U.S. Navy Ranks

On this page, we have constructed a complete guide to U.S. Navy ranks. As you explore this page, you’ll learn about each rank’s 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 seaman recruit all the way to admiral.

Whether you are an enlisted Sailor or commissioned officer, your rank will determine many of the duties you’ll be expected to perform successfully. Enlisted Sailors wear chevrons to indicate their rank or rate. Naval officers wear different rank devices depending upon their uniform (insignia pins on their collars and flight caps, stripes on their shoulder boards, or stripes on their lower coat sleeves) to indicate their rank. In the U.S. Navy, 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 Sailors

Enlisted Sailors wear chevrons to indicate their rank or rate. Unlike the other military branches, which organize service members according to ranks, the Navy categorizes its Sailors according to rates. The rate of an enlisted Sailor is determined by their rating badge, a combination of a rate (pay-grade) badge of stripes or chevrons and rating (occupational specialty), represented by the symbol just above the stripes or chevrons on the left sleeve of most uniforms. Enlisted Navy ranks (rates) are broken down into three levels: Apprenticeships (E-1 through E-3), petty officers (E-4 through E-6), and chief petty officers (E-7 through E-9).

Warrant Officers

The Navy has a long tradition of appointing experienced enlisted service members as warrant officers. They have a special program where exceptional chief petty officers can receive a presidential commission and a promotion to chief warrant officer. Warrant Officers are highly skilled specialists who are knowledgeable in their technical expertise. There are currently 30 designated specialties (e.g., electronic techs, software experts, pilots). A Senior Navy Enlisted with a pay grade of E-6 and above is qualified to apply for the Navy’s Warrant Officer program. Service members must have at least 12 years of considerable leadership and technical experience before applying for the warrant officer program.

Commissioned Officers

Commissioned Officers are divided into two groups, Junior and Mid-Grade Commissioned Officers (O-1 through O-6) and Flag Officers ranks (O-7 through O-10). The commissioned ranks are the highest in the Navy and wear different rank devices depending upon the uniform: khakis, collar insignia pins (bars, oak leaves, eagles, and stars); whites, stripes on shoulder boards; and blues, stripes sewn on the lower coat sleeves.

Seaman Recruit

Rank: Seaman Recruit (No Insignia)
Abbreviated: SR
Classification: Junior Enlisted
Title: Depends on rating: Seaman (last name), Fireman (last name), Airman (last name)
DoD Paygrade: E-1
Basic Pay: $1,785 per month

What does a Navy Seaman Recruit do?

As a seaman recruit, you are an “apprentice in training.” During basic training, you will learn all about the Navy and gain the fundamental skills you’ll need to succeed in the military. You’ll then go into an occupational field, or a rate. Rates fall into five main categories: Seamen, Firemen, Constructionmen, Airmen, or Hospitalmen. The rate assignment further breaks down into specialty subcategories, such as Machinist’s Mate (MM), Sonar Technician (ST), or Hospital Corpsman (HN).

How do I get promoted to Seaman Recruit?

You don’t need any prior experience to enlist in the U.S. Navy. You’ll have to meet basic enlistment requirements like being between 17 and 39 years of age, have a high school diploma, pass the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test, and go through a medical exam. To reach seaman recruit, you must complete Basic Training. Upon graduation, you may be promoted to E-1, E-2, or E-3 based on numerous factors. Your enlistment contract may pre-designate a rating. Also, some highly technical ratings, such as Nuclear Electronics Technicians, are all promoted directly to E-3 after Basic Training.

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Seaman Recruit:

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

Seaman Apprentice

Rank: Seaman Apprentice
Abbreviated: SA
Classification: Junior Enlisted
Title: Depends on rating: Seaman (last name), Fireman (last name), Airman (last name)
DoD Paygrade: E-2
Sleeve Insignia: 2 diagonal stripes
Collar Insignia Pin: 2 diagonal stripes

What does a Seaman Apprentice do?

Once you are assigned a rate, as a Seaman Apprentice, you’ll start studying within your rating. Accession training, aka “A School,” is where you go to receive technical training in your assigned Navy Enlisted Classification (NEC). Based on your rating, you’ll have a specific title and a color-coded rank insignia:

Seaman Apprentice (double white striped insignia). Assigned to general-duty deck and administrative sailors.
Fireman Apprentice (double red striped insignia). Assigned engineering and hull departments.
Hospital Apprentice (double white striped insignia). Assigned as a Hospital Corpsman specializing in the medical and hospital departments.
Constructionman Apprentice (double blue-striped insignia). Assigned to a naval construction battalion or the Seabees.
Airman Apprentice (double green striped insignia). Assigned to an aviation unit.

How do I get promoted to Seaman Apprentice?

Promotion to E-2 is pretty much automatic. You have to do your job, keep out of trouble, and have nine months’ Time in Rate (TIR).

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Seaman Apprentice:

Air Force – Airman
Space Force – Specialist 2
Army – Private (PV2)
Coast Guard – Seaman Apprentice
Marine Corps – Private First Class

Navy Seaman

Rank: Seaman
Abbreviated: SN
Classification: Junior Enlisted
Title: Depends on rating: Seaman (last name), Fireman (last name), Airman (last name).
DoD Paygrade: E-3
Basic Pay: $2,104 per month
Sleeve Insignia: 3 diagonal stripes
Collar Insignia Pin: 3 diagonal stripes

What does a Seaman do?

As a Seaman, you have met all basic qualifications and will have more responsibility on ship and ashore. Your duties will be based on your rate and may include ship and equipment maintenance and repair. You’ll also be tasked with lookout and helmsmen duties, damage control, emergency, and security alert teams. You’ll work with senior members of your rate to gain job training and experience.

How do I get promoted to Seaman?

Promotion to seaman is also almost guaranteed. If you are a SA, then you’ll need to have nine months of Time in Rate (TIR). and have a clean record. Based on your rate and enlistment contract, you may be promoted to SN right after you graduate from Basic Training.

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Seaman:

Air Force – Airman First Class
Space Force – Specialist 3
Army – Private First Class
Coast Guard – Seaman
Marine Corps – Lance Corporal

Petty Officer Third Class

Rank: Petty Officer Third Class
Abbreviated: PO3
Classification: Noncommissioned Officer (NCO)
Title: Petty Officer (last name) or rate designation (Aviation Electrician’s Mate Third Class)
DoD Paygrade: E-4
Basic Pay: $2,450 per month
Sleeve Insignia: Perched eagle, specialty mark (rate), 1 chevron
Collar Insignia Pin: Perched eagle, 1 chevron

What does a Petty Officer Third Class do?

A Petty Officer Third Class is the first rank of a Navy NCO, and you’ll act as a leader and as a technical expert in your specified rating. You’ll also assume higher responsibility, authority, and accountability yourself and your junior Sailors.

How do I get promoted to Petty Officer Third Class?

To get promoted to Petty Officer Third Class, you must complete a specialty test in your particular rating. Promotion is highly competitive, and only a certain number of PO3 billets are available Navy-wide each year. The recommendation of your Commanding Officer (CO) or Officer In charge (OIC) is the most important advancement eligibility requirement, based mainly on your most recent evaluation report. You also must complete the Petty Officer Indoctrination Course. Time in Rate (TIR) for promotion to petty officer third class is six months and minimum Time in Service (TIS) is two years.

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Petty Officer Third Class:

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

Petty Officer Second Class

Rank: Petty Officer Second Class
Abbreviated: PO2
Classification: Noncommissioned Officer
Title: Petty Officer (last name) or rate designation (Aviation Electrician’s Mate Second Class)
DoD Paygrade: E-5
Basic Pay: $2,844 per month
Sleeve Insignia: Perched eagle, specialty mark (rate), 2 chevrons
Collar Insignia Pin: Perched eagle, 2 chevrons

What does a Petty Officer Second Class do?

As a petty officer second class, you’ll act as a leader and technical expert in your specified rating. You’ll also assume higher responsibility and accountability to yourself and your junior Sailors. As a petty officer second class, your level of authority will increase, and you’ll be expected to manage more resources and larger groups of Sailors or watch sections.

How do I get promoted to Petty Officer Second Class?

To promote to petty officer second class, you must sit for another rating exam, meet the minimum training and qualification requirements for your rate, and have your CO’s recommendation. As you progress in rank, awards and Collateral Duties (coordinator or manager of additional duties like blood drives and safety programs) will make the difference in your promotion. Promotion rates vary based on the need of the Navy and ratings. Highly technical rates have higher promotion rates. If you are fully qualified but don’t get promoted, you earn “Passed but Not Advanced” (PNA) points that stack up each year you apply, increasing your chances for promotion on the next cycle. Minimum Time in Rate (TIR) for petty officer second class is 12 months as a PO3, and three years of Time in Service (TIS).

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Petty Officer Second Class:

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

Petty Officer First Class

Rank: Petty Officer First Class
Abbreviated: PO1
Classification: Noncommissioned Officer
Title: Petty Officer (last name) or rate designation (Aviation Electrician’s Mate First Class)
DoD Paygrade: E-6
Basic Pay: $3,455 per month
Sleeve Insignia: Perched eagle, specialty mark (rate), 3 chevrons
Collar Insignia Pin: Perched eagle, 3 chevrons

What does a Petty Officer First Class do?

Petty officer first class is where you’ll start making the transition from junior to senior petty officer. As a PO1, you are expected to excel in your technical expertise and leadership abilities so you are prepared to take on the duties of a Chief Petty Officer. You’ll be expected to take charge and manage more significant resources and groups of Sailors.

How do I get promoted to Petty Officer First Class?

To promote to PO1, you must sit for another rating exam, meet the minimum training and qualification requirements for your rate, and have your CO’s recommendation. As you progress in rank, awards and Collateral Duties (coordinate or manage additional duties like blood drives and safety programs) will make the difference in your promotion. Promotion rates vary based on the need of the Navy and ratings. Highly technical rates have higher promotion rates. If you are fully qualified but don’t get promoted, you earn “Passed but Not Advanced” (PNA) points that stack up each year you apply, increasing your chances for promotion on the next cycle. Minimum Time in Rate (TIR) for PO1 is 36 months as a PO2, and seven years of Time in Service (TIS).

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Petty Officer First Class:

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

Chief Petty Officer

Rank: Chief Petty Officer
Abbreviated: CPO
Classification: Senior Noncommissioned Officer (NCO)
Title: Chief (last name) or rate designation (Chief Aviation Electrician’s Mate)
DoD Paygrade: E-7
Basic Pay: $4,760 per month
Sleeve Insignia: Perched eagle, specialty mark, 3 chevrons, 1 rocker
Collar Insignia Pin: Gold fouled anchor, silver superimposed USN

What does a Chief Petty Officer do?

As a chief petty officer, you are considered a senior NCO and with that title comes significantly increased powers and responsibilities. In addition to your rating’s duties, you’ll be responsible for training junior officers and leading your group of Sailors and petty officers. CPO’s also enjoy more on-ship privileges. You’ll wear a khaki uniform similar to a commissioned officer’s and get private living quarters and access to the Chief’s Mess.

How do I get promoted to Chief Petty Officer?

Unlike promotion to Petty Office, advancement to chief petty officer is based on three factors: basic eligibility requirements, Navywide Final Multiple Score (FMS), and the Chief Petty Officer Promotions Board. You must also have your commanding officer’s recommendation and complete your rating qualifications and the Navy Leadership Training Continuum (LTC) chief indoctrination course. Minimum Time in Rate (TIR) for chief petty officer is 36 months as an E-6, and 11 years of Time in Service (TIS).

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Chief Petty Officer:

Air Force – Master Sergeant
Space Force – Master Sergeant
Army – Sergeant First Class
Coast Guard – Chief Petty Officer
Marine Corps – Gunnery Sergeant

Senior Chief Petty Officer

Rank: Senior Chief Petty Officer
Abbreviated: SCPO
Classification: Senior Noncommissioned Officer (NCO)
Title: Senior Chief (last name) or rate designation (Senior Chief Aviation Electrician’s Mate)
DoD Paygrade: E-8
Basic Pay: $5,261 per month
Sleeve Insignia: Perched eagle, specialty mark, 3 chevrons, 1 rocker, 1 silver star
Collar Insignia Pin: Gold fouled anchor, silver superimposed USN, 1 silver star

What does a Senior Chief Petty Officer do?

As an senior chief petty officer, you are the senior technical supervisor within a rating, and your primary responsibility is to supervise and train personnel within your section. Your focus is on the big picture rather than individual units of work.

How do I get promoted to Senior Chief Petty Officer?

Unlike promotion to CPO, advancement to SCPO is based on a promotion board made up of current Master Chief Petty Officers. The SCPO board will consider you for promotion based on your professional performance at sea, education, evaluations, and physical standards. You must also have your commanding officer’s recommendation have completed the Navy Leadership Training Continuum (LTC) chief indoctrination course. Minimum Time in Rate (TIR) for senior chief petty officer is 36 months as a chief petty officer and 16 years of Time in Service (TIS).

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer:

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

Master Chief Petty Officer

Rank: Master Chief Petty Officer
Abbreviated: MCPO
Classification: Senior Noncommissioned Officer (NCO)
Title: Master Chief (last name) or rate designation (Chief Aviation Electrician’s Mate)
DoD Paygrade: E-9
Basic Pay: $6,307 per month
Sleeve Insignia: Perched eagle, specialty mark, 3 chevrons, 1 rocker, 2 silver stars
Collar Insignia Pin: Gold fouled anchor, silver superimposed USN, 2 silver stars

What does a Master Chief Petty Officer do?

Master chief petty officer is the highest and most coveted enlisted rank in the Navy. If you achieve this rank, you are considered to be among the best and the brightest in your rating. As a MCPO, you will have special command trust and confidence and hold a senior enlisted position within your command. You’ll help shape and execute policy concerning the morale, use, and training of all enlisted personnel. You’ll also get the chance to compete for the rank of Fleet/Command MCPO, where you’ll take precedence over all enlisted members within your command.

How do I get promoted to Master Chief Petty Officer?

Advancement to master chief petty officer is based on a promotion board made up of current Master Chief Petty Officers. The SCPO board will consider you for promotion based on your professional performance at sea, education, evaluations, and physical standards. Minimum Time in Rate (TIR) for master chief petty officer is 36 months as an E-7, and 19 years of Time in Service (TIS).

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Master Chief Petty Officer:

Air Force – Chief Master Sergeant
Space Force – Chief Master Sergeant
Army – Sergeant Major
Coast Guard – Master Chief Petty Officer
Marine Corps – Master Gunnery Sergeant

Navy Officer Ranks

Chief Warrant Officer 2

Rank: Chief Warrant Officer 2
Abbreviated: CWO2
Classification: Warrant Officer
Title: Mr./Ms. (last name)
DoD Paygrade: W-2
Basic Pay: $5,311 per month
Collar insignia pin: 1 gold bar, 3 blue breaks
Shoulder boards and sleeve: one ½” gold stripe, 3 blue breaks

What does a Navy Chief Warrant Officer 2 do?

Chief warrant officer 2 is the U.S. Navy’s entry-level warrant officer rank, and you’ll serve as a technical specialist with command authority within their field of expertise. During extended deployments at sea, you’ll be relied upon to supervise the maintenance and repair of all types of equipment, from traditional to state-of-the-art electronic equipment. In addition to the technical and managerial skills you provide, you’ll support communications between officers and enlisted at all levels of the chain of command. The Navy has also launched the Flying Chief Warrant Officer Program, which trains enlisted Sailors with an associate’s degree and a rank between E-5 and E-7 as Navy pilots and flight officers. Graduates of the program receive a billet as a CWO2 and attend flight school for pilot training.

How do I become a Navy Chief Warrant Officer 2?

If you are a chief petty officer, including an E-6 selected for chief petty officer, you are eligible to apply for warrant officer programs. Your application is sent to a special convening board consisting of high-ranking CWOs and Limited Duty Officers (LDO). Eligibility criteria are similar to those required to promoting to chief petty officer. If you are selected, you’ll go through a five-week commissioning program at Newport, RI, and are promoted to chief warrant officer 2. To be promoted to chief warrant officer 2, you must have a minimum of 12 years of active duty experience and three years in grade to be eligible. Enlisted rank determines your CWO pay grade.

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Chief Warrant Officer 2:

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

Chief Warrant Officer 3

Rank: Chief Warrant Officer 3
Abbreviated: CWO3
Classification: Warrant Officer
Title: Mr./Ms. (last name)
DoD Paygrade: W-3
Basic Pay: $6,034 per month
Collar insignia pin: 1 silver bar, 2 blue breaks
Shoulder boards and sleeve: one ½” gold stripe, 2 blue breaks

What does a Navy Chief Warrant Officer 3 do?

The duties of a chief warrant officer 3 are similar to those of a CWO2. You’ll serve as a technical specialist with command authority within your field of expertise. During extended deployments at sea, you’ll be relied upon to supervise the maintenance and repair of all types of equipment, from traditional to state-of-the-art electronic equipment. In addition to the technical and managerial skills you provide, you’ll support communications between officers and enlisted at all levels of the chain of command.

How do I become a Navy Chief Warrant Officer 3?

Promotion to chief warrant officer 3 is similar to promotion in the Navy’s junior officer ranks. Your records will meet a warrant officer promotion board, and you’ll be promoted based on your military performance, training, and education. If you are a fully qualified chief warrant officer 2, you can expect to be promoted three years after your warranting date. Master Chief Petty Officers will be automatically appointed to CWO3.

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Chief Warrant Officer 3:

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

Chief Warrant Officer 4

Rank: Chief Warrant Officer 4
Abbreviated: CWO4
Classification: Warrant Officer
Title: Mr./Ms. (last name)
DoD Paygrade: W-4
Basic Pay: $7,032 per month
Collar insignia pin: 1 silver bar, 3 blue breaks
Shoulder boards and sleeve: one ½” gold stripe, 1 blue break

What does a Navy Chief Warrant Officer 4 do?

Duties of a chief warrant officer 4 are similar to those of a CW03, but you’ll have more responsibility and are expected to be leaders of Sailors and junior warrant officers. You’ll serve as a technical specialist with command authority within their field of expertise. During extended deployments at sea, you’ll be relied upon to supervise the maintenance and repair of all types of equipment, from traditional to state-of-the-art electronic equipment. In addition to the technical and managerial skills you provide, you’ll support communications between officers and enlisted at all levels of the chain of command.

How do I become a Navy Chief Warrant Officer 4?

Promotion to chief warrant officer 4 is similar to promotion in the Navy’s junior officer ranks. Your records will meet a CWO/LDO promotion board, and you’ll be promoted based on your military performance, training, and education. If you are a fully qualified CWO3, you can expect to be promoted to CWO4 after four to five years of Time in Grade (TIG).

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Chief Warrant Officer 4:

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

Chief Warrant Officer 5

Rank: Chief Warrant Officer 5
Abbreviated: CWO5
Classification: Warrant Officer
Title: Mr./Ms. (last name)
DoD Paygrade: W-5
Basic Pay: $8,296 per month
Collar insignia pin: 1 silver bar, 1 horizontal blue line
Shoulder boards and sleeve: one ½” gold stripe, 1 horizontal line, 1 blue break

What does a Navy Chief Warrant Officer 5 do?

Chief warrant officer 5 is the Navy’s most senior billeted warrant officer rank. If you achieve this rank, you are considered the most skilled and experienced warrant officers in the command. You’ll still serve as a technical specialist with command authority within your field of expertise but are considered a senior leader and manager.

How do I become a Navy Chief Warrant Officer 5?

You’ll be selected for promotion to chief warrant officer 5 by a CWO/LDO selection board. Selection is highly competitive and requires consistently outstanding performance and leadership. As a chief warrant officer 4, you are eligible for promotion after four to five years of Time in Grade (TIG).

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Chief Warrant Officer 5:

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

Ensign

Rank: Ensign
Abbreviated: ENS
Classification: Junior Grade
Title: Ensign (last name) or Mr./Ms. (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-1
Basic Pay: $3,386 per month
Collar Insignia Pin: 1 gold bar
Shoulder boards and sleeve: 1 – 1/2″ gold stripe

What does a Navy Ensign do?

Ensign is the most junior commissioned officer’s rank in the Navy, and you’ll usually serve on naval vessels as division officer in a specialty like engineering or administration. You’ll attend school for your occupation and after graduation, learn your trade through on-the-job training and be mentored by superior officers and experienced petty officers. As an ensign, you could be assigned to pilot or weapon officer slots and fly aircraft assigned to the Navy.

How do I get promoted to Navy Ensign?

Ensign is the commissioned officer rank of graduates of the United States Naval Academy (USNA), Navy Reserve Officer Training Corps (NROTC), Officer Candidate School (OCS), and other commissioning sources.

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Ensign:

Air Force – Second Lieutenant
Space Force – Second Lieutenant
Army – Second Lieutenant
Coast Guard – Ensign
Marine Corps – Second Lieutenant

Lieutenant Junior Grade

Rank: Lieutenant Junior Grade
Abbreviated: LTJG
Classification: Junior Grade
Title: Lieutenant (last name) or Mr./Ms. (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-2
Basic Pay: $4,442 per month
Collar Insignia Pin: 1 silver bar
Shoulder boards and sleeve: 1 – 1/2″ gold stripe, 1 – 1/4″ gold stripe

What does a Navy Lieutenant Junior Grade do?

As a lieutenant junior grade, you’ll be assigned as a division officer and lead seamen and petty officers in specific divisions like Quartermaster or Intelligence.

How do I get promoted to Navy Lieutenant Junior Grade?

Promotion to lieutenant junior grade is pretty much automatic after two years as an ensign. You will have to have a clean record and good performance evaluations.

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Lieutenant Junior Grade:

Air Force – First Lieutenant
Space Force – First Lieutenant
Army – First Lieutenant
Coast Guard – Lieutenant Junior Grade
Marine Corps – First Lieutenant

Lieutenant

Rank: Lieutenant
Abbreviated: LT
Classification: Junior Grade
Title: Lieutenant (last name) or Mr./Ms. (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-3
Basic Pay: $6,022 per month
Collar Insignia Pin: 2 silver bars
Shoulder boards and sleeve: 2 – 1/2″ gold stripes

What does a Navy Lieutenant do?

Lieutenants serve as division officers aboard Navy ships and command groups of Sailors and petty officers in various divisions, including aircraft maintenance or engineering. As a lieutenant, you may be in charge of smaller ships or aircraft squadrons. In some cases, you may act as department head. If you prove to be an exceptional officer, you may qualify as first lieutenant. This is a special billet that brings with it increased leadership and responsibilities. You may serve as second in command aboard small ships like frigates and destroyers or as the senior division officer on a larger vessel.

How do I get promoted to Navy Lieutenant?

You are eligible for promotion to Lieutenant after you have been in the Navy for at least four years and a lieutenant junior grade for two years. You must also have a clean record and solid performance reports.

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Lieutenant:

Air Force – Captain
Space Force – Captain
Army – Captain
Coast Guard – Lieutenant
Marine Corps – Captain

Lieutenant Commander

Rank: Lieutenant Commander
Abbreviated: LTCDR
Classification: Mid Grade Officer
Title: Lieutenant Commander (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-4
Basic Pay: $7,684 per month
Collar Insignia Pin: Gold oak leaf
Shoulder boards and sleeve: 1 – 1/4″ gold stripe between 2 – 1/2″ gold stripes

What does a Navy Lieutenant Commander do?

As a Lieutenant Commander, you’ll act as department head or executive officer on a ship, aircraft squadron, or submarine. If you are part of a SEAL team, you’ll serve as executive officer. You may serve as commanding officers of a minesweeper or a patrol craft.

How do I get promoted to Navy Lieutenant Commander?

To get promoted to LTCDR, you must meet all basic qualifications, have a solid performance record, and be recommended by a promotion board. Basic qualifications are 3 years TIG as a lieutenant junior grade and between nine and 11 years of Time in Service (TIS). The lieutenant commander selection board promotes about 80 percent of all eligible officers.

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Lieutenant Commander:

Air Force – Major
Space Force – Major
Army – Major
Coast Guard – Lieutenant Commander
Marine Corps – Major

Commander

Rank: Commander
Abbreviated: CDR
Classification: Mid Grade Officer
Title: Commander (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-5
Basic Pay: $9,293 per month
Collar Insignia Pin: 1 silver oak leaf
Shoulder boards and sleeve: 3 – 1/2″ gold stripes

What does a Navy Commander do?

As a commander, you may be assigned as captain of a command a frigate, destroyer, aviation squadron, commander of a shore installation, or serve on the staff of a senior officer aboard a large Naval vessel.

How do I get promoted to Navy Commander?

Promotion to CDR is competitive, and only 70 percent of fully qualified lieutenant commanders are promoted each cycle. You must have demonstrated a history of strong leadership in both sea and shore commands and have substantial operational experience within your profession. To be considered for promotion to commander, you must have three years of Time in Grade (TIG) as a lieutenant commander and have between 15 and 17 years of Time in Service (TIS).

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Commander:

Air Force – Lieutenant Colonel
Space Force – Lieutenant Colonel
Army – Lieutenant Colonel
Coast Guard – Commander
Marine Corps – Lieutenant Colonel

Captain

Rank: Captain
Abbreviated: CAPT
Classification: Senior Officer
Title: Captain (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-6
Basic Pay: $11,512 per month
Collar Insignia Pin: Silver Spread Eagle
Shoulder boards and sleeve: 4 – 1/2″ gold stripes

What does a Navy Captain do?

A Navy Captain is a senior officer in the Navy and holds various leadership positions, including command of a:

large ship like a Navy cruiser
ballistic missile submarine, or a squadron of attack submarines
Naval Air Wing based on an Aircraft Carrier or amphibious assault vessel
shore-based installation s such as bases or Naval schools, or
serve in senior staff leadership positions

How do I get promoted to Navy Captain?

Promotion to captain is highly competitive, and only 50 percent of lieutenant commanders make the cut. You must demonstrate a history of strong leadership in assignments both at sea and at shore-based commands. You are eligible for promotion to captain after you have been in the Navy between 21 and 23 years and lieutenant commander for at least three years.

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Captain:

Air Force – Colonel
Space Force – Colonel
Army – Colonel
Coast Guard – Captain
Marine Corps – Colonel

Rear Admiral (Lower Half)

Rank: Rear Admiral (Lower Half)
Abbreviated: RADM
Classification: Flag Officer
Title: Admiral (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-7
Basic Pay: $13,789 per month
Collar Insignia Pin and shoulder boards: Silver Star
Sleeve: 1 – 2″ gold stripe

What does a Navy Rear Admiral do?

As a rear admiral (lower half), you’ll normally command a small fleet of small Navy ships like destroyers, a squadron of submarines, or a group of air wings. As a flag officer, you may fly the Rear Admiral’s pennant over any ship or base on which you are serving.

How do I get promoted to Navy Rear Admiral (Lower Half)?

Promotion to rear admiral is a highly selective process and is a great honor. There are only 162 Flag Officer billets in the Navy. You are chosen from among a group of other outstanding Captains and recommended for promotion by a sitting board of active flag 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 30 years of total service unless promoted or reappointed.

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Rear Admiral (Lower Half):

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

Rear Admiral (Upper Half)

Rank: Rear Admiral (Upper Half)
Abbreviated: RADM
Classification: Flag Officer
Title: Admiral (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-8
Basic Pay: $15,546 per month
Collar Insignia Pin and shoulder boards: 2 silver stars
Sleeve: 1 – 2″ gold stripe, 1 – 1/2″ gold stripe

What does a Navy Rear Admiral do?

As a rear admiral (upper half), you’ll normally command a small fleet of small Navy ships like destroyers, a squadron of submarines, or a group of air wings. As a flag officer, you may fly the Rear Admiral’s pennant over any ship or base on which you are serving.

How do I get promoted to Navy Rear Admiral (Upper Half)?

Promotion to rear admiral is a highly selective process and is a great honor. Of the 162 Flag Officer billets in the Navy, 120 are for rear admirals. You are chosen from among a group of other outstanding rear admirals and recommended for promotion by a sitting board of active flag 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 Navy Rear Admiral (Upper Half):

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

Vice Admiral

Rank: Vice Admiral
Abbreviated: VADM
Classification: Flag Officer
Title: Admiral (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-9
Basic Pay: $16,608 per month
Collar Insignia Pin and shoulder boards: 3 silver stars
Sleeve: 1 – 2″ gold stripe, 2 – 1/2″ gold stripes

What does a Navy Vice Admiral do?

As a vice admiral, you are promoted to fill very specific billets, like Commander of the Sixth Fleet. Of the 160 flag officer billets, only 25 percent may hold the rank of vice admiral or admiral. As a vice admiral, you may command a regional Navy fleet during an operation or war.

How do I get promoted to Navy Vice Admiral?

Promotion to vice admiral is a highly selective process and is a great honor. There are currently only 37 vice admirals in the Navy. You are chosen from among a group of other outstanding real admirals and recommended for promotion by a sitting board of active flag 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 38 years of total service unless promoted.

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Vice Admiral:

Air Force – Lieutenant General
Space Force – Lieutenant General
Army – Lieutenant General
Coast Guard – Vice Admiral
Marine Corps – Lieutenant General

Admiral

Rank: Admiral
Abbreviated: ADM
Classification: Flag Officer
Title: Admiral (last name)
DoD Paygrade: O-10
Basic Pay: $16,608 per month
Collar Insignia Pin and shoulder boards: 4 silver stars
Sleeve: 1 – 2″ gold stripe, 3 – 1/2″ gold stripes

What does a Navy Admiral do?

An admiral is a four-star flag officer and the highest rank a commissioned officer may hold. As an admiral, you’ll command a regional Navy fleet, such as the Pacific or Atlantic fleets, or serve as Chief of Naval Operations (CNO), the highest Navy billet.

How do I get promoted to Navy Admiral?

Promotion to admiral is a highly selective process and is a great honor. There are currently only six admirals in the Navy. You are chosen from among a group of other elite vice admirals and recommended for promotion by a sitting board of active flag 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 promoted.

Equivalent Ranks to Navy Admiral:

Air Force – General
Space Force – General
Army – General
Coast Guard – Admiral
Marine Corps – General