Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) ASVAB and Medical Physical Pre-Arrival Information

Website Disclaimer

This website, uscgvirtualrecruiting.com, is a personal initiative of Jamel Brown and is not an official government site. It is not supported, recognized, or endorsed by the Department of Homeland Security or the United States Coast Guard. The content here is intended to assist with his recruiting duties and should not be seen as official guidance or advice. For official and authoritative information on Coast Guard recruitment, please visit the US Coast Guard's official recruiting website at https://www.gocoastguard.com. By using this website, you acknowledge and agree to this disclaimer.

The Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) plays a crucial role in the enlistment process for the United States Armed Forces. We understand that this process can be new and sometimes overwhelming, especially for younger applicants and those who have never flown before. This guide aims to provide helpful information about what to expect and how to prepare for your visit to MEPS, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience.

Preparing for Your Trip to MEPS

Items to Bring

Essentials Only: Pack light, with one change of clothing and a basic hygiene kit for overnight stays.
Corrective Lenses: Bring glasses instead of contact lenses for the color vision test. If you must bring contacts, also bring a case and solution.
Important Documents: Bring a valid government photo ID, your original (not laminated) Social Security card, and, for foreign applicants, your Permanent Resident card.

Authorized Photo Identifications:

When you go to MEPS, you must bring at least one of the following Authorized Photo Identifications:

Driver’s license issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles (must be unexpired; physical or digital is authorized)
State photo ID (must be unexpired; physical or digital is authorized)
U.S. Passport Book or Card (expired is acceptable)
Foreign Government-issued Passport (expired is acceptable)
U.S. Department of Defense ID, including IDs issued to dependents (must be unexpired)
USCIS Form N-550 (Certificate of Naturalization; original or official copy used by Recruiting Services)
USCIS Form I-551 (Permanent Resident Card; expired is acceptable)
USCIS Form N-560 (Certificate of Citizenship; original or official copy used by Recruiting Services)
HSPD-12 PIV Card (Smart Card, Common Access Card, etc.; must be unexpired)
DHS Trusted Traveler Cards (Global Entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST; must be unexpired)
U.S. Merchant Mariner Credential (must be unexpired)
Federally recognized, Tribal-issued Photo ID (must be unexpired)
Student (high school, university, trade/vocational school) photo ID (must be issued within the previous two years)

You must also bring your Social Security Card (NOT Laminated).

Appearance Standards

Clothing: Wear closed-toed shoes and conservative, clean undergarments. Dress in business casual attire, avoiding offensive graphics or overly casual items like sleeveless shirts or torn clothing.
Undergarments: Men should wear 100% cotton boxers or briefs; women should wear bras that unhook in the back without showing excessive cleavage.

Items You Should Not Bring

DO NOT bring large amounts of cash, valuable items, or any weapons/contraband (e.g., pocket knives, multi-tools, pepper spray, mace), as storage is limited and security screenings are in place.

Lodging

Accommodations may be shared with another applicant of the same gender, and the MEPS hotel is provided free of charge. You will be staying by yourself in the hotel room and cannot bring anyone else to stay with you.

ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery)

Your VRO Recruiter will coordinate with you to schedule your test. This crucial test determines your eligibility and suitability for specific roles within the military.

Medical Examination

A thorough physical examination is conducted to ensure you meet the health standards for enlistment. Disclose all health issues honestly; this is vital for your safety and effectiveness in service. Expect various tests, including vision, hearing, urine, and blood tests, to assess your overall health and suitability.

Height and Weight Standards

Each Service has its own standards for height and weight. If you exceed your maximum screening weight, you will be subject to a body fat assessment. The MEPS will measure your height and weight, which may be done either fully dressed (with 3 pounds automatically subtracted) or in undergarments. If necessary, the MEPS may reweigh you in undergarments.

MEPS Overview Videos

While not entirely representative of the Coast Guard’s process, these videos provide a general understanding of what to expect at MEPS.

Military ASVAB Testing and Career Counseling	MEPS Physical Exam
Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) Overview	MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station)
A Day at the MEPS	Welcome to Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS)

Your Stay at MEPS

Arrival and Check-In

Upon arrival, you will check in at the MEPS hotel or directly at MEPS, depending on your travel arrangements. The MEPS hotel is provided free of charge, and accommodations may be shared with another applicant of the same gender. You will be staying by yourself in the hotel room and cannot bring anyone else to stay with you.

Processing at MEPS

During your stay at MEPS, you will undergo various evaluations and complete necessary paperwork. Our team will guide you through each step to ensure you have all the support you need. This process includes medical examinations, aptitude testing, and interviews.

Returning Home from MEPS

Completion of MEPS Processing

Once you finish processing at MEPS, the MEPS Liaison will contact your VRO recruiter to let us know you have completed your MEPS process.

Return Travel Arrangements

Driving Distance: If you live within driving distance, you will drive or get a ride back home.
Shuttle Service: If you used a shuttle service to get to MEPS, you will use the same service to return home.
Flight: If you flew to MEPS, we will arrange a return flight for you free of charge. We will also set up transportation from MEPS back to the airport, ensuring you have all the details needed for a smooth journey home.

Important Information and Tips

Contact Information: Keep the contact details of your VRO recruiter and MEPS Liaison handy in case you need assistance during your travel.
Travel Documents: Carry all necessary travel documents, including your ID and travel itinerary.
Safety and Comfort: Follow all safety and security guidelines during your travel and stay at MEPS. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your VRO recruiter or MEPS Liaison.
Prohibited Items: Remember, you are not allowed to carry any weapons of any kind, including pocket knives, multi-tools, pepper spray, or mace.

Communication and Support

We understand that this experience might be new and challenging, especially for younger applicants. Our team is here to help you and answer any questions you may have. Don’t hesitate to contact your VRO recruiter or the MEPS Liaison for support and guidance at any stage of the process.

Reminders and Final Tips

Arrive Early: If you are flying, arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight to allow ample time for check-in and security.
Stay Organized: Keep all your documents and identification easily accessible.
Stay Calm and Confident: Follow the instructions given by your VRO recruiter and MEPS staff, and remember that everyone is there to support you through this process.

Summary

Preparing for your visit to MEPS is a critical step toward your military career. Ensure you follow all guidelines and bring the necessary items to facilitate a smooth processing experience. Remember, honesty and transparency about your health and history are paramount to ensuring you are placed in a role that suits you best and avoiding complications.

We hope this guide helps you feel more comfortable and prepared for the travel process. Our priority is to ensure a smooth, safe, and stress-free experience for you. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact your VRO recruiter.

Safe travels and best of luck with your processing at MEPS!