How to Join the Colorado Army National Guard in 2026
Joining the Colorado Army National Guard is more than signing up for service; it’s choosing a path that strengthens your future while protecting your community. Many Soldiers describe their decision as life-changing: they gained purpose, skills, and a network that continues long after their time in uniform.
If you’re considering joining the Colorado National Guard in 2026, here’s your step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Connect With a Recruiter
Your journey begins with a conversation. A Colorado Army National Guard recruiter will walk you through the process, explain benefits, and help you identify the career path (MOS) that fits your goals.
Find your nearest recruiter here: Recruiter Search
Step 2: Check Your Eligibility
To join the Colorado National Guard, you must meet certain requirements:
- Age: 17–35 years old (parental consent required if under 18)
- Citizenship: U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Education: High school diploma or GED
- Medical: Meet Army fitness and health standards
- Background: Pass a background check and security screening
Tip: Review the Colorado Guard Requirements page to see if you qualify. Waivers are available in some cases. Your recruiter will let you know if you qualify.
Step 3: Take the ASVAB
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) identifies your strengths in areas like math, science, and mechanical reasoning. Your scores determine which MOS options are available to you.
- Recruiters often provide study guides or practice tests.
- Higher scores open the door to more MOS options.
Start now: Take the free Colorado Guard ASVAB practice test
Step 4: Complete a Physical Exam
Every Soldier must be medically ready. During your physical exam, you’ll be checked for:
- Height and weight standards
- Vision and hearing
- Medical history review
Preparing ahead of time with a balanced diet and regular exercise will set you up for success.
Step 5: Paperwork and Background Screening
Once you’re cleared medically and academically, you’ll complete the enlistment paperwork and security screenings. This ensures you’re prepared for both state and federal missions.
Step 6: Choose Your MOS (Military Job)
Your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) is the path you’ll take in the Army. In Colorado, options include:
- Admin & Relations: Chaplain, Human Resource Specialist, Paralegal Specialist
- Aviation: Aviation Operations Specialist, Air Traffic Control (ATC) Operator, Avionics Mechanic
- Engineering: Construction Equipment Operator, Technical Engineer, Carpentry and Masonry Specialist
- Ground Forces: Indirect Fire Infantryman (Mortarman), Infantryman
- And more…
Each MOS includes specialized training, career pathways, and sometimes enlistment bonuses.
Step 7: Complete Basic Combat Training
All recruits complete Basic Combat Training (BCT). For the Colorado National Guard, this is where you’ll learn Army discipline, teamwork, and core Solider skills.
- Duration: About 10 weeks
- Phases: Reception → Red → White → Blue
- Focus: Fitness, teamwork, marksmanship, field exercises
Tip: For a detailed look, see our guide: What to Expect in National Guard Basic Trainingin Colorado.
Step 8: Join Your Designated Unit
After training, you’ll serve part-time in a Colorado Army National Guard unit, typically one weekend a month + two weeks a year. This structure allows you to pursue education, work, and family life while still serving.
Why Join in 2026?
The Benefits are bigger than ever:
- Education Support:
- Tuition Waiver – up to 100% of in-state tuition coverage
- Federal Tuition Assistance – Up to $250 per credit hour (16 credit hours/year)
- Montgomery GI Bill – SR – Up to $466/month
- Student Loan Repayment: Up to $50,000 in federal student loan repayment
- Enlistment Bonuses: Up to $20,000 for select MOS
- Healthcare: Low-cost or free TRICARE coverage (medical, dental, and vision)
- Career Skills: Advanced training, leadership development, and certifications through programs like Army COOL
- VA Home Loan Eligibility: 0% down after six years of service
Take the First Step Today
The path begins with a single choice: connecting with a recruiter. Whether your goal is to gain career skills, earn education benefits, or protect your state, the Colorado Army National Guard provides a way forward.
Ready to get started? Contact a Colorado Army National Guard recruiter today.
