Felon Join Military: Can You Enlist With a Criminal Record?

When you have a felony on your record, joining the military, the armed forces of the United States, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard. Also known as armed forces, it offers structure, pay, training, and a path to citizenship for some feels impossible. But it’s not. The military doesn’t automatically say no to everyone with a criminal record. It looks at the type of crime, when it happened, your rehabilitation, and whether you’re willing to be honest. The truth? Many people with felonies have served — and still do.

Not every felony blocks you. A drug possession charge from five years ago? Maybe you can get a waiver. A violent crime like assault or robbery? Much harder. The Army, the largest branch of the U.S. military, responsible for ground combat operations and often the most likely to grant waivers is usually the most open to applicants with past convictions. The Air Force, the branch focused on air and space operations, with stricter standards for moral character and Navy, the branch responsible for naval warfare and maritime operations, with moderate waiver flexibility are tighter. The Marine Corps, the branch known for its rigorous standards and elite infantry focus rarely grants waivers. And the Coast Guard, the smallest branch, focused on maritime law enforcement and homeland security, with the strictest background checks almost never does. It’s not about being perfect — it’s about being honest and showing you’ve changed.

What you need: a clean record since the conviction, letters of recommendation, proof of community service, and sometimes a college degree or job history. You’ll also need to pass a moral character interview. The waiver process can take months. No recruiter will promise you’ll get in — but they will tell you if you’re even eligible to apply. And if you’re turned down? You can reapply later, especially if you’ve earned a degree, completed rehab, or volunteered regularly. This isn’t about second chances being easy — it’s about second chances being possible.

Below, you’ll find real stories, official guidelines, and step-by-step advice from people who’ve walked this path — from filling out the waiver forms to surviving basic training with a past. No sugarcoating. Just what works.