Who is authorized beard growth?

• A. All personnel may request a beard.
• B. Beard growth is not allowed.
• C. Only during field exercises.
• D. Personnel who are Authorized by the appropriate Medical Authority by issuing a Medical Profile.

Answer: (D)

The ability to grow a beard is restricted to formal medical exceptions. In AR 670-1, facial hair is typically not allowed, but a beard may be authorized when a medical condition or treatment requires it and is documented by an appropriate Medical Authority. When a soldier receives a Medical Profile that explicitly authorizes a beard, that profile serves as official approval for the beard growth. The profile ensures the exemption is medically justified, properly recorded, and limited to the needs identified by the medical authority, while still considering safety and equipment fit (such as masks or respirators). Without such a profile, the standard is to remain clean-shaven.