Searches for “WWIII” and “US draft age” have spiked, but do Americans know what it really means to get drafted in 2025?
Right now, over 16.4 million U.S. males aged 18 to 25 are registered with the Selective Service System. If Congress declares a national emergency, these names enter a draft pool—and 20-year-olds are picked first. Not just citizens—non-citizens, asylum seekers, and even undocumented immigrants are eligible. The system is already built.
The draft would use a lottery system, pulling birthdays in public events streamed online. First come the 20-year-olds. Then 21. Then 22… down to 18. And if your number is called, you don’t go to war immediately—you go to a Military Entrance Processing Station, where over 40% might be rejected after medical and mental evaluations.
But failing doesn’t mean freedom. You could still be reassigned to non-combat roles. Communications. Logistics. Admin. College students might delay service—but only until graduation. And failing to register by 18? That’s a felony, with up to 5 years in prison and $250K in fines, plus you’ll lose access to government jobs, financial aid, and even your right to vote or own a gun in many states.
America hasn't seen a draft since 1973. But the infrastructure is alive. And according to law, if WW3 is declared, the Selective Service has just 193 days to go from quiet database to full-scale conscription. Do you know where you stand?
