Minors Enlisting in the Armed Forces

California’s Family Code, in Division 11, Part 5, deals with minors and enlistment in the armed forces of the United States.

Section 6950 states that, upon application by a minor, a court may summarily grant consent for enlistment by the minor in the armed forces of the United States if the court determines both of the specified requirements are met.

First, the minor must be at least 16 years of age and a resident of California. Second, the minor has no parent or guardian available to give the required consent. Also, no fee may be charged for proceedings under this section.