application process. This typically involves:

• Creating an account on the Coast Guard's website
• Filling out an online application
• Submitting required documents, such as your high school diploma and transcripts
• Taking the ASVAB test
• Completing a medical examination
• Passing a background check

You can also visit a Coast Guard recruiter in person to get more information and guidance on the application process.

Step 4: Attend Basic Training

If your application is accepted, you'll be invited to attend Basic Training, also known as "boot camp." This is an 8-week training program that teaches you the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the Coast Guard. During Basic Training, you'll learn about:

• Coast Guard history and core values
• Military protocol and procedures
• Physical fitness and combat training
• First aid and emergency response
• Teamwork and leadership

Basic Training is challenging, both physically and mentally, but it's a critical part of your development as a Coast Guardsman.

Step 5: Complete Advanced Training

After completing Basic Training, you'll attend Advanced Training, also known as "A-school." This is a specialized training program that teaches you the skills and knowledge you need to perform your specific rating. A-school can last anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on your rating.

During A-school, you'll learn about:

• Your rating's specific skills and procedures
• Equipment operation and maintenance
• Safety protocols and emergency procedures
• Leadership and teamwork

Once you've completed A-school, you'll be assigned to a Coast Guard unit, where you'll begin your career as a Coast Guardsman.

Coast Guard Image Gallery

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does it take to join the Coast Guard? A: The entire process, from application to enlistment, can take anywhere from a few months to a year or more, depending on your qualifications and the Coast Guard's needs.

Q: What is the Coast Guard's mission? A: The Coast Guard's mission is to protect the public, the environment, and the United States' economic and security interests in the maritime domain.

Q: Can I join the Coast Guard if I have a medical condition? A: It depends on the type and severity of the condition. The Coast Guard has strict medical standards, but some conditions may be waived or accommodated.

Q: Can I join the Coast Guard if I am a non-US citizen? A: No, you must be a US citizen to join the Coast Guard.

Q: How much does it cost to join the Coast Guard? A: There is no cost to join the Coast Guard. In fact, the Coast Guard provides a salary, benefits, and education assistance to its members.

We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive understanding of the 5 steps to join the US Coast Guard. If you're interested in pursuing a career in the Coast Guard, we encourage you to research further and reach out to a recruiter for more information.