You don’t need prior military experience to be part of the Navy Reserve and enjoy the many tangible and intangible benefits that service offers. Everything from extra monthly income to advanced training. Educational assistance to retirement benefits. Annual travel to unrivaled camaraderie.
As a Reservist, you can remain rooted in the world you now know. Focusing on what matters most while expanding your horizons. Taking on a limited commitment that yields a lifetime of rewards.
A life of service. A life of your own. Familiarize yourself with the basics of service and the steps required to make this your reality.
Commitment Details
Traditionally, serving in the Navy Reserve requires a minimum of one weekend a month and two weeks a year. For those with no prior military experience, an initial eight-year commitment is required. There are also opportunities for additional service and pay. Beyond that, you should know:
Training Locations — Training typically amounts to 16 hours each month at any of hundreds of locations across the U.S. Check the locator map to find a site nearest to where you live.
Annual Training Exercises — Add an element of adventure to your life. For at least two weeks each year, take part in advanced training that can transport you across the U.S. or around the globe.
Flexible Drilling — In some cases, you may be able to take advantage of flexible drilling options. This could involve fulfilling the annual commitment in a single, extended mission or serving on weekdays if your civilian career makes weekend service difficult.
Recruit Training — Candidates who haven’t served in the military before will undergo an initial training course that will mark their entrance into the Navy Reserve.
Contact a Navy Reserve Recruiter for more information.
Basic Entry Requirements
Depending on your qualifications and interests, you can serve in the Navy Reserve as either Enlisted personnel or as an Officer. Entering as an Officer requires a college degree, while entering as an Enlisted Sailor requires a high school diploma or equivalent.
The following basic requirements must first be met:
Citizenship
To join, you must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. naturalized citizen or a legal permanent resident alien of the United States. Foreign nationals and aliens must legally immigrate first and then apply for and receive a permanent resident alien card, also known as a green card, prior to enlistment. The Navy Reserve cannot assist with the immigration process. To be eligible, you must enlist prior to the expiration date on your green card. To become a commissioned Officer in the Navy Reserve, you must be a native or naturalized U.S. citizen. You must also meet the mental, moral, physical standards for Navy service.
Age and Education
To qualify, you must be between the ages of 18 and 39 and have a high school diploma. In some instances, GED certificates may be accepted. Officer candidates must also have a degree from a four-year college U.S. college or university with an acceptable grade point average.
Health and Height
To gain entrance, you must pass a physical exam. The height requirement for both men and women is between 60 and 80 inches.
Contact a Navy Reserve Recruiter for more information.
Civilian to Reservist: Step-by-Step
Beyond the basic entry requirements, learn the steps that lead to becoming a part of the Navy Reserve.