Military Careers

The United States Military exists to protect our country, our interests, and our allies. The mission of Military personnel is “to defend the Constitution of the United States from all enemies.” Though a viable and honorable option for after high school, joining the U.S. Military requires more commitment than most post-secondary options. Make sure you know all the facts and take time to seriously consider the commitment before making your decision.


Enlisted Personnel

Enlisted personnel are the main workforce of the military. You can work your way up to a noncommissioned officer (NCO). They are still enlisted, but have greater responsibility for the welfare and tasks of the men and women under their leadership. A high school diploma is required to enlist. First enlistment contracts last eight years and the military will provide job training after you enlist. Contact Sandpoint area Recruiting Officers for more information about enlisting after high school.


Commissioned Officer

You generally must have a 4-year degree to become a commissioned officer in the military. There a couple general ways to become an officer: Academy and ROTC.


Military Academies

These undergraduate military colleges provide a Bachelor’s degree education in return for five years of active service as a commissioned officer after graduation. Competition is extremely high for admission into an academy.

US Military Academy

US Naval Academy

US Air Force Academy

US Coast Guard Academy

Many colleges and universities offer ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps) programs for different branches of the military. The ROTC program is an elective curriculum you take along with your required college classes that trains and prepares you for a career as an officer in the U.S. Military. ROTC programs often pay part or all of your tuition and when you graduate, you have the opportunity to serve as a leader in the Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marine Corps. You must be admitted to both the college and also the ROTC program. Each college’s ROTC program is different, so make sure you check with your school about theirs.


ASVAB Test Required

Car Fork High School offers ASVAB testing once a year at the high school. ASVAB testing is also conducted at MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Stations).

    • In order to enlist in the Military, you must take the ASVAB. The ASVAB (Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery) is a multiple-aptitude test. The scores are used to determine if you are qualified to enlist in the military and to assign you an appropriate job. The test is designed to measure verbal, math, science, technical and spacial domains. It has 10 sections. Word knowledge

    • Paragraph comprehension

    • Arithmetic reasoning

    • Mathematics knowledge

    • General science

    • Electronics information

    • Auto information

    • Shop information

    • Mechanical comprehension

    • Assembling objects

The scores are combined and referred to as the AFQT (Armed Forces Qualification Test).

ASVAB testing is conducted at MEPS (Military Entrance Processing Stations).There are 65 MEPS across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. If you don't live near a MEPS, the test can be administered via a satellite location called a MET(Military Entrance Test site). These are often located in federal buildings, National Guard armories or Reserve centers.

The test can be administered by either computer or pen and paper. The computer version adapts to your ability level as you answer the questions. The test usually takes about 1.5 hours to complete.

MEPS Locations

If you can't take the ASVAB offered at SHS, you can contact these locations to set up your ASVAB testing and other military entrance requirements. Contact your counselor for more information and to register to take the test.

Military Branches & Recruiting Contacts

Idaho Army National Guard

1009 Hwy 2 West, Suite B

Sandpoint, ID 83864

(208) 920-3060

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U.S. Air Force:

207 W. Prairie Shopping Center

Hayden, ID 83835

(208) 667-6212

With its strong focus on technology, the Air Force protects the US in the air, space, and cyberspace.


U.S. Army

205 W. Prairie Shopping Center

Hayden, ID 83835

(208) 762-6809

One of the largest employers in the US, the Army protects the US and its resources at home and abroad. Facebook


U.S. Coast Guard

Overland Park

6907 W Overland Rd

Boise, ID 83709-1908

(208) 376-7655

Protecting America's ports and waterways, the Coast Guard also serves with the Navy during war. Facebook


U.S. Marine Corps

201 W. Prairie Shopping Center

Hayden, ID 83835

(208) 667-6115

Often the first to be sent into combat, the Marine Corps is small but well known for its ability to fight. Facebook


U.S. Navy

1305 U.S. 2

Sandpoint, ID 83864

(208) 255-1862

The largest maritime force in the world, the Navy ensures the world's oceans remain safe for trade and travel.Facebook