U.S. Marine Corps Ranks

On this page, we have constructed a complete guide to U.S. Marine Corps ranks. As you explore this page, you’ll learn about each ranks insignia, their base pay, how to address a member of each rank, what kinds of jobs each rank performs in the military, what each rank is equal to in all of the other branches of service, and how you would get promoted to each rank—from private all the way to general.

Whether you are an enlisted Marine or commissioned officer, your rank will determine many of the duties you’ll be expected to perform successfully. Enlisted members wear chevrons to indicate their rank. Marine Corps officers use bars, oak leaves, eagles, and stars on their shoulders and flight cap/beret to indicate their rank. In the U.S. Marine Corps, ranks are divided into three groups: Enlisted (E-1 through E-9), Warrant Officers (W-2 through W-5), and Commissioned Officers (O-1 through O-10).

Enlisted Marines

Marine Corps enlisted ranks are broken down into three groups: Junior Enlisted (E-1 through E-4), NCOs (E-4 through E-5), and Staff NCOs (E-6 through E-9). The pay grades of E-8 and E-9 each have two ranks each, with different responsibilities. As a gunnery sergeant, you’ll indicate your preferred promotional track on your annual evaluation. One track is more of an advisor role where first sergeants (E-8) and sergeant majors (E-9) act as senior enlisted advisors to commanders. You’ll deal in issues related to discipline, administration, and the morale/welfare of your unit. As a first sergeant, you’ll serve in a company, battery, and as a sergeant major, you’ll have the same advising role in a battalion, squadron, or bigger unit. As a master sergeant and master gunnery sergeant, you’ll provide technical leadership as a specialist in your MOS.

Warrant Officers

The Marine Corps has a long tradition of appointing experienced enlisted service members as warrant officers. As a warrant officer, you are an officer-level technical specialist in your respective field. You’ll provide leadership, training, and extensive knowledge to Marines in your MOS. As a sergeant or staff NCO, you may be appointed a warrant officer by the secretary of the Navy. You could also apply to become an Infantry Weapons Officer (Marine Gunner). As a Marine Gunner, you’ll have a bursting bomb as your insignia. A Marine Gunner is a highly respected position. If you are an infantry Marine and have 16 years of service, you can apply for this program. Warrant officers are senior to all enlisted Marines but are outranked by all Marine commissioned officers. Warrant officers use bars (or a bursting bomb for Marine Gunners) on their shoulders and flight cap/beret to indicate their rank.

Commissioned Officers

Commissioned Officers are divided into three groups, Company Grade Officers (O-1 through O-3), Field Grade Officers (O-4 through O-6), and General Officers ranks (O-7 through O-10). The commissioned officer ranks are the highest in the Marine Corps and wear their insignia on their shoulders and flight caps to indicate their rank.

U.S. Marine Enlisted Ranks

Private

Rank: Private (No Insignia)
Abbreviated: Pvt
Classification: Junior Enlisted
Title: Private (last name)
DoD Paygrade: E-1
Basic Pay: $1,785 per month

What does a Private do?

Your primary role as a private is to complete basic training, where you’ll learn all about the Marine Corps and gain the fundamental skills you’ll need to succeed in the military. After enlisting, you’ll choose your job or Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). After basic training, you’ll attend technical training to learn your MOS.

How do I get promoted to Private?

You don’t need any prior experience to enlist in the U.S. Marine Corps. You’ll have to meet basic enlistment requirements like being between 17 and 34 years of age, have a high school diploma, pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test, and go through a medical exam. To get promoted to private, you must complete basic training. Upon graduation, you may be promoted to E-1, E-2, or E-3 based on factors in your enlistment contract.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Private:

Coast Guard – Seaman Recruit
Space Force – Specialist 1
Air Force – Airman Basic
Navy – Seaman Recruit
Army – Private

Private First Class

Rank: Private First Class
Abbreviated: PFC
Classification: Junior Enlisted
Title: PFC (last name)
DoD Paygrade: E-2
Basic Pay: $1,943 per month
Insignia: 1 chevron with point up

What does a Private First Class do?

As a private first class, you’ll be expected to be an example for new Marines and carry out the orders of your superior officers to the best of your ability. Depending on your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS), you may still be in technical training when you are promoted to private first class.

How do I get promoted to Private First Class?

For promotion to private first class and lance corporal, your unit commander is the promotion authority. There are no quotas for promotion to private first class, and it’s pretty much automatic if you have a clean record and six months of Time in Service (TIS). You may enter the Marine Corps as a private first class based on your enlistment contract, prior military experience, or a certain amount of college credits.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Private First Class:

Coast Guard – Seaman Apprentice
Space Force – Specialist 2
Air Force – Airman
Navy – Seaman Apprentice
Army – Private (PV1)

Lance Corporal

Rank: Lance Corporal
Abbreviated: LCpl
Classification: Junior Enlisted
Title: Lance Corporal (last name)
DoD Paygrade: E-3
Basic Pay: $2,104 per month
Insignia: 1 chevron with point up with 2 crossed rifles in the center.

What does a Lance Corporal do?

As a lance corporal, you will be expected to master all of your assigned duties and responsibilities. You’ll begin to get leadership and supervisory duties responsibilities over other Marines to prepare you for promotion to the rank of lance corporal.

How do I get promoted to Lance Corporal?

Promotion to lance corporal is automatic if you have had a good evaluation and a clean record. You need to have nine months of Time in Grade (TIG) and eight months of Time in Service (TIS).

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Lance Corporal:

Coast Guard – Seaman
Space Force – Specialist 3
Air Force – Airman First Class
Navy – Seaman
Army – Private First Class

Corporal

Rank: Corporal
Abbreviated: Cpl
Classification: Noncommissioned Officer (NCO)
Title: Corporal (last name)
DoD Paygrade: E-4
Basic Pay: $2,450 per month
Insignia: 2 chevrons with point up with 2 crossed rifles in the center

What does a Corporal do?

As a corporal, you now enter the ranks of the noncommissioned officer (NCO). You may be assigned as squad leader leading two fire teams (three Marines each). You’ll continue to develop your leadership skills and job skills through specialty schools. You’ll also be mentored by higher-ranking Marines, so you will know how to lead.

How do I get promoted to Corporal?

Promotions in the NCO ranks are competitive. That means there are only so many “vacancies” in each grade and each Military Occuipational Specialty (MOS). You’ll have to compete with other lance corporals for an E-4 slot. You’ll be ranked based on a composite score. Your score is made up of performance reviews, technical schools, marksmanship scores, physical fitness test results, off-duty education, recommendations, and collateral duties (disaster preparedness coordinator, training coordinator, blood donor coordinator). Promotion rates are usually higher in a technical MOS. You must have spent a minimum of eight months as a lance corporal and have 12 months of Time in Service (TIS).

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Corporal:

Coast Guard – Petty Officer Third Class
Space Force – Specialist 4
Air Force – Senior Airman
Navy – Petty Officer Third Class
Army –Corporal

Sergeant

Rank: Sergeant
Abbreviated: Sgt
Classification: Noncommissioned Officer (NCO)
Title: Sergeant (last name)
DoD Paygrade: E-5
Basic Pay: $2,844 per month
Insignia: 3 chevrons with point up on a solid background with 2 crossed rifles in the center.

What does a Sergeant do?

As a sergeant, you’ll serve as squad leader in combat operations and lead unit-level training. A squad is made up of eight Marines and one or more corporals. In some cases, you may be selected to serve as platoon sergeant, where you’ll be in charge of 3-5 Squads.

How do I get promoted to Sergeant?

Promotion to sergeant is competitive, and you’ll compete for slots in your Military Occuipational Specialty (MOS) with other corporals. Promotions are based on your Fitness Report (FitRep). This tool is how the Marine Corps evaluates your performance for purposes of competitive selection (promotion, enlisted to officer programs, command assignment, retention, etc.). Sergeants through major generals get a FitRep. Your composite score also determines if you get promoted. Your score is made up of performance reviews, technical schools, marksmanship scores, physical fitness test results, off-duty education, professional military education (Marine NCO course), recommendations, and collateral duties (disaster preparedness coordinator, training coordinator, blood donor coordinator). Promotion rates are usually higher in a technical MOS. You must have a minimum of 12 months of Time in Grade (TIG) and have 24 months Time in Service (TIS).

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Sergeant:

Coast Guard – Petty Officer Second Class
Space Force – Staff Sergeant
Air Force – Staff Sergeant
Navy – Petty Officer Second Class
Army – Sergeant

Staff Sergeant

Rank: Staff Sergeant
Abbreviated: SSgt
Classification: Staff Noncommissioned Officer (NCO)
Title: Staff Sergeant (last name)
DoD Paygrade: E-6
Basic Pay: $3,455 per month
Insignia: 3 chevrons with point up and 1 rocker with crossed rifles in the center

What does a Staff Sergeant do?

As a staff sergeant, you are considered a seasoned Marine and staff NCO. You’ll serve as platoon sergeant (three squads of 27 Marines) and act as the top tactical advisor to your platoon commander (second or first lieutenant) during combat and support operations. You’ll also support your platoon by conducting training and performing administrative tasks.

How do I get promoted to Staff Sergeant?

For promotion to staff sergeant through master gunnery sergeant, you’ll compete through a central promotion board that convenes annually. You must submit a package to the board and are ranked using a system similar to your FitRep and composite scores for promotion to sergeant; however, the emphasis on jobs, awards, and performance evaluations is more heavily weighted. You’ll get special preference if you have been a drill instructor, recruiter, or embassy security guard. You must have a minimum of 24 months of Time in Grade (TIG) and have four years of Time in Service (TIS).

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Staff Sergeant:

Coast Guard – Petty Officer First Class
Space Force – Technical Sergeant
Air Force – Technical Sergeant
Navy – Petty Officer First Class
Army – Staff Sergeant

Gunnery Sergeant

Rank: Gunnery Sergeant
Abbreviated: GySgt
Classification: Staff Noncommissioned Officer (NCO)
Title: Sergeant (last name)
DoD Paygrade: E-7
Basic Pay: $4,760 per month
Insignia: 3 chevrons with point up and 2 rockers with crossed rifles in the center

What does a Gunnery Sergeant do?

As a gunnery sergeant, you have more responsibility than ever. You’ll be considered as a specialized NCO and manage firepower and logistics for a company-sized unit (three platoons of 243 Marines). You assist the company commander (captain) by advising them on material and personnel readiness. You may also serve on a battalion staff, or in charge of training units or recruiting new Marines.

How do I get promoted to Gunnery Sergeant?

Promotion gunnery sergeant is through a centralized promotion board, where you’ll compete for open slots within your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). You must submit a package to the board, and the best qualified Marines are selected for promotion. Advancement is based on your FitRep, performance ratings, experience, leadership, awards, and additional letters of recommendation. You must have a minimum of three years of Time in Grade (TIG) and have six years of Time in Service (TIS). As part of the promotion process to E-8, you must decide your promotion track (command or operations). If you are interested in command responsibility, then you’ll compete in the first sergeant track. If You want to stay in the technical and operations management rack, you’ll compete for master sergeant.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Gunnery Sergeant

Coast Guard – Chief Petty Officer
Space Force – Master Sergeant
Air Force – Master Sergeant
Navy – Chief Petty Officer
Army – Sergeant First Class

Master Sergeant

Rank: Master Sergeant
Abbreviated: MSgt
Classification: Staff Noncommissioned Officer (NCO)
Title: Master Sergeant (last name)
DoD Paygrade: E-8
Basic Pay: $5,261 per month
Insignia: 3 chevrons with point up and 3 rockers with crossed rifles in the center

What does a Master Sergeant do?

As a master sergeant, you’ll provide technical leadership as a specialist in your specific Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) at the battalion (three companies of 729 Marines), regiment (three battalions of 2,187 Marines), or division (three regiments of 6,561 Marines) level. You are an expert in your MOS and may advise a major or lieutenant colonel on issues about equipment and programs. You’ll also provide technical, tactical, and administrative support.

How do I get promoted to Master Sergeant?

Promotion master sergeant is through a centralized promotion board, where you’ll compete for open slots within your MOS. You must submit a package to the board. You are selected for promotion based on your FitRep, performance ratings, experience, leadership, awards, and additional letters of recommendation. You must have a minimum of four years of Time in Grade (TIG) and have eight years of Time in Service (TIS). As a master sergeant, your next promotable rank is master gunnery sergeant.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Master Sergeant:

Coast Guard – Senior Chief Petty Officer
Space Force – Senior Master Sergeant
Air Force – Senior Master Sergeant
Navy – Senior Chief Petty Officer
Army – Master Sergeant

First Sergeant

Rank: First Sergeant
Abbreviated: 1stSgt
Classification: Staff Noncommissioned Officer (NCO)
Title: First Sergeant (last name)
DoD Paygrade: E-8
Basic Pay: $5,261 per month
Insignia: 3 chevrons with point up and 3 rockers with a diamond in the center

What does a First Sergeant do?

As a First Sergeant, you’ll have much more authority and responsibility than a master sergeant. You’ll wear diamond on your chevrons and act as the top enlisted leader in your unit, working directly for your unit commander. You are responsible for the morale, welfare, and discipline of all of the enlisted members assigned to your unit. You’ll usually serve at the company level, advising commanders of the readiness of the personnel in their units. A first sergeant is the same pay grade (E-8) as a master sergeant.

How do I get promoted to First Sergeant?

You’ll meet a centralized promotion board, where you’ll compete for open slots within your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). You must submit a package to the board. You are selected for promotion based on your FitRep, performance ratings, experience, leadership, awards, and additional letters of recommendation. To be promoted to First Sergeant, you must get an outstanding FitRep from your commander and meet the experience and leadership requirements needed to become a first sergeant. You must have a minimum of four years of Time in Grade (TIG) and have eight years of Time in Service (TIS). As a first sergeant on the command track, the next promotable rank is Sergeant Major.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps First Sergeant:

Coast Guard – Senior Chief Petty Officer
Space Force – Senior Master Sergeant
Air Force – First Sergeant
Navy – Senior Chief Petty Officer
Army – First Sergeant

Master Gunnery Sergeant

Rank: Master Gunnery Sergeant
Abbreviated: MGySgt
Classification: Staff Noncommissioned Officer (NCO)
Title: Master Gunnery Sergeant (last name)
DoD Paygrade: E-9
Basic Pay: $6,307 per month
Insignia: 3 chevrons with point up and 4 rockers with a bursting bomb in the center

What does a Master Gunnery Sergeant do?

As a master gunnery sergeant, you’ll hold the highest rank in the Marine Corps (with sergeant major). You’ll provide technical leadership as specialists in your specific Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). You’ll serve as the billeted senior enlisted advisor for the Marine Corps’ largest units. As the senior enlisted member of your unit, you’ll serve as a bridge between the enlisted Marines and your commanders. You may also assist in unit logistics, drilling, and disciplinary actions.

How do I get promoted to Master Gunnery Sergeant?

Promotion gunnery sergeant is through a centralized promotion board, where you’ll compete for open slots within your MOS. You must submit a package to the board. You are selected for promotion based on your FitRep, performance ratings, experience, leadership, awards, and additional letters of recommendation. You must have a minimum of three years of Time in Grade (TIG) and have ten years of Time in Service (TIS). You usually get promoted to master gunnery sergeant from master sergeant.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sergeant:

Coast Guard – Master Chief Petty Officer
Space Force – Chief Master Sergeant
Air Force – Chief Master Sergeant
Navy – Master Chief Petty Officer
Army – Sergeant Major

Sergeant Major

Rank: Sergeant Major
Abbreviated: SgtMaj
Classification: Staff Noncommissioned Officer (NCO)
Title: Sergeant Major (last name)
DoD Paygrade: E-9
Basic Pay: $6,307 per month
Insignia: 3 chevrons with point up and 4 rockers with Marine Corps emblem in the center

What does a Sergeant Major do?

As a sergeant major, you’ll hold the highest rank in the Marine Corps (with master gunnery sergeant). You are in charge of making high-level strategic decisions that impact the entire Marine Corps. You’ll lead at the battalion level all the way up to corps levels, advising officers, including general officers, on the personnel readiness of their units.

How do I get promoted to Sergeant Major?

Promotion sergeant major is through a centralized promotion board, where you’ll compete for open slots within your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). You must submit a package to the board, and are selected for promotion based on your FitRep, performance ratings, experience, leadership, awards, and additional letters of recommendation. You must have a minimum of three years of Time in Grade (TIG) and have ten years of Time in Service (TIS). You usually get promoted to sergeant major from first sergeant.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Sergeant Major:

Coast Guard –Master Chief Petty Officer
Space Force –Chief Master Sergeant
Air Force – Chief Master Sergeant
Navy – Master Chief Petty Officer
Army – Sergeant Major

U.S. Marine Corps Officer Ranks

Warrant Officers

Warrant Officer 1

Rank: Warrant Officer 1
Abbreviated: WO
Classification: Warrant Officer
Title: Warrant Officer (last name) Infantry: Gunner (last name)
DoD Paygrade: W-1
Basic Pay: $4,203 per month
Insignia: 1 gold bar with 2 maroon breaks

What does a Warrant Officer 1 do?

As a warrant officer 1, you’ll serve as a technical expert in one of the Military Occupational Specialty’s (MOS) where warrant officers perform. As a warrant officer, you specialize in technical areas intelligence specialists, ammunition technicians, air traffic controllers, ground radar maintenance, and avionics. You’ll have a great amount of responsibility that includes training soldiers, organizing and advising on missions, and serving as technical experts and trusted advisors to support the Marine Corps mission. You may serve as a Marine gunner, maintenance officer, career recruiter, supply officer, or administrative officer. You may serve in one of the many technical fields like intelligence, ammunition, air traffic control, and ground radar/avionics maintenance.

How do I become a Warrant Officer 1?

You may apply for the Martine Corps warrant officer program if you are at least the rank of sergeant and have served at least eight years but no more than 16 years on active duty. You must be a technical or tactical specialist in an eligible MOS, recommended by your commander, and meet the minimum aptitude requirements. You may enter one of the four warrant officer programs: Regular Active Duty, Active Reserve, Marine Gunner, or Career Recruiter. Once accepted to the program, you’ll attend the Warrant Officer Basic Course. This 26-week training program develops your leadership and organizational skills. Once you graduate, you are awarded the rank of warrant officer 1 and will report to your new duty assignment.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Warrant Officer 1:

Air Force – None
Space Force – None
Navy – None
Coast Guard – None
Army – Warrant Officer 1

Warrant Officer 2

Rank: Chief Warrant Officer 2
Abbreviated: CWO2
Classification: Warrant Officer
Title: Warrant Officer (last name) Infantry: Gunner (last name)
DoD Paygrade: W-2
Basic Pay: $5,311 per month
Insignia: 1 gold bar with 3 maroon breaks

What does a Chief Warrant Officer 2 do?

As a chief warrant officer 2, you will be the tactical and technical experts in your specific Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). You will have the authority of a commissioned officer, but also the complex technical ability and experience a commissioned officer would not have had the chance to achieve. You may have responsibilities of leading technical operations from the team to the battalion level.

How do I become a Chief Warrant Officer 2?

Promotion to chief warrant officer 2 is automatic after you demonstrated proficiency at your job, have a clean record, have two years of Time in Grade (TIG) as a warrant officer 1, and completed the Warrant Officer Basic Course (WOBC).

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 2:

Air Force – None
Space Force – None
Navy – Chief Warrant Officer 2
Coast Guard – Chief Warrant Officer 2
Army – Chief Warrant Officer 2

Chief Warrant Officer 3

Rank: Chief Warrant Officer 3
Abbreviated: CWO3
Classification: Warrant Officer
Title: Warrant Officer (last name) Infantry: Gunner (last name)
DoD Paygrade: W-3
Basic Pay: $6,034 per month
Insignia: 1 silver bar with 3 maroon breaks

What does a Chief Warrant Officer 3 do?

As a chief warrant officer 3, you will be the tactical and technical experts in your specific Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). You will have the authority of a commissioned officer, but also the complex technical ability and experience a commissioned officer would not have had the chance to achieve. You may have the responsibilities of leading technical operations up to the brigade level.

How do I become a Chief Warrant Officer 3?

For promotion to chief warrant officer 3, you’ll have to compete for open vacancies within your MOS. You must have two years of Time in Grade (TIG) as a CWO2 for consideration for promotion if there is a projected billet vacancy in that grade and competitive category MOS. Promotions to CWO3 are set around 90% of all eligible CWO2s.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 3:

Air Force – None
Space Force – None
Navy – Chief Warrant Officer 3
Coast Guard – Chief Warrant Officer 3
Army – Chief Warrant Officer 3

Chief Warrant Officer 4

Rank: Chief Warrant Officer 4
Abbreviated: CWO4
Classification: Warrant Officer
Title: Warrant Officer (last name) Infantry: Gunner (last name)
DoD Paygrade: W-4
Basic Pay: $7,032 per month
Insignia: 1 silver bar with 3 maroon breaks

What does a Chief Warrant Officer 4 do?

As a chief warrant officer 4, you are considered a senior-level expert in your field. You’ll support operations at battalion, brigade, division, corps, and echelon levels above corps level. You’ll be a mentor to other warrant officers and provide key advice to commanders on issues concerning your field. You’ll be expected to lead integrating efforts across all echelons of Marine Corps operations.

How do I become a Chief Warrant Officer 4?

For promotion to chief warrant officer 4, you’ll have to compete for open vacancies within your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). You must have two years of Time in Grade (TIG) as a CWO3 for consideration for promotion if there is a projected billet vacancy in that grade and competitive category MOS. Promotions to CWO4 are set around 70% of all eligible CWO3s.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 4:

Air Force – None
Space Force – None
Navy – Chief Warrant Officer 4
Coast Guard – Chief Warrant Officer 4
Army – Chief Warrant Officer 4

Chief Warrant Officer 5

Rank: Chief Warrant Officer 5
Abbreviated: CWO5
Classification: Warrant Officer
Title: Warrant Officer (last name) Infantry: Gunner (last name)
DoD Paygrade: W-5
Basic Pay: $8,296 per month
Insignia: 1 silver bar with 1 horizontal maroon line

What does a Chief Warrant Officer 5 do?

CWO5 is the Marine Corps’s most senior billeted warrant officer rank. As a chief warrant officer 5, you are considered a senior-level expert in your field. You’ll support the battalion, brigade, division, corps, and headquarters staff operations. You’ll be a mentor to other warrant officers and provide essential advice to commanders on issues concerning your field. You’ll be expected to lead integrating efforts across Marine Corps branches, combined forces, and joint operations.

How do I become a Chief Warrant Officer 5?

For promotion to chief warrant officer 5, you’ll have to compete for open vacancies within your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). You must have two years of Time in Grade (TIG) as a CWO4 for consideration for promotion if there is a projected billet vacancy in that grade and competitive category MOS. Promotions to CWO5 are set around 50% of all eligible CWO4s.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Chief Warrant Officer 5:

Air Force – None
Space Force – None
Navy – Chief Warrant Officer 5
Coast Guard – None
Army – Chief Warrant Officer 5

U.S. Marine Corps Commissioned Officer Ranks

Second Lieutenant

Rank: Second Lieutenant
Abbreviated: 2ndLt
Classification: Company Grade Officer
Title: Lieutenant (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-1
Basic Pay: $3,386 per month
Shoulder and flight cap insignia: 1 gold bar

What does a Second Lieutenant do?

After you are commissioned, you’ll have to complete The Basic School (TBS). This 28-week training program provides all new Marine officers with all-around combat training. After TBS, you are assigned your Marine job or Military Occupation Specialty (MOS). You’ll then attend follow-on MOS training (infantry, field artillery, flight school). After training, you’ll usually command a platoon (3 squads of 27 Marines), lead by a platoon sergeant.

How do I get promoted to Second Lieutenant?

You’ll earn the rank of second lieutenant after you graduate from the United States Naval Academy, Navy Reserve Officers Training Corps (NROTC), Officer Candidate School (OCS), and or from a direct commissioning source.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Second Lieutenant:

Coast Guard – Ensign
Space Force – Second Lieutenant
Air Force – Second Lieutenant
Navy – Ensign
Army – Second Lieutenant

First Lieutenant

Rank: First Lieutenant
Abbreviated: 1stLt
Classification: Company Grade Officer
Title: Lieutenant (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-2
Basic Pay: $4,442 per month
Shoulder and flight cap insignia: 1 silver bar

What does a First Lieutenant do?

As a first lieutenant, you’ll have more responsibility and command a more specialized weapons platoon or serve as an executive officer in a company-sized unit (3 platoons of 243 Marines). If you are an aviator, you’ll probably report to your first unit as a first lieutenant due to the length of flight school.

How do I get promoted to First Lieutenant?

Promotion to first lieutenant is pretty much automatic after 24 months as a second lieutenant. You’ll have to have a clean record and good FitRep.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps First Lieutenant:

Coast Guard – Lieutenant Junior Grade
Space Force – First Lieutenant
Air Force – First Lieutenant
Navy – Lieutenant Junior Grade
Army – First Lieutenant

Captain

Rank: Captain
Abbreviated: Capt
Classification: Company Grade Officer
Title: Captain (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-3
Basic Pay: $6,022 per month
Shoulder and flight cap insignia: 2 connected silver bars

What does a Captain do?

As a captain, you’ll serve as commander of a company (3 platoons of 243 Marines) assisted by several junior commissioned officers and one or more senior NCOs. You may also be assigned as a staff officer at the battalion level (3 companies of 729 Marines). You may also be selected as an instructor at technical schools or combat training centers.

How do I get promoted to Captain?

Promotion to captain is still not competitive, and you’ll need 24 months of Time in Grade (TIG) as a first lieutenant and four years of Time in Service (TIS). You’ll also have to have a clean record and good FitRep. If you are a direct commission in the legal or chaplain fields, you may be commissioned directly as a captain.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Captain:

Coast Guard – Lieutenant
Space Force – Captain
Air Force – Captain
Navy – Lieutenant
Army – Captain

Major

Rank: Major
Abbreviated: Maj
Classification: Field Grade Officer
Title: Major (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-4
Basic Pay: $7,684 per month
Shoulder and flight cap insignia: 1 gold oak leaf

What does a Major do?

As a major, you’ll serve as battalion executive officer, weapons company commanders, or at staff member at the regiment (three battalions of 2,187 Marines), or brigade (three regiments of 6,561 Marines) level. If you are an aviator, you may serve as assistant director or flight commander. If you are in a mission support or maintenance group, you are usually assigned as squadron executive officer (XO).

How do I get promoted to Major?

You’ll compete for promotion to major with other captains. Your promotion package is made up of your military record, FitRep, evaluations, civilian education, Professional Military Education (PME), and level of assignments (company, battalion, regiment). About 80% of all captains will be promoted to major. You must have ten years of Time in Service (TIS) and three years of Time in Grade (TIG) to be in the zone (IPZ) for promotion. If you are an outstanding officer who has demonstrated performance and indicated potential, you may receive an accelerated promotion through the Below the Zone (BPZ) promotion system.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Major:

Coast Guard – Lieutenant Commander
Space Force – Major
Air Force – Major
Navy – Lieutenant Commander
Army – Major

Lieutenant Colonel

Rank: Lieutenant Colonel
Abbreviated: LtCol
Classification: Field Grade Officer
Title: Lieutenant Colonel (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-5
Basic Pay: $9,293 per month
Shoulder and cap insignia: 1 silver oak leaf

What does a Lieutenant Colonel do?

As a lieutenant colonel, you’ll serve as commander of a battalion-sized unit battalion (three companies of 729 Marines). You may be assisted by one or more majors, several junior non-commissioned officers, with a command sergeant major as your principal advisor. You may also act as a brigade (three regiments of 6,561 Marines ) or Marine expeditionary unit (MEU) (2,200 Marines and sailors) executive officer (XO).

How do I get promoted to Lieutenant Colonel?

You’ll compete for promotion to lieutenant colonel with other majors. Your promotion package is made up of your military record (officer evaluation reports civilian education, professional military education, and level of assignments (company, battalion, brigade). About 70% of all majors will be promoted to lieutenant colonel. You must have 16 years of Time in Service (TIS) and three years of Time in Grade (TIG) to be in the zone (IPZ) for promotion. If you are an outstanding officer who has demonstrated performance and indicated potential you may receive an accelerated promotion through the Below the Zone (BPZ) promotions system.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel:

Coast Guard – Commander
Space Force – Lieutenant Colonel
Air Force – Lieutenant Colonel
Navy – Commander
Army – Lieutenant Colonel

Colonel

Rank: Colonel
Abbreviated: Col
Classification: Field Grade Officer
Title: Colonel (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-6
Basic Pay: $11,512 per month
Shoulder and cap insignia: Silver Spread Eagle

What does a Colonel do?

As a colonel, you’ll serve as as a regimental commander (three battalions of 2,187 Marines) or division executive officer (three regiments of 6,561 Marines). You may be assisted by one or more lieutenant colonels and senior NCOs, with a command sergeant major as your principal advisor. You may also serve as chief of a divisional-level staff agency. If you are an aviator, you may serve as assistant commander of an aviation wing.

How do I get promoted to Colonel?

You’ll compete for promotion to colonel with other lieutenant colonels. Your promotion package is made up of your military record (officer evaluation reports civilian education, professional military education, and level of assignments (company, battalion, brigade). About 50% of all lieutenant colonels will be promoted to colonel. You must have 22 years of Time in Service (TIS) and three years of Time in Grade (TIG) to be in the zone (IPZ) for promotion. If you are an outstanding officer who has demonstrated performance and indicated potential, you may receive an accelerated promotion through the Below the Zone (BPZ) promotions system.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Colonel:

Coast Guard – Captain
Space Force – Colonel
Air Force – Colonel
Navy – Captain
Army – Colonel

Brigadier General

Rank: Brigadier General
Abbreviated: BGen
Classification: General Officer
Title: General (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-7
Basic Pay: $13,789 per month
Shoulder and flight cap insignia: 1 silver star

What does a Brigadier General do?

As a brigadier general, you may serve as deputy commander for a commanding general of a Marine Corps division (three regiments of 6,561 Marines) or commanding general of an aviation or mission support wing.

How do I get promoted to Brigadier General?

Promotion to brigadier general is a highly selective process and is a great honor. Currently, there are only 83 general officers in the Marine Corps, with 36 of them serving as a brigadier general. You are chosen from among other outstanding colonels and recommended for promotion by a sitting board of active general officers. Your promotion must also be approved by the Secretary of Defense and President of the United States. After nomination, you must be approved by the U.S. Senate before final approval for promotion. You must retire after five years in grade or at 30 years of total service unless promoted.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Brigadier General:

Coast Guard – Rear Admiral (Lower Half)
Space Force – Brigadier General
Air Force – Brigadier General
Navy – Rear Admiral (Lower Half)
Army – Brigadier General

Major General

Rank: Major General
Abbreviated: MajGen
Classification: General Officer
Title: General (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-8
Basic Pay: $15,546 per month
Shoulder and flight cap insignia: 2 silver stars

What does a Major General do?

As a major general, you’ll typically command a division-sized unit (three regiments of 6,561 Marines). You may also serve as a member of the Joint Staff or at Marine Corps Headquarters as a director or commanding general.

How do I get promoted to Major General?

Promotion to major general is a highly selective process and is a great honor. No more than 25% of all Marine Corps general officers may have more than two stars. Currently, there are only 26 two-star generals in the Marine Corps. You are chosen from among other outstanding brigadier generals and recommended for promotion by a sitting board of active general officers. Your promotion must also be approved by the Secretary of Defense and the President of the United States. After nomination, you must be approved by the U.S. Senate before final approval for promotion. You must retire after five years in grade or at 35 years of total service unless promoted.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Major General:

Coast Guard – Rear Admiral (Upper Half)
Space Force – Major General
Air Force – Major General
Navy – Rear Admiral (Upper Half)
Army – Major General

Lieutenant General

Rank: Lieutenant General
Abbreviated: LtGen
Classification: General Officer
Title: General (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-9
Basic Pay: $16,608 per month
Shoulder and flight cap insignia: 3 silver stars

What does a Lieutenant General do?

As a lieutenant general, you’ll serve on the Joint Staff or at Marine Corps Headquarters. You may also command a Marine expeditionary force (MEF) (20,000 Marines and sailors). The MEF is the largest and most powerful Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF).

How do I get promoted to Lieutenant General?

Promotion to lieutenant general is a highly selective process and a great honor. There are currently only 17 lieutenant generals in the Marine Corps. You are chosen for promotion from among other elite major generals and recommended for promotion by a sitting board of active general officers. Your promotion must also be approved by the Secretary of Defense and the President of the United States. After nomination, you must be approved by the U.S. Senate before final approval for promotion. You must retire after five years in grade or 38 years of total service unless selected to continue serving.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps Lieutenant General:

Coast Guard – Vice Admiral
Space Force – Lieutenant General
Air Force – Lieutenant General
Navy – Vice Admiral
Army – Lieutenant General

General

Rank: General
Abbreviated: Gen
Classification: General Officer
Title: General (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-10
Basic Pay: $16,608 per month
Shoulder and flight cap insignia: 4 silver stars

What does a General do?

As a general, you’ll serve in the highest rank in the U.S. Marine Corps. Among the four generals in the Marine Corps, one is the Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps. The Commandant is in command of the entire Corps of four Marine divisions, and is the senior officer in the Marine Corps.

How do I get promoted to General?

Promotion to general is a highly selective process and a great honor. There are currently only four four-star generals in the Marine Corps. You are chosen for promotion from among other elite lieutenant generals and recommended for promotion by a sitting board of active general officers. Your promotion must also be approved by the Secretary of Defense and the President of the United States. After nomination, you must be approved by the U.S. Senate before final approval for promotion. You must retire after five years in grade or at 40 years of total service unless selected to continue serving.

Equivalent Ranks to Marine Corps General:

Coast Guard – Admiral
Space Force – General
Air Force – General
Navy – Admiral
Army – General