How to Join the Coast Guard Step By Step in 2024

Key Takeaways

• To join the U.S. Coast Guard, first gather information and decide on a career path. Seek guidance from a recruiter, pass the ASVAB test, and undergo a background check. Complete a personal evaluation and prepare for Boot Camp to officially begin your service.
• The age limit for joining the Coast Guard is between 17 and 31. If you’re 17, you’ll need parental consent to enlist.
• The process of joining the Coast Guard typically takes 6 to 12 months.
• The Coast Guard is the most challenging military branch to join due to its stringent academic standards and limited openings.
• As of 2024, the Coast Guard employs over 57,000 personnel, including active duty members, reservists, and civilians.
• The Coast Guard’s boot camp is held at the Coast Guard Training Center in Cape May, New Jersey.
• Your job choices within the Coast Guard depend on your ASVAB test score. A higher score means more job options.
• Attending the Coast Guard Academy is free of charge; there’s no cost for tuition, room, or board.

How to Join the Coast Guard (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Being Eligible for the Coast Guard

Nationality:

The eligibility for joining the Coast Guard is first based on citizenship or residency status. You can be a U.S. citizen either by birth, by being born overseas to U.S. parents, or through naturalization, which involves passing tests in English and civics. Alternatively, resident aliens, commonly known as green card holders, are also eligible to join.

Age:

For those considering active duty service in the U.S. Coast Guard, the eligible age range spans from 17 to 31 years old. On the other hand, if you’re interested in serving in a reserve capacity, the age bracket is slightly broader, extending from 17 to 40 years old.

It’s important to note that for aspiring recruits who are 17 years old, parental or guardian consent is a mandatory requirement to proceed with the enlistment process.

Height and Weight:

Regarding enlisting in the Coast Guard, height and weight standards differ based on age and gender.

For men, the general requirement is a minimum height of 5 feet 5 inches and a weight range of 165 to 225 pounds. Conversely, women must be at least 4 feet 11 inches tall and weigh between 120 and 200 pounds.

The Coast Guard body fat standards:

• The maximum allowable body fat for men and women under 30 is 22% for men and 32% for women.
• For those less than 40 years old, the limits are 24% for men and 34% for women.
• The maximum body fat percentage for individuals aged 40 or older is 26% for men and 36% for women.

Education:

While the Coast Guard does consider applicants with General Educational Development (GED) certificates, a high school diploma is the more favored qualification.

The preference for a high school diploma over a GED is often due to high school’s comprehensive educational experience, including extracurricular activities and social skills, which are viewed as beneficial in military service.

The ASVAB Test and Score:

One of the critical steps in joining the Coast Guard is taking and passing the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test. This test assesses your skills in various subjects and is crucial for determining your eligibility and job placement within the service. 

For Coast Guard recruits, a minimum ASVAB score of 40 is required. However, if you hold a high school equivalency degree like a GED, TASC, or HiSET, the requirements are slightly different. In such cases, you’ll need a minimum Armed Forces Qualification Test (AFQT) score of 50, along with at least 15 hours of college credit, to be considered for enlistment.

The MEPS Test:

Another crucial step in the enlistment process is passing the medical exam conducted at the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS).

The MEPS medical exam is designed to assess your overall health and identify any disqualifying medical conditions that could impact your ability to serve.

The exam includes a thorough medical history review, vision and hearing tests, blood and urine tests, and a physical examination by a licensed physician.

Physical Fitness Requirements:

The Coast Guard PFT standards for male and female:

Exercise	Male	Female
Push-ups (1 Minute)	29	15
Sit-ups (1 Minute)	38	32
Run (1.5 mile)	12:51	15.26
Sit and Reach	16.50 “	19.29″
Swim Test	Tread water 5 minutes	Tread water 5 minutes
Jump off (5-foot platform into pool)	Swim 100 meters	Swim 100 meters

As you can see, the Coast Guard physical fitness test is not as hard as people  think but it’s not so easy either. So, early preparation of your body and mind is the key to passing the Coast Guard PFT standards.

Step 2: Talk to a Coast Guard Recruiter

Talking to a Coast Guard recruiter is a step that enormously helps you get enlisted. Recruiters are your go-to people if you consider joining the Coast Guard.

The Coast Guard recruiter will sit down with you to discuss what you want to achieve and why you’re interested in their branch of the service. They’ll also run background checks to ensure you’re a good fit.

In addition to that, they’ll break down all the perks and benefits you’ll get if you decide to sign up. It’s like a one-on-one info session tailored just for you.

You can contact a recruiter by visiting your nearest Coast Guard recruiting office. Visit this official Coast Guard recruiter office online portal to find the nearest recruiter office.

Questions to Ask a Coast Guard Recruiter:

• How long is the service term?
• Where do recruits usually start?
• What sets the Coast Guard apart from other military branches?
• What’s the pay and benefits?
• Can I attend college while serving?
• What career paths are there in the Coast Guard?
• What are the requirements for the career I want?
• What’s basic training like?
• How can I prepare for basic training?
• How long is basic training?
• Do I get paid while in training?
• Can a friend and I go to basic training together?
• What are the appearance and haircut rules?

I encourage you to make a list of your questions with these questions, too, before visiting the Coast Guard recruiter office.

Remember, don’t hesitate to ask anything you want about the United States Coast Guard because the recruiter is there to answer all your questions.

Tips for Visiting a Coast Guard Recruiter:

• Go with your family members or friends, especially if you are meeting with a military recruiter for the first time. Their presence can bolster your confidence during the interaction with the recruiter.
• Bring a pen and a piece of paper to take copious notes because you will learn various things that you didn’t know before.
• When visiting a Coast Guard recruiter, consider wearing a blouse, polo, or button-down shirt paired with a long skirt or long pants to make a good impression.
• Don’t worry; talking to a recruiter doesn’t lock you into anything, so you should not have any fear. You might have to sign some papers, like before taking the ASVAB, but that’s just part of the process. You’re free to change your mind anytime before the final contract is signed.
• Please don’t lie to the Coast Guard recruiter because they will find out for sure.
• Keeping good eye contact always leaves a good impression on the recruiter.
• There is no point in behaving rough to a recruiter. Be respectful and polite.

Step 3: Choose Your Career in the Coast Guard

The Coast Guard jobs are classified into three main categories. Under each category, you will find a number of career paths. Let’s break it down:

Coast Guard Enlisted (Guardsman)

As a Coast Guard enlisted Guardsman, you can serve in law enforcement, communications, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), aviation, and business.

Coast Guard Officer

In the role of a Coast Guard officer, you’ll have the chance to explore diverse career avenues, ranging from aviation and maritime operations to emergency response, safety measures, engineering, and cybersecurity.

Additionally, you’ll be presented with avenues for further training and educational growth.

Coast Guard Reserve

Coast Guard reservists serve on a part-time basis. As a Coast Guard reservist, you will serve only 2 days a month and report to your nearest base two weeks a year.

Both the enlisted and officer members can join the Coast Guard reserve. In addition to pay, the reservists receive a retirement plan, healthcare plan, veteran’s status, and many more benefits and compensations.

Step 4: Pass the ASVAB, Background Check, and Personal Evaluation Test

Passing the ASVAB, background check, and personal evaluation test is not only required to enlist in the Coast Guard; these tests are mandatory for everyone who joins the U.S. military.

ASVAB Test

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a multiple-aptitude test. The test is developed and maintained by the United States Department of Defense.

The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, or ASVAB test, checks out your skills in a bunch of areas like science, math, and even things like car repair and electronics.

The ASVAB test helps determine not only your eligibility to join the Military but also which service branch and job roles would be the best fit for you.

Like other academic tests, the ASVAB test required preparation. Preparation should start at least two months before the test. You can take practice tests to gauge your current level and identify areas for improvement.

The ASVAB test score requirement varies on the branches. To join the Coast Guard, you must have an AFQT Score of 36 or 32 with a waiver.

Just a heads-up: the ASVAB isn’t an I.Q. test or something that measures how smart you are. Instead, it’s all about seeing how well you can learn and use knowledge in different subjects. So don’t stress about it too much!

Background Check

Firstly, you’ll undergo a police background check. And any felony convictions are a deal-breaker. So, a clean criminal record is non-negotiable if you’re aiming to serve in the Coast Guard.

Additionally, your financial history is also up for review. The Coast Guard will run a credit check to ensure you’re financially responsible.

Lastly, you will also need to pass a security clearance check. This check ensures you can be trusted with sensitive information crucial to the nation’s safety.

The Coast Guard’s background check covers your criminal history, financial stability, and ability to handle sensitive information.

Personal Evaluation Test

The personal evaluation test is an all-inclusive review of who you are, professionally and personally. It’s designed to ensure that those who join the Coast Guard are well-rounded individuals committed to upholding the service’s high standards.

This test is going to be one-to-one, meaning your recruiter will guide you through the whole time.

During the test, answer all questions truthfully and provide any supporting documentation or requested information.

The recruiter will assess your attitude, professionalism, and honesty, but they’ll also look at your language proficiency, physical abilities, and overall work ethic.

Remember: Honesty is not just a virtue; it’s a requirement in here.

Step 5: Gear Up for Coast Guard Boot Camp

After passing the ASVAB test and completing a background check, complete your personal evaluation and then attend Coast Guard Boot Camp to officially begin your service.

Coast Guard boot camp lasts about eight weeks. During this time, you’ll face mental and physical tests to see if you’re a good fit for the Coast Guard.

• Week One: Recruits arrive at Cape May for medical and dental check-ups and face their first fitness test; initial failure results in dismissal. This week also includes introductions to Company Commanders, who begin transforming you from civilians into Coast Guardsmen.
• Week Two: The focus is on adjusting to new life with early morning workouts and swim assessments to test mental and physical stamina. You also meet your Company Mentor, an active-duty Coast Guardsman who provides career guidance.
• Week Three: Emphasis shifts to mastering following orders, teamwork, and drill practice. You also start learning essential skills like knot-tying and deck seamanship.
• Week Four: You will face another physical fitness test and a mid-term exam, offering insights into their progress and a glimpse into future Coast Guard careers, including pay and assignment planning.
• Week Five: This week focuses on drill rehearsals and preparations for graduation. You receive your dress uniforms and assist with the graduation ceremonies of the preceding class.
• Week Six: Firearms training is highlighted, focusing on gun safety and shooting basics. The week concludes with you finalizing your post-graduation travel plans.
• Week Seven: Final exam and confidence course completion. You receive your fleet assignments and begin turning in your gear as they prepare to enter the fleet.
• Week Eight: The training culminates in graduation week, where you celebrate your transition into officially becoming United States Coast Guardsmen.

Tips to prepare for the Coast Guard Basic Training:

• When you land in Cape May, be sure you’ve got a checking or savings account set up and an ATM card in your wallet. That’s where they’ll be depositing your paychecks.
• You can’t just bring anything you want to Coast Guard Boot Camp. There’s a list of approved items, and that’s all you’re allowed to have. Ask your Coast Guard recruiter for the specific item that you want to keep with you in the Boot Camp so you know exactly what to pack.
• Don’t try to sneak in any prohibited items. If you’re caught, you could be kicked out of boot camp. It’s better to play it safe and stick to the approved list.
• I strongly recommend quitting tobacco and drugs and suggesting a balanced nutrition plan to prepare for Coast Guard basic training. These minor healthy changes will help you to pass the boot camp’s 8 weeks of physical training.
• Take the time to prepare yourself. Memorize the Eleven General Orders, get comfortable with nautical and military terminology, and learn the Military Phonetic Alphabet. Understanding the Position of Attention, the proper way to salute, and how to address military personnel will also give you a leg-up.

What Does the Coast Guard Do? (Roles and Responsibilities)

• Search and Rescue
• Ports, Waterways, and Coastal Security
• Drug Interdiction
• Migrant Interdiction
• Living Marine Resources
• Marine Environmental Protection
• Ice Operations
• Marine Safety
• Aids to Navigation
• Other Law Enforcement
• Defense Readiness

Coast Guard Pay In 2024

Coast Guard Enlisted And Petty Officers Pay Grade

Coast Guard Warrant Officers Pay Grade

Coast Guard Officers Pay Grade

Benefits of Joining the Coast Guard

The key benefits of joining the Coast Guard:

• Disability pay: If you get seriously ill or injured while on duty, you’ll receive disability payments. The amount depends on the severity of your disability and your years of service.
• Housing allowance: Depending on your pay grade, dependency status, and where you’re stationed, you could get a Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH). The BAH helps you pay the rent or mortgage.
• Retirement plan options: You’ll have access to a variety of retirement plans, including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), which is similar to a 401(k).
• Discounted life insurance: The Coast Guard offers discounted life insurance options. You can get coverage for yourself and your family members at lower rates.
• Mental health support: The Coast Guard provides various mental health support services, including counseling and stress management programs.
• Food money: You’ll receive a tax-free food allowance called Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS). It’s designed to cover your meal costs, so you don’t have to worry about going hungry. 
• Annual leave or break: You’ll earn 30 days of annual leave each year. Plus, you can request emergency leave if there’s a family emergency.
• Home loans: You can get a home loan from the Department of Veterans Affairs at lower interest rates and down payments.
• Death compensation: If something tragic happens while you’re on duty, your family will receive a death gratuity, unpaid pay, allowances, and funeral expenses.
• Education: Various programs are available to further your education, including tuition assistance and scholarships for your dependents.
• Clothing maintenance allowance: As an enlisted member, you’ll get a monthly allowance to keep your uniform in tip-top shape.
• Morale, Well-Being, and Recreation (MWR): You’ll also have access to Morale, Well-Being, and Recreation (MWR) services, which offer discounted tickets to local attractions and even guest housing for rent.

A Day in the Life of a Coast Guard

As we know, a day in the life of a Coast Guard is totally different from civilians.

Morning Routine

Your day as a Coast Guard Cadet begins promptly at 6:00 a.m. with Reveille. After waking up, you’ll join your fellow cadets for morning formation. Once everyone is assembled and accounted for, you’ll head to the dining hall for a hearty breakfast, preparing you for the busy day ahead.

Training Time

At 7:00 a.m., you’ll dive into military training. During this time, you’ll sharpen your leadership skills and learn the ins and outs of life in the service.

Academic Hours

Classes begin at 8:00 a.m. and are conducted by experienced faculty members. You’ll be immersed in a rigorous academic environment that prepares you for the challenges of Coast Guard service.

Afternoon Activities

After a lunch break, afternoon classes resume. By 4:00 p.m., it’s time to switch gears and focus on athletics, an essential part of your physical and mental well-being.

Evening Routine

Dinner is served at 6:00 p.m., providing a chance for you to unwind and socialize. Afterward, you’ll have an evening study period to either catch up on coursework or prepare for upcoming exams.

Lights Out

The day concludes at 10:00 p.m. with Taps, a bugle call that signifies the end of the day and serves as a tribute to those who have sacrificed for the country.

I believe I’ve covered pretty much everything you need to know about joining the United States Coast Guard in 2024. If you have any questions or need further information, please leave a comment. I’ll be happy to help!