Your Visit to MEPS
- All enlisted recruits are evaluated at MEPS
- Your recruiter helps prepare you for MEPS
- Evaluations include medical checks, physical evaluations, and the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) if not previously taken
- Takes between one and two days
- Lodging and meals are provided for you
What You Need to Accomplish at MEPS
Your eligibility to join the Army as an enlisted Soldier is evaluated at MEPS during a series of screenings and tests. These evaluations determine if you meet the physical, mental, and moral standards set by the Army.
First Day Expectations
The day starts with breakfast and a briefing on what you can expect that day. This gives you a chance to mentally prepare for the day ahead.
Medical Evaluation
All recruits complete a medical questionnaire and undergo an evaluation that includes height and weight measurements, hearing and vision exams, urine and blood tests, and drug and alcohol tests.
Female recruits: the physical exam takes place in a private room with a female attendant, and a drape or gown is provided. A pregnancy test is also required.
Physical Evaluation
Everyone entering the Army must be in good physical health to endure the challenges of Basic Training and military service. Recruits are asked to perform several exercises to evaluate balance and physical ability, which includes muscle group and joint maneuvers.
Take the ASVAB if You Haven’t Already
If not previously completed, you’ll take the ASVAB at MEPS. Your score helps determine the Army jobs that best match your skills and mental aptitude.
Placement Exam (ASVAB)
Find Your Army Job
After completing medical and physical evaluations, you’ll work with your Guidance Counselor to select an Army job. The jobs available to you depend on many factors, including your ASVAB scores and what positions are open at the time.
See All Jobs
Sign Your Contract
After selecting your job, you are fingerprinted and undergo a Pre-Enlistment Interview (PEI), where questions are asked that may determine ineligibility in joining. If enlisting in the Delayed Enlistment Program (DEP), personal conduct rules are communicated to you. With your Guidance Counselor, you will sign your enlistment contract at this time.
Take the Oath. Step into Your Future.
When all the above is completed, you will participate in the Oath of Enlistment ceremony. This ceremony is conducted by a commissioned Officer, who also signs your enlistment contract. While every enlisted Soldier takes the Oath of Enlistment, there is no mistaking the personal meaning this moment holds for each recruit—including you.
Tips to Prepare for MEPS
Before you go, there are some useful things you can do to prepare for your evaluations at MEPS. Documentation for medical conditions and citizenship are especially important to ensure you remain qualified.
Medical History & Documentation
Let your recruiter know about any past medical conditions and bring related medical documentation. Also, bring your Social Security card, birth certificate, and driver's license.
Lodging & Meals
Your recruiter will help you find the nearest MEPS location to you. Lodging, meals, and transportation to and from MEPS are provided for you.
What to Wear
Wear presentable, comfortable clothing and underwear—no offensive wording or pictures. Be sure to remove all piercings and don’t wear a hat.
Personal Items
Only bring items suggested by your recruiter. If you wear eyeglasses or contacts, bring them and your prescription and lens case. Leave behind valuables and any weapons.
Self-Care
Get a good night's sleep the night before for the early morning start and long day. Also, be sure to bathe or shower the night before your examinations.
Talk with Your Recruiter
Your recruiter will help prepare you for MEPS by ensuring you have the proper documentation and answering your questions.
After You Sign
You are officially enlisted in the Army after you have been through all evaluations, passed the ASVAB, chosen your job, signed your contract, and taken the Oath of Enlistment.
Common Questions About MEPS
What can disqualify you at MEPS?
Any disqualifications that appear during your MEPS physical exam or interview may prevent you from joining the Army. These disqualifications can include illegal drug use, alcohol dependence, not meeting height/weight requirements, having certain contagious diseases, among others. Additionally, law violations can prevent you from enlisting, such as being convicted of any crime that prohibits you from carrying a firearm.
Many conditions require a medical report, and it’s best to obtain these reports prior to your arrival at MEPS so you can complete the full process. Your recruiter can also help you obtain medical records before MEPS and help you complete any waivers if needed.
Where do you stay for MEPS, and can your parents/guardians come with you?
With 65 MEPS located nationwide, you will work with your recruiter to find one nearest your home. The Army provides lodging at a hotel near the MEPS location for those needing accommodations. This also gives you a chance to get settled and get to know other recruits.
Your parents/guardians are allowed to accompany you to MEPS but are not allowed in the area where the processing and examinations take place. During the Oath of Enlistment ceremony, parents, family, and guests are welcomed to watch and take pictures.
If you had a medical condition in the past, can you still go to MEPS?
There are many medical conditions that require a waiver to allow you to serve. Be sure to share all your medical history with your recruiter, so they can help you get the proper documentation and waiver(s) if needed. Failure to do so can result in delays at MEPS or even disqualification from enlistment.
How long is a MEPS physical good for?
Your MEPS physical is good for two years. If you do the Delayed Enlistment Program (DEP), you will need to undergo a quick height and weight (BMI) check before shipping out to Basic Training, but this is not as in-depth of an exam as the original physical.