The Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) enforces strict federal rules to maintain security, integrity, and medical accuracy during enlistment screening. Violating any policy can delay processing, require rescheduling, or permanently disqualify you from service. Below is a clear list of prohibited items and behaviors.
Prohibited Items
- Weapons & Hazardous Objects: Firearms, knives (any blade length), ammunition, tasers, pepper spray, scissors, or multi-tools.
- Controlled Substances: Marijuana (even with a state medical card), cocaine, meth, opioids, or any non-prescribed narcotics. THC metabolites trigger automatic disqualification.
- Alcohol & Tobacco: Beer, liquor, cigarettes, vapes, dip, or nicotine gum. MEPS is a tobacco-free federal facility.
- Recording Devices: Cell phones with cameras, smartwatches, GoPros, or audio recorders in exam areas (phones must be stored in lockers).
- Non-Essential Valuables: Jewelry, wallets with >$50 cash, gaming devices, or large bags. Bring only required documents.
- Outside Food/Drinks: No fast food, energy drinks, or gum. Water fountains and vending machines are available.
- Unapproved Medications: Bring only prescribed meds in original bottles with your name and doctor’s note; over-the-counter supplements (e.g., creatine, pre-workout) are banned.
Prohibited Behaviors
- Intoxication: Arriving under the influence of alcohol/drugs results in immediate send-home and 90-day retest ban.
- Body Modifications: Visible extremist, gang, or indecent tattoos require waivers; fresh piercings must be removed.
- Dishonesty: Concealing medical history, prior drug use, or police records violates 18 U.S.C. § 1001 (false statements to federal officials)—a felony.
- Refusal of Testing: Declining urinalysis, blood draw, vision/hearing tests, or physical exam stops processing.
- Unauthorized Companions: Friends, girlfriends/boyfriends, or non-guardian family cannot enter secure areas.
- Disruptive Actions: Horseplay, arguing with staff, or ignoring instructions leads to removal.
Preparation Tips: Pack only government ID, Social Security card, birth certificate, and recruiter-provided paperwork. Wear underwear and conservative clothing for the physical. Confirm specifics with your recruiter 48 hours prior—rules are uniform nationwide but enforcement timing varies. Compliance ensures same-day qualification; violations waste months.