Military: U.S. Coast Guard
Point of Contact
Francisco J. Cortez
Recruiter-In-Charge
francisco.j.cortez@uscg.mil
(206) 815-6215
United States Coast Guard
8838 Viscount Blvd Suite K, El Paso, TX 79925
Detailed Checklist
Joining the United States Coast Guard is a life-changing decision. Before you apply, make sure you understand the process. These helpful tips will make your application process easier.
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For help with your decision, first reach out to a Coast Guard recruiter to discuss your interest. You can do this on our website, by phone, or email.
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When you connect with your recruiter, be prepared to discuss your goals. You will learn about opportunities that best fit your goals, and your recruiter will ensure you meet the basic requirements to join. If you both agree joining the Coast Guard is the right decision for you, you'll begin your new journey.
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The first big steps include a standardized test and a physical exam administered by a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS).
ASVAB
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is used by all military branches to qualify for enlistment, and will also give you an idea of what jobs you are most suited for. If you haven’t already taken it, a practice test can predict how you’ll score. The minimum ASVAB AFQT score for enlisting in the U.S. Coast Guard is 32. Officer programs have different standardized test requirements.
Physical Exam
A complete medical exam and drug test at MEPS ensures that you meet service medical standards. Prior to scheduling your exam, you’ll need to submit a detailed, well-documented medical history for MEPS to review.
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Once you have a qualifying ASVAB score and medical exam, your recruiter will ensure all other qualifications are met, such as criminal background and credit checks. At this point, your path will change based on what program you’re applying to. Active duty enlisted, reserve enlisted, and officer applications have different procedures. One of the last steps in the process will be a national security background check.
FAQs
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The U.S. Coast Guard is one of the six armed forces of the United States and the only military organization within the Department of Homeland Security. Since 1790, the Coast Guard has safeguarded our nation’s maritime interests and environment around the world.Go to https://www.applytexas.org to apply.
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There are many enlisted active-duty job fields you can choose from. Our 11 official missions include:
Port and Waterway Security
Drug Interdiction
Aids to Navigation
Search and Rescue
Living Marine Resources
Marine Safety
Defense Readiness
Migrant Interdiction
Marine Environmental Protection
Ice Operations
Law Enforcement
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Yes, find out more about the Coast Guard Academy, Officer Candidate School, Direct Commissioning Programs, and the College Student Pre-commissioning Initiative.
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The Coast Guard reserve serves one weekend a month and two weeks a year. You can continue both your civilian career and education while serving part time.
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No, our qualification criteria is similar to other military branches.
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Basic training is eight weeks, and is located at Coast Guard Training Center in Cape May, NJ.
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Push-ups: Male: 29 | Female: 15
Sit-ups: Male: 38 | Female: 32
1.5 mile run: Male: 12:51 | Female: 15:26
Swim circuit: Jump off a five foot platform, swim 100 meters, and tread water for five minutes.
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In the Coast Guard, swimming is a necessary part of service. But, you don't need to be a strong swimmer to join. The Coast Guard will offer extra swim training to recruits who need it.