Documents You´ll Need

You´ll need certain documents not only for your recruiter when you first start the enlistment process, but also at various points along the way after.
Make sure you have these available to avoid a hassle:

* Birth certificate or other proof of citizenship and
date of birth.
* Valid Social Security card or two other pieces of
Social Security Identification.
* H.S. diploma or GED certificate.
* Letter or transcript documenting your midterm
from high school, if applicable.
* College transcript, if applicable, showing credits
earned.
* Parental or guardian consent form if you are under
18 years old.
* Doctor´s letter if you have, or have a history of,
special medical conditions.
* Marriage certificate, if applicable.
* Divorce papers, if applicable.

Enlistment education bonuses

When you enlist in the U.S. Army, you could be eligible for a $20,000 enlistment bonus, and up to $50,000 for college, or up to $65,000 in education loan repayments.

The Recruiter

Your recruiter is there to help you. When meeting with your recruiter, ask questions so you fully understand what the Army is all about. Questions about benefits, signing bonuses, educational opportunities, different posts, and salaries are definately good questions to ask. Keep asking any questions until you are comfortable about joining.

Don´t be afraid to bring a parent or trusted friend with you - an extra set of eyes and ears can be helpful.

Who Can Enlist?

To enlist in the United States Army, applicants must be from 17 to 35 years old, American citizens or registered aliens, and in good health and physical condition.

How do I enlist?

You can enlist by visiting your local Army recruiter. Your local Army Recruiting station will be listed in the phone book under "U.S. Government." Once you meet with a recruiter, meet all eligiblity standards, take the ASVAB, and swear in, you´re off to basic training!

Army Enlisting Benefits

The Army offers many benefits for enlisting including:

- Money to further your education (tuition assistance) or pay off existing student loans.
- Opportunities to attend classes including the Concurrent Admissions Program (CONAP) and eArmyU.
- Comprehensive healthcare.
- Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance (SGLI).
- 30 vacation days a year.
- Relocation assistance services.
- Money management services.
- Family advocacy services.
- Legal assistance services.
- Childcare and other child and youth services.
- Help in job placement after your tour of duty is complete.
- Retirement savings plan.

To learn more about Army benefits, visit: http://www.goarmy.com/benefits/index.jsp.