Can you enlist as a SF (security forces) in USAF with a drug charge?

Question

I plan on joining the USAF soon. I have a possession of drug paraphenlia charge. It wasn't my fault, I can explain it. But wil that obscure my chance with that job or with security clearance?

Answer 1

Normally I would agree with what Zelraid said, except the Air Force is currently not having recruiting challenges, so chances are, there are more qualified recruits that don't have drug charges. Try the Army or Marine Corps.

Answer 2

yes you can become a SF member.  it may effect your security clearance, but as long as you are being completely open and honest, it won't be a problem; it's if they know.....and they do know ...if you are hiding something, that's a problem.

Answer 3

Any conviction for any drug offense or "crime of moral turpitude" requires a waiver to enlist, regardless of what career field you are going in to.  Since the AF is meeting current recruiting targets out of a pool of applicants that don't need waivers, your chances are not very good at all.

A drug paraphernalia charge is less worrisome than a possession or distribution charge (which would be the kiss of death) however the waiver process looks at the entire case, not just the result.  If you were arrested on a possession or distribution charge and plea bargained it to a paraphernalia charge, the AF is going to view it as the original charges as filed and will probably deny the waiver.

Answer 4

Yes.Drug charges are one of the most discouraged acts in the military,and even regarding the fact the US military loosened up some of their standards on recruitment,they will definitely have some effects in your recruitment process.