As concerns about World War III grow among US citizens, discussions arise about the possibility of reinstating the military draft. If Congress were to pass such a law, there are five professions that might be exempt from conscription.
Although it’s been 80 years since World War II, the potential for another worldwide conflict remains a subject of concern.
In June, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed apprehension that the world might be on the brink of war, referencing his country’s ongoing conflict with Ukraine and tensions between Israel and Iran.
Just a few months later, US President Donald Trump, who had previously attempted to broker peace between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, asserted that the Russia-Ukraine conflict was no longer escalating towards a third world war.
Trump also dismissed the idea of reinstating the draft in response to a potential global conflict as a ‘ridiculous idea’.
His statement, however, has not alleviated all concerns, with YouGov reporting that 45 percent of Americans believe a third world war is likely within the next decade.
For those anxious about being drafted, there are certain professions that might exempt individuals from military service.
The draft, or compulsory military service, has not been required in the US since 1973.
Currently, the US military operates on a volunteer basis, but conscription could be reinstated if deemed necessary by Congress and the sitting president.
As of June 2025, there are no active efforts or proposed legislation to reinstate the draft, according to Military.com.
No formal motions have been made in Congress to bring it back, the site reports.
The Department of Defense has expressed strong support for maintaining the volunteer model, seeing no need for compulsory service.
Military.com outlines scenarios that might necessitate the return of the draft, such as a third world war requiring a substantial increase in troop numbers, a national emergency on home soil, or a significant drop in volunteer enlistment.
In the event of a global war, five professions could potentially exempt US citizens from conscription due to their importance to national security.
The U.S. Selective Service System notes that ministers, certain elected officials, and veterans might not be sent to fight.
The Mirror reports that those working in healthcare, education, and essential infrastructure are also less likely to be on the frontline.
The final profession that might grant an exemption is engineering.
It’s crucial to understand that the Selective Service System doesn’t offer blanket job exemptions from the draft.
This means that, despite being a college lecturer or a biomechanical engineer, individuals could still be eligible for conscription.
Besides professions, individuals with religious objections to war may apply for alternative civilian service instead of military duty.
These individuals, known as Conscientious Objectors (CO), must register with the Selective Service System and provide documentation detailing their beliefs and how these beliefs shape their lives.
Alternative service roles might include caring for the very young or elderly, working in education, healthcare, or conservation.
The duration of this alternative service typically matches the time required for military service, usually 24 months, as stated in the notice.