The U.S. Army has announced significant policy changes aimed at bolstering its ranks, raising the maximum enlistment age from 35 to 42 and relaxing rules for recruits with certain marijuana-related convictions. The updates, effective April 20, are outlined in Army Regulation 601–210, published March 20. The move comes as the Army seeks to reverse years of recruiting struggles, which saw it miss its 2022 goal by 25%.

Policy Changes Target Older Recruits

The Army now joins the Navy and Air Force in permitting enlistment for individuals over 40, though the Marine Corps maintains a maximum age of 28. The policy shift follows a 2022 RAND report recommending older recruits as a potential growth area, citing their often high quality and technical expertise. Angela Chipman, chief of military personnel accessions, stated, 'We’re kind of looking at a more mature audience that might have experience in technical fields. We need warrant officers with extreme technical capabilities, and those will come from the enlisted ranks.'

Eased Marijuana Restrictions

In addition to age adjustments, the Army has removed barriers for recruits with single convictions for marijuana possession or drug paraphernalia. Previously, such convictions required a Pentagon waiver and a clean drug test. The policy change reflects broader societal shifts in attitudes toward marijuana use.

The Army’s fiscal year 2025 recruitment surpassed its goal of 61,000, enlisting over 62,000 individuals. However, older recruits face higher attrition rates and are less likely to complete basic training, according to the RAND report. These changes coincide with heightened military tensions in the Middle East, including the deployment of 2,000 soldiers from the Army’s 82nd Airborne Division to the region.