The United States Military has specific height requirements for individuals seeking to enlist or commission as officers. These requirements vary depending on the branch of service, as well as the specific job or Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) an individual is seeking to enter. The height requirements are in place to ensure that military personnel can safely and effectively perform their duties, as well as to minimize the risk of injury or health problems.
For the Army, the height requirements for enlisted personnel are between 58 and 80 inches (147 and 203 cm) for men, and between 58 and 72 inches (147 and 183 cm) for women. For officer candidates, the height requirements are between 60 and 80 inches (152 and 203 cm) for men, and between 58 and 72 inches (147 and 183 cm) for women. The Army also has specific height requirements for certain MOSs, such as pilots and aircrew members, who must meet more stringent height and weight requirements due to the physical demands of their jobs.
Height Requirements by Branch
The height requirements for the other branches of the US Military are as follows:
- Navy: The height requirements for enlisted personnel in the Navy are between 57 and 80 inches (145 and 203 cm) for men, and between 57 and 72 inches (145 and 183 cm) for women. For officer candidates, the height requirements are between 58 and 80 inches (147 and 203 cm) for men, and between 57 and 72 inches (145 and 183 cm) for women.
- Air Force: The height requirements for enlisted personnel in the Air Force are between 58 and 80 inches (147 and 203 cm) for men, and between 58 and 72 inches (147 and 183 cm) for women. For officer candidates, the height requirements are between 60 and 80 inches (152 and 203 cm) for men, and between 58 and 72 inches (147 and 183 cm) for women.
- Marine Corps: The height requirements for enlisted personnel in the Marine Corps are between 58 and 78 inches (147 and 198 cm) for men, and between 58 and 72 inches (147 and 183 cm) for women. For officer candidates, the height requirements are between 60 and 78 inches (152 and 198 cm) for men, and between 58 and 72 inches (147 and 183 cm) for women.
- Coast Guard: The height requirements for enlisted personnel in the Coast Guard are between 58 and 80 inches (147 and 203 cm) for men, and between 58 and 72 inches (147 and 183 cm) for women. For officer candidates, the height requirements are between 60 and 80 inches (152 and 203 cm) for men, and between 58 and 72 inches (147 and 183 cm) for women.
Waivers and Exceptions
In some cases, individuals who do not meet the standard height requirements may be eligible for a waiver or exception. This is typically the case for individuals who have a specific skill or talent that is in high demand by the military, or for those who have already served in the military and are seeking to reenlist or commission as an officer. Waivers and exceptions are typically granted on a case-by-case basis, and are subject to the approval of the relevant military authorities.
| Branch | Enlisted Height Requirements (Men) | Enlisted Height Requirements (Women) | Officer Height Requirements (Men) | Officer Height Requirements (Women) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Army | 58-80 inches | 58-72 inches | 60-80 inches | 58-72 inches |
| Navy | 57-80 inches | 57-72 inches | 58-80 inches | 57-72 inches |
| Air Force | 58-80 inches | 58-72 inches | 60-80 inches | 58-72 inches |
| Marine Corps | 58-78 inches | 58-72 inches | 60-78 inches | 58-72 inches |
| Coast Guard | 58-80 inches | 58-72 inches | 60-80 inches | 58-72 inches |
Key Points
- The US Military has specific height requirements for enlisted personnel and officer candidates.
- Height requirements vary depending on the branch of service and the specific job or MOS.
- Waivers and exceptions may be granted for individuals who do not meet the standard height requirements.
- Pilots and aircrew members must meet more stringent height and weight requirements due to the physical demands of their jobs.
- It's essential to check with the relevant military authorities for the most up-to-date information on height requirements.
In conclusion, the height requirements for the US Military are in place to ensure that military personnel can safely and effectively perform their duties. While there may be some variation in height requirements depending on the branch of service and the specific job or MOS, it's essential to meet the standard height requirements to be eligible for enlistment or commission as an officer. By understanding the height requirements and the waiver and exception process, individuals can make informed decisions about their military career and ensure they are well-prepared for the physical demands of military service.
What are the height requirements for the US Army?
+The height requirements for the US Army are between 58 and 80 inches for enlisted personnel, and between 60 and 80 inches for officer candidates.
Can I get a waiver if I don’t meet the standard height requirements?
+Yes, waivers and exceptions may be granted for individuals who do not meet the standard height requirements, but this is typically on a case-by-case basis and subject to the approval of the relevant military authorities.
What are the height requirements for pilots and aircrew members?
+Pilots and aircrew members must meet more stringent height and weight requirements due to the physical demands of their jobs, but these requirements vary depending on the branch of service and the specific aircraft or equipment.
