Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS)

PROCESSING STATIONS (MEPS) 
Your visit to a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) determines your mental aptitude, as well as physical and moral qualifications for enlistment in the Army. 

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
Evaluation lasts 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 National Guard 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 it, you'll take the ASVAB at MEPS. Your score helps determine jobs (MOSs) that best match your skills and mental aptitude. 

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 is 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 in your area.  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. 

HELPFUL RESOURCES
Additional resources are available to help prepare you for your day at MEPS. As always, let your recruiter know if you have questions about any topics not covered here. 

Placement Exam (ASVAB)
Eligibility and Requirements
Working with a Recruiter 

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 National Guard. These disqualifications can include illegal drug use, alcohol dependence, not meeting height/weight requirements, and 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 National Guard provides lodging at a hotel near the MEPS location for those needing accommodation. 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 welcome 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. 

TALK TO A RECRUITER 
Don't worry, there's no obligation if you reach out.