5 Ways To Get A National Guard Age Waiver

Enlisting in the National Guard can be a rewarding and challenging career path, offering individuals the opportunity to serve their country, gain valuable skills, and receive education benefits. However, for those who are interested in joining, there is a maximum age limit that can be a barrier to entry. The standard age limit for joining the National Guard is 35 years old, but with a waiver, it's possible to enlist at an older age. Here are 5 ways to get a National Guard age waiver:

Understanding the Age Waiver Process

The National Guard age waiver process can be complex and involves several steps. The first step is to meet with a recruiter who will assess your qualifications and determine whether you are eligible for a waiver. If you are deemed eligible, your recruiter will guide you through the application process, which includes submitting paperwork, taking a physical fitness test, and passing a background check.

Meeting the Basic Requirements

To be eligible for a National Guard age waiver, you must meet the basic requirements for enlistment, which include:

Being a U.S. citizen or national
Being between the ages of 17 and 35 (with some exceptions for older candidates)
Having a high school diploma or equivalent
Scoring well on the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test
Passing a physical fitness test
Passing a background check

Waiver Options for Older Candidates

If you are older than 35, you may still be eligible for a National Guard age waiver. Here are 5 waiver options for older candidates:

1. Prior Service Waiver

If you have prior military service, you may be eligible for a prior service waiver. This waiver is available to individuals who have previously served in the military and are looking to re-enlist. To qualify for a prior service waiver, you must have:

Served in the military for at least 2 years
Been honorably discharged
Met the basic requirements for enlistment

2. Medical Waiver

If you have a medical condition that prevents you from enlisting, you may be eligible for a medical waiver. This waiver is available to individuals who have a medical condition that is deemed waivable by the military. To qualify for a medical waiver, you must:

Have a medical condition that is deemed waivable
Meet the basic requirements for enlistment
Pass a medical examination

3. Moral Waiver

If you have a moral issue that prevents you from enlisting, you may be eligible for a moral waiver. This waiver is available to individuals who have a moral issue that is deemed waivable by the military. To qualify for a moral waiver, you must:

Have a moral issue that is deemed waivable
Meet the basic requirements for enlistment
Pass a background check

4. Education Waiver

If you have a high level of education, you may be eligible for an education waiver. This waiver is available to individuals who have a bachelor's degree or higher. To qualify for an education waiver, you must:

Have a bachelor's degree or higher
Meet the basic requirements for enlistment
Pass a background check

5. High Demand Skills Waiver

If you have a high demand skill, you may be eligible for a high demand skills waiver. This waiver is available to individuals who have a skill that is in high demand by the military. To qualify for a high demand skills waiver, you must:

Have a high demand skill
Meet the basic requirements for enlistment
Pass a background check

Applying for a National Guard Age Waiver

If you believe you are eligible for a National Guard age waiver, the first step is to meet with a recruiter. Your recruiter will guide you through the application process, which includes:

Submitting paperwork
Taking a physical fitness test
Passing a background check
Meeting with a waiver review board

Waiver Review Board

The waiver review board is a panel of experts who review your application and determine whether you are eligible for a waiver. The board will consider your qualifications, skills, and experience, as well as your motivation for joining the National Guard.

Conclusion

Obtaining a National Guard age waiver can be a complex and challenging process. However, for those who are willing to put in the time and effort, it can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. If you are interested in joining the National Guard but are over the age limit, consider speaking with a recruiter to determine whether you are eligible for a waiver.

We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Have you or someone you know obtained a National Guard age waiver? What was your experience like?