Military Draft and Selective Service

The Selective Service and the military draft are the federal system for registering men who could be conscripted if Congress and the President authorize a draft; the U.S. currently maintains an all‑volunteer force but requires registration to preserve the ability to mobilize quickly in a national emergency.

Who needs to register

Almost all male U.S. citizens and male immigrants ages 18 through 25 must register with Selective Service within 30 days of their 18th birthday; this includes lawful permanent residents, refugees, asylum seekers, and many undocumented immigrants, while certain groups (for example, men on full‑time active duty) are excluded from registration requirements.

How a draft would work

If a draft were authorized, officials would most likely use a birthday‑based lottery to determine call order, then screen selected registrants at Military Entrance Processing Stations for physical, mental, and moral fitness; those who pass and are not exempted would receive induction orders and be required to report for service.

For more details on registering and individual obligations, see Selective Service Registration: A Clear Guide on Who Must Register and Why and for a practical overview aimed at young men, see America’s Draft: What Every Young Man Needs to Know.