You join the Space Force by contacting a recruiter, passing the ASVAB test, clearing a medical exam, choosing a career field, and shipping to Basic Military Training. The U.S. Space Force is the sixth and newest branch of the U.S. military. It was established on December 20, 2019, and its members are called Guardians. This guide walks you through every step and requirement for 2026.
What Is the Space Force?
The Space Force is the sixth U.S. military branch, created in 2019 under the Department of the Air Force. It protects U.S. interests in space, including satellites, GPS, and missile warning systems. Its members are called Guardians.
The branch is small and highly selective. It accepts only a limited number of enlisted recruits each year. In fact, it met and exceeded its 2026 recruiting goals early and is growing toward about 20,000 Guardians by 2030.
Space Force Requirements in 2026
The basic Space Force requirements include U.S. citizenship, an age between 17 and 42, and a high school diploma or approved GED. You must also pass the ASVAB and a medical exam. The table below breaks down each standard.
| Requirement | Standard |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. citizen |
| Age | 17 to 42 (age 17 needs parental consent) |
| Education | High school diploma, or GED with some college credits |
| ASVAB score (AFQT) | Minimum 31 with a diploma; 50 with a GED |
| Medical | Pass the physical and medical exam at MEPS |
| Character | Meet moral and background standards |
These are the minimums. Because the Space Force is competitive, meeting the floor does not guarantee a spot. Strong scores and a clean record help you stand out.
How to Join the Space Force: Step by Step
The path to join the Space Force follows six clear steps, from your first call to a recruiter through Basic Military Training. Follow them in order to avoid delays.
- Contact a Space Force recruiter. A recruiter checks your eligibility and answers your questions. You can also start your application and apply now online.
- Take the ASVAB. This test measures your skills and decides which jobs you qualify for. Learn more about the Space Force ASVAB score you need.
- Pass the MEPS medical exam. You visit a Military Entrance Processing Station for a physical, medical review, and processing.
- Meet a job counselor and pick a career field. You choose from available Space Force jobs based on your scores and openings. See the Space Force jobs guide for options.
- Enter the Delayed Entry Program (DEP). You commit to serve and wait for a training date. This can take weeks or months.
- Ship to Basic Military Training (BMT). You report for training and begin your journey as a Guardian.
What ASVAB Score Do You Need?
You need a minimum AFQT score of 31 with a high school diploma to enlist in the Space Force. GED holders need at least 50. However, most Guardians score much higher because the branch is so selective.
Technical jobs in space operations and cyber require higher ASVAB line scores. A strong score opens more career fields and better assignments. Study hard before test day to protect your options.
Space Force Basic Military Training
Space Force Basic Military Training lasts about 7.5 weeks at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland in Texas. Guardians train alongside Air Force recruits during this shared course. It builds military skills, fitness, and discipline.
Training covers marching, weapons handling, fitness tests, and Space Force values. You also learn teamwork and the standards you will carry through your career. Read our full Space Force basic training guide to prepare.
How to Become a Space Force Officer
You become a Space Force officer through the Air Force Academy, ROTC, or Officer Training School. Officers generally need a bachelor's degree first. They are commissioned as second lieutenants.
Officer Training School is located at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama. This path suits college graduates who want to lead. Officers plan missions, manage teams, and hold greater responsibility than enlisted Guardians.
Can Civilians Join the Space Force?
Yes, civilians can serve as civilian Guardians without enlisting. These are federal civilian employees who support the Space Force mission. They do not attend Basic Military Training.
Civilian roles include engineering, intelligence, cyber, and administrative work. This path lets you contribute your skills without a uniform. It is a good option if military service is not the right fit for you.
How Much Do Guardians Get Paid?
Guardians earn the same base pay as every other U.S. military branch. The Space Force uses the standard Department of Defense pay tables. Your rank and years of service set your pay rate.
You also receive allowances for housing and food, plus health care and other benefits. See the current Space Force pay chart for exact figures. To understand rank structure, review our Space Force ranks guide.
Is the Space Force Hard to Get Into?
The Space Force is hard to get into because it is the smallest and most competitive branch. It accepts a limited number of recruits each year. Meeting the minimum requirements is only the starting point.
Strong ASVAB scores, good fitness, and a clean background all improve your odds. The branch looks for sharp, motivated people who fit technical roles. Prepare early to give yourself the best chance.
Start Your Space Force Journey
Joining the Space Force in 2026 is achievable if you meet the requirements and prepare well. Focus on a strong ASVAB score, solid fitness, and a clear goal. The path is competitive, but thousands of Guardians prove it is within reach.
Your next step is simple: contact a Space Force recruiter and start your application. Ask questions, take the ASVAB, and stay committed through the process. Explore our related guides on ASVAB scores, jobs, ranks, and pay to plan your future as a Guardian.