Required Documents
Gather these documents before your MEPS appointment
Birth Certificate
RequiredOriginal or certified copy with raised seal. Hospital certificates are not accepted.
How to obtain: Contact vital records office in the state where you were born
- Order early - can take 2-4 weeks
- Must have raised seal or security features
- Photocopies not accepted
Social Security Card
RequiredOriginal card required. Replacement cards can be ordered online.
How to obtain: Order replacement through Social Security Administration
- Free to replace
- Takes 10-14 business days
- Can request up to 3 per year
Valid Photo ID
RequiredDriver's license or state-issued ID card. Must be current and not expired.
How to obtain: Visit your state DMV or equivalent agency
- Ensure it won't expire before your ship date
- Address should match current residence
High School Diploma or GED
RequiredOriginal diploma or official transcripts. GED certificate if applicable.
How to obtain: Contact your high school or GED testing center
- High school diploma preferred over GED
- Some jobs require diploma
- College credits can help
College Transcripts
RecommendedIf you have any college credits, bring official transcripts.
How to obtain: Request from college registrar office
- Can help with advanced rank
- May qualify for officer programs
- Shows academic capability
Medical Records
RequiredAll hospitalizations, surgeries, and ongoing medical conditions.
- Be completely honest - lying is grounds for discharge
- Include mental health records
- Bring prescription medication list
Immunization Records
If AvailableAny available vaccination records from childhood through present.
- Military will provide required vaccinations
- Having records speeds up processing
Prescription Glasses/Contacts
If AvailableCurrent prescription and glasses. Bring glasses to MEPS, not contacts.
- Wear glasses to MEPS, not contacts
- Bring prescription documentation
- Military will provide BCGs (glasses)
Court Records
If ApplicableAny arrests, charges, or convictions, even if expunged or juvenile.
- Full disclosure is mandatory
- Waivers may be available
- Lying will disqualify you
Divorce Decree
If ApplicableIf previously married, final divorce documentation.
Custody Documents
If ApplicableIf you have children, custody agreements and child support orders.
Naturalization Certificate
If ApplicableIf naturalized citizen, bring certificate of naturalization.
- Green card holders may enlist in some cases
- Citizenship required for many jobs
