Do prior service have to go through Coast Guard boot camp?
John Kim
Updated on June 02, 2026
Correspondingly, does prior service have to go to basic training?
Prior Service personnel must have successfully completed an Army Basic Combat Training (BCT) course, Warrior Transition Course, or U.S.Marine Corps BCT course during previous military service. These personnel will not be sent to BCT.
Beside above, do prior service have to go through MEPS? All Prior Service applicants that require basic combat training (BCT) must obtain a Chapter 2 physical from MEPS.
Considering this, do you have to go through boot camp to join the Coast Guard?
Because of their many physical responsibilities and duties, members of the Coast Guard must first pass a rigorous basic training program called “boot camp,†much like the other branches of the U.S. military.
Do you have to go through boot camp again if you enlist?
When you want to re-enlist, in order to get prior service, you must have 6-months of post basic-training experience at minimum. You may have to go back to basic training even if you do have 180 days in the military if you were still in AIT or ADT.
Related Question Answers
How hard is it for prior service to enlist?
The Air Force is the hardest active duty service for prior service to enlist, and the Army is the easiest. The Marine Corps and the Navy accept prior service, but not in large numbers. With the exception of the Army, waiting times of a year or more for prior service to enlist are not uncommon.Do you have to retake the Asvab if you are prior service?
A new ASVAB test is not required as long as previous ASVAB scores can be verified. However you are eligible to retake the ASVAB if necessary in order to qualify for a new MOS.Do prior service get bonuses?
A qualifying Prior Service Soldier can receive a bonus amount of up to $20,000 for enlisting into designated skill positions. To determine your eligibility, ask your recruiter for more details.Can Prior service enlist as 18X?
18X (18 XRAY) isn't actually a Military Occupation Specialty (MOS), but you can select that as your pre-enlistment option as you depart for Basic Combat Training (BCT). You can still get to Army Special Forces from the Army and request a transfer to attend SFAS - Special Forces Assessment and Selection.Which branch of military has the hardest boot camp?
To recap: The hardest military branch to get into in terms of education requirements is the Air Force. The military branch with the toughest basic training is the Marine Corps. The hardest military branch for non-males because of exclusivity and male dominance is the Marine Corps.What rank do you get after basic training?
After completing Basic Combat Training, most soldiers receive the rank of Private Second Class. This is the first promotion the majority of enlisted soldiers earn after completing basic training, or they will get promoted after serving six months in the Army.Why is Coast Guard boot camp so hard?
It's difficult to say one type of military service basic training is harder than the other branch. However, many agree that Coast Guard boot camp ranks among the most demanding, especially because of the swimming elements.Does the Coast Guard have the hardest boot camp?
While the Coast Guard might be considered the easiest military branch in terms of physical fitness, it is by far the hardest to join. The Coast Guard has eight weeks designated for boot camp, which is conducted in Cape May, NJ. Many recruits count the first week at Coast Guard training the most challenging.Does the Coast Guard have a boot camp?
Where does Coast Guard do training? Coast Guard boot camp is held at U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May. Cape May is located on the eastern coast of New Jersey. Recruits are able to receive letters throughout boot camp, it is highly encouraged to send them motivation and support as they embark on this journey.What do I need to know before joining the Coast Guard?
You must:- Be a U.S. citizen or nationalized to be a Coast Guard officer.
- To enlist, you must be a U.S. citizen or a resident alien.
- Be between the ages of 17-27.
- Have a high school diploma.
- Have no more than two dependents.
- Take and pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test.
Can you enlist in the Coast Guard?
You must be a U.S. citizen or a Resident Alien. Be between the ages of 17-31 (up to age 32 if qualified for attending guaranteed 'A' school) for Active Duty. (If you are 17, you'll need parental consent.) Reservists must be between 17-40.Do coast guard officers go to basic training?
Every officer candidate in the Coast Guard must go through initial training - essentially basic training for officers. When you graduate from the program, you'll receive a commission in the Coast Guard at the rank of ensign (O-1), and will be required to serve a minimum of three years on active-duty.What is the easiest boot camp?
Among active-duty service members and veterans, it is agreed that the easiest military branch to get into, in terms of basic training, is the Air Force because programs are more spread out.Where does Coast Guard do basic training?
Welcome to Coast Guard Basic Training, located in Cape May, N.J. Training Center Cape May is the fifth largest base in the Coast Guard and the sole accession point for the entire enlisted workforce. The base is located in one of the most exceptional areas on the east coast.How do I prepare for Coast Guard boot camp?
Physical Fitness- 29 push-ups in 60 seconds.
- 38 sit-ups in 60 seconds.
- Run 1.5 miles in under 12:51.
- Sit and Reach 16.50"
- Complete a swim circuit.
- Tread water for 5 minutes.
- Jump off a 6-foot platform and swim 100 meters.
Does MEPS check prior service medical records?
Medical Screening at MEPSBefore you can take your physical at MEPS, you must complete a detailed medical history questionnaire. To expedite the process, you may wish to bring along health records showing that past medical or mental health conditions are no longer an issue.
Is Air Force taking prior service?
The Air Force Reserve is open to current military personnel who are transitioning from active duty, former members of any branch of the U.S. military, as well as candidates with no prior military experience.Can you back out after you swear in at MEPS?
Basic TrainingUntil a new recruit takes the Oath of Enlistment at MEPS, they are not considered to be truly available for duty. If you have NOT been to the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) and have NOT taken an Oath of Enlistment, you are free to quit the process at any time.
Can I watch my son swear in at MEPS?
Members of your family are welcome to watch you take the oath. A waiting room is available for them. Your family may take photographs of you with the military officer administering the oath.Should I shave before MEPS female?
Hair: Do not shave your head before leaving for basic training. This applies to both males and females. Do not even arrive at basic with a military style cut (Flat Top, High-and-tight, etc.). All facial hair should be shaved thoroughly before arriving at basic training.Can you switch from active duty to reserves before your contract is up?
Some of the U.S. armed services allow personnel to request early separation to serve in the National Guard or Active Reserves. The other active-duty services occasionally will allow you to request a discharge from active duty to serve in the Guard or Reserves under a Convenience of the Government Discharge.What happens if you get disqualified at MEPS?
A Permanent Disqualification is for a medical condition that is permanent. If you fail your MEPS physical or your Medical Prescreen Form (2807-2) is kicked back with a medical disqualification, then you may, or may not, have the option to apply for a waiver, depending on the reason(s) for your PDQ(s).How long after enlisting is basic training?
Terms of EnlistmentYou report for 10 week basic training, either directly or within a year. If you report to basic training under direct ship, that means you may head out within days. When exactly you head out depends on your job assignment.