Getting Started
What happens at MEPS?
TL;DR — Quick Answer
MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Station) is where you take the ASVAB, complete a physical exam, and select your Navy rate. The process typically takes 1-2 days. Your phone is locked away, so bring printed reference material.
The MEPS timeline
Most recruits arrive the evening before and stay at a hotel arranged by their recruiter. The next morning starts early, around 5:00 AM. You'll check in, surrender your phone and personal items, and begin processing. The full day includes medical screening, the ASVAB (if not already taken), and job selection. Some recruits finish in one day; others return a second day.
The medical examination
The physical is thorough: hearing test, vision test, blood draw, urine sample, breathalyzer, height/weight measurement, and a full physical exam by a doctor. Any prior medical conditions must be documented. Disqualifying conditions can sometimes be waived, but the process takes time. Be honest about your medical history as undisclosed conditions found later can result in separation.
Choosing your rate at MEPS
After medical clearance and ASVAB scoring, you sit with a Navy classifier who shows you available ratings based on your scores and the Navy's current needs. This is where preparation matters: know which ratings you want before you walk in. The classifier may push undermanned ratings, so having your own research from the rates comparison table gives you leverage.
Why you should bring printed material
MEPS does not allow cell phones in the building. They lock away your phone when you arrive. You cannot look up rates, bonuses, or scores on your phone during the selection process. This is why having a printed reference guide is valuable. Consider purchasing the myNavyRates PDF guide to bring with you.
Useful Tools & Pages
Related Articles
What is the ASVAB and what scores do you need?
The ASVAB is a multi-aptitude test that determines which Navy ratings you qualify for. Your sub-test scores combine into line scores, and each rating has minimum line-score requirements. Higher scores open more options.
Read article →How do you choose the right Navy rate for you?
Choosing a Navy rate means weighing your ASVAB scores, lifestyle preferences, civilian career goals, and willingness to deploy or go to sea. Start by identifying which ratings you qualify for, then narrow the list by what matters most to you.
Read article →What actually happens when you sit down with the Navy job counselor at MEPS — and how do you avoid the common traps?
The Navy classifier sit-down is a 15-to-45 minute meeting where you sign a contract that binds you for 4-6 years. Your phone is locked in a bin, the rating list on the classifier's screen is only the seats open for the ship dates you qualify for right now, and the pressure to pick "something" instead of waiting is real. You can bring printed reference material, you can walk away without signing, you can change your rate later in DEP, and no enlistment bonus is paid at MEPS — those pay out when you finish A-School. Know all of this before you sit down.
Read article →What is Navy A-School and what should you expect?
A-School is your rating-specific technical training after boot camp. Length varies from 4 weeks to over a year depending on your rate. It teaches the foundational skills for your Navy job and determines your initial duty station.
Read article →Ready to find your rate?
Take the quiz or browse all 89 Navy ratings with full data.