I applied in-person. The process took 8 weeks. I interviewed at US Coast Guard (Cape May, NJ) in Nov 2016
Interview
8 weeks of boot camp running around going to class shooting guns marching in formation eating in the galley sleeping in the barracks Cape May New Jersey getting screamed at
I applied online. The process took 6 weeks. I interviewed at US Coast Guard (Portsmouth, VA)
Interview
Interview and hiring process included a very detailed criminal and historical background check, vocational aptitude testing and intelligence testing with minimum qualifying scores for different positions, and thorough medical exam. Process took several weeks to determine qualification, and then several more to actually depart for training.
I applied through a recruiter. The process took 1 day. I interviewed at US Coast Guard (Buffalo, NY) in May 2011
Interview
Recruiters are knowledgeable and helpful. Take your time to learn what each service does and the terms of your enlistment. Ensure you understand that the Coast Guard is a SEA Going service that for enlisted members focuses on trades. Your ASVAB scores will determine what rating (trade) you are able to learn.