So you're thinking about joining the National Guard? Smart move. But let me tell you, figuring out the actual requirements is tougher than it should be. When my cousin enlisted last year, we spent hours digging through vague military websites and conflicting recruiter info. That frustration is why I'm putting together this no-BS guide covering every single box you need to check.

Breaking Down the Core National Guard Requirements

First things first - these aren't suggestions. Screw up any of these fundamentals and you're done before you start. I've seen guys show up thinking they could negotiate like it's a car purchase. Spoiler: they got sent home.

Age Limits and Citizenship Rules

You must be between 17-35 years old, period. Under 18? Bring your parents to sign off. Citizenship-wise, here's the breakdown:

Funny story - my buddy Carlos (green card holder) almost got tricked by a recruiter who "forgot" to mention his job options would be limited. Always verify.

Educational Must-Haves

You'll need at least a high school diploma or GED. If you've got a GED, expect extra testing and potentially fewer job choices. Here's how it breaks down:

• High School Diploma - Standard entry path (85% of recruits)
• GED Holders - Must score minimum 50 on ASVAB AND recruiters can only accept 10% GED holders per year
• College Credits - 15+ semester hours? You bypass GED restrictions

Physical Requirements That Trip People Up

This is where I see most failures. The weight charts aren't suggestions - they'll tape you if you're borderline. And that body fat test feels downright invasive.

Vision requirements catch people off guard too. Correctable to 20/20 is okay, but forget lasik? Wait at least 6 months post-surgery with documentation. Color blindness is an automatic DQ for many combat roles.

The Make-or-Break Testing Phase

ASVAB Scores That Actually Matter

The ASVAB isn't pass/fail - but your scores determine everything. Minimum 31 for enlistment, but don't settle for that. When I took it, I barely studied and regretted my limited job options afterward.

Target these scores for decent roles:

• 🟢 50+ for administrative/mechanical jobs
• 🟡 65+ for aviation/training roles
• 🔴 88+ for cybersecurity/intelligence

The Dreaded Physical Fitness Test

Basic Training requires passing the Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT). You'll need:

Seriously, don't ignore the plank. Saw three guys fail because they only trained pushups and running.

Medical and Background Checks

Medical Disqualifiers They Don't Warn You About

MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station) will rip through your medical history. These commonly disqualify people:

• 🩺 Asthma after age 13 (even if "mild")
• 🩺 ADHD if medicated within last year
• 🩺 Any history of depression/anxiety requiring hospitalization
• 🩺 Sleep apnea requiring CPAP
• 🩺 Flat feet with documented pain

Waivers exist but take 4-8 months. My advice? Disclose everything upfront. They WILL find it.

Criminal Background Checks

Minor stuff gets waived, but it's tricky:

Recruiters can submit moral waivers, but prepare for interrogation about past mistakes.

Special Cases and Surprising Exceptions

Prior Service Requirements

Already served? Different rules apply:

• If discharged honorably, max age extends to 42
• No repeat basic training if within 5 years
• Direct job placement if MOS transfers

Tattoo Policies That Actually Matter

Old rules were stricter. Now:

• ✅ Hand tattoos smaller than 1 inch allowed
• ✅ Neck tattoos if not visible above collar
• ❌ Still banned: face/head tattoos, extremist symbols
• ❌ Sleeves must have 1/4 inch gap between tattoos

Bring photos to your recruiter meeting. Seriously.

Parenting and Marriage Factors

Single parents face extra hurdles:

• Must prove custody arrangements
• Cannot be primary caregiver without military spouse
• Childcare plans required for drilling weekends

Married to another service member? Expect constant coordination headaches during deployments.

The Step-by-Step Enlistment Process

Here's how it really goes down (from my cousin's experience):

1. Initial Contact: Recruiter screens you for dealbreakers (takes 1-3 hours)
2. ASVAB Testing: Usually at MEPS (score valid 2 years)
3. Medical Pre-Screen: 28-page questionnaire digging into every hospital visit ever
4. MEPS Visit: 2-day ordeal with physical, urine test, full-body exam
5. Job Selection: Based on ASVAB scores and unit openings that month
6. Swearing In: Official enlistment contract signing
7. Ship Date: Typically 2-8 weeks later for basic training

National Guard Requirements Comparison Chart

How Guard stacks up against other services:

Frequently Asked Questions (Answered Honestly)

After You Enlist: What Nobody Tells You

Meeting the National Guard requirements is just the beginning. Real talk:

• Drill Pay Reality: $200-$400 per weekend as a private (before taxes)
• Activation Risks: Your civilian job MUST hold your position during deployments (USERRA law)
• Healthcare Gaps: TRICARE is great but switching between civilian/military providers causes headaches

Biggest surprise for most? How much paperwork follows you forever. Lost your DD214 discharge paper? Start begging bureaucrats.

Still think the National Guard is right for you? Honestly, for the right person it's life-changing. The tuition benefits alone paid for my sister's nursing degree. Just go in with eyes wide open - these requirements exist for reasons.