Join the Navy: What Should You Know?

Are you looking for a military branch that comes all in one package with opportunities for both professional and personal growth? The U.S. Navy is perfect for you. But whether you qualify for the Navy? What can you do to enlist in this branch?

Don’t worry. We get you covered. This comprehensive guide will take you through everything you need to know to join the Navy, from the outstanding benefits, down to the qualifications and process to get your journey started in the Navy. Scroll down for more!

Joining the Navy benefits

The Navy offers one of the best competitive benefit packages in the military. According to the Navy, here is what you can expect: 

Competitive payment

• Starting salary: Most new sailors come in at an E-1 salary rank, equivalent to about $70,000 per year. Your salary can be raised in rank within two years, plus regular rank promotion. 
• Higher ranks: If you have a prior college education, you may enter the Navy at an even higher rank. 

Insurance

• Health insurance: The Navy offers top-notch health care to sailors and their dependents, affording them the best medical professionals inside military medical centers, as well as with outside providers. 
• Life insurance: Sailors have term life insurance available through Servicemembers Group Life Insurance (SGLI), with coverage to you for up to $500,000, your spouse for up to $100,000, and each dependent child is automatically covered for $10,000.

Travel allowance

If you have a desire for traveling, the Navy is your ticket to advantage. While having opportunities to travel to more than 100 ports across the globe, you will get the following benefits:

• 30 days of paid vacation annually
• Boarding priority with most airlines
• Discounted lodging on military bases.

Enlistment bonus

• Up to $140,000 in enlistment bonuses if you ship off to boot camp before March 2025.
• There are also bonuses if you are a high school senior or a reserve future sailor, plus extra for shipping at certain times. 

Education opportunities

The Navy provides world-class education benefits, which include paying for all types of tuition with programs such as:

• The Post-9/11 GI Bill, Tuition Assistance: covers tuition and other expenses 
• The U.S. Naval Community College: With this program, sailors have the opportunity to obtain fully paid-for-associate degrees as early as when they report to their very first command.
• For graduates and postgraduates: If higher education is your aim, the Navy also has programs in place that relieve sailors with graduate degrees from student loan debt. 

Advanced training

• The Navy is a technologically forward-moving force that ensures its sailors receive hands-on training in various career fields that apply to life after the military. 
• The Navy Credentialing Opportunities Online (COOL) program allows you to earn civilian-recognized degrees while serving, readying you for job prospects after your service. 

Retirement benefit

With at least 20 years of service, sailors are eligible for a guaranteed retirement pension. You could retire as early as age 38 and continue to draw monthly retirement pay. Combine that with the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), you will be financially set for a long time. 

What are the requirements to join the Navy?

Before enlisting in the Navy, you have to fulfill certain eligibility criteria. Here is what the Navy aspires to: 

General requirements

• The age limit to join the Navy: The candidates must be between 17 and 41 years old to be eligible for the enlisted positions. In the case of individuals under 18, parental consent is compulsory. Age waivers are not authorized for enlistment. 

• Citizenship: To join the Navy, you must be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident – a Green Card holder. 

Qualifications

• Education requirement: A high school diploma or GED equivalent is the minimum requirement. The more individuals are educated or specialized in particular skills, the faster they are promoted upwards.

• ASVAB requirements: You will also be required to take the ASVAB test and get a qualifying score. The ASVAB test covers four main areas including verbal, math, science, and spatial, helping to assign Navy careers for the best fit for you. Generally, you must get at least an ASVAB score of 31 to enlist in the Navy. Subsequently, your line score will be used to determine your specific job in this branch. 

Physical requirements

A healthy body and mind physical readiness is a cornerstone of life in the Navy. You will need to fulfill the following physical requirements:

Medical Exam

Given at MEPS, this exam tests your overall medical fitness for service. Any prior medical conditions may impact your eligibility, so be prepared to discuss those with your recruiter. 

The Physical Readiness (PRT) test

This test includes pushups, planks, and running. Indeed, different requirements take in an individual’s age and sexuality, as table below:

Weight requirements

Sailors must be at or below Navy standard weight, as determined by height. If you are above the standard weight, you might be measured for body mass index or abdominal circumference. 

To learn more about the detailed requirement, read our post on Navy weight and height standards. 

How to join the Navy 

After comprehending benefits and your eligibility, follow these steps to get into the Navy:

Step 1. Contact the recruiter

Your recruiter will take you into an enlistment process by providing all the information you need to know and screening your eligibility requirements. You can seek advice on positions from your recruiter as they comprehend all job requirements, duties, and benefits. 

Step 2. Take the ASVAB test

Taking the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a must as it determines your qualifications for branch and specific jobs. Try your best in this test to open more chances of enlisting in your desired jobs.

If you are seeking material to prepare for the Navy, ASVAB , it is recommended that you practice the comprehensive and realistic test by ASVAB Prep.

Practice full-length Navy ASVAB practice test

Step 3. Choose the job specialty

As per your ASVAB score, you will be authorized to choose a Navy job that aligns with your scores. There are several options available to you, ranging from technical, mechanical, administrative, and operation roles. Ask for advice from your career counselor to ensure you are pursuing a Navy career that suits both your abilities and long-term professional goals. 

Step 4. Take physical test

You are required to pass the Physical Readiness Test (PRT) and meet the weight requirement. These ensure your health and physical fitness meet the standards of the Navy services. Maintaining a proper fitness level and body composition is essential to handle all training activities and duties you are assigned while serving the Navy. 

Step 5. Start training program

Shortly after the Oath of Enlistment, you will head to Recruit Training Command, known as the Navy Boot Camp. Training lasts about 10 weeks and prepares you with the knowledge and skills needed for Navy life. 

FAQs

1. How long does it take to join the Navy?

It could take a few weeks to months, depending on testing, medical tests, and available ship dates.

2. Do you need a GED to join the Navy?

If you do not have a high school diploma, you need to at least have the GED equivalent to qualify. 

3. How to sign up for the Navy?

First and foremost, contact a recruiter to schedule the ASVAB. Then follow our step-by-step guidelines mentioned above to start your journey. 

4. Can women join the Navy Seals?

Yes, women can also apply for the Navy Seal program through an extremely competitive and physically demanding process. 

5. Can you join the Navy with asthma?

Some medical conditions, including asthma, may disqualify you from service. Consult with a recruiter for detailed information based on your condition. 

6. Do you need a diploma to join the Navy?

Yes, you need a high school diploma or GED to join the Navy. While a diploma is preferred, those with a GED need to meet additional requirements such as a higher AFQT score. 

7. Can you join the Navy with tattoos?

Tattoos are allowed, but there are certain restrictions regarding the location and content of the tattoo.

8. Should I join the Navy or the Army?

The answer depends on your goals and interests. Here are some factors you can take into consideration:

• The Navy: This branch is ideal for those who have a strong desire to travel, work on ships, and specialize in technology or aviation.
• The Army: This branch focuses on land-based missions and combat roles, with opportunities for leadership and ground operations. 

Final Thoughts

Joining the Navy can be a life-changing decision with its host of advantages, such as financial stability, world travel, education, and career growth. If you are ready to serve your country and forge a future full of possibilities, contact a recruiter today and begin your journey! The world awaits, and the Navy is how you can see it.

Amy Duong

I am a seasoned content writer with a deep specialization in military topics, backed by years of research and experience. My work spans a wide range of military subjects, from life in the armed forces to the latest in defense technology. My insights and thorough analysis make me a valuable resource for those seeking accurate and in-depth military content.