Automatic registration for the US military draft will take effect nationwide in December 2026. The measure applies to men ages 18 to 26 and was signed into law in December 2025 as part of the National Defense Authorization Act.
The policy will include male US citizens and other eligible men living in the United States, including green-card holders, refugees, asylum seekers, and undocumented individuals. While registration is already automated in many states through systems such as driver’s license applications, the new rule will standardize the process across the country.
Officials say the change is intended to improve compliance and reduce administrative costs, ensuring that eligible individuals are not penalized for failing to register. Registration is mandatory, and failure to comply can result in legal penalties and the loss of certain federal benefits.
A military draft is not currently in place and would still require approval from Congress. However, the policy has drawn renewed attention amid rising geopolitical tensions and discussions around military readiness, as reported by CNN on April 9.
Click through to explore the diverse approaches to conscription worldwide, the profound effects on society, and what the future may hold for this age-old practice.