Navy Reenlistment (RE) Codes: What You Need to Know
If you are thinking about reenlisting in the U.S. Navy, your reenlistment (RE) code affects whether you can reenlist and whether you need a waiver. RE codes are listed on separation paperwork, including DD Form 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty). Recruiters use your RE code with other separation information to determine your options.
How to Find Your RE Code
Your RE code is usually listed on your DD Form 214. If you do not have your paperwork, you can request a copy of your records.
- By mail: Complete Standard Form 180 (SF-180) and mail it to the address listed on the form instructions.
- Online: Use the eVetRecs system through the National Archives. If the online system is unavailable, SF-180 is the backup option.
Understanding Navy RE Codes
The Navy assigns several RE codes that summarize reenlistment eligibility. Common codes include:
- RE-1: Eligible for reenlistment with no restrictions.
- RE-2: Not eligible for reenlistment due to retirement or commissioning programs, such as officer candidate training or the Naval Academy.
- RE-3: Not eligible without a waiver. Eligibility depends on the reason attached to the code.
- RE-4: Not eligible for reenlistment. In limited cases, a policy exception or special review may be possible.
Reenlistment Waivers and RE-3 Codes
An RE-3 code can mean you may reenlist if you receive an approved waiver. Many RE-3 waivers are reviewed through the recruiting chain, including Commander, Navy Recruiting Command (COMNAVCRUITCOM). Your recruiter will review your DD Form 214 and any supporting documents before submitting a request.
Common reasons for RE-3 codes include:
- RE-3B: Restricted assignment issues, such as parenthood or pregnancy before enlistment.
- RE-3E: Administrative separation due to an enlistment error.
- RE-3P: Physical standards issues, such as obesity or other medical conditions.
- RE-3G: Conscientious objection or other character-of-service issues that affected training or service.
- RE-3J: Failed an initial training drug test (not classified as dependency).
- RE-3R: Did not meet professional growth criteria.
A recruiter can tell you whether a specific RE-3 reason is waivable and what documentation is required. Approval depends on your record, the reason for separation, and current policy.
How Different Branches Use RE Codes
RE codes are not identical across the services. Each branch sets its own definitions, and the same-looking code can carry different rules.
Examples of differences include:
- Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) vs. Navy Specialty Code: Some Air Force veterans with certain RE codes may not need a waiver to join the Navy, while a Navy veteran with the same code might.
- Coast Guard and Marine Corps RE codes can follow different standards than the Navy and the Air Force Reserve.
A prior-service applicant might be eligible for a waiver in one branch but not in another. A recruiter is the best source for current guidance for your situation.
Military RE Code Comparison by Branch
RE codes mean different things in each service, so eligibility depends on the branch you are trying to join. The table below compares several common codes across the Navy, Air Force, Army, and Marine Corps.
| RE Code | Navy & Coast Guard | Air Force | Army | Marine Corps |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RE-1 | Eligible for reenlistment | Eligible | Eligible | Eligible |
| RE-2 | Ineligible due to retirement, Fleet Reserve, or officer commission | Various restrictions | Eligible (some cases) | Ineligible |
| RE-3A | Alien (requires waiver) | N/A | Requires waiver | Requires waiver |
| RE-3B | Parenthood, pregnancy (requires waiver) | Eligible if condition no longer exists | Ineligible | Ineligible |
| RE-3C | Conscientious objector (requires waiver) | Ineligible | Requires waiver | Requires waiver |
| RE-3E | Erroneous induction (requires waiver) | Various restrictions | Requires waiver | Requires waiver |
| RE-3P | Physical disability (for example, obesity or motion sickness). Requires waiver | Various restrictions | Requires waiver | Requires waiver |
| RE-3R | Failure to meet professional growth criteria (requires waiver) | Ineligible | Requires waiver | Requires waiver |
| RE-4 | Not eligible for reenlistment (unless reconsidered under special policy) | No waivers authorized | No waivers authorized | No waivers authorized |
| RE-6 | Ineligible due to High Year Tenure (HYT) | N/A | N/A | N/A |
If you are switching branches, confirm how your code is interpreted by the branch you want to join. Policies can change, and waiver authority varies.
Entry Level Separation (ELS) & “N/A” RE Codes
If you were discharged before completing 180 days of service, you may have an Entry Level Separation (ELS). Some DD Form 214s show “N/A” instead of a standard RE code. In those cases, eligibility is usually decided through a review and may require a waiver.
Decisions often consider:
- Initial training performance
- Military activities completed before discharge
- Characterization of service
ASVAB Requirements for Navy Reenlistment
Your Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) scores can affect reenlistment, especially if you are changing jobs. Prior-service applicants still have to meet line score requirements for the rating they want.
- NAVETs (Navy veterans): If returning to the same specialty code, an ASVAB retest may not be required.
- NAVETs switching jobs (PRISE III applicants): You may need current ASVAB scores to qualify for a new military occupational specialty. Policies often require scores less than two years old.
- OSVETs (other service veterans): You may need to retake the ASVAB and meet Navy enlistment standards.
If you need to retake the ASVAB, see our ASVAB study guide for a 30-day prep plan. Your recruiter can confirm what applies to your record, your desired job, and current policy.
PRISE III: Reenlistment for Navy Veterans Changing Jobs
The Professional Apprenticeship Career Track Reenlistment Program (PRISE III) allows some Navy veterans to transfer into high-demand specialties. Requirements can change, but common items include:
- Meeting the ASVAB line score for the new specialty code
- Attending A-School for the new training pipeline
- Being E-4 or below at the time of reenlistment
PRISE III can be an option for people who separated from overmanned ratings and want to return in a different field.
High Year Tenure (HYT) and Reenlistment
If you separated due to High Year Tenure (HYT), you may have an RE-6 code on your DD Form 214. HYT separations are usually not eligible for reenlistment, but waivers may be possible in limited cases. Your recruiter can confirm whether a waiver is available under current policy.
Examples that may trigger a review include:
- Critical skill shortages in certain military occupational specialties
- Additional record review through the Board for Correction of Naval Records
To discuss options, find a Navy recruiter.
Separation Codes (SPD Codes) and Their Impact on Reenlistment
Your Separation Program Designator (SPD) code in block 26 of your DD Form 214 helps explain why you separated. Recruiters use the SPD code together with your RE code to understand eligibility and waiver requirements.
- Some separation codes allow reenlistment with a waiver.
- Others can block reenlistment unless a record correction or special review is approved.
If you have an RE-4 code, review your SPD code with a recruiter. Some cases may be eligible for reconsideration through the Board for Correction of Naval Records.
Sure About Reenlisting?
If you are a Navy veteran trying to reenlist, start by confirming your RE code and separation details on your paperwork. Talk to a recruiter early so you understand what documents and steps you will need.
- Request your records if you do not have a copy of your DD Form 214.
- Bring supporting paperwork for medical, legal, or administrative issues.
- Ask whether your RE code and SPD code are waivable under current policy.
- If a waiver is possible, follow your recruiter’s instructions for submitting it.
For the most direct guidance, a Navy recruiter can review your documents and explain next steps.
Note: this is not legal advice. Please consult with a licensed legal professional for legal advice.