Who Could Be Drafted? Inside the U.S. Military Draft Rules in Case of Global War

Searches for “WWIII” and “U.S. draft age limit” have surged following recent Middle East conflicts, reflecting growing concern over a potential military draft. Although the U.S. hasn’t used conscription since 1973, federal law preserves a framework for reactivating it during national emergencies. Currently, about 16.4 million men aged 18–25 are registered with the Selective Service. If a draft were reinstated, 20-year-old men would be called first, followed by others up to age 25. The system applies to citizens, non-citizens, permanent residents, and even undocumented immigrants. Transgender women and individuals with disabilities are also included if assigned male at birth. Registering is mandatory by age 18, and failure to do so can result in felony charges, fines, loss of federal benefits, and ineligibility for student aid in many states. Any draft would require approval from both Congress and the President. Once authorized, the Selective Service has 193 days to activate conscription.

A public lottery would determine the order of call-ups, similar to the Vietnam-era system. Medical and psychological evaluations would follow, with exemptions possible for students, those with dependents, and individuals with qualifying health conditions. Over 40% of those drafted historically have been deemed unfit for service. If reactivated, draftees may be placed in combat or support roles such as logistics or communications. Despite concerns, the U.S. military remains an all-volunteer force, and any draft today would face significant political and public scrutiny.