U.S. Army Raises Enlistment Age to 42, Eases Marijuana Policy

The U.S. Army announced significant updates to its enlistment policies this week, raising the maximum age for recruits to 42 and eliminating the need for waivers for a single marijuana possession conviction, effective April 20, 2026. The changes, outlined in a revised Army Regulation 601-210 published on March 20, apply to the Regular Army, Army National Guard, and Army Reserve, aiming to expand the pool of eligible applicants amid ongoing efforts to modernize recruitment.

Under the new rules, individuals up to and including age 42, with or without prior military service, can now enlist without age-related waivers. Previously, the maximum age stood at 35, though some older applicants received exceptions on a case-by-case basis. The minimum enlistment age remains unchanged at 17 with parental consent or 18 without. For prior-service applicants, eligibility considers factors such as retirement qualifications, ensuring they can complete a full 20-year career by age 62 in the Regular Army or qualify for nonregular retired pay by age 60 in the Reserve or National Guard. All recruits must still meet existing standards for medical fitness, education, aptitude, and background checks,...