Which rank must a Soldier achieve before being eligible for SSG promotion?

To be eligible for promotion to Staff Sergeant (SSG), a Soldier must first achieve the rank of Sergeant (SGT). This requirement is in place to ensure that Soldiers have gained the necessary leadership experience, technical proficiency, and competence expected of non-commissioned officers at the SSG level.

The promotion process to SSG is designed to evaluate a Soldier's readiness to take on greater responsibilities, which typically includes leading and mentoring junior Soldiers. Ranking up from private or specialist directly to SSG without the intervening rank of Sergeant would not provide the Soldier with the essential skills and knowledge needed for these additional duties.

While it’s necessary for a Soldier to have certain ranks before promotion, such as Private First Class or Corporal, the key to reaching SSG is the prior attainment of the Sergeant rank.