The military has long been seen as a path to a fresh start, offering discipline, stability, and a sense of pride. However, for those with a felony on their record, the question of eligibility is more complex. Can you join the military with a felony? The answer is not a simple yes or no, as each case is evaluated on its individual circumstances.
This blog outlines the process, exceptions, and considerations for individuals with felonies who are contemplating joining the military. You’ll also learn what steps you can take to improve your chances of enlistment.
Understanding Military Eligibility Requirements
Regardless of one’s criminal history, all applicants must meet several fundamental requirements to be eligible for the military. These include meeting the age limit, having a high school diploma or equivalent, and passing physical and mental health evaluations.
However, your criminal record is also factored in during the recruitment process. Each branch of the military has specific policies concerning criminal histories, including how they handle felony convictions.
How the Military Views Felony Convictions
Felony convictions often indicate a serious offense, and in most cases, they are treated more strictly compared to misdemeanors. The military’s primary objective is to recruit individuals who meet their high moral and behavioral standards. A felony conviction signals potential problems with discipline, which plays a key role in military life.
That said, recruiters and officials also understand that a criminal record doesn't define the entirety of one’s character. Each felony case is reviewed individually, meaning there’s still a path forward for some applicants depending on the nature of the conviction.
Can a Felon Join the Military?
Yes, in some cases, a felon can join the military, but it’s important to note that it’s not guaranteed. For individuals with felony records, a few major obstacles need to be overcome. The process is often determined by the specific offense, how long ago it occurred, and whether waiver approvals are granted by the military branch you’re applying to.
Can you join the military with a felony for a violent crime? The answer there is, probably not.
What is a Morals Waiver?
If you are wondering, can a convicted felon join the uniformed services, the answer usually involves seeking a moral conduct waiver, often referred to as a "morals waiver." This waiver acts as an exception to the standard eligibility criteria, allowing individuals with criminal histories to enlist.
The waiver process involves a thorough evaluation of the applicant, their criminal history, and whether they have demonstrated rehabilitation and good conduct since the offense. Recruiters typically ask for detailed explanations of the crime, court documents, and any evidence demonstrating the applicant’s improved character.
However, even with a moral waiver, certain felony convictions, such as those involving sexual assault, domestic violence, or violent crimes, often result in automatic disqualification.
Can you join the military with a felony if you get a morals waiver? Again, possibly, but if you’ve committed and were convicted of a violent crime, then likely not.
Factors Influencing Waiver Approval
The following factors are typically considered when reviewing moral waivers for felons seeking military enlistment:
- The nature of the crime: Non-violent offenses are likely to be viewed more favorably than violent crimes.
- Time since the conviction: A felony that happened years ago may be seen as less concerning compared to a recent offense.
- Evidence of rehabilitation: Positive behavior, steady employment, education, and community involvement can strengthen your case.
- Need for enlistment: The military may be more lenient when recruitment levels are low, as they are actively seeking to fill roles.
Branch-specific Policies for Felony Convictions
Each branch of the military handles felony convictions differently. Here’s what you need to know about the policies for each major branch.
Army
The Army is often known as the branch with the most flexible policies when it comes to accepting recruits with criminal backgrounds. They commonly review waiver requests and consider individuals who can demonstrate rehabilitation.
Keep in mind, the Army has more positions to fill than any other branch of service, so the chances might be greater to enlist with the Army if you have a conviction. Can you join the military with a felony? Possibly, in the Army. It is best to check with a recruiter.
Navy
The Navy requires a strict screening process for individuals with felonies. Recruits must be honest about their records from the outset, and incomplete or dishonest applications may result in permanent disqualification.
The Navy, like the Army, also has a lot of positions to fill. Can you join the military with a felony? Not to sound repetitive, but, yes, possibly. Much depends on the crime, how old you were when it happened, and have you show signs of change since the conviction. It is always a good practice to simply check with a Navy recruiter. Don't believe everything you read online.
Air Force
Waivers for felony convictions in the Air Force are less commonly granted compared to other branches. The Air Force generally seeks individuals with clean backgrounds, but they occasionally consider waivers for less severe felonies.
The Air Force is pretty large, but they have very high standards when it comes to criminal background screening. You can try to join the Air Force with a waiver, but they are rare. That’s not to imply that you can’t call or visit a recruiting office and ask them and find out. There’s nothing wrong with asking an Air Force recruiter, can you join the military with a felony? The worst they can say is no.
Marine Corps
The Marine Corps has rigorous requirements for moral waivers and grants them on a case-by-case basis. They evaluate the severity of the crime and whether the individual aligns with the Corps’ high standards of discipline.
As a small branch, the Marine Corps can be selective and their standards tend to be rigid. But much like the Air Force, it might be worth a shot to email, call or visit a recruiter and let them answer your question. Can you join the military with a felony if you’re considering the Marines? Possibly, but be ready for a reality check.
Coast Guard
The Coast Guard applies stricter rules than some other branches when evaluating felony convictions. They focus heavily on the severity and type of crime, as well as the applicant’s demonstrated efforts to turn their life around.
The Coast Guard wears many hats and one of those hats is that they are a law enforcement-like organization. It would be hard to place a felon in a position of trust, but it wouldn’t be impossible. Can you join the military with a felony if considering the USCG? Doubtful, but worth a try.
Space Force
The military’s newest branch has some high academic and moral standards. Much like their cousins in the Air Force, the Space Force has little leeway for applicants with criminal records since much of their positions require security clearances that convicted felons might not be able to get around.
Can you join the military with a felony? In the Space Force, the likelihood is small, but once again, what do you lose by trying? We recommend you visit a recruiter and ask them if you are interested in joining but have a felony conviction.
Steps to Increase Your Chances of Joining the Military
If you’re serious about joining the military with a felony conviction, there are steps you can take to improve your chances.
Be Honest About Your Record
During the application process, you must disclose your criminal history in full. The military runs detailed background checks, so any dishonesty will likely disqualify you immediately.
Read that again. The military will find out. Do not try to lie or hide the fact that you are a felon. The background investigators are very good at digging and today, it is a lot easier for them to run a background check in minutes and discover a conviction. Don’t hide.
When completing enlistment paperwork there are penalties for not disclosing, withholding, or providing misleading information. If you’re a felon, don’t commit another felony by lying on your background paperwork. Can you join the military with a felony? The answer is possibly, but you have to be honest.
Obtain Court Records
Collect all documentation related to your felony. This might include court proceedings, records of your sentence, and proof of completion of community service, probation, or any rehabilitation programs.
Focus on Rehabilitation
Recruiters will want to see evidence of your rehabilitation since your conviction. Examples include earning a degree, holding long-term employment, volunteering, or participating in programs like counseling or mentorship.
Some felony convictions will be a scarlet letter, unfortunately, but the key is t show a change to a positive life.
Can You Join the Military with a Felony if you Work Closely With a Recruiter?
A recruiter serves as your guide through the application process. They can provide advice and clarify the steps needed to apply for a waiver. They’ll also advocate for you if your case shows promise.
Can You Join the Military with a Felony if you have the Case Expunged?
If eligible, you can explore the legal process of expunging your felony. An expungement removes or seals the conviction from your public record, which may improve your chances of being accepted.
Alternatives if You’re Denied Entry
If your military application is denied due to your felony, it’s important not to lose hope. There are other ways to serve the community and live a fulfilling life. Consider pathways such as:
- Joining local community service organizations
- Exploring vocational training programs to build a new career
- Pursuing higher education to expand your opportunities
- There are also state defense forces that work as part of the National Guard (they are not Army or Air National Guard) that might allow you to join. Check your local SDF for details.
Moving Forward With Confidence
To answer the question, can you join the military with a felony, the answer depends on your unique circumstances, the nature of your offense, and your demonstrated steps toward rehabilitation. The military does provide pathways for some individuals with felonies to enlist, but it requires honesty, hard work, and persistence.
Whether you're seeking a second chance or simply aspire to serve, understanding the process and taking the right steps can make all the difference. By working closely with a recruiter and focusing on rehabilitation, you can put yourself on the best path forward to achieve your goals.
Can I join the military with a felony? Can a convicted felon join the military? Can you go to the military with a felony? Can you join the military with a felony?
You can ask the question many different ways, but the first move is to simply pick up the phone, send an email, or visit a local recruiter. The answer you get will be dependent on what branch you’re talking to and the severity of your felony.
Can you join the military with a felony? Yes, but it might take a little effort.