Employers

Military police are employed by the U.S. government in various military branches. Of the more than 1.3 million active duty personnel that served in the armed forces as of June 2019, approximately 75,789 were employed in protective services occupations, including military police. Protective service personnel across the military branches: 19,206 in the Army, 33,832 in the Air Force, 9,469 in the Marine Corps, and 13,282 in the Navy.

Starting Out

Contact a military recruiter for more information on entering the armed forces and to learn more about military police careers. To start out in any branch, you will need to pass physical and medical tests, the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery exam, and basic training. Visit https://www.military.com/join-armed-forces for recruiting office locations.

Military police advance to higher ranks and more authority with years of experience and additional training. All of the military branches have nine enlisted grades (E-1 through E-9) and 10 officers grades (O-1 through O-10). The higher the number is, the more advanced a persons rank. The criteria for promoting individuals varies depending on the military branch, but in general, promotions depend on factors such as time served, demonstrated abilities, recommendations, and scores on written exams. Promotions become increasingly competitive as people advance in rank. On average, a diligent enlisted person can expect to earn one of the middle non-commissioned or petty officer rankings (E-4 through E-6); some officers can expect to reach lieutenant colonel or commander (O-5). Outstanding individuals may be able to advance beyond these levels.

Find out more information about joining the military by visiting https://www.military.com/join-armed-forces.

Visit Todays Military Web site (https://www.todaysmilitary.com/) to learn more about the various career opportunities in the military branches.

Talk to recruiters at the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard to find out more about what military life is like, the opportunities available, and what is expected in return.

Talk to friends and family members to find out if they known someone who has served in protective services in the military; scheduled an informational interview with them to learn more about their experience.