Intro
Discover the Army Medical Disqualifications List, including permanent and temporary conditions like vision, hearing, and mental health issues that may disqualify enlistment, with related medical waivers and standards for military service.
The United States Army has a comprehensive list of medical disqualifications that can prevent an individual from enlisting or being commissioned as an officer. These disqualifications are in place to ensure that soldiers are physically and mentally capable of performing their duties safely and effectively. The list of medical disqualifications is extensive and covers a wide range of conditions, including physical disabilities, mental health issues, and chronic medical conditions.
The Army's medical disqualification list is based on the standards set forth in the Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 6130.03, which outlines the medical standards for military service. The list is divided into several categories, including physical disabilities, mental health conditions, and chronic medical conditions. Each category has specific criteria that must be met in order for an individual to be considered qualified for military service.
Individuals who are considering joining the Army should be aware of the medical disqualification list and should carefully review the criteria to determine if they are eligible for service. It is also important to note that some medical conditions may be waiverable, meaning that an individual may be eligible for service if they can provide documentation from a medical professional that they are capable of performing their duties safely and effectively.
The Army's medical disqualification list is subject to change, and new conditions may be added or existing conditions may be modified. It is essential for individuals who are considering joining the Army to stay up-to-date on the latest medical disqualification list and to consult with a medical professional if they have any questions or concerns.
Introduction to Army Medical Disqualifications

The Army's medical disqualification list is designed to ensure that soldiers are physically and mentally capable of performing their duties safely and effectively. The list is based on the standards set forth in the Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 6130.03, which outlines the medical standards for military service. The list is divided into several categories, including physical disabilities, mental health conditions, and chronic medical conditions.
Each category has specific criteria that must be met in order for an individual to be considered qualified for military service. For example, individuals with certain physical disabilities, such as blindness or deafness, may be disqualified from service. Similarly, individuals with certain mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, may be disqualified from service.
Physical Disabilities
The Army's medical disqualification list includes a range of physical disabilities that can prevent an individual from enlisting or being commissioned as an officer. These disabilities include: * Blindness or vision loss * Deafness or hearing loss * Loss of limbs or digits * Chronic pain or musculoskeletal disorders * Neurological disorders, such as epilepsy or multiple sclerosisIndividuals with these conditions may be disqualified from service because they may be unable to perform their duties safely and effectively. For example, an individual who is blind or has vision loss may be unable to operate a vehicle or perform tasks that require visual acuity.
Medical Conditions that May be Waiverable

Some medical conditions may be waiverable, meaning that an individual may be eligible for service if they can provide documentation from a medical professional that they are capable of performing their duties safely and effectively. These conditions include:
- Hypertension or high blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Asthma or other respiratory conditions
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Sleep apnea
Individuals with these conditions may be eligible for service if they can provide documentation from a medical professional that they are capable of managing their condition and performing their duties safely and effectively.
Mental Health Conditions
The Army's medical disqualification list also includes a range of mental health conditions that can prevent an individual from enlisting or being commissioned as an officer. These conditions include: * Schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders * Bipolar disorder or other mood disorders * Anxiety or depressive disorders * Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) * Substance abuse or addictionIndividuals with these conditions may be disqualified from service because they may be unable to perform their duties safely and effectively. For example, an individual with schizophrenia or other psychotic disorders may be unable to distinguish between reality and fantasy, which could pose a risk to themselves or others.
Chronic Medical Conditions

The Army's medical disqualification list also includes a range of chronic medical conditions that can prevent an individual from enlisting or being commissioned as an officer. These conditions include:
- Chronic kidney disease or kidney failure
- Chronic liver disease or liver failure
- Heart disease or cardiovascular conditions
- Cancer or other malignant conditions
- HIV or other infectious diseases
Individuals with these conditions may be disqualified from service because they may be unable to perform their duties safely and effectively. For example, an individual with chronic kidney disease or kidney failure may be unable to perform tasks that require physical exertion or may be at risk of complications.
Steps to Take if You Have a Medical Condition
If you have a medical condition and are considering joining the Army, there are several steps you can take to determine if you are eligible for service. These steps include: * Consulting with a medical professional to determine if your condition is waiverable * Reviewing the Army's medical disqualification list to determine if your condition is listed * Providing documentation from a medical professional that you are capable of performing your duties safely and effectively * Applying for a waiver if your condition is listed as disqualifyingIt is essential to note that the waiver process can be lengthy and may require additional documentation or evaluation. It is also important to be honest and transparent about your medical condition, as failure to disclose a condition can result in disqualification or separation from service.
Gallery of Army Medical Disqualifications
Army Medical Disqualifications Image Gallery










Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Army's medical disqualification list?
+The Army's medical disqualification list is a comprehensive list of medical conditions that can prevent an individual from enlisting or being commissioned as an officer.
How do I determine if I am eligible for Army service with a medical condition?
+You can determine if you are eligible for Army service with a medical condition by consulting with a medical professional, reviewing the Army's medical disqualification list, and providing documentation from a medical professional that you are capable of performing your duties safely and effectively.
Can I still join the Army if I have a medical condition that is listed as disqualifying?
+Yes, you may still be eligible for Army service if you have a medical condition that is listed as disqualifying. You will need to apply for a waiver and provide documentation from a medical professional that you are capable of performing your duties safely and effectively.
How long does the waiver process take?
+The waiver process can take several weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the case and the availability of documentation.
What happens if my waiver is denied?
+If your waiver is denied, you may be disqualified from Army service. You may be able to appeal the decision or reapply for a waiver at a later time.
If you are considering joining the Army and have a medical condition, it is essential to carefully review the medical disqualification list and consult with a medical professional to determine if you are eligible for service. Remember to stay up-to-date on the latest medical disqualification list and to be honest and transparent about your medical condition. With the right documentation and evaluation, you may be able to overcome a medical disqualification and serve in the Army. We encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below and to reach out to us if you have any further questions or concerns.