US to Begin Automatic Draft Registration for Men in December

In the United States, automatic registration of men for possible military conscription will begin in December. The change follows legislation passed at the end of 2025 to simplify the current system.

The Selective Service System is responsible for registering those eligible for the draft. It maintains a database of men who could be called up in the event of a national emergency. Under the new system, registration will shift from individuals to the state, which will handle the process by linking it to federal databases.

The measure is intended to simplify administration and redirect resources toward preparedness and mobilization rather than registration campaigns.

Currently, men between the ages of 18 and 25 are required to register within 30 days of reaching adulthood. Failure to comply can lead to sanctions, including fines or restrictions on access to federal programs.

Registration has declined in recent years, particularly after draft registration was no longer required for federal student loan applications. Women remain exempt from registration. However, registration does not mean automatic military service. A draft could only be activated in the event of a national emergency and would require authorization by Congress.

(milarytimes, bak)