What is The Selective Service System?

The Selective Service System is an independent agency within the Executive Branch of the Federal Government. The Director of Selective Service is appointed by the President and confirmed by the Senate. Selective Service is not a part of the Department of Defense.

The Federal law under which the agency operates is the Military Selective Service Act. Under this law, the mission of the Selective Service System is to provide the numbers of men needed by the Armed Forces, within the time required, should Congress and the President decide to return to a draft, in the event of a national emergency. Selective Service would also be responsible for administering a program of alternative service for conscientious objectors.

What is Selective Service Registration?

Registration is the process of providing the Selective Service System with personal information, such as name, address, date of birth, Social Security Account Number and other related information. It is a civic and legal responsibility. Even though, no one is currently being drafted, men are required to register with Selective Service as soon as they reach age 18.

Registering with Selective Service does not mean that you are joining the military.

Registration provides our country with a means to develop and maintain an accurate list of names and addresses of men who might be called upon if a return to the draft is authorized.

Failure to register or otherwise comply with the Military Selective Service Act is upon conviction, punishable by a fine of up to $250,000, imprisonment for up to five years, or both. In addition, federal and certain state laws require registration as a prerequisite for obtaining student financial aid, job training, government employment, and U.S. naturalization.

 Who Must Register?

With few exceptions, all male United States citizens and male aliens residing in the United States and its territories must register within 30 days of their 18^th birthday.

Parolees, refugees, and applicants for asylum are considered to be residents of the United States and therefore must register within 30 days of their 18^th birthday.

Disabled men who are able to function in public, with or without assistance, must register. A friend or relative may help a disabled man complete the registration form if he is unable to do so himself.