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Royal Marines Reserve
Ready to take the next step?
Royal Marines Reserve

Ready to take the next step?

Ready to take the next step?

It's great that you're interested in joining the Royal Marines Reserve. It takes a unique state of mind to become a world-class amphibious commando. The same state of mind it takes to commit evenings and weekends in pursuit of the coveted green beret.  Before you can get started, you'll need to complete your full application. We understand that can sometimes be tricky, but don't worry, we're here to help.
On board the Amphibious Flag Ship, HMS Albion, J Coy company trained at fast rope on to the flight deck from a Wildcat helicopter whilst on exercise in Cyprus. HMS Albion leads UK tasks groups for three-month med deployment.

Are you in peak condition?

Physical fitness is central to everyday life in the Royal Marines. That’s why the joining process is packed with exacting assessments you’ll need to pass to progress. Find out what they are and how you can prepare.

Get fit to join
Royal Marines in a line wearing equipment and holding weapons. Photograph of day one of the new advert shoot in Cyprus.

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Your route to the Royal Marines Reserve

Step 1

Complete your application form

Your first step on the recruitment journey is to complete your full application form, which you can find in our Recruitment Portal. We have emailed you a link to the Recruitment Portal. If you can't find the link, please check your spam folder or give us a call so we can send it to you again.

Step 2

Visiting your local unit

You will be invited to attend an Initial Maritime Reserves Presentation (IMRP) at your nearest Unit. This is your chance to have a look around, meet the team, ask any questions and find out about life in the Reserves.

Find your local AFCO
Step 3

Defence Aptitude Assessment (DAA)

The Defence Aptitude Assessment (DAA) is a multiple-choice test that all recruits sit. It tests your general intellectual ability, and how well you do shows your capacity to cope with the technical and academic aspects of training for the role you've chosen.

Practice the DAA
Step 4

Interview

We'll invite you to a formal interview to assess your suitability for a career in the Royal Navy, and specifically the role that you have chosen. This is much like any other job interview, so you should prepare accordingly and ask your AFCO for help if required.

Preparing for interviews
Step 5

Medical and eye tests

The medical and eye exam are quite comprehensive, because life in the Royal Navy is physically demanding. Your tests must be completed by one of our Ministry of Defence-approved doctors, who are based all around the country.

Your local AFCO will arrange an appointment for you at a convenient time and location.

Step 6

Join your local unit

Join your local unit for Attestation. This involves swearing allegiance to Her Majesty The Queen and signing the Official Secrets Act. At this point you’ll be a Phase 0 recruit, and will attend weekly drill nights, though you won’t be able to start formal training until you pass your medical and fitness test.

Find your local unit
Step 7

Basic Fitness Test

The Basic Fitness Test is a three mile outdoor run that should be completed in under 22 minutes 30 seconds.

Get fit to join
Step 8

Potential Royal Marines Course

This two-day introduction to life in the Royal Marines Reserve is your opportunity to show you have what it takes to cope with the rigours of Basic Training. You’ll need to complete a number of physical tests to progress.

Find out more