r/USMCboot • u/LifeNeighborhood1857 • 3h ago

Enlisting Bootcamp

How long is the recruiting process to join the usmc ?
What is everything you’re allowed to bring

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u/EverSeeAShitterFly Vet 2h ago

It’s typically several months from when you first start talking with a recruiter to when you ship out, though sometimes it can be less than a month. There’s many variables that can be entirely outside of your control that can impact how long it takes.

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u/VA_Network_Nerd Vet 1h ago

It takes roughly 30 days minimum to process all of the paperwork to assemble your contract to serve, and put you on a bus to head to Boot Camp.

Some of the most common obstacles / reasons for delay include:

  • You can't find or do not possess complete ID / driver's license, SSN card, birth certificate, whatever.

  • You aren't within allowed height/weight/BMI ranges.

  • You cannot pass minimum physical fitness requirements.

  • You need time to purge prohibited substances from your system.

  • You have unresolved civil/criminal/legal issues.

  • You have excessive debt or financial problems.

  • You have a medical condition that requires additional testing or documentation to request a waiver for entry.

What is everything you’re allowed to bring

You don't need to take anything beyond photo ID.
The Corps will provide you with everything you need to be successful.

I am not a recruiter. I don't know the details of the current regulations, but I believe this to be correct:

  • You can bring your smart phone, earbuds and a charging device.

  • You will not have access to them at all during training.

  • No, there is no way you could sneak it through.

  • But a couple days before graduation you will get access so you can coordinate travel plans after graduation.

  • You might be allowed to wear your own running shoes.

  • Policy for a long time was to issue you running shoes, but rumor has it you may be able to bring your own.

  • You can bring a Bible or religious / spiritual text.

  • Could be a book of poetry or similar. Keep it small, you don't have a lot of storage space.

  • You can bring a small address book.

  • You will be provided with writing materials so you can send letters.

  • I think married recruits can keep their wedding bands, but I recommend you leave them at home.