U.S. Army Raises Maximum Enlistment Age to 42, Effective April 20

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Army has increased its maximum enlistment age from 35 to 42 for new recruits in the Regular Army, Army National Guard, and Army Reserve, according to a revised Army Regulation 601-210 published March 20, 2026.

The change, set to take effect April 20, 2026, applies to both non-prior service applicants and those with prior military experience. The minimum age remains 17 with parental consent or 18 without.

The update brings the Army’s policy in line with most other U.S. military branches. The Air Force and Space Force already allow enlistment up to age 42, while the Navy and Coast Guard permit up to 41. Only the Marine Corps maintains a lower maximum of 28.

The Army previously granted age waivers on a case-by-case basis for applicants over 35, but the new regulation removes the waiver requirement and sets a firm upper limit of 42.

The policy shift aims to expand the recruiting pool amid ongoing challenges in meeting annual enlistment goals. Officials note that older recruits often bring valuable civilian skills, work experience, and maturity to the force.

The same regulation also eases restrictions on recruits with a single legal conviction for marijuana or drug paraphernalia possession, eliminating the previous waiver requirement for that offense to further broaden eligibility and reflect societal changes.

The Army has faced recruiting shortfalls in recent years, prompting multiple initiatives to attract more qualified Americans, including bonuses, expanded opportunities for prior-service members, and now this age adjustment.

No changes were announced to physical fitness, medical, or moral character standards required for enlistment.