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

Ready to take the next step?

Ready to take the next step?

It's great that you're interested in joining the Royal Naval Reserve. It's your opportunity to add adventure, skills and new experiences to your everyday life, without leaving your civilian career behind.   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.
Two Royal Navy ratings pulling on a spring rope onboard HMS Albion

Need support?

If you’re struggling with your application, either due to a technical issue or because you’re unsure what information to supply, we have a dedicated recruitment team who can provide all the advice and guidance you need. Just get in touch with us using the details below.

Royal Navy reservist in a line-up looking at the camera smiling

What’s it really like?

Becoming a Reservist is about more than just a hobby. It's a lifestyle choice, where you get paid to commit weekends and evenings to training with your local unit – all so you're ready to use your new-found skills on real operations. Finding it hard to imagine? There are serving personnel waiting to answer your questions.

Maritime Reserves Commodore Robinson walks towards the camera surrounded by officers during the supersession ceremony

Wondering if you’re ready?

Becoming a Reservist and being part of the Royal Navy's 'trained strength' might seem a big deal, but that doesn't mean you have to be the finished article as soon as you apply. If you come with the right attitude and motivation, we'll provide all the support you need to be a vital part of the Royal Naval Reserve.

Get in touch with us today

Chat with our virtual recruiter, 24/7

Your route to the Royal Naval 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

Book a place at an informal presentation evening or live event at your local Royal Naval Reserve unit, where you can learn more about us and the opportunities open to you.

Find your local unit
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.

Get fit to join