The has raised its maximum enlistment age to 42, up from the previous limit of 35, in a significant move aimed at expanding its recruitment pool. The change applies to the Regular Army, Army Reserve, and National Guard and took effect under updated enlistment regulations issued in March.
The decision is part of a broader effort to address persistent recruitment challenges. In 2022, the army fell short of its recruitment target by around 25 per cent, according to data from the US Army Recruiting Command. Although targets were met in 2024 and 2025, earlier shortfalls highlighted ongoing structural pressures in attracting new personnel.
