Do you have to be in the army for 3 years to join

Hi Brynn, thank you very much for your question.

In short: yes, but that's not quite the right figure.

Recruits normally enlist for 12 years. The minimum commitment period 4 years, and the minimum notice period is 12 months.

If the time commitment is something that is concerning you, it may be worth thinking of it this way: 4 years isn't actually a very long time, and if you do decide to leave at that stage, you'll come out the other end with qualifications, training, and work experience. (Also, if you get to Basic Training for the first time and decide its really not for you, you'll be given the option to Discharge as of Right (DAOR)).

I hope that answers your question and helps you make the best decision for you!