United States Coast Guard
All Coast Guard personnel must speak English and demonstrate their ability to speak English before enlisting or accepting a commission. Due to this requirement, links to more detailed information on recruiting will direct you to information written in English.
Our Missions
You could make this motto a reality as an active or reserve member of the Coast Guard. Learn more about our top five missions and how you can be part of our commitment to defend our nation, preserve our resources, secure ports, and save lives. You will be prepared for anything. Our five main missions are:
National defense
Maritime Protection
Protection of natural resources
Maritime Security
Waterway Mobility
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BEING A COASTIE
What does it take to be a member of the United States Coast Guard? In this section you will find true stories of courage and heroism. You will know your physical potential and mental capacity during the basic training where you will receive the necessary skills to transform into a true “Coastie”. Find out about Salaries and Benefits. You will also find answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) that you or your parents may have.
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FIND YOUR DESTINATION
As a member of the Coast Guard, whether officer, enlisted, active or in the reserve, you will never be short of opportunities. In this section, you will learn more about each of these programs. For example, as a college graduate you may be eligible for commissioned officer programs in various specialties including law, engineering, and intelligence.
For high school graduates, we offer full-time (active) or part-time (Reserve) opportunities in: security, law enforcement, maritime patrol, environmental operations, aviation, and much more.
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PROFILES
Who are the men and women who join the Coast Guard? In this section, you will learn about real experiences from various “Coasties” like LTJG Lily Zepeda from Galveston, Texas. You will see how your experiences as a boarding officer have helped you develop as a leader and person.
GET THE ANSWERS
If you still have more questions about the Coast Guard, visit this section. Take a few minutes to view our list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs). When you’re ready to begin the process, go to the Contact A Recruiter section to meet with a recruiter or the Chat section to speak with a Coast Guard recruiter. You can also view Find A Recruiter to find a recruiter closest to your daily routines.
CAREERS
Learn about several ways you can make a difference in the Coast Guard. This section elaborates on the various job opportunities available to full-time and part-time “Coasties”. Not only will you receive the best training in your specialty, but you can also apply it to your daily routines. Every job in the Coast Guard could lead to more responsibility and better pay. Do you think you have what it takes to save lives, protect the nation’s coastlines and waterways while challenging yourself? Then you are ready to join the Coast Guard.