The Air National Guard is a separate reserve component of the United States Air Force, similar to the Air Force Reserves. We work part-time, one weekend a month and a few weeks a year, at a minimum, and have what is unique to the military in a dual role. While Reserve components have a federal mission under the direction of the President, the Air Guard has another role of supporting the states in times of need under the direction of the Governor. As a result, the Air Guard gets additional benefits offered by the state and affords its members both federal and state benefits.

Your pay is determined by your rank and time in service. Air Guard members are paid for four active duty days for working two actual days each month. Click here to view the military pay tables. 

Yes, Air Guard members can take advantage of the Montgomery GI Bill, which pays a monthly stipend of up to $395 per month toward college tuition and expenses. If you qualify, you can also receive the GI Bill Kicker, which could provide you with an additional $350 per month. Some states even offer up to 100% tuition assistance!  Be sure you ask your recruiter for more information on tuition assistance for college.

Click here to get more information about specific careers in the Air National Guard. The Careers page will provide you with in-depth job descriptions. Your recruiter will be able to to inform you of what jobs are available in your area and the qualifications for them.

You must be between the ages of 17 and 39, be a legal resident, and have a high school diploma or equivalency unless you are still in school, then you must be a high school senior. You must pass the entrance exam, medical screening, and a background check. The age limitation varies if you have prior military experience, are a medical professional, or chaplain. Please speak with your local recruiter and they can provide you more information.

In order to become an officer in the Air National Guard, you must hold a bachelor's degree, be between the age of 17 and 39 (exceptions apply for medical professionals and chaplains and those with prior military experience) and pass the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test (AFOQT). If selected, you will also be required to complete the Academy of Military Science (AMS) Officer training program. 

In most circumstances, you will apply, enlist, and serve at the Air Guard location closest to your home. However, you may choose a location farther away from you as long as you live within that location's reasonable commuting distance restriction. Check with the recruiter at the location you desire to join to make sure you are eligible.