US automatic military draft registration to begin in December
Young eligible men in the United States will be automatically registered for the military draft pool starting in December, under a new measure included in the annual defence policy legislation signed into law last year.
The system affects men aged 18 to 26, continuing existing requirements under the Selective Service System, which already mandates registration in case a military draft is ever reinstated. The last active draft in the United States ended in 1973 during the Vietnam War.
Under the new policy, automatic registration will be expanded nationwide. According to official reports, the system is already implemented in 46 states and territories, with remaining regions expected to follow under a proposed federal rule submitted for review.
The move is part of the National Defense Authorization Act, which was signed into law in December with bipartisan support from Congress.
The policy applies broadly to male US citizens as well as other male residents aged 18 to 26, including green card holders, refugees, asylum seekers, and undocumented individuals. However, non-immigrant visa holders are exempt.
In states without automatic enrolment, men are currently required to register manually within 30 days of turning 18, although late registration is accepted up to age 26. Failure to register is considered a federal offence and can result in fines, imprisonment, and loss of access to federal benefits such as student loans and government employment.
Several states already integrate registration into driver’s licence or ID applications, contributing to more than 60% of all registrations nationally, according to government data.
Lawmakers supporting the change argue it simplifies the process and ensures compliance. Democratic Representative Chrissy Houlahan, who sponsored the provision, said automatic registration reduces administrative costs and prevents young men from being penalised without their knowledge.
If a draft were ever authorised by Congress, it would operate through a lottery system based on birth dates, with older age groups called first. Individuals selected would undergo physical, mental, and moral evaluations before being considered fit for service. Exemptions and deferments would also be available.
Officials emphasise that the current change does not mean a draft is being reintroduced. Any actual conscription would still require separate congressional approval.
However, renewed public attention has emerged amid rising global tensions, with some linking the discussion to broader concerns about potential military involvement abroad though officials stress the policy is unrelated to any ongoing conflicts.
