About Selective Service

The Selective Service System is an independent federal agency that has been a distinguished part of America’s history for over a century, spanning eras of conflict and peacetime.

We are part of America’s National Defense Strategy, fostering deterrence through innovation and supporting the Department of Defense’s priority to maintain a formidable end-strength that provides America’s all-volunteer force with the overmatch necessary to deter, compete and win in the future.

Our Mission and Vision

Mission: To register men and maintain a system that, when authorized by the President and Congress, rapidly provides personnel in a fair and just manner while managing an alternative-service program for conscientious objectors.

Vision: To be a trusted, actively engaged national defense partner and the sole source of conscripted talent for national security in the event of a national emergency.

Strategic Vision Elements

Readiness: As a readiness organization, we uphold our commitment to providing a vital national strategic capability. We stand ready for rapid mobilization and a seamless transition to full operations in the event of a global crisis that threatens national security or directly impacts our homeland, ensuring swift support for a national draft lottery if directed by the President and Congress.

Registration: Strong registration rates during peacetime lay the groundwork for a fair and just national draft lottery, ensuring the highest possible level of participation.

Management excellence: By upholding high standards of Management Excellence, we are able to consistently provide the full spectrum of functional and programmatic support to Agency operations.