What Is the Maximum Age for the U.S. Military Draft?

Learn the oldest age you can be drafted in the U.S. Selective Service and registration requirements for males aged 18 to 25.

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In the United States, the oldest age at which someone can be drafted is 26 years old. The Selective Service System requires that all male U.S. citizens, and male immigrant non-citizens, between the ages of 18 and 25 register for the draft. While the draft has not been in use since 1973, registration remains a requirement, and those up to 25 could potentially be called up if a draft were reinstated.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the age range for registering with the Selective Service in the U.S.? All male U.S. citizens and immigrant non-citizens between the ages of 18 and 25 are required to register with the Selective Service System.
  2. Has there been an active military draft in the U.S. recently? No, the U.S. draft has not been active since 1973, but registration with the Selective Service remains mandatory for eligible males.
  3. Can someone older than 26 be drafted into the U.S. military? No, the oldest age for potential draft eligibility is 26; individuals older than 26 are not subject to being drafted.