How to Register with the Selective Service System

## 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 still required by law for men aged 18 through 25. This ensures that the government can quickly mobilize troops in the event of a national emergency. ## Who Needs to Register All male U.S. citizens and immigrants (documented and undocumented) must register if they are: - Between the ages of 18 and 25 - Assigned male at birth - Living in the United States *Note: Transgender women who were assigned male at birth are still required to register.* ### Exceptions to Registration - Men on active duty in the armed forces - Men who are hospitalized or institutionalized - Men who are incarcerated - Certain conscientious objectors - Males with disabilities that would prevent them from serving ## When to Register The law requires eligible individuals to register within 30 days of their 18th birthday. However, you can register as early as age 17 years and 3 months. Late registration is accepted until age 25. ## Methods of Registration ### 1. Online Registration 1. Visit the [Selective Service System's registration page](https://www.sss.gov//register/) 2. Click on the "Register" button 3. Complete the online form with your personal information 4. Submit the form and print your confirmation ### 2. Registration by Mail - Obtain a Selective Service registration form from any U.S. Post Office - Complete the form with the necessary information - Mail it to the address provided on the form ### 3. Other Registration Methods * Through the FAFSA application when applying for federal student aid * At your local high school (many schools participate in automatic registration) * At your state's Department of Motor Vehicles when getting your driver's license ## Required Information When registering, you'll need to provide: - Full legal name - Social Security Number - Date of birth - Current mailing address - Email address (for online registration) ## Why Registration is Important Failure to register can have serious consequences, including: - Ineligibility for federal student loans and grants - Denial of federal job training programs - Inability to obtain federal jobs - Possible fines up to $250,000 - Potential imprisonment for up to 5 years ## Verification and Follow-up After registration, you should: 1. Receive a registration acknowledgment card within 90 days 2. Keep this card in a safe place as proof of registration 3. Update your information if you move or change your name before turning 26 You can verify your registration status by: - Visiting [www.sss.gov](https://www.sss.gov/) - Calling 1-888-655-1825 - Checking your email for confirmation (if registered online) ## Getting Help If you need assistance with registration or have questions: - Call the Selective Service Information Office: 1-888-655-1825 - Email: [information@sss.gov](https://www.sss.gov/contact/) - Visit your local post office - Consult your school guidance counselor For more detailed information, visit the [Selective Service System's official website](https://www.sss.gov//).

How to Register with the Selective Service System

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