Conscientious objectors perform service to the nation in a manner consistent with their moral, ethical or religious opposition to participation in war in any form. Depending upon the nature of his beliefs, a conscientious objector serves either in a noncombatant capacity in the armed forces or in a civilian job contributing to the national interest. Surviving sons or brothers in a family where the parent or sibling died as a result of U.S. military service, or is in a captured or missing in action status, are exempt from service in peacetime. Ministers are exempted from service. Certain elected officials are exempt from service as long as they continue to hold office.
Veterans generally are exempt from service in peacetime.
Aliens and dual nationals in some cases may be exempt from U.S. military service depending upon their place of residence and country of citizenship.