What is a Conscientious Objector?
A conscientious objector is a person who opposes participation in war. The person may still have registered for the Selective Service as required by law, but they oppose war based upon moral, ethical, or religious beliefs. Most conscientious objectors work carefully to document their beliefs. They must show that their objection is based upon “moral, ethical, or religious belief.” They must demonstrate that they are “opposed to participation in war in any form.” They must also show that their claim is “deeply held.”
At this time, there is no official pathway to register as a conscientious objector. Most groups suggest that conscientious objectors should file a claim for CO status when they register for Selective Service.
For more information on Quakers opposed to war, see resources from Friends Committee on National Legislation.
How Does the Selective Service Work?
As of 2025, United States law requires that all people who are born male must register for Selective Service within 30 days of their 18th birthday. The Selective Service is the pool of people who are ready to fight when needed. This law applies to immigrants, dual citizens, and naturalized citizens, as well as people born within the United States.
Failure to register is classified as a felony and can result in steep consequences. Failure to register can lead to time in jail, a fine of $250,000, a loss of federal student loans, or a loss of employment in federal jobs. It can also bring complications for other procedures, such as registering a car, working for state government, receiving veterans’ dependent benefits, or enrolling in state colleges.
What Would Happen If There’s a Draft?
It’s difficult to know. If a state of emergency is declared, then a draft could be instituted very quickly. Alternatively, if Congress passed a new law regarding the Selective Service, new procedures could take place very quickly. People could receive induction notices, a summons to serve in the military, starting with the youngest and healthiest population. Once someone received an induction notice, they may have as little as nine days to declare a conscientious objector status. There hasn’t been a draft since 1973, which makes many of the details difficult to predict.
If you hold nonviolence as a core belief, it is important to document that sentiment proactively. It may be difficult to document beliefs that are anti-war if you are faced with significant stress and pressure.
What if I Refuse to Register?
Some people decide not to register. This is one option, but it should be carried out with careful discernment, as it includes risk. Some people view registration as participation in the war process, because it demonstrates that a nation has a large group of people ready to fight.
Types of Conscientious Objectors
- Class 1-A-O
This status if federally recognized. People with Class 1-A-O status claim exemption ONLY from training and service as a combatant member of the armed services. This person would be inducted into the military, but would not be trained or carry a weapon. They may serve as a medic, chaplain, or in some other noncombatant function. - Class 1-O
This status if federally recognized. People with Class 1-O status claim exemption from ALL training and services in the military. This person would NOT be inducted into the military, but would complete two years of alternate service, such as working in a mental hospital, prison, etc. - Not recognized by federal law
The following groups are not recognized by federal law as having grounds for Conscientious Objector status.
- people who refuse to cooperate with the draft submitting with this form to insure that all letters or documents have been received.
- war tax resistors, who refuse to pay for war
- selective objectors, who believe that in some cases, war is justified
- people who are opposed to developing nuclear weapons
Last updated December 18, 2025.