Processing & Screening (MEPS)
Here’s what to expect at MEPS.
As an enlisted recruit, you’ll go to a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) to determine if you meet all the standards to join the Army, choose a career field, sign your contract, and take the oath. The process takes one to two days and includes lodging and meals.
The steps to MEPS
Your eligibility to join as an enlisted Soldier is evaluated at MEPS. You’ll go through a series of screenings and tests to 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. For female recruits, the physical exam requires a pregnancy test and takes place with a female attendant in a private room with a drape or gown provided.
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.
ASVAB test
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.
Find your role in the Army
After completing medical and physical evaluations, you’ll work with your Guidance Counselor to choose your career field. The jobs available to you depend on many factors including your ASVAB scores and what positions are open at the time.
Sign your contract
After finding a career field that fits, 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
When everything 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.
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How to prepare
Here are some important things to know about MEPS and ways you can prepare for your evaluations and processing.
Medical history and documentation
Let your recruiter know about any past medical conditions and bring relevant documentation. You’ll also need to bring your Social Security card, birth certificate, and driver’s license.
Lodging and meals
Your recruiter will help you find the MEPS location nearest to you. Lodging, meals, and transportation to and from MEPS will be provided.
What to wear
Wear comfortable, but presentable, 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 along with your prescription and lens case. Leave behind any valuables or weapons.
Self care
Get plenty of sleep the night before for the early morning start and long day ahead. Please be sure to bathe the night before your examinations.
Talk with your recruiter
Your recruiter will help prepare you for MEPS by answering your questions and ensuring you arrive with the proper documentation.
After you sign
You officially become an enlisted Soldier in the Army after you’ve completed all the evaluations, passed the ASVAB, chosen your career field, signed your contract, and taken the Oath of Enlistment.
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Common questions about processing and screening.
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What can disqualify you at 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 and 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?
Where do you stay for MEPS, and can your parents/guardians come with you?
With 65 MEPS located nationwide(Opens in new window), 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?
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?
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 conduct a shortened exam on the day you ship out to Basic Training to ensure nothing has changed with your physical qualification since enlistment.