Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 6/2/2009

Question
Ms. Bedell,

I'm wanting to go to OCS in September; I'm currently studying for the ASTB and gathering all sorts of documents.  While all that is going fine I do have a major concern.  I have compiled quite a few speeding tickets over the years (just speeding and nothing else besides speeding) and I heard that if you have over a certain number, like ten, you are automatically disqualified.  Honestly I'm not sure how many speeding tickets I've had, but can just speeding tickets disqualify me from serving?  Is there any truth to this?

thanks for your time- Zak

Answer
Dear Zak --

Usually civil speeding is not a criminal offense and so would not require a waiver.  However, a pattern of reckless behavior, which your accumulation of speeding tickets certainly indicates, could be disqualifying.

If any of your tickets was for reckless endangerment or worse, you will require a waiver.  Each case of misdemeanor (or higher) offense requires a separate waiver.  Each recruit is allowed no more than three waivers.

So, your love of speed could well be endangering your opportunity to serve at all, none-the-less earn a billet to OCS.  If you are serious about enlisting, I recommend you do not get any more tickets, that you drive more conservatively, and that you review what all your offenses were, so you can determine your waiver eligibility.

Good luck to you.  Please write back, if you have additional questions.