Physical Qualification Standards Flashcards
7 cards from real MEPS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Physical Qualification Standards flashcards as text
Which of the following flat-foot (pes planus) presentations is most likely to be disqualifying at MEPS?
Answer: Symptomatic flat feet causing chronic pain that limits prolonged standing or marching
Symptomatic pes planus that impairs prolonged physical activity is disqualifying because military duty demands sustained marching and load-bearing.
What respiratory condition, if documented by pulmonary function testing showing FEV1/FVC below 70%, would likely disqualify an applicant?
Answer: Obstructive pulmonary disease such as chronic asthma or COPD
An FEV1/FVC ratio below 70% indicates airflow obstruction consistent with asthma or COPD, which is disqualifying due to the demands of military physical training.
Under MEPS standards, which of the following tattoo situations would most likely prevent enlistment?
Answer: A tattoo on the face or neck that cannot be covered by the uniform collar
Face and neck tattoos that are visible above the uniform collar violate military appearance standards and can be disqualifying depending on branch policy.
What is the minimum height requirement for most male military enlistees at MEPS?
Answer: 60 inches (5'0")
The minimum height for male enlistees in most U.S. military branches is 60 inches (5 feet), with a maximum of 80 inches.
Which of the following past substance use histories is most likely to result in permanent disqualification at MEPS without a waiver?
Answer: Prior conviction for drug distribution or trafficking
A drug distribution or trafficking conviction reflects criminal conduct and intent that is generally permanently disqualifying for military service.
Which of the following conditions involving the spine would most likely disqualify an applicant at MEPS?
Answer: Scoliosis with a Cobb angle greater than 30 degrees causing functional limitation
Scoliosis with a Cobb angle exceeding 30 degrees, especially when associated with pain or functional limitation, is disqualifying due to the physical demands of service.
What does a MEPS physician mean when they assign a 'DQ' status to an applicant?
Answer: The applicant is 'Disqualified' from military service based on a medical finding
'DQ' at MEPS stands for Disqualified, meaning the examining physician found a condition that does not meet the medical standards for military service.