Parental Consent for Minority Enlistments  

Chapter 3, Operational Guidance

3–11. Processing of minors

The following guidance is provided to the MEPS when reviewing the DD Form 1966/5 (Section VI–Parental/Guardian

Consent For Enlistment):

a. Parents or guardian(s) signature(s) are required to process a minor applicant for enlistment (for example, medical examination, enlistment). If only one parental signature can be reasonably obtained, it must be stated in accordance with service standards on DD Form 1966/5 (Section VI) why only one parent has signed the consent of minor enlistment. Medical examination is not authorized if either parent objects or if a legal guardian objects; the recruiting services will not project a minor applicant to process at the MEPS if a parent or guardian objects.

b. Minors with divorced parents require the signature of the parent assigned sole custody or, if joint custody was awarded, the signature of either parent.

c. It is the service’s responsibility to complete item 40, “Verification of Single Signature Consent” statement on the DD Form 1966/5, which is necessary to explain why only one parent has signed the consent form. The medical examination is not authorized if this section is not completed, when required.

d. The applicant can file a petition in state court to be declared emancipated, which means the applicant legally becomes an adult at age 17. Attach any court document(s) regarding the emancipation to DD Form 1966/5 and process the applicant if otherwise eligible.

e. Marriage will automatically emancipate a minor applicant in most states. The recruiting service will only project such minors who are emancipated by marriage.

Other Resources: 

AR 601-270, Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS), dated 23 March 2007. http://www.army.mil/usapa/epubs/pdf/r601_270.pdf

Please note that this regulation is applicable to ALL branches of service (It is also titled OPNAVINST 1100.4C, AFI 36–2003 (I), MCO 1100.75D, COMDTINST M 1100.2E).

DD From 1966/5: http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/infomgt/forms/eforms/dd1966.pdf