Can You Rejoin the Military After Leaving?

Many individuals wonder if they can re-enlist in the military after leaving. The answer, as with most matters related to the military, is complex and dependent on several factors. This article explores the conditions under which individuals can rejoin different branches of the military.

Understanding Re-enlistment Codes on DD214

The DD214 is a critical document for military personnel and individuals who have served. It provides details of a service member’s discharge. The re-enlistment code on this document plays a crucial role in determining whether an individual can rejoin the military.

For those with a 1 on their DD214, re-enlistment is typically immediate. A 2 on the DD214 means there is a two-year waiting period before one can rejoin. A 4 code generally prohibits re-enlistment, often due to medical reasons. A 3 code often requires a wait time, typically around six months, and is more likely to be associated with mental health discharge.

Eligibility and Considerations

The decision to re-enlist is not straightforward and involves several key factors:

Time Limits

Each branch of the military has its own policies regarding how long after leaving an individual can re-enlist. Typically, if you leave under honorable conditions, you may be eligible to re-enlist within a certain timeframe, often up to a few years. It's important to check the specific policy of the service branch you are interested in re-enlisting with.

Re-enlistment Eligibility

Your eligibility to re-enlist is not just based on whether you can re-enlist at all, but also on your reasons for leaving. Factors such as your conduct during service, health and fitness standards, and any prior injuries or issues with the law can all affect your ability to re-enlist. Your previous military occupational specialty (MOS) and rank may also play a role, especially if you plan to rejoin the same branch and maintain the same rank.

Current Military Needs

The military's needs can change over time, and certain skills or ranks may be more in demand. As a result, your ability to re-enlist may depend on the current military requirements and demands for your specific branch and MOS.

The Re-enlistment Process

The process of re-enlisting is similar to initial enlistment and involves several steps:

Paperwork: You will need to complete all necessary documentation and forms. Potential Re-evaluation: You may undergo a re-evaluation of your physical fitness and medical health to ensure you meet current standards. Training: Depending on your situation, you may need to complete training similar to initial enlistment or specific retraining to account for the skills you have retained.

It is highly recommended to contact a recruiter from the branch you are interested in to get the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding re-enlistment opportunities.

Limitations Based on How You Left

The specifics of re-enlistment can also depend on the circumstances of your departure from the military. For enlisted personnel, a re-enlistment code is assigned based on the circumstances of your departure. This code will dictate the terms of your re-enlistment:

Under Honorable or General with Honorable Discharge

For individuals with a honorable or general discharge, you may be able to re-enlist, but it will depend on several factors including your age, physical fitness, and any prior injuries or legal issues.

For example, if you were in the Army and have a re-enlistment code of 2, you would be required to wait for two years before you can re-enlist. The Army would also require you to go through approximately four weeks of Warrior Training, similar to Basic Training, to ensure your fitness and readiness. If you chose a different MOS, you would likely need to attend additional Advanced Individual Training (AIT), and you might be separated from new recruits and accommodated in the NCO barracks.

In summary, while it is possible to rejoin the military after leaving, it depends on multiple factors, including the circumstances of your departure, your eligibility following the military’s policies, and the current needs of the military branches. Consulting with a recruiter is essential to understand the specific requirements and opportunities for re-enlistment.