How many classes of petty officers are recognized by the Navy?

How many classes of petty officers are recognized by the Navy?

• A. Three
• B. Two
• C. Four
• D. One

Answer: (A)

The number comes from how the Navy organizes its noncommissioned leadership below the chief ranks. Petty officers are divided into three levels: petty officer third class, petty officer second class, and petty officer first class. These three classes correspond to increasing experience, responsibility, and pay in the E-4 to E-6 range. Advancement moves a Sailor from third to second to first class through time in service, performance, and qualification requirements. Above petty officer lies the chief petty officer ranks, which are separate from these three classes.

The number comes from how the Navy organizes its noncommissioned leadership below the chief ranks. Petty officers are divided into three levels: petty officer third class, petty officer second class, and petty officer first class. These three classes correspond to increasing experience, responsibility, and pay in the E-4 to E-6 range. Advancement moves a Sailor from third to second to first class through time in service, performance, and qualification requirements. Above petty officer lies the chief petty officer ranks, which are separate from these three classes.