It actually happened twice. And I don’t remember specifically what I was having to apply for either time but it was at a government office...and I had to sign up for it in order to receive whatever it was. I believe the second time it was my drivers license renewal and the lady asked “have you signed up for the draft?” and I told her yes, I had already done that, she laughed and said “I’ve never had anyone say that. Let me get the card for you” and she made me fill it out again. That doesn’t sound right as I’m not sure the state agency would have any involvement in that, but I don’t recall going to any federal office to register for anything else.
In any event, it is and has been a felony not to register... https://www.usa.gov/register-selective-service
This article from Hoft stating: “This new system of automatic draft registration would replace the existing system, in place since 1980, *in which young men have the freedom to decide whether or not to sign up for the draft*” is simply false.
Were you applying for college tuition aid at 18? Young men are required to sign up for Selective Service when they apply for FAFSA.