(NAPSA)—Getting the facts may help young men understand whyit is so important that they register with Selective Service System. WhoNeedsTo Register? All male U.S. citizens must register when they turn 18, as do male noncitizens who take up residency in the U.S. before their 26th birthday. That includes illegal aliens, legal permanent residents andrefugees. The Selective Service does not collect any information that would indicate a person’s citizenship or immigration status. Noncitizens who are in the U.S. on student or visitor visas, and men whoare part of a diplomatic or trade mission and their families, are not required to register. Dual nationals, however, are required to register. Although dual nationals are considered citizens of the U.S. and another country, they are also required to register, regardless of wheretheylive. WhyRegister? The penalties for not registering can be very serious. A man whofails to register may, if prose- cuted and convicted, face a fine of up to $250,000 and/or a prison term of up to five years. Not registering can also affect your ability to go to school, become a citizen and geta job. Failing to register can mean: Photo Credit: USCIS A young man takes the oath that will make him a U.S.citizen. * You will not qualify for federal student loans or grant programs, including Pell Grants, College Work-Study, Guaranteed Student/Plus Loans and National Direct Student Loans. * You cannot apply for citizenship if you arrived in the U.S. before your 26th birthday. * You cannot participate in the federal job-training act called the Workforce Investment Act. * You are not eligible for jobs in the executive branch of the federal government and the U.S. Postal Service. You may not be able to get a driver’s license, as some states require proof of registration. Where Can You Register? It is easy to register. Just go to a U.S. post office and pick up a Selective Service registration card or register online at www. SSS. gOV. For more information, call toll- free (888) 655-1825.
