While there isn't currently a draft in place, Congress and the president can reinstate the draft and force male citizens to serve in the military in the event of a national emergency or war that all-volunteer military can't adequately support. Here's what you need to know about the military draft.
The first to be called, in a sequence determined by the lottery, will be men whose 20th birthday falls during the calendar year the induction takes place, followed, as needed, by those aged 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 19, and 18 (in that order).
Men turning 21 in the year of the draft would be second priority, men turning 22 would be third, and so on until a man turns 26, at which time he is over the age of liability. Younger men would not be called in that year until men in the 20-25 age group are called.
Therefore, students can either wait until 30 days before their 18th birthday and mail in the Selective Service Registration Card or they can choose the “Register Me” option on the California Dream Application to be registered automatically.
Certain elected officials, exempt so long as they continue to hold office. Veterans, generally exempt from service in peacetime draft. Immigrants and dual nationals in some cases may be exempt from U.S. military service depending upon their place of residence and country of citizenship.
Having certain criminal records can disqualify you from military service. Felony convictions lead to automatic disqualification. Examples include assault, robbery, and . Some misdemeanor offenses, like domestic violence or drug possession, also result in disqualification.
Exemptions Ministers. Certain elected officials, exempt so long as they continue to hold office. Veterans, generally exempt from service in peacetime draft. Immigrants and dual nationals in some cases may be exempt from U.S. military service depending upon their place of residence and country of citizenship.
Significant physical disabilities, such as loss of limbs, paralysis, or severe deformities, can disqualify you. Conditions like scoliosis, if severe, also affect eligibility. For example, individuals with amputated limbs or severe spinal curvatures often don't meet the physical demands of military service.
Types of Conscientious Objections that May Exempt You from the Draft Moral objections to war or violence. Religious objections to serving in the military. Other conscientious objections that would prevent you from serving in the military.