Looking to join the military but worried about your ASVAB score?
Many of you wonder how many times you can take the ASVAB and if you’ll get another shot at improving your results.
The military understands not everyone aced this test on their first try. There are specific rules about retesting, and they’re more flexible than most people think.
This blog breaks down exactly how the ASVAB retest process works.
You’ll learn the waiting periods between attempts, what scores you need to qualify for different military branches, and smart strategies to boost your performance on your next try.
What is the ASVAB, and What is Its Importance?
The ASVAB, or Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, is a test that measures your skills and helps determine which military jobs you’re qualified for.
It’s not just a pass-or-fail exam. Your scores directly impact the career options available to you in the Armed Forces.
The test covers subjects like math, reading, mechanical comprehension, and electronics. Each military branch sets its own minimum scores for entry.
But here’s what really matters: higher scores open doors to more specialized and technical positions. A low score might limit you to fundamental roles, while a strong performance could qualify you for jobs in intelligence, technology, or medical fields.
That’s why many recruits choose to retake it. Better scores mean better opportunities.
Why Retake the ASVAB and How Many Retakes Are There?
Can you take the ASVAB more than once? Most people retake the ASVAB because their first score didn’t qualify them for the military jobs they wanted.
Maybe you barely met the minimum entry requirement, or perhaps you missed out on a technical position by just a few points.
The military allows retakes because they understand that test anxiety, lack of preparation, or simply having an off day can affect your performance.
Here are the main reasons recruits choose to retake the test:
- Didn’t meet the minimum score for their preferred military branch
- Qualified for entry but not for the desired job specialty – better scores unlock more career options
- Want to improve their chances of getting enlistment bonuses tied to high-demand positions
- Need higher scores for specific programs like nuclear technician or intelligence analyst roles
How Many Times Can You Retake the ASVAB?
There’s no lifetime limit on ASVAB attempts. You can retake it as many times as needed to reach your goal score.
However, the military does place waiting periods between attempts to encourage proper preparation.
The retake schedule works like this:
- After your first attempt, you must wait one whole month before retesting
- Then, after your second attempt, another one-month wait is required
- From your third attempt onward, you must wait six months between each retest
The Retest Timeline – Waiting Periods Explained
Knowing the ASVAB retest timeline helps you better plan your military enlistment. The waiting periods are strict and enforced across all military branches, so learning them upfront saves frustration later.
After your initial test, you’ll wait 30 days before your first retake. This month gives you time to identify weak spots and study targeted material. Your second retake also requires a 30-day wait from the previous attempt.
But here’s where it changes: from the third retake onward, the waiting period jumps to six months. That’s half a year between attempts.
This longer gap encourages serious preparation instead of repeatedly testing without improvement.
These timelines start from your actual test date, not from when you receive your scores. Mark your calendar accordingly and use every day to prepare appropriately.
Restrictions, Conditions, and Special Scenarios
While the military is flexible about how many times you can take the ASVAB, there are important rules you need to follow.
Each retake comes with specific conditions and waiting periods. Knowing these restrictions helps you plan your timeline and avoid unnecessary delays in your enlistment process.
| Scenario | Waiting Period | Special Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| First retake | 1 month | No special requirements needed |
| Second retake | 1 month after the first retake | Must show an improvement effort |
| Third and beyond | 6 months between each attempt | Longer preparation time expected |
| Failed initial screening | 1 month | Can retest at MEPS |
| Score expires | No waiting period | Scores are valid for 2 years only |
| Already enlisted | Varies by branch | May need command approval |
| Student ASVAB takers | 1 month minimum | Different rules for the official test |
Pro Tips for Maximizing Your Retakes and Preparing Effectively
Don’t waste your retakes by making the same mistakes twice.
Thoughtful preparation makes all the difference between barely passing and scoring high enough for the job you actually want.
These tips will help you use your study time wisely and show real improvement on test day.
- Study your weak areas first – Review your score breakdown and focus on sections where you struggled most. Don’t waste time on subjects you already know well.
- Use official practice tests – They mirror the actual exam format and question types better than random study guides you find online.
- Create a study schedule – Dedicate at least an hour daily for four weeks before your retest. Consistency beats cramming every time.
- Join a study group – Other test-takers can explain concepts differently and keep you motivated through the preparation process.
- Get plenty of sleep – Your brain needs rest to retain information and perform well under pressure on test day.
Wrapping Up
You now know the answer to how many times you can take the ASVAB and what each retake involves.
The military gives you multiple chances because they want you to succeed. Use those one-month and six-month waiting periods wisely. Study harder, focus on your weak spots, and go in prepared.
Your ASVAB score shapes your entire military career. A higher score means better job choices and more opportunities down the road.
Don’t settle for a score that limits your options. Take advantage of the retake policy and put in the work needed to reach your goals.
