This section explains how military moral waivers work for people with criminal records who want to enlist.
A moral waiver allows military branches to accept applicants who would otherwise be automatically disqualified due to criminal history. Waivers are not guarantees. Most requests get denied.
Each branch decides waiver approvals independently. Army approval does not mean Navy approval. Standards change based on recruitment needs and current policy.
Criminal record type matters more than age of conviction. Violent offenses, sex offenses, and drug distribution convictions are rarely waived. Multiple misdemeanors often disqualify more than single felonies.
The articles below explain what disqualifies applicants, how waiver reviews actually work, why most waivers get denied, and what approval does not guarantee.