7 Ways Felons Can Join The Military

Joining the military can be a life-changing decision for anyone, but for felons, it can be especially challenging. Having a felony conviction can make it difficult to enlist in the military, but it's not impossible. In this article, we'll explore seven ways felons can join the military, including the types of offenses that may be eligible for a waiver and the steps to take to increase chances of acceptance.

Understanding Military Waivers

The military has strict rules and regulations regarding enlistment, and having a felony conviction can be a significant obstacle. However, the military also offers waivers for certain offenses, which can allow felons to join the military. Waivers are typically granted on a case-by-case basis, and the decision to grant a waiver is made by the military's recruiting command.

Types of Offenses Eligible for a Waiver

Not all felonies are eligible for a waiver, but some may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Some examples of offenses that may be eligible for a waiver include:

Misdemeanor offenses, such as DUI or disorderly conduct
Non-violent felonies, such as theft or possession of a controlled substance
Felonies that occurred when the individual was a juvenile

Seven Ways Felons Can Join the Military

While having a felony conviction can make it difficult to join the military, it's not impossible. Here are seven ways felons can join the military:

Apply for a waiver: As mentioned earlier, waivers are available for certain offenses. Felons can apply for a waiver through their recruiter, who will submit the application to the military's recruiting command.
Choose a branch with a more lenient policy: Some branches of the military, such as the Army or Navy, may have more lenient policies regarding felony convictions. Felons may have a better chance of being accepted into one of these branches.
Consider the National Guard: The National Guard may have more flexible policies regarding felony convictions. Felons may be able to join the National Guard, which can provide valuable experience and training.
Look into military police or corrections: Felons who have experience in law enforcement or corrections may be able to join the military police or corrections. This can be a great way to use existing skills and experience.
Get a pardon or expungement: In some cases, felons may be able to get a pardon or expungement, which can remove the conviction from their record. This can make it easier to join the military.
Attend a military prep school: Military prep schools, such as the Army's prep school at Fort Jackson, can provide training and education for individuals who want to join the military. Felons may be able to attend one of these schools to prepare for enlistment.
Work with a recruiter: Recruiters can be a valuable resource for felons who want to join the military. They can provide guidance and support throughout the enlistment process.

Steps to Increase Chances of Acceptance

While there are no guarantees of acceptance, there are several steps felons can take to increase their chances of joining the military:

Gather all necessary documents: Felons will need to provide documentation of their conviction, as well as any evidence of rehabilitation or community service.
Show a pattern of good behavior: Felons who can demonstrate a pattern of good behavior, such as completing education or job training programs, may be more likely to be accepted.
Be honest and transparent: It's essential to be honest and transparent about past convictions. Lying or omitting information can result in disqualification.
Work with a recruiter: Recruiters can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the enlistment process.

Additional Tips

Start the process early: The enlistment process can take several months, so it's essential to start early.
Stay positive and persistent: Joining the military can be a challenging and competitive process. Staying positive and persistent can help felons stay motivated and focused.

Military Careers for Felons Image Gallery

Can felons join the military?

Yes, felons can join the military, but it may be more challenging. The military has strict rules and regulations regarding enlistment, and having a felony conviction can be a significant obstacle.

What types of offenses are eligible for a waiver?

Not all felonies are eligible for a waiver, but some may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Examples of offenses that may be eligible for a waiver include misdemeanor offenses, non-violent felonies, and felonies that occurred when the individual was a juvenile.

How can felons increase their chances of joining the military?

Felons can increase their chances of joining the military by gathering all necessary documents, showing a pattern of good behavior, being honest and transparent, and working with a recruiter.

If you're a felon who wants to join the military, don't give up hope. With persistence, hard work, and the right guidance, you can overcome the challenges and achieve your goal. Remember to stay positive, be honest and transparent, and work with a recruiter to increase your chances of acceptance.