Former service member (Army) here. The new guidelines after Biden repealed the trans service ban a couple years back are hopefully more smoothed out by this point than when I was in (got out in 2021). As far as I’m concerned, you can join the military if you’re trans, and I’m even more sure you can if you’ve been out and on hormones for decent time (I believe the timeframe is 2+ years). The military is primarily concerned with your diagnosis of “gender dysphoria,” so if you’ve got that written out anywhere in your medical record from the last 5 years, it’ll be helpful as well.

I’d try speaking with an Air Force recruiter, but fair warning that the recruiter is likely to have zero idea about any of this. If they don’t seem to know, I’d hope they refer you to someone else who does know. If not, keep searching for people and asking until you get your answers.

Bottom line is that you can join, it just might be a little bit of a logistical and administrative headache. Still go for it. As for taking testosterone (gel or injections) during basic, I’m sure there’s an established protocol for basic trainees in all branches that have to take daily medications (for medical conditions that have been waived). You taking testosterone would just follow those same guidelines.

Feel free to reach out to me directly with any questions. I’ve got some contacts I can ask for more concrete answers if you want or need it. Best of luck to you in joining!