How to Register for Selective Service in the United States

## Understanding the Selective Service System The Selective Service System is an independent agency of the United States government that maintains information on those potentially subject to military conscription. While the U.S. has not had a draft since 1973, registration is crucial as it ensures a fair and equitable draft, should the need arise. ### Who Must Register All male citizens and immigrants residing in the United States must register if they are: * Between the ages of 18 and 25 * Born male (including transgender individuals who were assigned male at birth) * U.S. citizens or immigrants (documented or undocumented) * Permanent residents, refugees, and asylees ### Exemptions Certain individuals are exempt from registering: - Men on active duty in the Armed Forces - Cadets and midshipmen at service academies - Non-immigrant aliens on student, visitor, or diplomatic visas - Males with disabilities that would prevent them from serving - Certain conscientious objectors ## Registration Methods ### Online Registration The fastest and most convenient way to register is online: 1. Visit the [Selective Service System's registration page](https://www.sss.gov/register/) 2. Click on the "Register" button 3. Fill out the required information, including: * Full legal name * Social Security Number * Date of birth * Current mailing address * Email address 4. Submit and keep your confirmation number ### Alternative Registration Options **Post Office Registration** - Pick up a form at any U.S. Post Office - Complete the required information - Mail the form to the provided address **Additional Methods** - Through FAFSA when applying for federal student aid - At high schools with designated registrars - At state DMVs when applying for a driver's license (in participating states) ## Consequences of Not Registering Failing to register can result in serious consequences: * Ineligibility for federal student aid * Disqualification from federal jobs * Inability to obtain federal job training * Difficulty obtaining U.S. citizenship * Potential fines up to $250,000 * Possible imprisonment up to 5 years ## Special Circumstances ### Transgender Individuals * Individuals assigned male at birth must register * Those assigned female at birth are not required to register ### Confined Individuals Men who are hospitalized, incarcerated, or institutionalized are not required to register while confined but must do so within 30 days of release. ## After Registration Once registered, you must: * Keep your information updated until age 26 * Report any changes in address * Maintain your registration card in a safe place You can verify your registration status through the [Selective Service System's verification page](https://www.sss.gov/verify/). --- For additional assistance or specific questions, contact the Selective Service System at 1-888-655-1825 or visit their [FAQ page](https://www.sss.gov/faq/). Remember that registration is not the same as joining the military; it simply adds you to a database of eligible men who could be called upon in a national emergency requiring a draft.

How to Register for Selective Service in the United States

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