Can You Wear Glasses in the Military? Rules & Vision Standards
Blog post description.
12/16/20254 min read
If you’re wondering can you wear glasses in the military, you’re not alone. Many aspiring recruits have questions about vision requirements and eyewear policies before enlistment. This guide explains military vision standards, branch-specific rules, and how glasses impact your eligibility.
The military requires clear vision for safety and operational effectiveness. Needing corrective lenses does not automatically disqualify you. Most branches accept glasses if your vision meets the set standards. Can you wear glasses in the military? Yes, but certain restrictions apply regarding type, style, and when you can use them.
We’ll cover Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps policies, what happens during MEPS testing, and how recruits with corrective eyewear navigate training. You’ll also get answers to common questions like can you join the military with glasses and army glasses requirements.
By the end, you’ll know whether glasses are an obstacle, a neutral factor, or something you can manage while pursuing military service. This guide also explains alternatives like contacts and LASIK for recruits with stricter vision requirements.
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2. Can You Wear Glasses in the Military?
Yes, you can wear glasses in the military. Each branch has rules to ensure safety, uniformity, and functionality. Glasses must meet military glasses regulations, including approved frames and impact-resistant lenses.
Branch-specific highlights:
Army: Follows AR 670‑1. Frames must be conservative and colors subdued. Lenses should be shatter-resistant.
Navy: Similar restrictions; tinted lenses only if medically required.
Air Force: Frames must fit helmets and oxygen masks. Only approved materials are allowed.
Marines & Special Forces: Some roles require corrective surgery to meet strict visual standards.
Military-issued glasses are often required during training and field operations. Personal glasses are allowed if they meet regulations. Safety is a priority—proper eyewear ensures recruits can perform all duties without risk.
Some elite roles have stricter vision standards. In these cases, glasses alone may not qualify, but most military positions allow corrective eyewear.
Wearing glasses in the military is common. Millions of service members rely on them daily. Understanding branch-specific rules ensures compliance and readiness.
3. Military Vision Requirements for Enlistment
Vision requirements ensure recruits can safely perform tasks. Each branch sets standards for uncorrected and corrected vision.
Key points:
Corrected vision: Glasses or contacts must bring vision to acceptable levels.
Army standards: Typically 20/40 uncorrected; corrected 20/20.
Other branches: Aviation roles may require 20/20 uncorrected.
Color vision: Normal color perception is required.
Eye health: Conditions like glaucoma or eye disease can disqualify you.
MEPS tests your vision both with and without corrective lenses. If corrected vision meets standards, enlistment is possible. Contacts are permitted but may be limited during field activities. LASIK surgery is an option for stricter requirements.
Recruits often worry that glasses will prevent enlistment. If your vision is corrected properly, you can serve without issue. Military vision requirements focus on safety, not style.
4. Army Vision Standards & Glasses Rules
The Army has clear regulations under AR 670‑1:
Frames must be plain and professional (black, brown, or muted colors).
Lenses must be shatter-resistant.
No oversized or decorative frames.
Glasses must fit under helmets, gas masks, and protective gear.
Army vision standards:
Corrected 20/20 vision.
Uncorrected 20/200 or better.
Normal color perception.
Recruits often ask about army glasses or army regulation on eyeglasses. Compliance ensures safety and uniformity. Elite Army roles may require LASIK surgery to meet vision standards.
Meeting these requirements ensures you comply with vision requirements for the Army while remaining operationally ready.
5. Glasses & Other Branches
Navy: Glasses allowed with conservative frames. Tinted lenses usually prohibited.
Air Force: Frames must fit helmets and oxygen masks; only approved materials.
Marines: Conservative, impact-resistant lenses. Military-issued glasses may replace personal glasses during field exercises.
Special forces may require corrective surgery. Contacts are sometimes allowed but restricted in certain training environments. Knowing branch-specific rules ensures compliance and readiness.
6. Contact Lenses, LASIK & Alternatives
Contacts are allowed but must meet regulations. Daily disposables are preferred. Extended-wear lenses may be limited during training or field exercises.
LASIK or PRK can permanently correct vision, helping recruits meet stricter standards. Some elite roles require this to qualify.
Even with surgery, protective eyewear may still be required. Glasses remain essential for backup vision in certain roles. This answers questions like can you join the military with glasses or can you wear glasses in the military.
7. What Happens at Basic Training (BMT)
At BMT:
Personal glasses must meet regulations.
Many recruits receive military-issued glasses.
Contacts may be restricted during physical activity or field exercises.
Safety and uniformity are key reasons for these rules.
Glasses do not hinder training if regulations are followed.
Tips for Passing Military Vision Tests
Keep your prescription current.
Use approved frames during testing.
Consider LASIK for elite roles.
Bring medical documentation for corrective procedures.
Following these steps ensures compliance with military vision requirements and allows confident answers to can you wear glasses in the military.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear my own glasses at basic training?
Yes, if they meet military glasses regulations. Many recruits are issued military-standard glasses for durability and safety.
Can I join special forces if I have glasses?
Glasses may limit eligibility. Corrected vision or LASIK surgery may be required for certain elite roles.
Can I be in the military if I have glasses?
Yes. Glasses are accepted if they meet vision requirements.
Can I join the military with a prescription?
Yes. Corrected vision must meet standards.
What eyesight disqualifies you from the military?
Severe uncorrectable vision loss or eye disease may disqualify a candidate.
What kind of glasses can I wear in the military?
Plain, conservative frames; muted colors; impact-resistant lenses; no oversized or decorative styles.