THE JOINT TRAVEL REGULATIONS (JTR)

THE JOINT TRAVEL

REGULATIONS

(JTR)

UNIFORMED SERVICE MEMBERS

AND

DOD CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES

MR. JOHN H. STONEBURG IV

Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Army

(Military Personnel)

REAR ADMIRAL MICHAEL W. RAYMOND

U.S. Coast Guard

Assistant Commandant for Military Personnel

MS. LISA M. TRUESDALE

Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy

(Military Manpower and Personnel)

REAR ADMIRAL CHAD M. CARY

National Oceanic and

Atmospheric Administration

Director, NOAA Corps

MS. ALLISON A. DEVITO

Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force

(Force Management)

REAR ADMIRAL RICHARD P. SCHOBITZ

U.S. Public Health Service

Director, Commissioned Corps Headquarters

Published by:

The Per Diem, Travel, and Transportation Allowance Committee

U.S. Department of Defense

4800 Mark Center Drive

Suite 05E22

Alexandria, VA 22350-9000

https://www.travel.dod.mil

09/01/2024

CL-1

COVER LETTER

SEPTEMBER 1, 2024

A. Authorized Personnel. These regulation changes are issued for all Uniformed Service Members and

DoD Civilian Employees.

B. New Regulation Changes. Material new to this change is indicated by yellow highlighting and is

effective in accordance with the date of this change unless otherwise indicated.

C. Applicable MAP and/or CAP Items and Brief of Revisions. This change includes all material and

revisions written in the following MAP and/or CAP Items:

MAP 32-24(E) – “Change Time Limitation for POV Transportation in Connection with

Retirement”. This item changes the time limitation in the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR) for privately

owned vehicle (POV) transportation in connection with retirement, placement on the temporary disability

retired list (TDRL), discharge with severance or separation pay, or involuntary release from activity duty

with readjustment or separation pay. Currently, Service members are authorized to extend their POV

transportation for up to six years but are required to request an extension annually. Under the authority in

37 U.S.C. § 453(e), the proposed change will increase the existing time length for the shipment of a POV

from one year to three years from the active duty termination date. After the three-year period, a request

for an extension may be approved on an annual basis not to exceed a maximum of six years. Affects

Table 5-65.

CAP 46-24(E) – “Clarification when Authorizing Temporary Quarters Subsistence Expenses

(TQSE) and House Hunting Trip (HHT)”. This item clarifies that the Authorizing Official must

reduce the total number of days civilian employees are authorized for TQSE (Lodging Plus) and TQSE

(Actual Expense) by the number of house hunting trip days. Affects par. 054008, 054206, and 054207.

MAP 51-24(I) – “Clarification of Permanent Duty Travel for Service Members”. This item clarifies

that the per diem locality rate used for permanent change of station (PCS) computations is the next

official point that requires overnight lodging. For PCS travel crossing the international dateline (IDL)

this item directs the reader to two new IDL computation examples specific to PCS travel. This item also

adds clarification to Table 5-3 that a port of embarkation or debarkation is used in separating legs of

travel for determination of travel time regardless of them being a per diem location or not. Affects par.

020310, 0503, Table 2-23, Table 5-3, and Table 5-5.

MAP/CAP 56-24(I) – “Clarify Laundry Reimbursement is not Authorized In CONUS”. This item

clarifies that laundry reimbursement is not authorized within CONUS. Laundry and dry-cleaning

expenses are a personal expense and are not reimbursable as part of per diem, actual expense allowance

(AEA), or a miscellaneous reimbursable expense within CONUS. Affects Appendix A.

CAP 61-24(I) – “Clarify Authorized Travel Time Rules for Civilian PDT”. This item corrects Joint

Travel Regulations (JTR) for civilian employees who drive an alternative fuel privately owned vehicle to

the new permanent duty station (PDS) and require additional time to travel. The authorized travel time is

the actual distance traveled or actual travel time used to the new PDS. Affects Table 5-72, Rule 5.

Intro Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Appendix A Appendix B

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

Authority, Applicability, and Administration of the JTR

Responsibility for the JTR

Effective Date of Regulation Changes

Interpretation of These Regulations and their Underlying Laws and Regulations

Questions, Suggestions, or Recommendations

Service or DoD Agency Regulation Review Process

CHAPTER 1: GENERAL POLICY

0101

BASIC TRAVEL RULES

010101. Travel Categories

010102. Guiding Principle

010103. Traveler Responsibilities

010104. Service or Agency Responsibilities

0102

OTHER BASIC TRAVEL INFORMATION

010201. Key Participants

010202. Requirement to Travel

010203. Travel Status

010204. Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC) and Advance of Funds

010205. Defense Travel System (DTS) Use

010206. Travel Authorizations and Orders

0103

FINANCIAL RULES

010301. Receipt Requirements

010302. Duplicate Payments and Fraudulent Claims

0104

UNIQUE STATUS OR CONDITION

010401. Absentee, Straggler, Deserter, or Service Member without Funds

CHAPTER 2: STANDARD TRAVEL AND TRANSPORTATION ALLOWANCES

0201

INTRODUCTION

020101. Transportation Allowance

020102. Per Diem Allowance

020103. Miscellaneous Reimbursable Expenses

0202

TRANSPORTATION

020201. Travel does not Use Authorized Transportation

020202. Excluded Hours

020203. Transportation Types Most Advantageous to the Government

020204. Distance Determinations

020205. Separate Legs of Travel

020206. Airplane, Train, Ship, and Bus Transportation

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020207. Reimbursement for Commercial Transportation

020208. Reimbursement for Government Transportation

020209. Rental Vehicle

020210. Privately Owned Vehicles (POV)

020211. Car Ferry Transportation

020212. Travel in and around the TDY Location

020213. Ground Transportation

0203

PER DIEM ALLOWANCE AND OTHER COMPUTATION RULES

020301. Daily Allowances

020302. Allowable Travel Time As It Affects Per Diem

020303. Lodging

020304. M&IE Portion of Per Diem

020305. Occasional Meals or Occasional Lodging

020306. Meal Ticket Maximum Rates

020307. AEA (Instead of Per Diem)

020308. Reduced Per Diem

020309. Trip Length As It Affects Per Diem

020310. Lodging and M&IE Per Diem Calculation Rules

020312. Return to Permanent Duty Station (PDS) During Long-Term TDY

020313. Tax Impact of TDY Travel on a Civilian Employee

020314. Impact of the International Date Line (IDL) on Per Diem

020315. Other Circumstances Impacting a Traveler’s Per Diem

0204

MISCELLANEOUS REIMBURSABLE EXPENSES

0205

SHIPMENT AND STORAGE OF HHG WHILE ON TDY

020501. Shipment of HHG by a Service Member

020502. Storage in Transit and Special Storage of HHG by a Service Member

020503. NTS by a Service Member

020504. Removal of HHG from Storage by a Service Member

020505. Shipment of HHG by a Civilian Employee on TDY

0206

TRAVEL IN AND AROUND THE PDS

020601. TDY within the PDS Local Area but outside the PDS Limits

020602. Continuing TDY within the PDS Limits under Emergency Circumstances

020603. Travel within the PDS Local Area

020604. Taxi or TNC Use Incident to Authorized Work outside Regularly Scheduled Working

Hours

020605. Recruiting Expense Reimbursement

020606. Recruiting-Related Parking Expenses

CHAPTER 3: TDY TRAVEL

PART A: BUSINESS TRAVEL

0301

ROUTINE TEMPORARY DUTY (TDY)

030101. Common Business Travel

030102. TDY before Reporting to the First Permanent Duty Station (PDS)

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0302 CONFERENCES (NOT FOR TRAINING)

030201. Conference Attendance and Participation

0303

RESERVE COMPONENT (RC) TRAVEL (OTHER THAN TRAINING)

030301. RC Member Performing Active Duty with Pay Who Commutes

030302. RC Member Performing Active Duty with Pay Who Does Not Commute

030303. RC Member Performing Active Duty without Pay

030304. Dual-Status Military Technician Performing Active Duty without Pay

0304

RETIRED SERVICE MEMBER RECALLED TO ACTIVE DUTY

030401. Retired Service Member Called or Ordered to Active Duty (with or without Pay)

0305

INVITATION TO TRAVEL

030501. Invitational Travel Allowances

030502. Spousal Travel by Government Aircraft

030503. Personal Services Contract Employee

0306

PRE-EMPLOYMENT INTERVIEW WITH DOD FOR CIVILIAN

EMPLOYMENT

0307

JUSTICE AND CRIMINAL MATTERS

030701. Service Member or Civilian Employee Who Serves as a Witness

030702. Witness Is Not Employed by the Government

030703. Juror Travel

030704. Travel Associated with Sexual Assault

030705. Threatened civilian Law Enforcement Officer

030706. Travel for Military Justice Proceeding

030707. Prisoner on Commandant’s Parole

030708. Guards Transporting a Prisoner

030709. Paroled Prisoner

0308

TRAVEL RELATED TO SERVICE ACADEMIES OR SCHOOLS

030801. Travel Incident to Nomination and Admission to a Service Academy

030802. School Board Member Travel

030803. Travel of a Disabled DoD Education Activity (DoDEA) Student with a Disability for

Diagnostic and Evaluation Purposes

030804. DoDEA Academic Competitions and Co-Curricular Activities

030805. Service Academy Board of Visitors Travel

0309

TRAVEL TO RECEIVE OR PRESENT AWARD

030901. Receive Non-Federally Sponsored Honor Award

030902. Award Ceremony Related to Presentation

0310

REPATRIATION OF A CIVILIAN EMPLOYEE

0311

TRAVEL WHILE ON DUTY WITH PARTICULAR UNITS

031101. Mobile Units

031102. Service Member Serving on A Ship Constructed, Overhauled, or Inactivated at Other

Than the Home Port

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031103. Service Members Conducting Aerial Surveys

031104. Army Corps of Engineers-Related Travel

031105. Crash Firefighter and Operations and Maintenance Technician

0312

INDETERMINATE TDY (ITDY)

031201. ITDY Determination

0313

COURIER TRAVEL

031301. Accompanying Package or Controlled Pouch

0314

REPATRIATION OF A SERVICE MEMBER HELD CAPTIVE

031401. Family Member Travel in Connection with the Repatriation of a Service Member Held

Captive

0315

ARMED FORCES, NATIONAL, AND INTERNATIONAL AMATEUR SPORTS

COMPETITION

031501. Amateur Athletes Train, Attend, or Compete

0316

OBSERVER TO UNITED NATIONS (UN) PEACEKEEPING ORGANIZATION

0317

LABOR ORGANIZATION REPRESENTATIVE TRAVEL

031701. Labor-Management Meetings

0318

TRAVEL WITH A DIGNITARY

031801. Dignitary

031802. Exceptions for Traveling with a Member of Congress

0319

FAMILY PROGRAMS

031901. Chaplain-Led Program Functions

031902. Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program Event

031903. Travel to Obtain a Consular Report of Birth Abroad

0320

TRAVEL IN THE EVENT OF DEATH

032001. Escort for Remains of a Deceased Service Member

032002. Funeral of a Deceased Service Member, Cadet, or Midshipman

032003. Escort of Eligible Relative of Service Member—Funeral

032004. Funeral Honors Duty Travel

032005. Memorial Service for a Deceased Service Member

032006. Family Member Attendance during Transfer of Remains

032007. Deceased Civilian Employee or Dependent

032008. Escort for Remains of Deceased Civilian Employee

PART B: TRAINING TRAVEL

0321

CONFERENCES FOR TRAINING

032101. Training Conferences outside the Permanent Duty Station (PDS)

032102. Training Conferences at the PDS

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0322 SERVICE MEMBER

032201. Courses of Instruction at a School or Installation

032202. Field Training Exercises, Maneuvers, and Simulated Wartime Operations

0323

RESERVE COMPONENT (RC) MEMBER

032301. RC Member Called or Ordered to Active Duty for Training (ADT)

032302. RC Member Called or Ordered to Active Duty with Pay for a Specific Duty Status

032303. Inactive Duty Training (IDT) with or without Pay

032304. IDT outside the Normal Commuting Distance

0324

CADET OR MIDSHIPMAN

032401. Service Academy Applicant, Cadet, Midshipman, or Graduates

032402. Senior Reserve Officer Training Corps (SROTC) Advanced Training

032403. Traveler in the Financial Assistance Program for SROTC Cadets or Midshipmen

032404. Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) Cadet on Recruiting Duty

032405. Allowances for Service Academy Cadets and Midshipmen during Remote Duty

0326

CIVILIAN EMPLOYEE

032601. Training in the PDS

032602. Training outside the PDS Area

PART C: DEPLOYMENTS, EXERCISES, MANEUVERS, WAR GAMES, AND

CONTINGENCY OPERATIONS

0327

ROUTINE OR ROTATIONAL DEPLOYMENTS

032701. Deployment Allowances

0328

EXERCISES, MANEUVERS, AND WAR GAMES

032801. Exercises, Maneuvers, and War Games Allowances

0329

OPERATIONAL DEPLOYMENTS AND CONTINGENCY OPERATIONS

032901. Authority

032902. Reimbursement Options

032903. Lodging Reimbursement during an Authorized Absence While TDY in Support of an

Operational Deployment or Contingency Operation

032904. HHG Storage for a Service Member on TDY for an Operational Deployment or

Contingency Operation

032905. POV Storage when a Service Member is TDY for an Operational Deployment or

Contingency Operation

032906. POV Storage when a Civilian Employee is TDY for an Operational Deployment or

Contingency Operation

PART D: MEDICAL TRAVEL

0330

VARIOUS TYPES OF MEDICAL TRAVEL

033001. Inpatient, Hospitalization, Rehabilitation, and Outpatient

033002. Emergency Travel Due to Illness or Injury

033003. Convalescent Leave Transportation

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033004. Service Member on the Temporary Disability Retired List (TDRL) Required to Submit to

Periodic Physical Examinations

033005. Transfer to or from a Medical Facility or to Home (Including Patients Diagnosed with a

Mental Disorder)

033006. Service Member Discharged from St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, a Department of Health and

Human Services Medical Facility, or a Veterans Affairs Medical Center

033007. Medical Specialty Care Travel

033008. Medical and Dental Care for an Injury, Illness, or Disease Incurred or Aggravated in the

Line of Duty for a Reserve Component (RC) Member

033009. Organ Donation

033010. Participation in Health Surveillance Program

033011. Service Member Escort or Attendant for Dependent Transferred Between Medical

Facilities in CONUS

033012. Travel to Obtain a Vaccination

033013. Travel for Non-Covered Reproductive Health Care Services

0331

MEDICAL TRAVEL WHEN STATIONED OCONUS

033101. Dependent Medical Care Travel OCONUS

033102. Medical Travel and Transportation Allowances When a Civilian Employee Is Assigned

to a Foreign PDS OCONUS

0332

DESIGNATED INDIVIDUAL AND NON-MEDICAL ATTENDANT TRAVELING

TO A WOUNDED, ILL, OR INJURED SERVICE MEMBER OR CIVILIAN

EMPLOYEE

033201. Travel of a “Designated Individual” for the Health and Welfare of a Wounded or Ill

Service Member

033202. Travel of a Non-Medical Attendant for a Seriously and Very Seriously Wounded, Ill, or

Injured Service Member, Service Academy Cadet or Midshipman, or SROTC Cadet

033203. Travel of a “Designated Individual” for the Health and Welfare of a Wounded or Ill

Civilian Employee

PART E: LEAVE IN CONJUNCTION WITH TDY

0333

LEAVE AND TDY

033301. Leave or Personal Travel Combined with Official Travel

033302. Leave Taken while on a TDY with Long-Term Lodging

033303. Ship Relocated During Authorized Absence

0334

PERSONAL EMERGENCIES WHILE ON TDY AWAY FROM THE PDS

033401. Service Member Personal Emergency Travel While on TDY

033402. Civilian Employee Personal Emergency Travel While on TDY

0335

SERVICE MEMBER ON A TDY AFTER EVACUATION

033501. Lodging Expenses for a Service Member on Leave during an Authorized or Ordered

Evacuation

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CHAPTER 4: GOVERNMENT-FUNDED LEAVE

0401

APPLICABLE ALLOWANCES FOR GOVERNMENT-FUNDED LEAVE

TRAVEL

040101. Standard Transportation and Reimbursement

040102. Allowances if Isolation or Quarantine is Required When Returning from Government-

Funded Leave Travel

0402

EMERGENCY LEAVE FOR SERVICE MEMBERS

040201. Transportation in Personal Emergencies

0403

EMERGENCY VISITATION TRAVEL (EVT)

040301. Travel in Response to a Medical Emergency, Eldercare, Death, or Unusual Personal

Hardship

0404

FUNDED ENVIRONMENTAL AND MORALE LEAVE (FEML)

040401. FEML Transportation

0405

TRAVEL FOR REST AND RECUPERATION (R&R) LEAVE

040501. R&R Leave

040502. Official Duty in Iraq, Afghanistan, or Pakistan

040503. Special R&R (SR&R) Absence in Connection with a Tour Extension

0406

SPECIAL LEAVE TRANSPORTATION ALLOWANCE FOR ALASKA

040601. Special Leave Transportation Allowance from Alaska

CHAPTER 5: PERMANENT DUTY TRAVEL

PART A: STANDARD PCS ALLOWANCES (SERVICE MEMBERS)

0501

INTRODUCTION

050101. PCS Transportation Allowance

050102. PCS Per Diem Allowance

050103. Miscellaneous Reimbursable Expenses

050104. Dislocation Allowance (DLA)

050105. Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE)

050106. Isolation or Quarantine

050107. Pet Expenses Due to a PCS

050108. Pilot Program to Reimburse Child Care Provider Transportation Costs Due to a PCS

0502

PDT TRANSPORTATION

050201. Transportation Types Most Advantageous to the Government for PCS Travel

050202. Airplane, Train, Ship, and Bus Transportation

050203. POV

050204. Indirect or Circuitous Travel OCONUS

050205. Authorized Travel Time

0503

PCS PER DIEM

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050301. PCS Per Diem when Traveling by POV

050302. PCS Per Diem when Traveling by Airplane, Train, Ship, or Bus

050303. PCS Per Diem for Dependents

0504

STANDARD DEPENDENT TRAVEL ALLOWANCES

050401. Time Limit

050402. Funds Advance and When Transportation Documents or Funds are Lost or Stolen

050403. Dependent Travel before an Order is Issued

050404. Deferred Dependent Travel

050405. When Dependent Travel and Transportation Allowances are not Payable

050406. Service Member Attains Eligibility for Dependent Travel

050407. Dependent Temporarily Absent from the Old PDS, Designated Place, or Safe Haven

when a PCS Order Is Received

050408. Travel and Transportation Involving Locations Other Than the Old or New PDS

050409. Spouse Separates or Retires from the Service after the Effective Date of a Service

Member’s PCS Order

050410. Escort for a Dependent

050411. Dependent Joins or Accompanies the Service Member during TDY Route

0505

DISLOCATION ALLOWANCE (DLA)

050501. Fiscal-Year Limitations

050502. Service Member with or without a Dependent

050503. Service Member with a Dependent

050504. Service Member Considered to be without a Dependent for DLA

050505. A Service Member Who Has No Dependent

050506. Service Member Married to another Service Member

050507. Secondary DLA -- Orders Amended, Modified, Canceled, or Revoked

050508. Partial DLA

050509. DLA is not Authorized

0506

TEMPORARY LODGING EXPENSE (TLE)

050601. TLE for Service Members

050602. Advance of TLE

050603. Isolation or Quarantine is Required after Arrival at the New PDS and Before TLE Begins

050604. TLE in a Location with an Approved TLE Extension

PART B: CATEGORIES OF PDT (SERVICE MEMBERS)

0507

ACCESSION AND TRAINING TRAVEL

050701. Entering Active Duty

050702. Uniformed Services Applicants and Rejected Applicants

050703. Service Academy Cadets and Midshipmen

050704. Service Member Assigned to a Foreign Service College

0508

MOVES OUTSIDE OF THE UNITED STATES (OCONUS)

050801. Transportation for a PCS OCONUS

050802. Escorting a Dependent to or from a Designated Place for an Unaccompanied Tour

OCONUS or for a Unit PCS Move

050803. Attaining or Losing Eligibility for Dependent Travel for PCS OCONUS

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050804. Early Return of Dependents (ERD)

050805. Dependent Travel Due to Divorce or Annulment

050806. Ordered to a PDS OCONUS and Dependents Authorized to Travel

050807. Reassigned OCONUS Due to Base Closure or Similar Action before the Ordered Tour

OCONUS Is Completed

050808. Dependent Travel and Transportation Due to an Alert Notice

050809. Consecutive Overseas Tour (COT)

050810. Dependent Travel and Transportation for an In-Place COT (IPCOT)

050811. Consecutive Tours OCONUS for A Service Member with A Non-Command-Sponsored

Dependent

050812. Consecutive Overseas Tour Leave

050813. Dependent Travel and Transportation Due to a Service Member’s Tour Extension

050814. Dependent-Restricted Tour

050815. PDS Changed to a Dependent-Restricted Tour Location

050816. Dependent Student Travel

0509

PCS IN CONNECTION WITH SHIPS AND SEA DUTY

050901. Ship, Mobile Unit, or Organization Undergoing a Home Port Change

050902. Service Member Ordered on a PCS to or from a Ship or Mobile Unit Operating away

from Its Home Port

050903. Dependent Travel when a Service Member Assigned to a Ship or Mobile Unit is

Undergoing a Home Port Change or Unit Move

050904. Dependent Travel when a Service Member Transfers to, from, or Between Sea Duty

Assignments Not Specified As Unusually Arduous Sea Duty

050905. Ship Being Constructed or Undergoing Overhaul or Inactivation

050906. Sea Duty Changed to Unusually Arduous Sea Duty

050907. Unusually Arduous Sea Duty or Sea Duty Specified OCONUS of 1 Year or More

0510

RETIREMENT AND SEPARATION

051001. Eligible Retirees and Separated Service Members

051002. Service Member Separates or is Released from Active Duty, Excluding a Discharge with

Severance or Separation Pay

051003. Service Member on Active Duty who Retires, is Placed on the TDRL, is Discharged with

Severance or Separation Pay, or is Involuntarily Released with Readjustment or

Separation Pay and Associated Dependent Travel

051004. Service Member Discharged from the Service under Other than Honorable Conditions

051005. Dependent Travel and Transsportation Related to a Court Martial Sentence or

Administrative Discharge under Other than Honorable Conditions (for a Service Member

Stationed in the CONUS)

051006. Restrictions on a U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) or National Oceanic and

Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Corps Service Member

051007. Voided Enlistment

051008. Career Intermission Program Permitting Service Members to be Inactivated from Active

Duty

0511

PCS TRAVEL ASSOCIATED WITH MEDICAL EVENTS OR DEATH

051101. Service Member Ordered to a Hospital in the CONUS

051102. Service Member Dies while en Route to the New PDS

051103. Dependent en Route to the New PDS at the Time of the Service Member’s Death

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051104. Dependent Travel When Service Member Officially Reported As Dead, Injured, Ill, Or

Absent

051105. Dependent Allowances when Service Member Dies after Retirement or Separation

0512

OTHER CATEGORIES AND SITUATIONS

051201. PCS Orders and the Impact on Allowances

051202. Travel to or From a Designated Place

051203. PCS with TDY at a Location Near, but Outside the Limits of, the Old or New PDS

051204. PCS Travel Associated with Custody Change

051205. PCS Travel Associated with an Evacuation and Safety

051206. Allowances if Ordered to Delay Proceeding after Departing or Detaching from the Old

PDS

051207. Indeterminate Temporary Duty (ITDY)

PART C: HOUSEHOLD GOODS (HHG) TRANSPORTATION (SERVICE

MEMBERS

0513

STANDARD ALLOWANCES

051301. Basic Transportation

051302. Effect of an Order Issuance on HHG Transportation

051303. Alcohol and Firearms

051304. Professional Books, Papers and Equipment (PBP&E) and Required Medical Equipment

051305. HHG Transportation Not Allowed

051306. Excess Charges

0514

HHG WEIGHT

051401. Authorized PCS Weight Allowances

051402. Exceptions to the Authorized Weight Allowance

051403. Unaccompanied Baggage

051404. Net Weight Determination

0515

TRANSPORTATION METHODS

051501. Government-Procured HHG Transportation

051502. Personally Procured HHG Transportation

051503. Split Shipments

051504. HHG Improperly Transported or Misdirected

0516

TRANSPORTATION OF ITEMS OF EXTRAORDINARY VALUE

0517

HHG EXPENSES ASSOCIATED WITH SHIPPING

0518

HHG STORAGE

0519

LOCAL MOVES

051901. Short-Distance Move for a Reassignment or PCS

051902. Separation or Retirement from the Service

051903. Short-Distance Assignment or Termination

051904. Short-Distance Move When Vacating Local Private-Sector Housing

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0520 HHG TRANSPORTATION RELATED TO CATEGORIES OF TRAVEL

052001. Accession Travel

052002. PCS HHG Transportation to, from, or between Locations OCONUS and to, from, or

between Ships

052003. HHG Transportation in Connection With a Unit Home Port Change

052004. HHG Transportation in Connection with an Alert Notice

052005. HHG Transportation Related to the Early Return of a Dependent

052006. HHG Transportation and Storage When Ordered on a PCS to a PDS in the Vicinity of

Storage

052007. PCS with TDY en Route, PCS While on TDY, or PCS Following TDY Pending Further

Assignment

052008. HHG in Connection with a Course of Instruction of 20 or More Weeks at Any One

Location

052009. HHG Transportation When a PCS is in Connection with Disciplinary Action

052010. HHG Transportation Due to Medical Travel or the Death of a Service Member

052011. HHG Transportation When a Service Member is Ordered from a PDS to Await an Order,

Detail, Assignment, or Separation

052012. HHG Transportation Due to Separation from the Service or Relief from Active Duty

052013. HHG Transportation in Connection with Retirement, Placement on the TDRL, Discharge

with Severance or Separation Pay, or Involuntary Release from Active Duty with

Readjustment or Separation Pay

052014. HHG Transportation for a Dependent Relocating for Personal Safety

0521

HHG AND MOBILE HOME ALLOWANCES

052101. Transportation of HHG Removed from a Mobile Home to Meet Safety Requirements

052102. HHG Transportation Authorized When a Mobile Home is Also Transported

052103. HHG Transportation Not Authorized

PART D: MOBILE HOME TRANSPORTATION (SERVICE MEMBERS)

0522

INTRODUCTION

0523

STANDARD ALLOWANCES

052301. Transporting a Mobile Home Instead of Household Goods (HHG)

052302. Geographic Limitations

0524

TRANSPORTATION

052401. Government-Procured Transportation for Short-Distance Moves

052402. Government-Procured Transportation

052403. Personally Procured Transportation

052404. Storage in Transit (SIT)

0525

MOBILE HOME TRANSPORTATION WHEN AN ACTIVE-DUTY SERVICE

MEMBER IS ILL, INJURED, OR REPORTED ABSENT FOR 30 OR MORE

DAYS IN A MISSING STATUS, OR UPON DEATH

0526

EXCESS MOBILE HOME TRANSPORTATION COSTS FOR A SERVICE

MEMBER SEPARATED OR DECEASED, OR HEIRS OF A DECEASED

SERVICE MEMBER

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0527

MOBILE HOME TRANSPORTATION UNDER UNUSUAL OR EMERGENCY

CIRCUMSTANCES

0528

MOBILE HOME TRANSPORTATION RELATED TO EARLY RETURN OF

DEPENDENTS (ERD)

PART E: POV TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE (SERVICE MEMBERS)

0529

SHIPMENT OF A POV IN THE CONUS

052901. Shipment of a POV at Government Expense

052902. Shipment of a POV by the Service Member

0530

SHIPMENT OF A POV OCONUS

053001. Authorized Shipment of a POV at Government Expense

053002. POV Transportation when Transportation to the PDS OCONUS is not Authorized

053003. Replacement POV Shipment

053004. POV Purchased in a Non-Foreign Area OCONUS

0531

POV SHIPMENT AND STORAGE WHEN SERVICE MEMBER REPORTED AS

ILL, INJURED, ABSENT FOR A PERIOD OF 30 OR MORE DAYS IN A

MISSING STATUS, OR DEAD

0532

POV STORAGE

0533

SEPARATE RETURN OF CURRENT OR FORMER DEPENDENT FROM A PDS

OCONUS

053301. POV Transportation for Early Return of Dependents (ERD)

053302. POV Transportation OCONUS after Divorce or Annulment

0534

RENTAL VEHICLE REIMBURSEMENT WHEN A POV TRANSPORTED AT

GOVERNMENT EXPENSE ARRIVES LATE

PART F: PERMANENT CHANGE OF STATION (PCS) ALLOWANCES

(CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES)

0535

INTRODUCTION

0536

STANDARD TRAVEL AND TRANSPORTATION ALLOWANCES

053601. Civilian PCS Transportation Allowance

053602. Civilian PCS Per Diem Allowance

053603. Miscellaneous Reimbursable Expenses

053604. Miscellaneous Expense Allowance (MEA)

053605. Temporary Quarters Subsistence Expenses (TQSE)

053606. House-Hunting Trip (HHT)

053607. Real Estate Allowances

053608. Relocation Services

053609. POV Transportation

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053610. Household Goods (HHG) and Mobile Home Transportation and Storage

053611. Relocation Income Tax (RIT) Allowance

0537

ELIGIBILITY

053701. Civilian Employee Eligibility

053702. Dependent Eligibility

053703. Eligible Travel Locations for Dependent

053704. Dependent-Restricted Tour for Civilian Employee

053705. Government Interest

053706. PCS Limitation Policy

053707. Two or More Family Members Are Civilian Employees

053708. Civilian Employee Married to Service Member

053709. Permanent Duty Tour (PDT) Counseling

053710. Reassignment or Transfer Advance Notice

053711. Reimbursement and Timing

053712. Time Limits for Using PCS Allowances

053713. Travel and Transportation Funding

053714. Temporary Change of Station (TCS)

053715. Inter-Governmental Personnel Act (IPA) Mobility Program

0538

CIVILIAN PCS TRANSPORTATION

053801. Airplane, Train, Ship, and Bus Transportation

053802. Privately Owned Vehicle (POV)

053803. Mixed-Mode Travel

053804. PCS To, From, or Between Points OCONUS

053805. Early Return of a Dependent (ERD)

053806. Dependent Student Travel

053807. Authorized Travel Time

0539

CIVILIAN PCS PER DIEM

053901. PCS Per Diem Allowance

053902. PCS Per Diem for Dependents

0540

HHT

054001. Eligibility and Authorization for HHT

054002. Separate Trips by Civilian Employee and Spouse

054003. Timing and Duration

054004. Transportation for an HHT

054005. Lodging and Per Diem

054006. No Return to Old PDS

054007. HHT Advance

054008. HHT and TQSE

054009. HHT for Locations Impacted by Hurricane Idalia

0541

MISCELLANEOUS EXPENSE ALLOWANCE (MEA)

054101. Eligibility

054102. Civilian Employee with or without Dependent

054103. Pet Quarantine and Transportation

0542

TEMPORARY QUARTERS SUBSISTENCE EXPENSES (TQSE)

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054201. TQSE Types

054202. Eligibility

054203. Temporary Lodging

054204. Civilian Employee Returning from Foreign Area through the DoD Priority Placement

Program (PPP)

054205. Temporary Quarters Subsistence Allowance (TQSA)

054206. TQSE (LP) Option

054207. TQSE (AE) Option

054208. TQSE (LS) Option

054209. TQSE (AE) for Locations Impacted by Hurricane Idalia

054210. TQSE for Locations in Presidentially-Declared Disaster Areas

0543

HHG TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE

054301. Eligibility

054302. Documentation

054303. Civilian Employee with a Civilian Employee or Service Member Spouse or Domestic

Partner

054304. HHG Weight Allowances

054305. Transportation

054306. Non-Temporary Storage (NTS)

054307. Storage in Transit (SIT)

054308. HHG Between Local Residences

054309. Professional Books, Papers, and Equipment (PBP&E)

054310. Consumable Goods

0544

MOBILE HOME TRANSPORTATION

054401. Eligibility

054402. Transportation at Personal Expense

054403. Geographic Limitations

054404. Combining Weight Allowances

054405. Reimbursement of Costs for Personally Procured Commercial Transportation

054406. Reimbursement of Costs for Personally Procured Transportation not Using a Commercial

Transporter

054407. Funds Advance

054408. Government-Procured Transportation

054409. Civilian Employee Death

0545

REAL ESTATE ALLOWANCES

054501. Requirements for Reimbursement of Residence Transactions

054502. Transfer from a Foreign PDS to a PDS in the CONUS or Non-Foreign PDS OCONUS

054503. Residence Sale in Anticipation of Transfer

054504. Allowable Reimbursable Expenses for Sale or Purchase of Residence

054505. Non-Reimbursable Expenses for Sale or Purchase of a Residence

054506. Procedure and Claim Requirements for Sale or Purchase of Residence Reimbursement

054507. Allowable Reimbursable Expenses for an Unexpired Lease Settlement

0546

RELOCATION SERVICES

054601. Acceptance of Relocation Services

054602. Property Management Services

054603. Property Management Services for a Civilian Employee Transferred to a Foreign PDS

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054604. Property Management Services for a Civilian Employee Transferred to a PDS in the

CONUS or Non-Foreign PDS OCONUS

054605. Property Management Services for a Civilian Employee Authorized a TCS

054607. Home Marketing Incentive Payments (HMIP)

0547

POV TRANSPORTATION

054701. POV Transportation in the CONUS

054702. Authorizing POV Transportation in the CONUS

054703. Shipment Methods in the CONUS

054704. POV Transportation OCONUS

054705. Eligibility Determination for POV Transportation OCONUS

054706. Care and Storage for POV Transportation OCONUS

054707. Shipment Methods OCONUS

054708. Ports and Vehicle Processing Centers (VPCs) for POV Transportation OCONUS

054709. Reimbursement for POV Delivery and Pick-up

054710. POV Purchased in a Non-Foreign Area OCONUS

054711. Delay of POV Arrival and Reimbursement for Rental Vehicle

054712. Replacement POV Shipment

054713. POV Transportation for Transfer or Assignment between PDSs OCONUS

054714. POV Transportation if Agreement not Completed and Civilian Employee Transfers or Is

Reassigned from OCONUS to the CONUS

054715. POV Transportation if Agreement not Completed and Civilian Employee Returns to the

CONUS for Separation

054716. POV Transportation if a Civilian Employee Separated Following Completion of the

Agreed Minimum Period of Service or for Reasons Acceptable to the Government

054717. Delays While Awaiting Port or VPC Reopening or POV Delivery

0548

OTHER CATEGORIES AND SITUATIONS

054801. First Duty-Station Travel

054802. Short-Distance Transfers

054803. Reassignment Travel from Duty OCONUS to a New or Different PDS in the CONUS not

Located at the Actual Residence

054804. Reassignment Travel from Duty OCONUS to the Actual Residence

054805. Movement of a Civilian Employee or Re-employed Former Civilian Employee Affected

by a Reduction in Force (RIF) or Transfer of Function

054806. Return from Military Duty

054807. Waiver of Limitations for a Civilian Employee Relocating to or from a Remote or

Isolated Location

054808. Missing Persons

054809. Separation Travel from Duty OCONUS

054810. Last Move Home for a Senior Executive Service (SES) Career Appointee upon

Separation from Federal Service for Retirement

054811. Retired Civilian Employee Receives Allowances

054812. PCS Allowances and Transportation in connection with the Death of a Civilian Employee

or Dependent

PART G: SERVICE AGREEMENTS (CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES)

0549

SERVICE AGREEMENTS

054901. General

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054902. Disclosure Statement

054903. Actual Residence

054904. Service Agreement Requirements

054905. Documentation

054906. Preparation and Disposition

054907. Initial and Renewal Agreements

054908. Initial Agreement

054909. Renewal Agreement Negotiation

054910. Tour of Duty Requirement

054911. Starting Tour of Duty

054912. Acceptable Reasons for Release from a Tour of Duty

054913. Service Agreement Violation

054914. Computation of Liabilities and Credits

PART H: RENEWAL AGREEMENT TRAVEL (RAT) (CIVILIAN

EMPLOYEES)

0550

RAT LEAVE

055001. Eligibility Requirements

055002. Transportation and Per Diem

055003. RAT Denial or Delay

055004. Unaccompanied Dependent Travel

055005. RAT Non-Cumulative

055006. Baggage Transportation

055007. Unaccompanied Baggage of a DODEA Teacher Authorized an Extended Leave of

Absence

055008. HHG SIT

055009. Alternate Destination for RAT

055010. Limitations

055011. DoD Education Activity (DoDEA) Teacher

055012. Dependent Transportation

055013. Travel and Transportation Funding for RAT

CHAPTER 6: EVACUATION TRAVEL

0601

EVACUATION AUTHORITY

060101. Authority to Order an Evacuation

060102. Identifying Evacuees

060103. Choosing an Evacuation Destination

060104. Evacuation Funding

060105. Funds Advance

060106. Receiving Payments for Evacuation Travel

060107. Who Can Terminate Evacuation Allowances

0602

ALLOWANCES FOR SERVICE MEMBERS’ DEPENDENTS

060201. Eligibility for Evacuation Allowances

060202. Travel and Transportation Allowances

060203. Escort during Evacuation

060204. Pet Transportation and Quarantine–Evacuation from Foreign PDS

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060205. Allowances While at the Safe Haven

060206. Standard Allowances While at Designated Place

060207. Allowances when an Evacuation is Canceled

060208. Preparing for Return Trip

060209. Non-Command-Sponsored Dependent Returns to PDS

0603

HOUSEHOLD GOODS (HHG) SHIPMENT FOR A SERVICE MEMBER’S

DEPENDENTS

0604

STANDARD ALLOWANCES FOR CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES AND THEIR

DEPENDENTS

060401

. Travel and Transportation Expenses

060402. Subsistence Expense Allowance or Per Diem

060403. Shipment of HHG

060404. Subsistence Expense Allowance Rules During Annual Leave, Sick Leave, Home Leave,

and Leave Without Pay (Evacuation OCONUS)

060405. Emergency POV Storage Due to an Evacuation OCONUS

060406. POV Shipment

060407. Pet Transportation and Quarantine (Evacuation from Foreign PDS)

060408. Subsistence Expense at the PDS When Home is Uninhabitable

060409. POV and Local Transportation (CONUS or Non-Foreign OCONUS Evacuation)

060411. Allowances when an Evacuation is Canceled

APPENDIX A: DEFINITIONS AND ACRONYMS

Definitions

Acronyms

APPENDIX B: DOD TRAVEL ALLOWANCE GUIDANCE

DISCLAIMER FOR CHAPTERS 8-10 (ALLOWANCES)

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INTRODUCTION

AUTHORITY, APPLICABILITY, AND ADMINISTRATION OF THE JTR

The JTR implements policy and laws establishing travel and transportation allowances of Uniformed

Service members and Department of Defense (DoD) civilian travelers. It also implements station and

certain other allowances. The JTR has the force and effect of law for travelers, and implements statutory

regulations and law for DoD civilian travelers. Organizations are expected to take appropriate

disciplinary action when travelers willfully fail to follow the JTR. However, unless stated otherwise in

the JTR, the disciplinary action cannot be in the form of refusal to pay appropriate travel and

transportation allowances.

The JTR applies to:

• Uniformed Service Active and Reserve Component members and their dependents. The

Uniformed Services are the U.S. Army (USA), U.S. Navy (USN), U.S. Air Force (USAF), U.S.

Marine Corps (USMC), the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration (NOAA) and the U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS).

• DoD civilian employees and their dependents.

• Other authorized travelers who use appropriated DoD funding, including new DoD Senior

Executive Service appointees and certain Presidential appointees.

• DoD personal services contract employees.

• Civilian marine personnel of Military Sealift Command to the extent provided in NAVSO P833,

Civilian Marine Personnel Instruction (CMPI) 4650

, and CMPI 4651.

The JTR does not apply to:

• Contractor employees under a DoD contract for anything other than personal services.

• DoD employees appointed under 22 U.S.C. §2385(d)

• DoD civilian employees performing official assignments funded by a non-DoD Agency who are

subject to that Agency’s travel and transportation policies.

• Government employees whose salaries are paid with Nonappropriated Funds (NAF) traveling on

NAF business.

• Foreign personnel traveling under Security Assistance Management Manual authority.

Nothing in the JTR authorizes expenditures for purposes not provided for in Congressional appropriations

or in law. This publication is issued under the authority of DoDI 5154.31, Vol. 5,

“Commercial Travel

Management: PDTATAC.” Travelers and travel officials must adhere strictly to the JTR. The traveler

could be personally financially responsible for any expense accrued by not complying with the JTR.

When the General Services Administration’s Federal Travel Regulation (FTR) authorizes a discretionary

travel and transportation allowance that the JTR does not address, the allowance is not authorized or

implemented within the DoD.

RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE JTR

The Per Diem, Travel, and Transportation Allowance Committee (PDTATAC) updates and publishes the

JTR. The PDTATAC is composed of a Chair and a member representing the Departments of the Army,

the Navy, the Air Force, Homeland Security, Health and Human Services, and Commerce. The

Committee Chair is the Director, Defense Human Resources Activity.

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Each Uniformed Service has a representative on the Military Advisory Panel (MAP) and the Civilian

Advisory Panel (CAP). The MAP consists of a representative from each of the Uniformed Services. The

CAP consists of a civilian representative from each of the Military Services and the Office of the

Secretary of Defense. The MAP and CAP members report to senior leaders of the Uniformed Services,

who serve as members of the PDTATAC.

EFFECTIVE DATE OF REGULATION CHANGES

A change to the JTR is effective, unless otherwise noted, on its first publication date. This date appears in

the lower left corner of each page. When an effective date is different from the date of first publication,

that effective date is indicated.

INTERPRETATION OF THESE REGULATIONS

AND THEIR UNDERLYING LAWS AND REGULATIONS

DoD certifying officer or disbursing officer may request an advance decision, in accordance with

the DoD Financial Management Regulation, Vol. 9

, “Travel Policy,” on a claim whose validity or amount

is questionable. An Accountable Officer desiring an advance decision on an issue involving the

interpretation of the JTR must forward the request for an advance decision through PDTATAC. A

traveler who disagrees with a decision by a certifying officer may submit an appeal or reclaim in

accordance with

DoD Financial Management Regulation, Vol. 9.

In cases of specific travel circumstances in need of clarification, the General Counsel of the Department

of Defense (GC DoD), the Defense Office of Hearings and Appeals (DOHA) (for a Service member), and

the civilian Board of Contract Appeals (CBCA) (for a civilian employee) determine how the JTR, the

Federal Travel Regulation (for civilian employees), and departmental instructions should be interpreted.

Decisions by the GC DoD, DOHA, CBCA (formerly called the General Services Board of Contract

Appeals), and the U.S. Government Accountability Office provide guidance for similar cases or situations

involving the same circumstances. These decisions are referenced in the JTR, where applicable.

QUESTIONS, SUGGESTIONS, OR RECOMMENDATIONS

Submitted questions concerning information in the JTR or suggestions for improvements or

recommendations for changes must go through Command channels to the respective Service or Agency

PDTATAC representative.

SERVICE OR DOD AGENCY REGULATION REVIEW PROCESS

Services or Agencies may issue related administrative procedures provided they do not conflict with or

unnecessarily duplicate JTR provisions. DoDI 5154.31, Vol. 5

, “Commercial Travel Management:

PDTATAC”, requires that PDTATAC staff review all DoD written material that implements JTR

provisions to ensure that per diem, travel, and transportation allowances, relocation allowances, and

certain other allowances are uniformly applied. The review process applies to all DoD Uniformed

Services and DoD Agencies. In addition, the USCG, NOAA, and USPHS may submit written material

for review as desired. A Service or Agency submitting written material to the PDTATAC must first send

the document to its MAP or CAP representative.

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CHAPTER 1: GENERAL POLICY

0101 BASIC TRAVEL RULES

010101. Travel Categories

The categories of travel addressed in the JTR are:

A. Local Travel at the Permanent Duty Station (PDS).

B. Temporary Duty (TDY) Travel.

C. Government-funded Leave Travel.

D. Permanent Duty Travel (PDT), including Permanent Change of Station (PCS) Travel.

E. Evacuation Travel.

010102. Guiding Principle

The guiding principle behind the JTR is to travel responsibly. The word “responsibly” means that the

traveler exercises the same care in incurring expenses for Government travel that a prudent person would

exercise if traveling at personal expense.

010103. Traveler Responsibilities

A. Financial Responsibility. Traveling responsibly includes using the least expensive

transportation mode, parking facilities, public transportation, or rental vehicle. It also includes scheduling

travel as early as possible to take advantage of discounted transportation rates. The traveler is financially

responsible for excess costs, circuitous routes, delays, or luxury accommodations that are unnecessary or

unjustified.

B. Items Not Mentioned. If something is not stated in the JTR, it does not mean that an

allowance exists or may be authorized. The philosophy of “It doesn’t say I can’t; therefore, I can” does

not apply to the JTR. Instead, if the JTR does not say something can be reimbursed, then it cannot be

reimbursed as a travel claim.

C. Ethics Regulations and Rules. The traveler must comply with Federal ethics laws,

DoD

5500.07-R, “Joint Ethics Regulation,” and the Agency’s or Service’s ethics regulations and rules. Rules

pertaining to acceptance of travel and transportation benefits, including gifts, favors, and special

accommodations from non-Federal sources, must be followed.

010104. Service or Agency Responsibilities

A. Mission Controls. Each Service or DoD Agency must authorize or approve only the travel

necessary to accomplish the Government’s mission effectively and economically while establishing

internal controls to ensure that only such travel is authorized. An official responsible for directing travel

or approving reimbursement is also responsible for ensuring that funds are used for official travel

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purposes and in accordance with the conditions specified in the JTR.

B. Traveler Rights. Unless stated otherwise in the JTR, the Service or Agency cannot reduce

allowances or deny reimbursements because of limited DoD travel funds. Also, a Service or Agency

cannot direct a traveler to travel at personal expense or at reimbursement rates or amounts inconsistent

with the JTR.

0102 OTHER BASIC TRAVEL INFORMATION

The information in this section applies to all travelers, unless noted otherwise.

010201. Key Participants

Official travel involves three key participants: the traveler, authorizing or approving official, and the

Travel Management Company (TMC).

A. Travelers. A traveler is anyone who travels on official business for DoD. Travelers fall into

three groups: Service members, civilian employees, and other travelers. JTR allowances may differ

among these groups due to law or other regulations.

Table 1-1. JTR Travelers

(This Table is not All-Inclusive)

Uniformed Service Members

Civilian Employees

Other Travelers

Air Force

Civilians employed by the DoD

Spouse

2 Army

Civilians employed by another Agency

whose travel is funded by the DoD

Children

Marine Corps

Other Dependents

Navy

Family members

U.S. Coast Guard

Relatives

National Oceanic and

Atmospheric Administration

Civilians not employed

by the Government

U.S. Public Health Service

Reserve Component (RC)

members

B. Authorizing or Approving Official (AO). An AO determines whether travel is necessary and

appropriate to the mission, ensures that all expenses claimed by the traveler are valid, and authorizes or

approves the valid expenses. Expenses must not be approved if they are inflated, inaccurate, or higher

than normal for similar services in the locality. If the JTR indicates an expense, allowance, or other item

must or may be authorized (such as the mode of transportation), it means the AO must give permission

before the action takes place. Likewise, if the JTR indicates “may or must be approved,” then the AO

may or must give the traveler permission after the action takes place.

C. TMC. The Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO) contracts with TMCs to make travel

arrangements for DoD travelers. The General Services Administration (GSA) contracts with TMCs to

make travel arrangements for travelers from other Federal agencies. A GSA TMC may be used only

when a DTMO-contracted TMC is not available.

1. A DoD traveler must make travel arrangements through an electronic travel system when

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it is available or through the TMC if it is not available. Any DoD traveler who cannot reach the TMC

must contact the AO or designee for assistance. However, lodging may be reserved outside the TMC

when arranging for a large number of rooms in advance, such as for training courses, exercises, or

conferences, or when safety, health, or security concerns require using specific lodging establishments.

2. The TMC will book a traveler only for economy travel and economy accommodations.

However, a traveler may upgrade travel or accommodations at personal expense. Under certain

circumstances described in the JTR, other accommodations may be authorized or approved.

3. A traveler, AO, or electronic system must provide the TMC a copy of the travel

authorization before ticketing. However, a TMC may issue tickets for official travel authorized by proper

verbal, letter, or message authority if travel must begin or is performed before a written travel

authorization is issued. The AO is responsible for providing a confirmatory travel authorization to the

TMC.

010202. Requirement to Travel

Travel is required when other means of conducting business, such as telephone calls or video

teleconferencing, are unavailable or cannot meet the mission’s needs. Approval of a travel order or

authorization, by the AO, certifies that travel is required and that other means are not sufficient to

accomplish the mission. Government-funded travel and transportation are used only when officially

justified and by the means that meet mission requirements consistent with good management.

010203. Travel Status

The travel authorization establishes when travel status starts and ends. A traveler is authorized travel

and transportation allowances only while in a travel status. A travel status begins when a traveler leaves

the PDS, residence, or office, or when the traveler detaches from or signs out of a unit or agency. It ends

when the traveler returns to the PDS, residence, or office, or when the traveler arrives at a new PDS by

signing in with the new unit or agency.

A. Travel Status Qualifiers. A travel status includes:

1. Time spent away from the PDS on public business under a valid travel authorization.

2. Necessary TDY travel. This includes time spent at a TDY location, regardless of whether

duty is performed while traveling or how much time is spent away from the PDS.

3. PCS travel.

4. Necessary delays while awaiting further transportation after travel status begins.

5. Travel to or from a hospital or medical facility for observation or treatment.

6. Travel by Government or other aircraft, including flights for training purposes made under

a valid travel authorization that requires one or more landings away from the starting point.

7. Flights for training purposes made in the absence of a travel authorization when it is

necessary to remain away overnight.

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8. Other circumstances determined jointly by the Secretaries concerned before, during, or

after an occurrence that constitutes a travel status.

B. Alternate Departure Points. A traveler may be authorized or approved to begin and end at the

following places when it is to the Government’s advantage:

1. Traveler’s residence when the traveler commutes from there daily to the PDS.

2. Location where the traveler maintains the family residence if it is not the residence from

which the traveler commutes daily to the PDS.

3. Place near the traveler’s residence where the privately owned vehicle (POV) is garaged or

stored.

C. Travelers Other than Aircrew Member and Courier. See Table 1-2

to determine when the

travel status begins and ends for a traveler who is not an aircrew member or courier.

Table 1-2. Travel Status Start and End Locations

for a Traveler Other Than Aircrew Member or Courier

Travel Status Start Locations

When a Service

member departs

from…

And proceeds to the… And then to…

Travel status starts

when the Service member

departs from the…

1 home terminal, N/A home.*

home

office, and performs

duty there,**

the terminal,

office, even though the

terminal is at the PDS.***

another duty or departure

point within the PDS

before going to the

terminal,***

other duty or departure

point within the PDS (a

terminal is never “another

departure point”).

Travel Status End Locations

When a Service

member returns to

the…

And proceeds to… And then to…

Travel status ends

when the Service member

returns to the…

terminal

home, N/A home.*

the office, and performs

duty there,

home,

office.

another duty or arrival

point within the PDS (a

terminal is never

“another arrival point”).

other duty or arrival point

within the PDS.***

*See subparagraph B above.

**Disregard travel to and from the office if the Service member performed no duty there.

***This does not prevent reimbursement of transportation between home and the PDS on travel days.

See Chapter 2.

D. Aircrew Member and Courier Status. A Service member performing TDY as an aircrew

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member includes a Service member for whom aircrew duty is an additional duty. It also includes an

Armed Forces courier or other Service member whose primary duty makes the air terminal a regular duty

location. This does not apply to an RC member for the first and last day when called to active duty.

Aircrew member status for an RC member only applies after the RC member arrives at the active-duty

location and ends when the RC member departs upon relief from active duty. See Table 1-4

to determine

when the travel status begins and ends for an aircrew member or courier.

Table 1-4. Aircrew Member or Courier Travel Status Start and End Locations

Travel Status Start Locations

When a Service

member departs…

And proceeds to… And then to…

Travel status starts

when the Service

member departs from…

home

the office, and does not

perform duty there,

flight operations or a

terminal within the

PDS limits,

the terminal (“departs

from” refers to “wheels

up”).

flight operations or a

terminal within the

PDS limits,

N/A

the office, and

performs duty there,*

flight operations or a

terminal outside the

PDS limits,

the office.

flight operations or a

terminal outside the

PDS limits,

N/A home.

Travel Status End Locations

When a Service

member returns to…

And proceeds to… And then to…

Travel status ends

when the Service

member returns to…

flight operations or

a terminal within

the PDS limits

Home

N/A

the terminal (returns to”

refers to “wheels down”).

the office, and does not

perform duty there,

flight operations or

a terminal outside

the PDS limits

the office, and

performs duty there,*

home, the office.

8 home. N/A home.

*Disregard travel to and from the office if the Service member performed no duty there.

010204. Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC) and Advance of Funds

The Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC) Regulations in DoDI 5154.31, Vol. 4

, require a

traveler to use the individually billed GTCC account to pay for all authorized expenses related to

Government travel. The GTCC Regulations provide exceptions to mandatory use and when the

conditions for withdrawing cash using the GTCC are authorized. See the DoD F

inancial Management

Regulation, Vol. 9, for travel advances when the traveler is not issued a GTCC.

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010205. Defense Travel System (DTS) Use

DoD travelers and AOs must use the DTS to process travel authorizations and vouchers for TDY

travel and local travel. A traveler must use the DTS to the maximum extent possible to arrange all en

route transportation, rental cars, commercial lodging, and Government quarters when the DTS’s

functionality is available. The TMC processes reservations made in the DTS. The Defense Table of

Official Distances (DTOD) programmed in the DTS on the date the voucher is approved for payment is

used to calculate the official mileage. See DoDI 5154.31, Vol. 3

, “DTS.”

010206. Travel Authorizations and Orders

Travel and transportation allowances are payable only after valid orders are issued. The order directs

travel to, from, or between official points and serves as the basis for the trip and associated

reimbursements. A travel authorization or order should be issued before travel begins. Travel or

expenses incurred before a travel authorization or order is issued are not reimbursable, unless otherwise

stated in the JTR. In unusual or urgent situations when travel must begin before a written authorization

or order can be issued, a verbal authorization may be given. In such cases, the verbal authorization must

be followed up in writing (called a “confirmatory order”) before allowances are paid. A travel order may

only contain authority for travel and transportation allowances provided within the JTR. If there is any

conflict between a travel order and the JTR, the JTR prevails. Travel authorizations produced in an

electronic travel system are not required to use or reproduce a corresponding DD Form 1610 as long as

the system contains all data elements required by FTR, Chapter 301, Appendix C

. A printed copy of an

electronic travel authorization is considered a valid order if it contains the data elements that would be

included in a DD Form 1610. See

JTR Supplement AP-TO-01 for additional information.

A. Modifications after Travel. Travel authorizations and orders cannot be retroactively modified

to increase or decrease an allowance after the travel is completed. A travel authorization or order may be

retroactively corrected to show the original intent (

CBCA 3472-RELO, September 23, 2013). When an

allowance is approved after travel begins, it does not constitute a retroactive modification to create,

change, or deny an allowance. An amendment is effective on the date it is issued and is not retroactive

unless it contains language that corrects an error or omission, or provides a confirmation of the date of the

verbal authorization.

B. Time Limits for Travel Authorizations and Orders. See Table 1-6

for time limits for travel

allowances. Requests for a TDY that 181 or more consecutive days at one location should be made

before travel to the authority identified in

Table 1-7. The requests must be made in writing and contain

justification for the length of the TDY. When the TDY is 181 or more consecutive days without being

authorized or approved, per diem stops on the 181st day. An RC member may only be authorized per

diem for duty of 181 or more days under the conditions specified in

par. 030302.

Table 1-6. Time Limits for Travel Orders

TDY Orders

(Other Than

Training)

A TDY at one location may not exceed 180 consecutive days except when

authorized by the appropriate authority.*

TDY Orders

for Training

Training courses for Service members that are scheduled to last 139 or fewer days

(less than 20 weeks) are considered TDY. If the scheduled duration is 140 or more

days (20 weeks), then it is a permanent duty assignment. See par. 032201.

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Table 1-6. Time Limits for Travel Orders

3 PCS Orders

a. A military PCS order is valid for travel and transportation allowances to the new

PDS named in order while that order remains in effect and before receipt of a new

PCS order, unless otherwise specified in the JTR (see

45 Comp. Gen. 589 (1966)).

b. A civilian PCS order is valid for 1 year from the civilian employee’s transfer or

appointment date. See par. 053712 for exceptions.

*Bona fide assignment extensions (except for an RC member) that, when added to the originally

authorized TDY period, total 181 or more days at one location, may be authorized by the AO only

when necessary for unforeseen changes or delays.

C. Violation of 180-Day Rule. Issuing a TDY order for 180 or fewer consecutive days, followed

by a brief return to the PDS and then another TDY order for return to the same location, is a violation of

the 180-consecutive-day policy if the known, or reasonably anticipated, TDY duration exceeded 180 days

when the initial order was issued.

Note: Exceeding 180 consecutive days on a TDY without authorization and approval does not

automatically change the TDY to a PCS.

Table 1-7. Authorizing and Approval Authority for TDY of 181 or More Consecutive Days

Traveler

Authorizing and Approval Authority

All Service Members

Other Than Army and

USMC

a. Secretary concerned, or the Combatant Commander (CCDR) or Deputy

CCDR.

b. No further delegation is authorized.

Army Service

Members

a. Secretary concerned, or the CCDR or Deputy CCDR.

b. This authority can be re-delegated to authorize a TDY for a Service

member assigned to a Warrior in Transition Unit. In that case, a flag

officer or civilian equivalent from the U.S. Army Medical Command

must first recommend the TDY extension.

c. If the Army Compensation Chief approves the recommendation, then

the Director, Plans and Resources (a two-star flag officer or civilian

equivalent) may authorize or approve the TDY.

USMC Service

Members

a. Secretary concerned, or the CCDR or Deputy CCDR.

b. The Office of Manpower Management Fiscal and Entitlements

(MMIB-3).

4 Civilian Employees

a. Secretary concerned, DoD Agency Director, Service or DoD Agency

headquarters (if delegated), or the CCDR or Deputy CCDR.

b. This authority can only be delegated as stated for Service or DoD

Agency headquarters.

D. TDY Travel Authorization or Order Issued Before Request to Exceed 180 Days Is Received

1. If the mission does not permit obtaining the authorization to exceed 180 days before the

order is issued, the travel authorization or order may be issued and the request submitted immediately to

the appropriate authority listed in Table 1-7

. That authority must perform one of the following:

a. Approve the authorization or order as written.

b. Direct that the authorization or order be amended to:

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(1) End the duty and return the traveler to the PDS or assign a new PDS.

(2) Change the assignment from a TDY to a PCS.

(3) Set the period at 180 or fewer days from the TDY report date.

(4) Authorize a temporary change of station (TCS) if the traveler is a civilian

employee and ensure that the tax information is listed in the remarks section of the TDY order for that

civilian employee. A TCS is a temporary relocation of a civilian employee to a new PDS on long-term

assignment and subsequent return to the previous PDS after assignment completion.

2. See Chapter 3, Part C

for information on civilian employees deployed to a combat zone in

support of ongoing contingency operations.

3. For civilian employees, if a TDY will last between 6 months and 30 months, the AO must

determine before the travel begins whether the assignment is actually temporary or should be a PCS. If

the assignment is determined to be temporary, the AO must then determine if the duty should be a TCS or

a TDY. For an assignment to be designated TDY, it must meet all of the following criteria:

a. Duties are temporary in nature.

b. Assignment is for a reasonable period of time.

c. TDY costs are lower than round-trip TCS or PCS expenses.

4. If the AO determines that a TCS is appropriate for the civilian employee, the civilian

employee should see Chapter 5

0103 FINANCIAL RULES

010301. Receipt Requirements

A. Retain Receipts. Travelers are advised to retain ALL receipts for tax or other purposes.

DoD

Financial Management Regulation, Vol. 9, “Travel Policy,” requires an itemized receipt for each lodging

expense, regardless of the amount, and any individual expenditure of $75 or more. AOs are discouraged

from requiring additional receipts except to substantiate reimbursement if a traveler’s claim contains

doubtful reimbursement.

B. Lost Receipts. If a receipt is impracticable to obtain or has been inadvertently lost or

destroyed, a lost receipt statement explaining the circumstances and containing the same information as

the lost receipt must be furnished.

Note: A lost receipt statement cannot substitute for an online-booking hotel receipt.

010302. Duplicate Payments and Fraudulent Claims

A. Duplicate Payments. A traveler cannot be reimbursed more than once for the same allowance

or expense. The Government does not pay expenses reimbursed, or to be reimbursed, by another entity.

The traveler must repay any such duplicate payments to the Government.

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B. Fraudulent Claims. If a reasonable suspicion of a falsified expense for lodging, meals, or

incidental expenses exists and the suspicion is identified before the traveler is reimbursed, the applicable

per diem or actual expense allowance is denied for the entire day for which the suspected expense is

claimed. If there is reasonable suspicion of a falsified expense other than the cost of lodging, meals, or

incidental expenses, the suspicious expense is denied.

0104 UNIQUE STATUS OR CONDITION

010401. Absentee, Straggler, Deserter, or Service Member Without Funds

A. Eligibility. A Service member without funds is eligible for limited travel and transportation

allowances. This may be a Service member who is an absentee and fails to go to the appointed place of

duty at the time prescribed, a straggler who becomes separated from the remainder of a party that is in a

travel status on a party transportation ticket, or a Service member without funds who must be at an

assigned location, but has no money or means to get there. A Service member who goes on leave without

approval and remains absent from the unit, organization, or place of duty with the intent to remain away

permanently is a deserter. A deserter who surrenders at, or is apprehended and delivered to, a U.S.

installation other than the Service member’s PDS may be eligible for limited travel and transportation

allowances.

B. Allowances. Necessary transportation and meal tickets, or the cash equivalent of meal tickets

(see Table 2-17), must be furnished for travel to the new PDS or another place directed by proper

authority when an absentee, straggler, deserter, or Service member without funds arrives at, or is

delivered to, a U.S. installation other than the Service member’s PDS and is without funds to purchase

transportation.

C. Reimbursement. A Service member directed to use a specific mode of transportation is not

authorized reimbursement if the traveler does not use the directed mode.

D. Service Member Has a Prior Order. Transportation and meal tickets, or the cash equivalent of

meal tickets, are furnished in connection with the prior order. See Chapter 5 if the Service member is

traveling between the old and new PDS. See par. 020305 if a Straggler is traveling on an order directing

no or limited reimbursement.

Note: Follow regulations for Permanent Duty Travel to determine any potential reimbursement between

the old and new assignment location.

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CHAPTER 2: STANDARD TRAVEL AND

TRANSPORTATION ALLOWANCES

0201 INTRODUCTION

Standard allowances are the core set of rules used to compensate a traveler for normal expenses incurred

while in a travel status under an official travel authorization. The information in this chapter applies to all

travelers, unless noted otherwise. It includes rules for traveling locally, shipping belongings, and

qualifying for the three major types of standard travel and transportation allowances: transportation, per

diem, and miscellaneous reimbursable expenses.

020101. Transportation Allowance

The amount of reimbursement depends upon the type of transportation authorized or approved, the

type of transportation available, and the type that the traveler actually uses. Multiple transportation

options are available to a traveler. The Government will consider the needs of the traveler, the purpose of

travel, the cost, and other factors and then do one of the following:

A. Provide Government transportation.

B. Purchase commercial transportation on behalf of the traveler.

C. Reimburse the traveler for personally purchased transportation.

D. Reimburse the traveler for use of a privately owned vehicle (POV).

020102. Per Diem Allowance (See Current Per Diem Rates)

The per diem allowance is a daily rate meant to cover living expenses. It provides the maximum

amount a traveler may be reimbursed for lodging, meals, and incidental expenses. The per diem is based

on the rate of the authorized stopover point or official duty location. Only one per diem applies to a

calendar day. Expenditures defined in the JTR as “incidental expenses” are reimbursed at a defined rate,

as part of the per diem allowance. Incidental expenses are a separate category of reimbursement from

“miscellaneous reimbursable expenses”. The following list of standard incidental expenses applies to all

travelers:

A. Fees and tips paid to hotel employees, porters, baggage carriers, and flight attendants for all

official domestic and foreign travel.

B. Laundry, dry cleaning, and pressing of clothing only while outside the continental United

States (OCONUS).

C. Tax and service charges, other than vendor surcharges for using a credit card, for any of the

expenses listed in this paragraph.

D. Expenses related to lodging that are listed in the room account.

E. Transportation tips for courtesy transportation (for example, an airport shuttle).

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Note: For a traveler with disabilities or special needs, see par. 020207-D for relevant Miscellaneous

Reimbursable Expenses.

020103. Miscellaneous Reimbursable Expenses

Although miscellaneous reimbursable expenses are one of the three major types of standard travel and

transportation allowances, they are discussed in this chapter often as part of either the transportation

section or the per diem allowance section. Miscellaneous expenses that are neither transportation-related

nor per diem-related may require AO authorization or approval. Section 0204

identifies those

miscellaneous expenses not listed in sections or paragraphs that specify transportation or lodging

reimbursement.

0202 TRANSPORTATION

This section addresses transportation to, from, and around official travel locations. The AO should

authorize transportation before a traveler departs. If the AO does not, then air transportation is the

authorized transportation mode for transoceanic travel. For non-transoceanic TDY travel, the

transportation types specified in par. 020203

should be used. If the traveler selects an alternate mode than

as specified in par. 020203, then they must demonstrate to the AO’s satisfaction that the selected mode of

travel was the most efficient or economical option reasonably available. Each traveler is allowed a seat

on the authorized transportation mode. While an AO does not normally direct transportation, he or she

may do so for a traveler under certain circumstances. If travel changes unexpectedly, the transportation

type can be approved after travel has begun if the reasons are acceptable to the AO. Travel other than by

a usually traveled route must be justified for any excess cost to be Government funded.

020201. Traveler Does not Use Authorized Transportation or TDY is Canceled

A. Traveler Does not Use Authorized Transportation. If an AO authorizes a transportation mode

for TDY travel that a traveler does not use, then the traveler is reimbursed for the transportation mode that

has been used, up to the cost of the authorized mode, unless stated otherwise in the JTR.

B. TDY Is Canceled. If a TDY order is canceled while the traveler is en route to the TDY

location, then round-trip standard travel and transportation allowances are authorized between the PDS

location or residence and the point at which the cancellation notification was received (includes a leave

point) and the PDS. Allowances are limited to the cost of the round-trip travel distance between the PDS

and the TDY location (see

CBCA 2463-TRAV, November 11, 2011, and B-129607, November 21,

1956).

020202. Excluded Hours

Normally, a traveler is not required to travel between the hours of 2400 and 0600 if it is not necessary

for the mission. The AO may authorize or approve a TDY rest point or an en route rest stop when the

flight exceeds 14 hours, the travel is to or from a location OCONUS, and travel is by coach-class service.

When circumstances warrant, the AO must consider each case individually taking into account both

funding and mission needs. Rest stops may not exceed 24 hours. Rules and allowances for rest stops

during travel are in Table 2-1. See Rest Stop Examples

on the DTMO website.

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Table 2-1. En route and TDY Point Rest Stops

Rest Stops at the TDY Point

1 Authorized

When either:

The scheduled flight exceeds 14 hours and travel is to or from a location OCONUS.

b. The scheduled flight exceeds 14 hours, and travel is to or from a location

OCONUS, the traveler is required to travel overnight (2400-0600) and the

transportation mode does not provide adequate sleeping accommodations.

Not

Authorized

When either of the following occur:

a. The traveler is authorized first or business class travel.

b. The traveler is provided a rest stop en route instead.

Rest Stops En Route

3 Authorized

When all of the following occur and the rest stop en route:

a. Allows the traveler to start at, near, or after the end of the traveler’s regularly

scheduled duty hours or during usual rest hours if the transportation mode does not

provide adequate sleeping accommodations.

b. Is at a location that is an intermediate point, and is near to midway in the journey

as the authorized carrier schedule permits or if possible, at a location en route at

which the carrier permits free stopovers.

c. Is for a period limited to 24 hours, plus necessary time to obtain the earliest

transportation to the authorized destination.

d. Is because the origin or destination location is OCONUS and travel is by a usually

traveled route.

e. Involves a scheduled flight is over 14 hours by a usually traveled route. A 14-hour

period includes scheduled flight time, stopovers, and plane changes. However, it

does not include overnight time spent at airports.*

f. Is necessary because the travel en route to the TDY site or upon return if the

traveler cannot rest before returning to work. This must be in the Government’s

interest and is not automatic.

Not

Authorized

When any of the following occur and rest stop en route:

a. Is due to official travel for a permanent change of station (PCS), consecutive

overseas tour (COT) leave, renewal agreement travel (RAT), emergency leave,

Rest and Recuperation (R&R), Funded Environmental Morale Leave (FEML), and

personnel evacuations.

b. Is due to personal convenience when a traveler chooses to travel by a circuitous

route, causing excess travel time.

c. When a traveler takes leave at a stopover location.

d. Is on return travel to PDS unless traveler is required to return to work without

resting.

e. For a traveler authorized first or business class accommodations.

f. When the traveler is provided a rest period at the TDY point before reporting for

duty.

*The flight length alone is not sufficient justification to authorize or approve an en route rest stop. The

TDY mission must be so unexpected that the traveler was unable to schedule a flight arriving the day

prior to allow rest before work and the travel authorization must clearly state when the TDY travel

was identified and when travel reservations were made.

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020203. Transportation Types Most Advantageous to the Government

A. Preferred Transportation. In the case of TDY travel, the following transportation types are

presumed most advantageous to the Government, unless the AO determines otherwise.

1. In accordance with DoDI 4500.57

(Transportation and Traffic Management), Government

transportation by air for travel OCONUS is considered the most advantageous method when reasonably

available to meet mission requirements. See

transportation computation example.

2. When Government transportation is not directed, commercial travel by airplane, rail, bus,

or ship is generally the most advantageous method of transportation and should be selected when

reasonably available. Of these types the most preferable is travel by airplane if the distance is greater

than 250 miles. If the distance is 250 miles or less, then travel by rail is preferred if available; if not

available, then travel by rental vehicle is preferable.

3. When travel must be by automobile, a Government automobile is most advantageous. If a

Government automobile is not available, then:

a. Consider a rental car. See the DTMO Rental Car Agreement and

DTR 4500.9-R, Part

I (Passenger Movement), for instructions and guidance for rental car selection.

b. A POV is considered most advantageous to the Government only after the other

transportation types have been considered.

(1) If the AO determines that using a Government automobile would be more

expensive than using a POV because of unusual circumstances, then the AO may authorize

reimbursement for POV use on TDY travel.

(2) A traveler’s personal choice must not be the sole determining factor for

authorization.

(3) The AO must review the traveler’s cost comparison, that demonstrates the

constructed cost and identifies other factors, when determining if the use of a POV will be authorized as

advantageous to the Government. The cost comparison is submitted on a worksheet such as the DTMO’s

constructed travel worksheet

(CTW) or similar locally-approved form. If an available Government

automobile is authorized or directed, then a CTW is not required, see Table 2-9 for reimbursement rules.

B. Determination Factors. The AO will consider cost and the following factors when

determining mode of transportation most advantageous to the Government for TDY travel.

1. Mission requirements, including trip length and transportation of baggage, tools, or

equipment.

2. Availability of other transportation modes and the effect on productive time.

3. TDY location in relation to traffic conditions, routing, and weather.

4. TDY location in relation to the lodging, meal facilities, and transportation availability,

other than a POV, between these points.

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5. Overall cost advantage when accompanying passengers in the same POV are also under

official travel orders.

6. Productive time lost due to additional travel time.

7. Efficiency, economy, or other reasons favorable to POV use to accomplish the mission

expeditiously.

8. Unavailability of practicable commercial transportation.

9. Delay to mission caused by the use of an airplane, train, bus, or ship.

10. Zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) when the rental rate is equal to or less than the least

expensive compact car, and charging infrastructure availability en route or at the destination.

020204. Distance Determinations

A. PCS and TDY Distance. Distances are determined by using the Defense Table of Official

Distances (DTOD). It is the only official source for PCS and TDY distance information, including for

personally procured moves. If a facility or location is not listed, contact the website listed above.

B. Odometer Readings. The DTOD does not apply to the following distances, which are

determined by odometer readings:

1. In and around the PDS or TDY sites.

2. Between the home or office and the transportation terminal.

3. For a Service member who travels a short distance for a move within the same city.

4. For a civilian employee who transfers a short distance in accordance with par. 054802

5. Round-trip travel between home and the active-duty tour site for a Reserve Component

(RC) member on active duty when he or she commutes.

C. Privately Owned Air Transportation Distance. See par. 020210

020205. Separate Legs of Travel

Travel between any two official points listed in Table 2-2

is computed as a separate leg of travel. If

the trip involves more than one leg of travel, then each leg is computed separately.

Table 2-2. Travel Between Any Two Official Points

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1. Actual residence

2. Home of record

3. Primary residence

4. Privately owned vehicle-

storage facility

5. Location of last move home

for a Senior Executive Service

civilian employee

6. Safe haven location

7. COT leave location

8. TDY location

9. Renewal agreement travel

leave location

10. Permanent duty station

11. Passenger point of

embarkation

12. Privately owned vehicle-

unloading port or vehicle-

processing center

13. A designated place

14. First duty station

15. Last duty station

16. Alternate location

17. Passenger point of

debarkation

18. Privately owned vehicle-

loading port or vehicle-

processing center

19. Home of selection

20. PLEAD

020206. Airplane, Train, Ship, and Bus Transportation

A. Disrupted, Missed, or Canceled Travel Arrangements.

1. A traveler who misses or cancels travel arrangements may rebook with the original carrier

if the carrier is able to provide a reservation in the same fare class as the original ticketed reservation or

on a City Pair Program fare that meets the requirements of the mission. If the original carrier is unable to

provide a reservation that meets the criteria above, the traveler must notify the Travel Management

Company (TMC) as soon as possible to change travel arrangements, see par. 020207-G if the TMC is not

available. A traveler must also notify the AO of such situations as soon as practicable.

2. A traveler who is stranded while on official travel because arranged transportation was

disrupted by being involuntarily delayed, changed, or canceled may be rebooked by the original carrier if

the rebooked transportation is the same fare class, or on a City Pair Program fare, and meets the

requirements of the mission. If the newly booked transportation does not meet the requirements of the

mission, the traveler must contact the TMC as soon as possible to change travel arrangements, see par.

020207-G if the TMC is not available.

3. In cases where travel has been involuntarily disrupted while at or enroute to or from the

TDY location and the delay will cause the traveler to remain overnight at the terminal location see Table

2-20 for per diem reimbursement rules. The traveler must notify the AO of these situations as soon as

practicable. Failure to follow these procedures may make a traveler financially liable for any resulting

expenses.

4. If experiencing involuntary disruptions to officially arranged transportation for PCS travel

directly between official points that causes overnight lodging to be required at the terminal location, then

refer to Table 5-5 and par. 020210-B for per diem calculation rules. If transportation is personally

procured or is not between official points, then the traveler is responsible for any additional costs to make

new travel arrangements as well as any costs associated with remaining at the terminal overnight.

B. Lost or Stolen Tickets. Lost tickets must be reported to the TMC. A traveler remains

financially responsible to the Government for the cost of the lost or stolen ticket, regardless of fault or

negligence. A traveler is responsible for purchasing a replacement ticket, and cannot be reimbursed for

the replacement ticket until the Government has received a refund for the lost or stolen ticket. If the

initial ticket is recovered or turned in for refund, and the Government is repaid, reimbursement may be

made to the traveler for the second ticket, limited to the cost of the first ticket. See the DoD Fin

ancial

Management Regulation, Vol. 9 (Travel Policy) for procedures on reporting stolen tickets.

C. Unused Tickets. All unused tickets, including a portion of a ticket, coupons, exchange orders,

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refund slips, airfare adjustment notices, and similar items and information relating to the unused

transportation must be turned into the TMC.

D. Replacement Transportation. A traveler who lacks sufficient funds to purchase duplicate

transportation may be furnished necessary transportation on a cost-charge basis in accordance with DoD

Agency regulations (

DTR 4500.9-R, Part I (Passenger Movement)) or Service regulations.

E. Lost, Stolen, or Unused Government Transportation Request (GTR). A traveler, or other

accountable person, must safeguard a GTR at all times because he or she may be held liable for any

Government expenditure caused through personal negligence in safeguarding the GTR. If a GTR is lost,

stolen, or unused, immediately notify the proper official, the named carrier, and other local carriers in

accordance with Service or DoD Agency procedures and regulations.

F. Lost, Delayed, or Damaged Accompanied Baggage. A traveler may keep payments from

commercial carriers for accompanied baggage that is lost, delayed, or damaged. However, accepting the

payment may affect any potential claim against the Government for the lost baggage. A traveler who

intends to file a claim against the Government for the baggage’s loss, delay, or damage should speak with

a Government Claims Office before accepting a carrier’s compensation.

G. Frequent-Flyer Miles or Other Promotional Benefits. A traveler can keep any frequent-flyer

points or miles, hotel rewards, or rental car upgrades accumulated during official travel, as long as those

promotional items are available to the general public or to a class consisting of all civilian employees or

Service members. If a traveler voluntarily gives up a seat on an airplane, then the traveler is responsible

for any additional costs incurred, such as additional lodging or meal expenses. Also, a traveler cannot

select specific flights or hotels to earn points if it will cost the Government additional money.

H. Registered or Trusted Traveler Program. Use of Government funds to obtain membership in

registered or trusted traveler programs, such as Fly Clear, is statutorily prohibited (5 U.S.C. §5946 and

FTR Bulletin 08-05 (June 25, 2008)).

I. U.S. Carriers Required. The Fly America Act

requires that U.S. flag carriers be used for all

commercial transportation when the Government funds the travel (49 U.S.C. §40118(d)). The TMC and

AO, therefore, require that travel by air and ship be on a U.S. flag carrier for every leg of a trip, unless the

TMC and AO provide supporting documentation that a U.S. flag carrier is not available.

1. The Fly America Act

does not mandate travel across the continental United States

(CONUS) when traveling between two locations OCONUS.

2. There is no transportation reimbursement, for any leg of a trip, when an unauthorized or

unapproved non-U.S. flag air carrier service or foreign flag ship is used. If a U.S. flag air carrier service

or a U.S. flag ship is available for an entire trip and the traveler uses a non-U.S. flag air carrier or foreign

flag ship for any part of the trip, the transportation cost on the non-U.S. flag air carrier or the foreign flag

ship is not payable (FTR §301-10.143 and FTR §301-10.181

3. Documentation must be provided to the traveler to support all reasons when a non-U.S.

flag air carrier is used in accordance with Service regulations. The documentation should include the

traveler’s name, non-U.S. flag air carrier used, flight number, origin, destination and en route points,

dates, justification and the authorizing or approving official’s title, organization, and signature.

Endorsements on the order or Government-travel procurement document, made in accordance with

Service regulations, are acceptable.

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Table 2-3. Rules for U.S. Flag Carriers

If…

Then…

a U.S. flag air carrier is available, and the carrier

performs the required commercial air transportation,

and its use serves the mission,

a traveler must use the available U.S. flag

air carrier.

a U.S. flag air carrier is not reasonably available for

the most direct point between two OCONUS

locations,

use of a non-U.S. flag air carrier may be

authorized or approved (GSBCA 16632-

RELO, July 15, 2005).

a comparable or different kind of a non-U.S. flag air

carrier costs less, or is preferred, by the Service or

traveler, or considered more convenient,

a traveler must still use the available U.S

flag air carrier.

the only U.S. flag air carrier available requires

boarding or leaving the carrier between midnight and

6 a.m., or travel during those hours,

the U.S. flag air carrier must still be used if

available. The AO may authorize or

approve the traveler a brief non-work

period, limited to 24 hours if the

destination is other than the traveler’s

PDS.

an indirect route is used for personal convenience and

a U.S. flag carrier is available over the direct route,

a non-U.S flag air carrier may not be used.

a U.S. flag air carrier offers non-stop, direct service

with no aircraft change,

a U.S. flag air carrier must be used unless

such use would extend travel time

including delay at origin, by 24 or more

hours.

a U.S. flag air carrier does not offer non-stop or direct

service between origin and destination,

a U.S. flag air carrier must be used on

every flight segment in which it provides

service unless, when compared to using a

non-U.S. flag air carrier such use would

result in one of the following:

a. Increase the number of foreign

location aircraft changes made by two

or more.

b. Extend travel time by 6 or more

hours.

c. Require a connect time of 4 or more

hours at a foreign interchange point.

a U.S. flag air carrier does not provide service on a

particular flight segment,

a non-U.S. flag air carrier may be used, but

only to the nearest interchange point on a

usually traveled route to connect with a

U.S. flag air carrier service.

a U.S. flag air carrier involuntarily reroutes a traveler

on a non-U.S. flag air carrier,

a non-U.S. flag air carrier may be used. If

given the choice to substitute service

without delaying the travel, the traveler

should select a U.S. flag air carrier (

Comp. Gen. 223 (1980)).

the AO determines that a US flag air carrier cannot

provided needed air transportation or cannot

accomplish the mission,

a non-U.S. flag air carrier may be used.

a non-U.S. Government source pays for transportation

directly, or later reimburses by:

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Table 2-3. Rules for U.S. Flag Carriers

If…

Then…

a. A foreign government (for example, Foreign

Military Sales funded with foreign customer cash

or repayable foreign military finance credits),

b. An international agency,

c. Another organization,

transportation is paid by a non-Federal source, in

accordance with the JTR; DoD 5500.07-R (Joint

Ethics Regulation); or Service regulations for non-

DoD Services,

a non-U.S flag air carrier service would be 3 hours or

less, and the U.S. flag carrier use would at least

double the en route travel time,

medical reason including the need to reduce the

number of connections and delays when transporting a

person in need of treatment,

first-class accommodations are the only option on a

U.S. flag air carrier, and less than first-class

accommodations are available on a non-U.S. flag air

carrier,

the transportation is provided under a bilateral or

multilateral air agreement to which the U.S.

Government and the Government of a foreign country

are parties and the Department of Transportation has

determined it meets the requirements of the

Fly

America Act,

a traveler’s safety is at risk, such as a terrorist threat

against the traveler,

the AO can authorize or approve a non-

U.S. flag air carrier. The risk must be

supported by evidence.

the use of a U.S. flag air carrier would result in a

delay to the traveler and involves more than 48 hours

of additional per diem,

a non-U.S. flag air carrier can be used, if it

reduces the delay (56 Comp. Gen. 216

(1977)).

the only U.S. flag air carrier service between foreign

points requires travel between midnight and 6 a.m., to

include boarding and exiting the carrier, and a non-

U.S. flag air carrier does not require travel at during

those hours,

a non-U.S. flag air carrier may be used to

the nearest interchange point on a usually

traveled route to connect with a U.S. flag

air carrier.

a U.S. flag ship cannot provide the transportation

service required,

transportation may be obtained aboard a

foreign flag ship (B-190575, May 1, 1978).

a U. S. flag ship would seriously interfere with or

prevent the performance of official business,

the AO may authorize or approve the use

of a foreign flag ship.

a U. S. flag ship is not available,

the transportation or other appropriate

officer may authorize or approve use of a

foreign flag ship.

the request for foreign flag ship is for inconvenience

in securing transportation on a U.S. flag ship, short

delays in awaiting transportation, arranging circuitous

routes for traveler convenience, or similar reasons,

a foreign flag ship may not be authorized

or approved.

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4. When using code share flights involving non-U.S. flag air carrier, the U.S. flag air carrier

flight number must be used on the ticket for the travel to qualify as having been on a U.S. flag air carrier.

If the non-U.S flag air carrier flight number is placed on the ticket then a non-availability document is

needed. 49 U.S.C. §40118(d)

permits the Secretary of State and the Administrator of the Agency for

International Development to authorize their employees to travel by non-U.S. flag air carriers between

two places in foreign areas even if U.S. flag air carriers are available. This authority does not apply to

Service members, civilian employees, or any of their dependents.

J. Class of Service Used in Transportation. A traveler must use economy or coach

accommodations on an airplane, train, or ship. However, the order-issuing AO may authorize travel on

transportation that offers only premium-class service, such as Acela.

1. Table 2-4

identifies other conditions under which a traveler can upgrade transportation

accommodations. A traveler experiencing extenuating or emergency circumstances may seek approval

for an upgraded class of service from the appropriate authority within 7 days after travel is completed.

All other travelers must submit their requests in advance for accommodations at a higher class of service

than economy or coach.

2. Table 2-5

identifies who can authorize or approve premium-class accommodations. Only

a person senior to the traveler may authorize or approve an upgraded class of service.

3. The flight length alone is insufficient justification to authorize or approve business-class

travel. The AO must first consider using economy or coach-class fare and scheduling the traveler to

arrive the day before TDY begins to allow appropriate rest. The second choice is to use economy or

coach-class fare and arrange a rest stop, preferably at a no-cost point allowed by the airline with the

traveler scheduled to arrive on the day TDY starts. The third choice is to use premium economy

accommodations when scheduled flight time exceeds eight hours and travel is to, from or between foreign

and non-foreign OCONUS locations. The last option is to use business-class accommodations with a

scheduled arrival on the day TDY starts.

4. Travel authorization for upgraded accommodations must be retained in accordance with

Records Management procedures.

5. A travel authorization must include:

a. The cost difference between economy or coach class and the upgraded ticket. See

Decision Support Tools

regarding premium class travel.

b. The JTR paragraph number for the conditions that justify the change in class of

service.

c. A statement that the traveler is responsible for the cost difference between the

transportation class for which the traveler was eligible and the cost of an upgraded class of service

purchased if the accommodations are not approved after the fact.

Table 2-4. Travelers Changing Class of Service

If…

Then…

approved to use non-U.S. flag carrier and economy or

coach accommodations do not meet adequate

sanitation or health standards,

the traveler should request the AO to

upgrade the class of service.

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Table 2-4. Travelers Changing Class of Service

If…

Then…

other transportation accommodations are not available

and the AO identified in Table 2-5 determines that a

premium-class upgrade or extra train fares are

necessary for the mission after considering the TDY

location, cost, and travel time,

the AO may authorize or approve travelers

to book premium-class airfare and extra

train fares.

the traveler’s or Service’s needs require use of

accommodations that do not meet minimum standards,

the traveler may voluntarily accept or use

these accommodations and the

Government may furnish them. The

Government cannot direct the traveler to

accept inadequate accommodations.

accommodations that are usually more costly, such as

premium class or premium economy, are offered at a

lesser rate than unrestricted economy or coach,

the traveler may use the upgraded

accommodations without obtaining special

approval or authorization.

the AO determines the added cost of Economy Plus,

Coach Elite Seating, Premium Economy, or additional

fee seating is in the Government’s interest,

the additional cost for seating in economy

or coach class may be authorized or

approved.

the AO determines the added cost of economy plus,

coach elite airfare seating, or premium economy is

necessary because less costly accommodations are

inadequate for a traveler with a documented medical

or special need,

the AO may authorize or approve the

traveler to use economy plus, coach elite

airfare seating, or premium economy

seating. The AO may also authorize or

approve economy plus, coach elite airfare

seating, or premium economy airfare for

an attendant required to accompany the

traveler en route (see

par. 020206-K).

Only the authorities listed in Table 2-5

may authorize or approve premium class

seating for any transportation mode.

Government property or a traveler would be

endangered using less costly accommodations,

more costly transportation at Government

expense may be authorized or approved.

a protective detail accompanies a traveler who is

authorized more costly accommodations,

a courier or control officer accompanies a controlled

pouch or package when accommodations with

adequate security are not available at a lower cost,

lower class accommodations are not reasonably

available for departure within 24 hours of the

traveler’s proposed arrival or departure times, or do

not allow the traveler to arrive or depart in time to

report for duty when scheduled,

the AO must justify putting business- or

first-class transportation in the travel

authorization by stating all of the

following:

a. When the TDY travel was identified.

b. When travel reservations were made.

c. The cost difference between economy

or coach transportation and the

business-class or first-class

transportation selected.

a flight is scheduled to last longer than 14 hours

during TDY and the origin or destination is OCONUS,

the mission is so unexpected and urgent that it cannot

be delayed or postponed, and a rest period cannot be

scheduled en route or at the TDY site before starting

work,

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Table 2-4. Travelers Changing Class of Service

If…

Then…

the following personnel are required for the mission:

a. Federal advisory committee members;

b. Special high-level invited guests; and

c. U.S. Armed Forces attachés accompanying

foreign government minister traveling to the

United States to consult with U.S. Federal

Government officials.

the traveler may use business class if it is

available and first class if not. This is not

applicable to NOAA.

a non-Federal source pays for business-class

transportation in advance,

the travel authorization must state that the

transportation has been paid by a non-

Federal source. See

DoD 5500.07-R

(Joint Ethics Regulation) and Service

issuances.

a non-Federal source pays for first-class transportation

in advance, and at least one of the other circumstances

in this table for first-class travel is also met,

using business class results in overall savings to the

Government by eliminating overtime, additional

subsistence costs, or lost productivity time,

a cost comparison must be stated on the

travel authorization.

foreign-government personnel are traveling in the

Government’s interest and the traveler’s country has

regulations, a memorandum of understanding, a

memorandum of agreement, or a status of forces

agreement that requires premium-class

accommodations,

the traveler is authorized premium-class

transportation.

an en route stopover is an overnight stay and an en

route rest stop is authorized or an overnight rest period

occurs at the TDY location before beginning work,

business class is not allowed.

K. Disability and Special Need. A traveler with a disability or special need may request a travel

accommodation. See Appendix A for the definition of a special need or disability. An AO must consider

less expensive non-premium class travel accommodations, such as premium economy seating, bulkhead

seating that provides extra leg room, or the purchase of two adjacent economy seats before recommending

premium class travel. Only the individuals listed in

Table 2-5 may authorize or approve premium class

travel for a disability or special need. If an attendant or escort’s services are required en route, see Table

2-4 for criteria to authorize or approve premium class accommodations. Only a traveler and their

attendant or escort (but not the rest of the family) may use premium class seating.

1. Disability. A traveler must provide written certification by a competent medical authority

to obtain a travel accommodation for a disability. Written certification must substantiate the disability, its

functional limitations, the necessity of any recommended travel accommodation, and the duration of any

recommended travel accommodation. For a temporary disability, a traveler must obtain recertification

after the certified duration expires, or otherwise as appropriate. For a lifelong disability, a traveler is not

required to recertify the disability itself, but must recertify the necessity of the travel accommodation if

the disability remits or intensifies. An AO may authorize non-premium class travel accommodations for a

special need without medical certification.

a. If a traveler with a disability requests a travel accommodation that is not included in

established reasonable accommodation documentation, then the traveler’s supervisor should begin the

interactive reasonable accommodation process and request medical certification. In the alternative, the

AO may authorize non-premium class travel accommodations without medical certification through the

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special need process.

b. If a traveler with a disability requests a travel accommodation that is included in

established reasonable accommodation documentation, then an AO may authorize the accommodation

provided that it meets the certification requirements above. Premium class travel must only be authorized

by an individual listed in Table 2-5

2. Special Need. If a traveler with a special need requests a travel accommodation, an AO

may authorize non-premium class travel accommodations without medical certification.

Table 2-5. Premium Class Authority

Agencies

First Class

Business Class

OSD and Defense

Agencies

Director of Administration and

Management.*

Director of Administration and

Management. May be delegated no

lower than a three-star or civilian-

equivalent level.

2 Joint Staff

Joint Staff Director, or as delegated.

Re-delegation may be no lower than a

three-star major commander.

Joint Staff Director, or as

delegated. May be delegated no

lower than a two-star or civilian-

equivalent level.

3 CCMD

Combatant Commanders (CCDR), or

as delegated. Re-delegation may be

no lower than the Command’s three-

star deputy or vice commander.

CCDR, or as delegated. May be

delegated no lower than a two-star

or civilian equivalent level.

Military

Departments

Secretary may delegate to Under

Secretary, Service Chiefs, Vice or

Deputy Chiefs, and four-star major

commanders or their three-star vice or

deputy commanders.*

Secretary may delegate to Under

Secretary, Service Chiefs, Vice or

Deputy Chiefs, four-star major

commanders, three-star deputy or

vice commanders, or two-star or

civilian-equivalent level.*

USPHS

Members Only

Secretary of Health and Human

Services.*

Flag officers at the two-star level or

their civilian equivalents, to whom

authority has been delegated by the

first-class authorizing or approving

authority.*

NOAA Corps

Members Only

NOAA Corps Director.*

USCG

Members Only

Secretary of Homeland Security.*

Coast Guard Commandant or Vice

Commandant.*

*No further delegation.

L. Not Authorized. Unless authorized or approved for medical reasons or physical handicap in

accordance with the par. 020206-K upgraded accommodations are not authorized for the types of travel

listed in Table 2-6.

Table 2-6. Travel Not Authorized for Upgraded Accommodations

1 Leave Travel

a. Emergency leave

b. R&R

c. FEML

d. Emergency visitation travel

Evacuations

a. Personnel evacuations

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b. Family visitation travel

3 Permanent Travel

a. PCS

b. COT

c. RAT

M. Commercial Air Transportation. General Services Administration (GSA) City Pair Program

fares and restricted fares may be authorized or approved by the AO for official travel.

1. GSA City Pair Program Fares

a. The GSA City Pair Program is a contract between the Government and certain airlines

for routes frequently traveled for Government business. The program requires a traveler to use these

routes when they are available. City Pair Program fares are for official travel only and cannot be used for

travel to or from leave points or for any portion of a route traveled for personal convenience. For details

see the GSA City Pair Program; DoD 4500.9-R, Part 1 (Passenger Movement); the FTR §301-10, and

city

pair program computation example. City Pair Program flights are identified by the fare basis codes of

either “YCA” or “-CA.”

(1) YCA refers to a contracted, unrestricted coach-class fare that includes the benefit

of last-seat availability. As long as a seat is available on the airplane, the Government traveler may

purchase the seat at the YCA airfare.

(2) -CA refers to a contracted, unrestricted coach-class fare that is capacity

controlled. Only a certain number of seats are available on a given flight at the -CA rate. A -CA airfare

should be used when available and only the YCA should be used for cost comparison.

b. A command cannot permit a TMC to purchase YCA airfare when a -CA airfare is

available and the AO determines that a -CA airfare meets the mission’s needs. Personal frequent flyer

points or miles use is not a valid reason to request a YCA airfare when a –CA fare is available. A traveler

who elects to use a YCA airfare when a –CA airfare is available, in order to use points or miles, is

financially responsible to the Government for the cost difference between the YCA airfare and the –CA

airfare (CBCA 1511-TRAV, May 7, 2009

2. Restricted Airfares. The AO may authorize or approve restricted airfares when they are

offered to the general public and if trip cancellation would not impose significant costs.

a. When a City Pair Program fare is available, the AO must use the

Restricted Airfares

Checklist when considering the approval of restricted airfares. Restricted airfares cannot be applied in a

blanket fashion, but can be considered for each trip on an individual basis. For City Pair Program routes,

if the contract carrier offers a lower fare, the traveler must use that airline’s restricted fare before selecting

another airline’s restricted economy or coach airfare.

b. When a City Pair Program Fare is not available, the traveler should use the lowest cost

coach-class fare that meets mission requirements.

c. The AO must consider that if a restricted fare is authorized and then later canceled or

changed for official reasons and not for the personal convenience of the traveler, the Government is

responsible for any excess costs.

Note: When a restricted airline ticket is changed or canceled, any remaining value may only be used for

future official travel. Under no circumstances may the traveler pay any penalty and then use the

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ticket or partial credit for personal travel.

3. Involuntarily Denied Flight Boarding. A traveler who is involuntarily denied boarding on

a flight must contact the TMC to book a new flight if a subsequent flight cannot be provided without

additional cost to the Government. Any compensation for the denied seat belongs to the Government (59

Comp. Gen. 203 (1980)). The traveler must request that the carrier show the “Treasurer of the United

States” as payee on the compensation check, in accordance with the DoD Financial Management

Regulation, Vol. 9 (Travel Policy).

Table 2-7. Transportation Allowances for Commercial Air Travel

If…

Then…

no written policy specifies which airport to

use and multiple airports in the same area

are available for use,

the traveler may select which airport to use. A

traveler can only be required to use a specific airport

when the command or installation has a written

policy that requires using it because it is economical.

local written policies do not permit a

traveler to select which of multiple airports

in the same area to use,

the traveler must follow the local written policy in

selecting an airport.

a traveler is unable to travel by air due to a

medical condition or aerophobia that causes

severe symptoms,

the AO may authorize an alternate type of

transportation after receiving a competent medical

authority’s written certification that the condition or

phobia prevents travel by air.

a traveler must change airlines to get to a

destination and one or both airlines do not

interline baggage,

the traveler can use a different airline, even if it is

more expensive, unless he or she is booked on an

AMC Patriot Express flight. Regardless of the

airline, the traveler must follow the Fly America Act.

N. Train, Ship, or Bus Transportation. For trains and buses, use the discount fares offered to the

Government when the transportation meets mission requirements. Travel by ship may be authorized or

approved. Only the authorities in

Table 2-5 may authorize or approve premium class accommodations

under the following circumstances (Office of Management and Budget Bulletin 93-11, April 19, 1993

(Fiscal Responsibility and Reducing Perquisites)):

1. The travel can be completed only by ship.

2. The travel is performed more economically or efficiently by ship.

3. The travel is for medical reasons.

4. The travel is for security reasons.

5. The Secretarial Process authorizes or approves the travel as being advantageous to the

Government for travel OCONUS.

O. Sustainable Travel Modes. To promote sustainable transportation, the traveler should

consider using ZEVs over other automobiles; rail over air travel if the distance is 250 miles or less or

long-distance automobile travel; and public transit over automobiles.

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1. Government automobile. Traveler should use a Government ZEV to the maximum extent

practicable where available and where adequate charging infrastructure is likely to be available en route

or at the destination.

2. Rental Vehicle. If a traveler is authorized or approved the use of a rental vehicle for

official travel, then the traveler should select a ZEV when the daily rental rate is equal to or less than the

daily rental rate of the least expensive compact car available.

3. Taxis and transportation network companies (TNC). If a ZEV TNC or taxi is available

and the charge is equal to or less than gasoline-fueled vehicles, then travelers should select a ZEV.

4. Ridesharing. Travelers sharing a ride may use larger TNC vehicles, taxis, or shuttle

services between airports, hotels, and conferences or meetings.

5. Rail. Travelers should use trains when the destination is less than 250 miles away and

when cost effective and consistent with mission needs.

6. Public transportation. When available, travelers should use public bus and rail options.

020207. Reimbursement for Commercial Transportation

A. Commercial Air, Train, Ship, or Bus Transportation. A traveler is reimbursed the authorized

or approved transportation cost, which includes the fare and the TMC fee. If a traveler uses Government-

procured transportation for part of a leg of travel, reimbursement to a traveler must be reduced by the cost

of the Government-procured transportation. However, advanced seat assignment and additional-fee

seating is a personal choice. Any fee incurred for changing the seat assignment is not reimbursed unless

it is in the Government’s interest, such as would be the case for an eligible traveler with a medical or

special need.

B. Transoceanic Ship Travel. Reimbursement for a traveler who uses unauthorized or

unapproved transoceanic ship travel is limited to the policy-constructed cost. The policy-constructed cost

is the sum of the transportation cost and the TMC fee that the Government would have incurred if travel

had been performed using the authorized transportation type.

C. Miscellaneous Reimbursable Expenses Associated with Commercial Air, Train, Ship, or Bus.

Commercial air, train, ship, or bus reimbursable transportation expenses consist of:

1. Fees for the first checked bag. Any additional cost because of size or weight must be

authorized or approved.

2. Excess accompanied baggage when it is authorized or approved. To be authorized or

approved, the contents of the baggage must be required for the traveler’s official duty and must not be

available at the TDY location. See Chapter 5

for allowances related to unaccompanied baggage.

3. Accompanied baggage that goes to the original destination on an unused portion of a ticket

after the traveler prematurely leaves the carrier if the traveler provides a full explanation of facts that is

acceptable to the Transportation Officer or AO.

4. Expedited return to the travel origination point of accompanied baggage from which a

Service member or civilian employee has become separated during a troop movement, when authorized

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or approved in accordance with Service regulations.

5. The extra cost of a paper ticket add-on fee when authorized or approved as necessary and

documented, such as an airline work stoppage.

6. One-way mileage, at the TDY mileage rate, from home or place of duty to a transportation

terminal for each way, or round-trip mileage if being dropped off or picked up, when a traveler uses a

POV.

7. Ground transportation between interim terminals when traveling on official business.

8. In-flight internet connections are not reimbursable unless authorized or approved and

determined they are used to perform official business.

9. Arrival or departure taxes or fees that are charged for entry or exit from a foreign country

may be reimbursed if the traveler incurs the expense directly, rather than including in the transportation

ticket cost.

10. A mandatory unaccompanied minor fee that an airline charges for a child traveling alone

due to official orders. Reimbursement of the unaccompanied minor fee is not authorized when the child

travels alone for member’s convenience.

D. Miscellaneous Reimbursable Expenses for Travelers with Medical or Special Needs. A

traveler with medical or special needs may receive reimbursement for the following additional

transportation-related miscellaneous costs:

1. Specialized services provided by a commercial carrier that are necessary to accommodate

the traveler’s disability or special need, such as specialized transportation to, from, or at a TDY location.

2. The cost of renting or transporting specialized equipment, such as a wheelchair, needed in

transit or at the TDY location.

3. Baggage check-in fee at curbside.

4. Baggage handling tips for a traveler with a disability.

E. Reimbursement When a TMC Is Available but Not Used. When a TMC is available but not

used by a traveler, reimbursement for transportation costs is limited to the amount that the Government

would have paid if the arrangements had been made directly through a TMC. Transaction fees are not

reimbursable, as it should be extremely rare that a TMC is not available.

F. Reimbursement When a TMC Is Not Available. When the AO certifies that a TMC is not

available to arrange the required official transportation, the traveler receives reimbursement for the actual

authorized or approved transportation costs, including the transaction fee. The total transportation

reimbursement must not exceed the policy-constructed fare that meets mission requirements.

G. Reimbursement When a TMC cannot be reached. When the AO certifies that a traveler was

unable to make arrangements for official travel through the TMC in a timely manner, the TMC is

considered not available. The traveler may receive reimbursement for the actual authorized transportation

costs, including the transaction fee. The total transportation reimbursement must not exceed the policy-

constructed fare that meets mission requirements. The AO must certify on an individual basis that the

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authority to self-procure transportation is authorized and TMC unavailability would result in one of the

following:

1. An unreasonable burden on mission accomplishment;

2. A compromise of national security interest; or

3. A matter endangering life.

020208. Reimbursement for Government Transportation

A. Reimbursement for Government Plane, Ship, or Bus. An AO may direct a traveler to use

Government transportation, such as a plane, ship, or bus over a usually traveled route (see transportation

computation example). See DoDI 4500.57, “Transportation and Traffic Management” and DTR 4500.9-

R-Part 1, “Passenger Movement.” When a traveler does not use the directed mode, reimbursement is not

allowed. A traveler is not ordinarily charged for baggage expenses when using Government

transportation. The AO must authorize or approve any charges for excess accompanied baggage.

B. Government Automobile. An AO may direct a traveler to use a Government automobile

when taking an airplane, train, bus, or ship is not advantageous to the Government. In these cases, the

traveler must use a Government automobile, if one is available. If an AO determines a Government

automobile would be more expensive than a POV, then the AO may authorize a POV. See

Table 2-9 for

information about the circumstances under which a Government automobile is directed but a POV is used

instead.

Note: A Government automobile is limited to official purposes, including transportation to and from duty

sites, lodgings, dining facilities, drugstores, barber shops, places of worship, cleaning

establishments, and similar places required for the traveler’s subsistence, health, or comfort.

C. Reimbursement for Use of a Government Automobile. A traveler using a Government

automobile may receive reimbursement for:

1. Fuel and oil.

2. Ferry fares, storage fees, guard fees, and repairs.

3. Bridge, road, or tunnel tolls.

4. Parking fees when the AO authorizes or approves them.

5. Insurance to cover liability for damage, personal injury, or death to third parties when

traveling in foreign locations where law requires the insurance coverage.

6. The cost of an international driver’s license, including the cost of photos, when mission

essential.

020209. Rental Vehicle

A. Selecting a Rental Vehicle. If a traveler is authorized or approved the use of a rental vehicle

for official travel, then the traveler should select a ZEV when the daily rental rate is equal to or less than

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the daily rental rate of the least expensive compact car available. If another class of rental vehicle is

approved, then travelers should select a ZEV when the rental rate is equal to or less than the least

expensive car of the approved class of vehicle. If no ZEVs are available, then the traveler should consider

renting a hybrid vehicle when the rental rate is equal to or less than the least expensive car of the

approved class of vehicle.

B. Obtaining Authorization. To be reimbursed, an AO must authorize or approve use of a rental

vehicle. A traveler must obtain a rental vehicle through an electronic system when it is available or

through the TMC if it is not available. TMC use is not mandatory when renting an airplane or bus. A

compact vehicle is the standard size for official travel, but the AO may authorize or approve a larger

vehicle for the following reasons:

1. Medical disability or other special need.

2. Mission requirements.

3. Cost is the same or less for a non-compact vehicle.

4. Multiple travelers are authorized to travel in the same rental vehicle.

5. Government material for official business requires more space.

6. Safety, such as driving during severe weather or on rough or difficult terrain.

C. Reimbursement for Use of a Rental Vehicle. A traveler is reimbursed the cost of the

authorized or approved rental vehicle. This includes the related taxes and local assessments added into

the rental agreement. Fees associated with rental car loyalty points and the transfer of points are not

reimbursed.

D. Reimbursement for Rental Vehicle Insurance. The Government is self-insured. A traveler

should verify that a rental vehicle is part of the U.S. Government Rental Car Agreement, which provides

full insurance coverage (CBCA 2956-TRAV, January 31, 2013). The traveler is reimbursed optional

insurance on a rental only when traveling in foreign areas where insurance is required by law or when

traveling for certain classified special operations in the CONUS or non-foreign areas OCONUS. For

these classified special operations, the AO must specifically approve the insurance reimbursement.

Table 2-8. Rental Vehicle Expenses

If…

Then…

a traveler does not obtain the rental vehicle

through a TMC,

reimbursement is limited to what the rental

vehicle would have cost if it had been obtained

through a TMC.

the AO did not authorize or approve the rental

vehicle for en route travel to or from the TDY

location,

the traveler may be reimbursed the TDY mileage

rate as if traveling by POV. The TDY mileage-

rate reimbursement is limited to the mode of

transportation authorized.

3 multiple travelers go to one location,

only the traveler booking the rental vehicle may

claim expenses associated with its use.

a traveler cannot refuel completely before

returning the vehicle because of safety issues,

the location of the closest fueling station, or

the rental vehicle company’s charges to refuel the

vehicle may be approved for reimbursement.

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Table 2-8. Rental Vehicle Expenses

If…

Then…

the nearest compatible charging station has no

charge points open and available,

a daily administrative fee is charged due to the

U.S. Government Rental Car Agreement,

which includes a Government administrative

rate supplement (GARS),

the traveler may receive reimbursement for the

daily administrative fee.

the mission requires an international driver’s

license,

the traveler may be reimbursed the cost of

obtaining it, including the cost of the photos.

a breathalyzer is required in a foreign country

and the traveler returns it unused,

the breathalyzer fee is reimbursable.

a breathalyzer is required in a foreign country

and it is used,

the breathalyzer fee is reimbursable if a foreign

authority directed the driver to use it and the

device shows that the driver was not impaired.

the breathalyzer fee is not reimbursable if the

breathalyzer was used for personal convenience or

while not on official travel, or if a foreign

authority directed the driver to use it and the

device showed the driver was impaired.

non-standard equipment, such as snow tires, is

necessary,

fees for the upgrade are reimbursable if the

equipment is part of the rental agreement;

however, equipment purchased separately from

the rental vehicle agreement is not reimbursable.

the AO determines that use of a one-way rental

is advantageous to the Government,

the drop-off charge, one-way mileage rate, or both

may be reimbursed.

the AO determines that a rental vehicle

dropped off at an alternate rental company

location is advantageous to the Government,

the AO determines that the delivery or

collection of a rental vehicle from a traveler-

designated location other than a rental

company’s rental location is advantageous to

the Government,

the delivery fee, collection fee, or both may be

reimbursed.

the AO authorizes or approves a global-

positioning system,

the traveler may receive reimbursement.

a traveler incurs fuel or oil expenses,

the traveler may receive reimbursement.

Note: Prepaid fueling option at a rental car

company is not authorized.

the AO authorizes or approves ferry fares;

bridge, road, and tunnel tolls; and parking fees,

the traveler may receive reimbursement; however,

an administrative fee associated with failing to

pay a toll is not reimbursable. Parking fees

incurred due to rental or lease of a single-family

the AO authorizes or approves use of a toll-

collection transponder when necessary for

official use,

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Table 2-8. Rental Vehicle Expenses

If…

Then…

the traveler pays for access fees, for example,

additional fees for access to an airport location,

home or apartment are factored into the lodging

cost as specified in par. 020203-G12.

the traveler is between 18-20 years old, is the

renter, and incurs a young driver or underage

driver fee,

the young driver or underage driver fee may be

reimbursed to the traveler that rented the vehicle.

the AO determines that a Service member or

civilian employee between the ages of 18-20

on a TDY order must be an alternate driver for

a rental vehicle and the renter is charged a

young driver or underage driver fee,

the traveler incurs a parking fee to enter an

airport parking lot or garage that offers free

ZEV charging and charges the rental vehicle

before return,

the parking fee may be reimbursed if justified as

advantageous to the Government.

E. Reimbursement for Rental Vehicle Damage. A DoD traveler may be reimbursed for personal

funds paid to a rental car company for rental vehicle damage sustained in the performance of official

business if the claim is adjudicated payable. See the DoD F

inancial Management Regulation, Vol. 9,

Chapter 4 (Transportation Allowances); DoD Financial Management Regulation, Vol. 10, Chapter 12

(Miscellaneous Payments); and the DoD Guidebook for Miscellaneous Payment for information on how

to request reimbursement.

1. The Government may make direct payment to the rental car company, instead of the

traveler, if appropriate. Requests for payment must be accompanied by supporting documentation,

ordinarily statements, itemized bills, and an accident report (see the

DoD Financial Management

Regulation, Vol. 9 (Travel Policy), for details). A DoD traveler may file accident reports on the DTMO

website if the damaged vehicle is covered under the DTMO Rental Car Agreement.

2. A non-DoD traveler who rents a vehicle pursuant to a valid DoD-funded travel

authorization must follow written Service or DoD Component guidance in documenting and filing a claim

for vehicle damage.

Note: See DTMO Rental Car Agreement, and DTR 4500.9-R, Part I

(Passenger Movement) for further

instructions and guidance for the rental vehicle selection. A rental vehicle is limited to official

purposes, including transportation to and from duty sites, lodgings, dining facilities, drugstores,

barber shops, places of worship, cleaning establishments, and similar places required for the

traveler’s subsistence, health, or comfort.

020210. Privately Owned Vehicles (POV)

A traveler cannot be directed to use a POV for official travel or be a passenger in another TDY

traveler’s POV (53 Comp. Gen 67 (1973)

). Any use of a POV is considered a personal choice by the

traveler. If a traveler chooses to use a POV, then the amount of the potential reimbursement depends on

whether using the vehicle is more advantageous to the Government than other modes of transportation,

see par.

020203-A3. If using a POV is not advantageous to the Government, then no miscellaneous

reimbursable expenses associated with driving a POV are reimbursed (see mileage rates). When

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computing TDY mileage reimbursement, do not round the result to the nearest dollar.

Note: Charges related to repairs, depreciation, maintenance, towing, and other similar expenses for a

POV are not reimbursable through the travel voucher process. Service members may seek

reimbursement by following procedures in

DoDI 1340.21 (Settling Personnel and General Claims

and Processing Advance Decision Requests). Civilian employees may seek reimbursement by

using Service procedures and referencing the Personnel Claims Act (

31 U.S.C. §3721).

Table 2-9. General Rules when Using a POV

If…

Then…

a TDY traveler picks up or drops

off other official passengers at

home,

the traveler claiming the mileage may claim reimbursement

for the extra distance based on odometer readings or other

acceptable evidence.

a traveler is directed to use a

Government automobile with other

travelers, but instead uses a POV,

mileage reimbursement is not authorized if the Government

automobile makes the trip.

a traveler uses a POV instead of an

authorized (but not directed) and

available Government vehicle,

the traveler is limited to reimbursement at a POV other

mileage rate for the official distance. Reimbursable expenses

associated with driving a POV and incurred during travel

between the PDS and a TDY location are not authorized.

A. Reimbursement for Privately Owned Automobiles or Motorcycles. The TDY mileage rate is

different for automobiles, motorcycles, and airplanes. A self-propelled mobile home is paid at the

automobile mileage rate.

Table 2-10. Reimbursement for Privately Owned Automobiles and Motorcycles

If…

Then…

a traveler uses a POV instead of the authorized

transportation type (other than a Government

automobile),

reimbursement is limited to the constructed cost of

the authorized transportation type. Miscellaneous

reimbursable expenses associated with driving a

POV and incurred during travel, such as parking

and tolls, are not authorized for reimbursement.

an official traveler is a passenger in an

automobile or on a motorcycle,

the passenger is not authorized reimbursement for

transportation, but may receive per diem.

B. Reimbursement for Privately Owned Airplanes. A traveler is reimbursed mileage based on

aeronautical charts when an AO determines that using a privately owned airplane is more advantageous to

the Government than using other transportation modes.

1. If a traveler cannot determine the distance by aeronautical charts, then he or she must

determine it by multiplying the flight time by the aircraft’s cruising speed. Additionally, the traveler may

receive reimbursement for landing, parking, and tie-down fees.

2. If a traveler uses an airplane provided by an Aero Club, then allowable expenses include:

a. The hourly fee imposed by the Aero Club.

b. Fuel charges if not reimbursable by the Aero Club.

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c. Landing and tie-down fees (includes the hangar in severe weather) charged at en route

and destination airports.

C. Reimbursement for Privately Owned Boat and Helicopter. When a privately owned boat or

helicopter, but not a privately owned plane, is used to the Government’s advantage, reimbursement is for

actual operating costs rather than TDY mileage. Reimbursable costs are limited to:

1. Fuel.

2. Oil.

3. Aircraft parking.

4. Landing and tie-down fees.

5. Boat docking fees.

Note: To convert kilometers to statute miles, multiply the number of kilometers by 0.62. To convert

nautical miles to statute miles, multiply the nautical distance times 1.15077945.

D. Requests for POV Expense Reimbursement (Service Members Only). When it is to the

Government’s advantage, the AO may authorize or approve reimbursing actual travel costs instead of

mileage when all of the following three circumstances are met:

1. The Service member requests it.

2. The request is justified due to unusual circumstances and documents the circumstances.

3. POV mileage reimbursement would be a financial hardship for the Service member (

B-

185733, September 1, 1976).

E. Limits to Actual Expense Reimbursement for Travel by POVs (Service Members Only).

Actual expense reimbursement is limited to:

1. Automobile or motorcycle: fuel, oil, parking fees, ferry fares; road, bridge, and tunnel

tolls; winter plug-ins; and trip insurance for travel in foreign countries.

2. Airplane: fuel, oil, parking fees, tie-down fees, and hangar fees.

3. Boat: fuel, oil, and docking fees.

F. Cost Comparisons Between Use of a POV and Other Modes of Transportation (Computation

and Calculation Rules). When a traveler uses a POV instead of an authorized type of transportation

deemed most advantageous to the Government, a cost comparison is submitted to the AO on a worksheet

such as the DTMO’s

CTW or a similar locally-approved form to determine reimbursement. The POV

mileage is compared to the constructed cost of the authorized transportation type and the lesser of the two

amounts is reimbursed. The constructed cost is the sum of the transportation ticket cost, the TMC fee,

and other related costs that include, but not limited to, taxi and TNC fares, terminal mileage, baggage

fees, ferry fees, parking, or rental car when authorized and necessary. The per diem that the Government

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would have incurred if travel had been performed by the authorized transportation mode is paid.

Table 2-11. Cost Comparison Rules for Using a POV

If…

Then…

POV v. Rental Car

air, train, bus, or Government-provided

transportation is not provided or available,

reimbursement is limited to the cost of the lowest

rental service and other related costs associated with

the rental.

the AO determines that a rental car is more

economical, but the traveler uses a POV,

POV v. Bus

neither air nor rail transportation is

provided,

mileage reimbursement is limited to what bus

transportation would have cost and other related

costs associated with the authorized transportation

option.

POV v. Commercial Airplane

a traveler is authorized to use a commercial

airplane and uses a POV instead,

the traveler is allowed the TDY mileage for the

official distance, limited to the policy-constructed

cost for air transportation and other related costs

associated with the authorized transportation option.

the policy-constructed airfare includes an

airfare available through the GSA City Pair

Program*,

a -CA GSA City Pair Program* airfare is not used

when creating a policy-constructed airfare for

comparison purposes and other related costs

associated with the authorized transportation option.

the policy-constructed airfare turns out to

be, or to include, a GSA City Pair Program*

airfare and both a YCA and a

-CA airfare are available,

the YCA airfare is used for cost comparison and

other related costs associated with the authorized

transportation option.

an individual traveling at Government

expense rides in the same POV as the

traveler claiming mileage,

the constructed transportation cost reimbursed to the

traveler claiming the mileage includes the policy-

constructed transportation cost of the passenger.

Vehicle v. Train

the official distance between authorized

locations (as determined by the DTOD or

from appropriate distances (non-DoD

Services)) is less than 250 miles one way or

less than 500 miles round trip, and use of

rail is available and time and cost effective,

rail is considered advantageous to the Government.

When rail transportation is considered advantageous

to the Government, and a POV is used instead, the

traveler is limited to the rail transportation cost and

other related costs associated with the authorized

transportation option.

an administrative determination is made

that rail transportation is more economical

than the commercial airfare provided

between the city and airport,

the constructed cost comparison also may be made

with rail transportation, including related per diem

and other related costs associated with the authorized

transportation option.

extra fare service, such as Acela, has been

authorized as being to the Government’s

advantage,

the constructed cost comparison may be limited to a

maximum of the cost of extra fare service and other

related costs associated with the authorized

transportation option.

Aero Club Aircraft v. Commercial Air

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Table 2-11. Cost Comparison Rules for Using a POV

If…

Then…

the use of an Aero Club aircraft is authorized

or approved, and two or more official

travelers are authorized to travel together,

reimbursement to the pilot is for the actual necessary

expenses, limited to the Government’s transportation

cost, for the pilot and accompanying travelers.

*See GSA City Pair Program.

G. Reimbursement for Mixed-Mode Travel When POV Is Involved. When an individual travels

partly by POV and partly by commercial modes between any two points listed as separate legs of the trip

(see

par. 020205), the travel is mixed mode. Reimbursement depends upon whether or not use of the

POV was more advantageous to the Government.

Table 2-12. Mixed-Mode Allowances and Reimbursements

If…

Then…

1 Allowances

an individual travels

partly by POV and

partly by commercial

airplane, train, bus, or

rental car for a leg of

the trip,

the allowances are a combination of the following:

a. TDY mileage for the distance traveled by POV.

b. The commercial airplane, train, bus, or rental car

transportation cost.

c. Per diem for the actual en route travel.

Reimbursement for these allowances is based on

whether or not a POV is advantageous to the

Government.

Determining

Reimbursement

POV use is more

advantageous to the

Government,

reimbursement is all of the above allowances, limited

to the TDY mileage for the official distance, plus the

associated per diem.

POV use is not to the

Government’s

advantage,

reimbursement is limited to the constructed cost of the

authorized mode of transportation for the entire leg of

the journey, plus the associated per diem.

H. Miscellaneous Reimbursable Expenses. If using a POV is more advantageous to the

Government, in addition to a TDY mileage allowance, a traveler may be reimbursed for the following:

1. Ferry fares.

2. Bridge, road, and tunnel tolls.

3. Parking fees in connection with official travel.

4. Cost of obtaining an international driver’s license when the mission requires one,

including the cost of the photos.

020211. Car Ferry Transportation

Only a passenger automobile, light truck, or similar vehicle used primarily for personal

transportation, regardless of size, is eligible for car ferry allowances. A traveler who is authorized to use

a car ferry must use a U.S. flag ferry, when available. The English Channel tunnel (Chunnel) is

considered a ferry only for computation purposes.

A. Reimbursement for Car Ferry Transportation. The AO may authorize reimbursement for car

ferry transportation. A traveler may be reimbursed for personal transportation costs, limited to the cost of

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Government-procured ferry transportation. Reimbursement includes any costs associated with the

vehicle’s movement on the car ferry. The AO may also authorize TDY mileage for the official distance

(based on the Defense Table of Official Distances (DTOD)) from both:

1. The PDS location to the car ferry’s port of embarkation and the car ferry’s port of

debarkation to the traveler’s TDY location.

2. The TDY location back to the PDS location, again taking into account the ports of

embarkation and debarkation.

B. Excess Costs. If the Government pays for transporting a POV on an oceangoing car ferry and

that transportation results in excess costs, the Government will bear those costs and will not collect the

excess costs from the traveler.

020212. Travel in and around the TDY Location

A. Travel Locations. Transportation expense reimbursement in the TDY area may be authorized

or approved for travel between (see par. 020205):

1. Lodging and duty site.

2. Duty sites.

3. Lodging or duty site and dining facility.

4. Lodging or duty site and transportation terminal.

B. Transportation Modes. The AO may authorize or approve the most economical transportation

mode at the TDY location that meets the mission requirements. The transportation mode must be

specified in the travel order if it is authorized before travel begins.

1. Public transportation should be the first option in and around the TDY location. Travelers

should familiarize themselves with subway, trains, and bus routes that are available between meetings,

lodging, and other locations at which business is to be conducted.

2. When authorized or approved, a traveler using commercial transportation may receive

reimbursement for local public transit system fares, taxi fares, TNC fares, or rental vehicle costs when

using a rental vehicle is more advantageous to the Government.

3. When a POV is authorized or approved, mileage is reimbursed at the TDY rate listed in

par. 020210

C. Meals or Lodging Unavailable at Duty Site

1. The AO may authorize reimbursement to a traveler for:

a. Daily round trips between lodging and duty site when suitable lodging is not available

at the duty site.

b. Trips to dining establishments when suitable dining establishments are not available

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near the lodging or duty site.

2. The traveler must furnish a statement that Government transportation was not available or,

if available, was not suitable for the travel involved.

020213. Ground Transportation

A. Use of Ground Transportation. A traveler should always use Government or courtesy

transportation to and from terminals and rental car facilities, if available. Travelers may use:

1. Transportation network companies, taxis or limousines. A traveler may include a tip up to

20% of the fare as part of the total fare amount claimed. The tip is not separately reimbursable. “Fare”

means the price paid for transportation, including all mandatory taxes and fees; it does not include

ancillary fees for optional services.

2. Buses.

3. Streetcars.

4. POVs.

5. Rental vehicles when authorized or approved.

6. Subways or other public transportation.

B. Transportation Network Companies. Although travelers may use this transportation mode, as

defined in Appendix A, cancellation fees and penalties charged by these companies are not reimbursable

expenses. Travelers must select the ride option most economical and advantageous to the Government,

when cost and other factors are considered. There is no authority to authorize or approve a premium or

luxurious option. A class upgrade for a larger vehicle may be authorized or approved to accommodate

multiple travelers; additional equipment; or when a premium TNC is equal to or less than the most

economical TNC. A traveler should select a ZEV TNC if the rate is equal to or less than the rate of the

non-ZEV TNC. If a ZEV TNC is not available, then travelers should select a hybrid TNC if the rate is

equal to or less than the rate of the non-ZEV TNC. If none are available, the traveler should select the

least expensive vehicle with the highest fuel efficiency.

Table 2-13. Reimbursement for Ground Transportation to and from

Terminals and Rental Car Facilities

If…

Then…

a traveler uses a POV and the TDY requires at

least one night’s lodging,

the traveler may be reimbursed TDY mileage

for travel from the residence to the PDS on the

TDY departure day, and from the PDS to the

residence on the TDY return day.

a traveler uses a POV to or from home or place

of duty to a transportation terminal,

he or she may be reimbursed for one-way

mileage for each way at the TDY mileage rate.

a traveler uses Government transportation or a

POV to take the most direct route,

the AO may allow ferry fares, and road, bridge,

and tunnel tolls.

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Table 2-13. Reimbursement for Ground Transportation to and from

Terminals and Rental Car Facilities

If…

Then…

a traveler is dropped off or picked up in a POV

when traveling to or from home or the place of

duty and taken to a transportation terminal,

he or she may be reimbursed for a round trip at

the TDY mileage rate. The traveler must certify

he or she incurred operating expenses if a

person other than a family member drives.

5 a traveler parks at a terminal,

he or she may be reimbursed actual expense up

to the cost of two one-way taxi fares or TNC

fares. The AO may waive this limitation for

Service members when the TDY is longer than

initially planned.

a rental vehicle is used to and from transportation

terminals at the PDS or TDY location, or

between carrier terminals, when authorized as

more advantageous to the Government,

the standard list of expenses for a rental vehicle

allowance plus transportation to and from the

rental car agency may be reimbursed.

a traveler uses public transportation,

he or she may be reimbursed the fare cost.

0203 PER DIEM ALLOWANCE AND OTHER COMPUTATION

RULES

Per diem allowance rates are based on the TDY location, stopover point, or other authorized official duty

points, but not on the lodging location. Ordinarily, per diem is based on a traveler’s TDY location at

2400 hours (midnight). If a traveler obtains lodging outside the area covered by the locality rate for the

TDY location because of personal preference or convenience, then per diem is limited to the maximum

rate prescribed for the TDY location. See current per diem rates

on the DTMO website.

020301. Daily Allowances

The Government pays per diem on a daily basis, for whole days. This does not include PDS

departure and return days. The calculation of per diem allowances for each travel day is based on the

actual amount paid for lodging, limited to the lodging portion of the locality per diem rate, plus the

applicable meal rate and incidental expense (M&IE) rate, unless otherwise stated in the JTR. The total

should not exceed the applicable maximum per diem rate for the TDY location. If the U.S. Government

furnishes meals and lodging at no cost to the traveler, then the total value of the meals and lodging plus

the incidental expense rate is limited to the maximum locality per diem rate.

020302. Allowable Travel Time As It Affects Per Diem

The AO determines the allowable travel time by the official distance, the type of transportation

authorized, and the transportation used. However, if the actual travel time is less than the allowable travel

time, then the AO approves per diem only for the actual days traveled. All time that is not official travel

time must be accounted for in accordance with appropriate personnel regulations.

A. POV, Government Automobile, or Rental Vehicle. When travel is authorized as

advantageous by POV, Government automobile, or a rental vehicle, one day of travel is authorized for

every 400 miles, per

Table 2-10. See par. 050205 (Service members) and par. 053807 (civilian

employees) for allowable PCS travel time. Additional travel time may be authorized or approved when

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the actual time exceeds the authorized time for reasons beyond a traveler’s control, for example, for Acts

of God. Per diem is payable for any days of additional travel time that are authorized under such

circumstances. See POV travel computation example 1 and POV travel computation example 2

B. En Route Per Diem. A traveler’s en route per diem is limited to the lesser of the actual time

used or the time allowed for the authorized mode of transportation. En route per diem is the per diem

received between travel points excluding per diem while at the TDY or leave location.

C. Airplane, Train, or Bus. When a traveler receives authorization to travel by commercial air,

the maximum time allowed in the CONUS and within areas OCONUS is one day. When the Government

purchases commercial air, train, or bus transportation, per diem is allowed for the actual time needed to

travel over the direct route including necessary delays. For travel by commercial train, the scheduled

departure and arrival dates are used. A traveler who elects to travel by a transportation mode other than

the one authorized is limited to the actual time used, not to exceed the allowed travel time for the mode of

transportation authorized.

Note: When the authorized transportation mode is not used, the AO considers the traveler’s required

check-in time, travel time from home or office to the airport, scheduled arrival time at the terminal,

and travel time from the terminal to home as well as transportation costs when constructing travel.

Constructing travel is calculating estimated costs based on the authorized mode of transportation

to compare to the traveler’s actual costs.

020303. Lodging

A traveler on TDY must reserve lodging compliant with U.S. Fire Administration Guidelines

through

a Government electronic travel system or the servicing TMC (5 U.S.C. §5707a). When TDY, a DoD

traveler must use the Integrated Lodging Program (ILP) facilities if available. During PCS travel, a

Service member must follow the lodging requirements in par. 050601. The Government cannot direct the

traveler to accept inadequate accommodations. Each Service and DoD agency must ensure that 90% or

more of all official travelers in the US and non-foreign OCONUS areas use commercial lodgings that

comply with the U.S. Fire Administration guidelines.

A. Booking Commercial Lodging

1. A traveler is responsible for any charges in excess of the per diem rate.

2. A traveler is responsible for canceling a room reservation within the established time

frame to avoid any no-show charges and must obtain a cancellation number to reverse a no-show charge.

3. If a traveler cannot book commercial lodging using the TMC (including the electronic

travel system) then the traveler must book directly with the commercial lodging facility (including the

hotel’s online Web site).

4. If a traveler obtains lodging through an online booking agent, reimbursement is authorized

only when the traveler provides a documented itemized receipt for room costs from the hotel or online

booking agent showing the following charges (CBCA 2431-TRAV, September 13, 2011

a. Daily hotel room costs.

b. Daily hotel taxes.

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c. Daily miscellaneous fees, if applicable.

Note: Only itemized charges are considered for reimbursement. Online booking receipts often break out

the cost of the room, but combine taxes and fees. In such cases, only the room cost is reimbursed

because the receipt does not itemize taxes and fees.

B. Booking Government Quarters and Government Lodging

1. A DoD Service member ordered to a U.S installation must use adequate and available

Government quarters. When ordered to an ILP site where adequate Government quarters are not

available, a DoD Service member must use other lodging available under the ILP. See JTR supplement

Integrated Lodging Program (ILP)

2. A civilian employee ordered to a U.S. installation must use adequate and available

Government quarters at designated ILP sites. See JTR supplement Integrated Lodging Program (ILP)

for

more information about exceptions. When ordered to an ILP installation where adequate Government

quarters are not available, a civilian employee must use other lodging available under the ILP. When

ordered to a U.S. installation that is not part of the ILP site a civilian employee is encouraged, but not

required, to use available Government quarters. In no instance may a civilian employee be required to

use inadequate lodging. For more information about the use of the ILP, see JTR supplement Integrated

Lodging Program (ILP).

3. Commercial lodging that is contracted by the Government, at no cost to the traveler, is

considered Government quarters. Lodging, at no expense to the traveler, may be booked without using

the TMC, outside a Government electronic travel system.

Note: The electronic travel system is used as the primary source to reserve Government quarters and

Government Lodging Programs. If the authorization is done outside the electronic travel system,

then reservations must be made through

DoD Lodging or by contacting the Government quarters

facility directly. The ILP does not apply to the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), National

Oceanographic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA), or U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS)

personnel.

C. Use of Government Quarters. Government quarters are available to USCG, NOAA, and

USPHS personnel only if the travel order directs their use. For Government quarters policy for Service

members and civilian employees, see

Table 2-14.

Table 2-14. Government Quarters Use

If…

Then…

a Service member is sent on TDY to a

U.S. installation and the Government

quarters on that installation (not

nearby) are adequate and available,

he or she is required to use Government quarters.

a Service member is provided a

certificate of non-availability number

for an installation initially,

he or she is not required to seek or check for Government

quarters when on TDY to that installation.

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Table 2-14. Government Quarters Use

If…

Then…

a Service member is on TDY at a

foreign installation,

he or she is not required to check for Government quarters

availability unless directed to do so in the travel order.

a traveler is participating in a

combined exercise or operation on a

foreign government installation, or

attending a foreign service school,

the AO may direct use of Government quarters on that

installation.

a Service member is ordered on a

TDY to a Joint Base with

geographically separated locations

that do not share a common

perimeter,

he or she must use Government quarters located on the part

of the base where the Service member is performing duty,

unless the Service member receives a certificate of non-

availability number at that location. A traveler should, but

is not required to, use Government quarters at other

locations geographically separated within the Joint Base.

adequate Government quarters are

available on the U.S. installation to

which a Service member is assigned

TDY, but the Service member

chooses to use other lodging,

the Service member is limited to the reimbursement cost of

Government quarters on the assigned TDY installation (

Comp. Gen. 626 (1965)).

adequate Government quarters are

available on the foreign installation

that a Service member is directed to

use, but the Service member chooses

to use other lodging,

adequate Government quarters are

available but a Service member is

directed to procure commercial

lodging off the U.S. installation,

the Service member is treated as though no Government

quarters are available and is authorized the locality M&IE

rate, instead of the Government meal rate (GMR) or the

Proportional meal rate (PMR).

D. Limiting Per Diem Not Permitted. Per diem reimbursement cannot be limited to the

Government quarters rate if the installation to which a Service member has been assigned TDY does not

have Government quarters, even if a nearby installation does have Government quarters.

E. Government Quarters Are Unavailable. Travel orders or travel vouchers must document when

Government quarters are not available at the U.S. installation to which the traveler is assigned TDY. The

Services have predetermined that Government quarters are considered unavailable when:

1. A TDY or delay point is somewhere other than a U.S. installation.

2. An AO determines that using Government quarters would adversely affect mission

performance. This statement does not apply to:

a. A Service member attending a Service school at a Uniformed Service facility.

b. Any officer in a pay grade of O-7 through O-10 or Senior Executive Service (SES)

employee who personally determines quarters availability.

3. A Service member has been assigned TDY at a medical facility as a non-medical attendant

accompanying a dependent in an outpatient status.

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4. TDY is at a Joint Base without a common perimeter and the Government quarters are

located at a geographically separate part of the Joint Base from the duty location.

F. Required Documentation When Government Quarters Are Not Available. When Government

quarters are not available, a DoD Service member is required to obtain a certificate of non-availability

number provided by the Service’s lodging registration process to justify reimbursement for commercial

lodging and per diem. When Government quarters are not available at an ILP site, a civilian employee is

required to obtain a certificate of non-availability number provided by the Service’s lodging registration

process to justify reimbursement for commercial lodging and per diem. If a travel system electronically

retains documentation of Government quarters availability when Government quarters are not selected for

use, then the Service member or civilian employee is exempt from the ILP requirement to obtain a

certificate of non-availability number.

Table 2-15. Lodging Reimbursement Rules

If…

Then…

a traveler does not use the

available ILP lodging at the

ILP site,

the traveler is limited to what the Government would have paid

(the total of the ILP negotiated lodging rate plus prorated taxes,

unless the traveler is tax exempt) and he or she is financially

responsible for all other costs associated with other than ILP site

use.

an official traveler shares a

room with a non-official

traveler,

the official traveler is reimbursed the actual daily lodging cost

based on the single occupant rate, limited to the lodging portion of

the locality per diem rate. A traveler who leases more spacious

lodging to accommodate a non-official traveler is not reimbursed

for the additional expense.

multiple travelers on official

travel share a room,

each official traveler is reimbursed for the prorated share limited

to the lodging portion of the locality per diem rate**.

multiple travelers sign a lease

for lodging,

each traveler is reimbursed for the prorated share of the lease

amount, up to the lodging portion of the locality per diem rate**.

The prorated share is based on all of the names of the official

travelers on the lease, excluding non-official travelers.*

a civilian employee lodges

with friends or relatives,

the civilian employee may be reimbursed for the additional

lodging costs that the hosts incur for the accommodation if the

civilian employee can substantiate the costs and the AO

determines the costs are reasonable.

a Service member lodges with

friends or relatives,

the Service member is not authorized lodging reimbursement (see

par. 020304).

a traveler is en route and

arrives at the TDY or stopover

location after midnight,

lodging is allowed as if arrival took place on the preceding day.

lodging is not available at the

TDY location,

the AO may authorize or approve obtaining lodging in an adjacent

locality where the per diem rate** is higher. If the higher rate is

not authorized in advance, the traveler must furnish a written

statement with the travel voucher explaining the circumstances to

validate an AEA based on the TDY location rate.

a traveler purchases or already

owns a residence used for

lodging during official travel,

reimbursement is not authorized for any costs or expenses

associated with this lodging.

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Table 2-15. Lodging Reimbursement Rules

If…

Then…

a traveler purchases a

residence, to include a

recreational vehicle (RV),

used for lodging during

official travel under a “rent-to-

buy” option,

all associated mortgage interest and property taxes previously

claimed must be repaid.

a traveler purchases, sells, or

makes payments on a privately

owned RV used for lodging

during official travel,

reimbursement is not authorized for any costs associated with the

purchase of the RV. The traveler may be reimbursed the

following expenses, limited to the total maximum lodging rate

allowed for the entire TDY:

a. Parking fees.

b. Utility connection, use, and disconnection fees.

c. Electricity, gas, water, sewage, bath, and shower fees.

d. Dumping fees.

a traveler is lodged in the

CONUS or non-foreign area

OCONUS,

a lodging tax is a reimbursable expense. When the cost of lodging

exceeds the lodging portion of the applicable per diem rate and

AEA is not authorized, reimbursement of lodging tax is limited to

what the Government would have paid if the cost of lodging was

equal to the lodging portion of the per diem rate.

a traveler is lodged in a

foreign area OCONUS,

the lodging tax is considered part of the lodging portion of per

diem** and is not separately reimbursable.

no commercial lodging facility

is available at the TDY

location or a room shortage

exists because of a special

event, remoteness, or shortage,

the cost of nonconventional lodging (obtained in other than a

commercial facility) may be authorized or approved when the

traveler provides a written explanation of non-availability

acceptable to the AO. Cleaning fees are part of the lodging cost

(see

par. 020303-G). Reimbursement cannot exceed the locality

per diem rate**.

*For multiple lessees, the long-term (not daily) lodging cost is split equally among the lessees,

excluding non-official travelers, before the daily reimbursement rate is computed.

**See current per diem rates.

G. Reimbursement for Commercial Lodging, Government Quarters, Other Lodging

Arrangements, and Miscellaneous Reimbursable Expenses. When a traveler procures long-term lodging,

on a weekly or monthly basis, the AO computes the daily TDY lodging costs by dividing the total lodging

cost for the period by the number of days the traveler is authorized the lodging portion of the locality per

diem rate (see

long-term TDY computation example 1). Expense items that do not accrue on a daily basis

are averaged over the number of days the traveler is authorized per diem during the TDY. Lodging at a

single-family home or apartment will be considered long-term lodging regardless of whether the charges

are accrued daily, weekly, or monthly. The AO includes the following costs in determining the long-term

lodging cost:

1. Utility connection, use, and disconnection.

2. Dumping.

3. Showers.

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4. Cleaning or maid fees.

5. Cable TV.

6. Automobile head bolt heaters, if ordinarily included in the hotel or motel rate in the area

concerned.

7. Monthly local telephone use. Monthly fees does not include installation charges,

unofficial long-distance calls, or monthly fees for a personally owned mobile phone when used instead of

an installed phone for official communications.

8. Parking space when RV is used.

9. Appropriate and necessary furniture rental.

10. Exchange fees involved in renting time-share lodging at the TDY point, but not the

annual maintenance fee.

11. Rental furniture or appliances. No reimbursement is authorized for items that are

contracted or rented with the option to buy unless there is no other alternative. If an “option-to-buy” plan

is used, the traveler must reimburse the Government the amount credited toward the purchase if paid as

part of the travel claim settlement. If a damage-waiver fee is required as part of the cost, the traveler may

be reimbursed for the fee as part of the furniture rental (

CBCA 1961-TRAV, July 20, 2010). A traveler

cannot be reimbursed for shipment or purchase of furniture (GSBCA 16699-TRAV, August 17, 2005).

Note: These items do not apply to contracted TDY lodging.

12. Parking fees when parking space is a driveway or parking space considered part of the

single-family home or apartment and are not separately reimbursable.

Table 2-16. Miscellaneous Reimbursable Expenses Associated with Lodging

If…

Then…

the Internet (Wi-Fi) is required at the

lodging location for official purposes,

the AO may authorize or approve Internet

connection charges.

certain fees are not optional, such as

tourism, safe, service, or resort fees,

the AO may authorize or approve reimbursement for

conventional lodging (i.e., hotel and motel lodging

establishments). When the cost of lodging exceeds

the lodging portion of the applicable per diem rate

and AEA is not authorized, reimbursement of

percentage-based fees associated with lodging is

limited to what the Government would have paid if

the cost of lodging was equal to the lodging portion

of the per diem rate.

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Table 2-16. Miscellaneous Reimbursable Expenses Associated with Lodging

If…

Then…

the TDY is canceled, curtailed, interrupted

due to official purposes, or for other reasons

beyond the traveler’s control,

the AO may authorize or approve reimbursement of

non-refundable deposits, prepaid rent, late and early

departure fees, or cancellation fees limited to the

remaining lodging and tax expenses that would have

been paid. The traveler must notify the lodging

facility in a timely manner of reservation changes

and seek to obtain a refund prior to reimbursement

approval.

a traveler must retain lodging for reasons

other than personal convenience at one TDY

location and procure lodging at a second

TDY location on the same calendar day,

the AO may authorize dual lodging for up to 7

consecutive days. Dual lodging covers lodging

expenses due to unexpected circumstances beyond

the traveler’s control. Special approval through the

Secretarial Process, after travel is complete, is

required for reimbursement of dual lodging beyond 7

days. The lodging cost at the first TDY location is

reimbursed as a miscellaneous reimbursable

expense, and the lodging cost at the second TDY

location as per diem. See

dual lodging computation

example.

the traveler cannot occupy lodging at the

first TDY location due to conditions beyond

the traveler’s control,

a traveler must retain airport daytime

lodging for reasons related to travel

arrangements and not for personal

convenience,

the AO may authorize or approve reimbursement for

lodging fees or daytime lodging charges.

the traveler or organization would

experience an economic impact by

relinquishing lodging based on factors, such

as daily, weekly, or monthly room rates;

availability; storage charges; or shipment

costs,

the AO may approve dual lodging for up to 7

consecutive days. Special approval through the

Secretarial Process, before or after travel is

complete, is required for reimbursement of dual

lodging beyond 7 days. The lodging cost at the first

TDY location is reimbursed as a miscellaneous

reimbursable expense, and the lodging cost at the

second TDY location as per diem.

dual lodging is requested and appears to

meet criteria for approval,

the AO must verify the necessity based on

reasonable and prudent actions of the traveler and

must not authorize or approve it for the traveler’s

convenience.

lodging is required on the day of departure

from the TDY site or an early check-in fee

is required on the day of arrival (effective

May 1, 2017),

the AO may authorize or approve reimbursement for

the lodging based on the TDY locality rate or

stopover point as appropriate.

advance room deposits are required by the

lodging facility to secure a room reservation

before official travel begins,

the AO may authorize reimbursement, unless the

deposit is forfeited because the travel is not

performed for reasons unacceptable to the DoD

Component or Service. In that case, the traveler is

financially responsible for the advance deposit.

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Table 2-16. Miscellaneous Reimbursable Expenses Associated with Lodging

If…

Then…

taxes on charges other than lodging, such as

on movies or room service fees, are included

in the lodging bill in the CONUS or non-

foreign area OCONUS,

reimbursement is not authorized.

a transaction fee for personally procured

lodging is incurred and the traveler does not

use an electronic travel system or an

available TMC,

reimbursement is not authorized.

a TMC is not available and the traveler

incurs a transaction fee for arranging

lodging,

the transaction fee is a reimbursable expense.

a TMC is available and the traveler incurs a

TMC fee for arranging lodging,

the TMC fee is a reimbursable expense.

the traveler is authorized or approved to use

nonconventional lodging,

a reasonable service fee, limited to the amount of the

fee charged by the TMC when required to make

manual reservations, is a reimbursable expense.

the traveler is authorized the use of

nonconventional lodging,

parking fees incurred due to the rental or lease of a

single-family home or apartment are factored into

the lodging cost as specified in par. 020203-G12.

Note: For dual lodging, the actual lodging cost reimbursed at the first TDY location is limited to the per

diem or AEA plus lodging tax that would have been paid had the traveler remained overnight at

that location. The dual-lodging claim must be supported by a receipt. Long-term dual lodging is

not authorized.

020304. M&IE Portion of Per Diem

M&IE reimbursement does not require expense itemization or receipts unless an actual expense

allowance (AEA) has been authorized or approved for some portion of the M&IE.

A. Meal Portion of Per Diem. The meal portion of per diem covers expenses for breakfast,

lunch, and dinner, including related taxes and tips for the meals. Meal rates change depending on who the

traveler is (Service member or civilian employee), the location, and the number and types of meals

available. After travel is completed, meal rates can be reduced only if the traveler received a deductible

meal (see

Table 2-18). When a traveler stays with friends or relatives, he or she is authorized the TDY

location M&IE rate if otherwise eligible.

Table 2-17. Types of Meal Rates

Type of Rate

Application

Locality

Meal Rate

Is based on the traveler’s TDY location or stopover point, and applies when

the traveler must purchase all meals commercially.

Proportional

Meal Rate (PMR)

Applies when either:

a. A Service member is lodged in adequate Government quarters or an ILP

facility on a U.S. installation and one or two meals are available and

directed in a Government dining facility on that installation. PMR for

available meals must be directed in the travel authorization, or

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Table 2-17. Types of Meal Rates

Type of Rate

Application

b. One or two deductible meals are provided at Government expense and at

no cost to the traveler (for example, as part of a registration fee or

conference fee) and the individual is not traveling.

The PMR is computed by averaging the standard GMR and the meals portion

of the applicable locality M&IE rate rounded up to the nearest dollar. Only

the meal rate is used for the computation. The appropriate incidental expense

rate is added to the PMR to create the proportional M&IE rate. The PMR

does not apply when the traveler is traveling.

Standard

Government

Meal Rate (GMR)

a. The standard GMR includes food and facility operating costs and applies

when a Service member is sent TDY to a U.S. installation where adequate

Government quarters or an ILP facility and three meals a day in a

Government dining facility are available on that installation.

b. The GMR does not apply when the Service member is traveling.

c. The GMR must be directed in the travel authorization.

Discounted

GMR

The discounted GMR is the cost for food minus facility operating costs. A

civilian employee is reimbursed the discounted meal rate if he or she is

charged for food while supporting field duty operations.

Incidental Expense

Only

Applies when all three meals are provided at no cost to the traveler. Table 2-

18 explains which meals are deductible.

B. Determining if a Meal Is Deductible. Table 2-18

defines what is considered a deductible meal

and what is not. See deductible meals computation example.

Table 2-18. Deductible and Non-Deductible Meals

Deductible Meal

Non-Deductible Meal

Provided based on an agreement between the

Government and any organization (except a

Government dining facility) if the travel

authorization directs the meal for a Service

member or indicates the facility providing the

meal is available for a civilian employee.

Box or bagged meal from a Government dining

facility (for example, a Meal, Ready to Eat),

except when that box or bagged meal from the

Government dining facility is the only way to

provide the Service member an adequate meal.

Included in a registration fee.

In-flight meals.

Paid by the Government and furnished at no

cost to the traveler.

Furnished on a commercial or military aircraft.

Furnished at no cost to the traveler while

attending a course of instruction at a school, if

the Government ultimately pays the school for

the meal’s cost.

Government meals consumed in a Government

dining facility.

Provided by a lodging establishment for which

an optional charge for a meal is added to the

lodging cost.

Provided by a private individual other than the

traveler.

Provided by a lodging establishment when

meals are included in the lodging cost under an

agreement between the Government and the

lodging establishment.

A no-cost complimentary meal provided by a

lodging establishment.

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Table 2-18. Deductible and Non-Deductible Meals

Deductible Meal

Non-Deductible Meal

Light refreshments (including a continental

breakfast), included as part of a registration fee

if they meet the requirements above and are

served at a meal time.

Light refreshments (including a continental

breakfast) included as part of a registration fee if

served during a break and not at a meal time.

C. Deductible Meals Unable to Be Consumed. The AO may authorize or approve the locality

meal rate or the PMR whichever is applicable, if the traveler meets all of the following criteria in either of

the following categories:

1. Medical Requirements or Religious Beliefs. The traveler meets all of the following

criteria:

a. Unable to eat an otherwise deductible meal because of medical requirements or

religious beliefs. The AO may require substantiating documentation from the appropriate professional

authority.

b. Attempted, but is unable, to make alternative meal arrangements for a substitute meal.

c. Must purchase a meal that satisfies the medical requirements or religious beliefs.

2. Requirements of the Mission. The traveler is unable to eat an otherwise deductible meal

due to requirements of the mission.

D. Government Dining Facilities. A Government dining facility is available only when the

Government quarters or ILP facility on the U.S. installation to which the Service member is assigned

TDY are adequate and available. Government facilities should be used to the maximum extent possible.

1. Use of the Government dining facility must be directed in the travel authorization. The

authorization must state when a Service member is to receive the PMR or GMR. Otherwise, the locality

meal rate is paid. Schoolhouse training or other excepted circumstance may impact meal rate payable.

2. A dining facility is considered not available:

a. When Government lodging on the U.S installation is not available.

b. On travel days.

c. When an AO determines that:

(1) The use of the Government dining facility adversely affects mission

performance.

(2) There is excessive distance between the Government dining facility and places of

duty or lodging.

(3) Transportation is not reasonably available between the Government dining

facility and places of duty or lodging.

(4) Duty hours and Government dining facility operating hours are incompatible.

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3. When a travel authorization directs the use of a Government dining facility for TDY travel

and it is not available, a traveler must provide a statement of non-availability explaining which meals

were not available and why, to receive reimbursement. The reason for non-availability must be

acceptable to and approved by the AO. Once approved, the travel authorization must be modified to

document the change in meal rate.

4. An organization may not treat TDY Service members as permanent party by providing

Government meals in a dining facility at no charge. A TDY Service member pays for meals in the

Government dining facility except in the following circumstances: Essential Unit Mess, field duty, sea

duty, Service members traveling together with no reimbursement or Joint Task Force Operations. See the

DoD Financial Management Regulation, Vol. 7A

, Chapter 25.

E. Incidental Expense Reimbursement. The incidental expense allowance is a separate portion

included in the per diem allowance and is defined under Appendix A. The reimbursement rates for

incidental expenses differ by location:

1. CONUS Incidental Expenses are $5.00.

2. OCONUS Locality Incidental Expenses are the rate when the TDY is not on a U.S.

installation. If the AO determines that a reduced rate for incidental expenses is adequate, then the $3.50

may be authorized.

3. OCONUS Reduced Incidental Expenses ($3.50) are the rate when a traveler is assigned to

a TDY at a U.S. installation and lodged in Government quarters, except for en route travel days. If the

AO determines that the $3.50 is inadequate, then the OCONUS locality rate for incidental expenses may

be authorized and stated on the travel authorization. This does not apply on any day the Service member

is traveling.

020305. Occasional Meals or Occasional Lodging

Occasional meals or occasional lodging may be authorized or approved when a traveler must either

purchase meals from commercial or Nonappropriated Funds (NAF) sources, or obtain lodging through

commercial, Government, or NAF sources when per diem is not otherwise authorized.

A. Service Member. Occasional meals or occasional lodging may be authorized or approved

when the Service member is:

1. Escorting an arms-control inspection team or its members. This applies within PDS

limits, and only for a Service member escorting an arms-control inspection team or its members while

engaged in activities related to the implementation of an arms-control treaty or agreement during the in-

country period referenced in the treaty or agreement.

2. On TDY within the PDS local area, but outside the PDS limits.

3. Service members are traveling together with no or limited reimbursement.

4. On TDY or training duty aboard a ship.

5. On field duty.

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6. A Service member (straggler) who is separated from others traveling together under a

travel authorization directing no or limited reimbursement travel.

7. In Essential Unit Messing (EUM).

8. Hospitalized as an inpatient.

9. Part of the Senior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (SROTC). Lodging and meal

expenses are authorized or approved at a point of delay for an SROTC member traveling to or from field

training or practice cruises and delayed through no personal fault at a location where neither Government

quarters nor a Government dining facility is available.

B. Reimbursement Limitation

1. The lodging cost allowed is limited to the lodging portion of the locality per diem rate.

2. In special or unusual circumstances when the amounts claimed exceed the lodging portion

of the locality per diem rate, the AO may authorize reimbursement for the actual cost of occasional

lodging.

3. When a Service member is required to procure or retain unoccupied lodging or to procure

or retain lodging at more than one location on any calendar day, dual-lodging reimbursement applies.

4. If the AO determines that a Service member is required to procure meals, then the

reimbursement is the actual amount paid, limited to the PMR (no incidental expense), and based on the

applicable locality per diem rate.

5. If more than one locality is involved on any given day, the PMR limit is based on the

highest locality M&IE rate.

C. Civilian Employee

1. A civilian employee may be reimbursed expenses for occasional meals or occasional

lodging expenses that the civilian employee must incur at a time when the meals or lodging are furnished

without cost (or at nominal cost) for TDY of more than 12 hours.

2. When the traveler is not authorized per diem, but must purchase meals and lodging:

a. The AO may authorize or approve reimbursement for the actual amount paid, up to the

PMR (no incidental expenses) for meals, or for lodging up to the lodging portion of the locality per diem

rate.

b. The AO may authorize the actual expense allowance (AEA) if the actual meal expense

is more than the PMR or the lodging cost exceeds the lodging portion of the locality per diem rate.

020306. Meal Ticket Maximum Rates

Meal tickets

may be issued to Service members only as specifically authorized by the JTR.

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020307. AEA (Instead of Per Diem)

An AEA is a form of reimbursement that, in unusual circumstances, enables a TDY traveler to be

reimbursed for actual and necessary expenses that exceed the maximum locality per diem rate. An AEA

must be stated in the travel authorization when authorized in advance of travel. All travelers going to the

same place at Government expense, at which AEA is authorized, should be treated the same if possible.

A. Maximum Amount. An AEA is the lesser of the two: actual expenses incurred or the AEA

maximum amount. An AO may authorize or approve an AEA of up to 300% of the locality per diem rate

(rounded to the next higher dollar). See

AEA computation example 1.

B. Computation

1. The AEA must not exceed the approved percentage of the maximum locality per diem

rate. If AEA for lodging and M&IE exceeds the maximum locality AEA per diem rate, then decrease the

M&IE AEA rate to the descending dollar and add the extra cents to the AEA lodging amount. The daily

amount is not prorated for fractions for the day; however, the AO must review and approve expenses

incurred and claimed for a fraction of the day.

2. The reimbursement method and daily maximum for the departure day from the PDS are

the same as for the first location where lodging is required. On the return day to the PDS, the same

method and daily maximum applicable to the previous calendar day applies. Par. 020310

applies for

reimbursement when return travel to the PDS requires two or more days.

3. Only one reimbursement method is authorized for each TDY location, except when one

reimbursement is authorized for occasional meals and lodging. When a TDY involves travel to multiple

locations with more than one daily maximum reimbursement during a single trip, the applicable rate or

reimbursement method for each calendar day, beginning at 0001, is determined by the traveler’s status

and TDY location at 2400 on that calendar day. See AEA computation example 2

4. When TDY is a special mission and non-deductible meals are available under special

arrangements, AEA for such meals is limited to the charge for each meal or limited to the arranged

charges for three meals per day.

Table 2-19. Considerations Impacting AEA

If…

Then…

traveling with a dignitary and it requires staying at the same hotel as the

dignitary,

the traveler may be

authorized an AEA.

traveling to an area where costs have escalated for a short period of time

and it is during a special function or event, such as the following:

a. A missile launch,

b. A summit meeting,

c. A sports competition,

d. The World’s Fair,

e. A convention,

f. National or natural disaster, and its aftermath,

affordable lodging is not available within reasonable commuting

distance of the TDY point and the transportation cost to commute to and

from the less expensive lodging facility would be more expensive than

staying at the more expensive lodging,

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Table 2-19. Considerations Impacting AEA

If…

Then…

the traveler must incur much higher expenses than normal during similar

travel situations and the traveler must procure superior or extraordinary

accommodations, including a suite or other lodging, for which the

charge is well above what has usually been paid for accommodations,

C. Traveling to Disaster Area. An AEA is usually authorized on an individual trip basis.

However, the DoD Component has authority, using the Secretarial Process, to issue a blanket AEA

authorization to cover the AEA expenses of all travelers in a presidentially declared disaster or pandemic

area.

D. Authority to Exceed 300%. In rare instances, OCONUS, more than 300% of lodging may be

required.

1. Authority for a Service Member. In advance of travel, the AO must submit an encrypted

email request with supporting documentation with the subject “AEA REQUEST” to dodhra.mc-

alex.dtmo.mbx.pdtatac-[email protected]. The Secretary concerned for specific classified missions

OCONUS, or the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Special Operations/Low Intensity Conflict (ASD

SO/LIC) for missions funded under Major Force Program – 11 (MFP-11), may authorize a Service

member to receive AEA for lodging costs that exceed 300% of OCONUS per diem rates. This authority

cannot be re-delegated.

2. Authority for a Civilian Employee. No authority in the Federal Travel Regulation (FTR)

allows a civilian employee to be reimbursed more than 300% of AEA. The civilian employee may be

authorized AEA for lodging only or lodging and M&IE, limited to the AEA maximum amount.

E. AEA Authorized for Lodging Only

1. Reimbursement of the actual cost of lodging, not to exceed the maximum amount

authorized in the AEA, is allowed.

2. M&IE is paid at the locality per diem rate without itemization.

F. AEA Authorized for Lodging and M&IE

1. Reimbursement of actual costs for lodging, meals, and incidental expenses is allowed and

itemization is required.

2. Items defined as incidental expenses (for example: baggage and hotel tips) that do not

accrue on a daily basis are averaged over the days at the TDY location.

3. See AEA computation example 4

4. Reimbursement for Incidental Expenses may not exceed the Incidental Expense rates in

par. 020304-F

G. Duration of AEA. An AEA may be paid for the entire trip, during travel, or during a portion

of the TDY. However, an AEA that is paid for M&IE applies by location for the entire TDY period at

that location.

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1. Departure Day. The reimbursement method and daily maximum for the departure day

from the PDS is the same as for the first location where lodging is required.

2. Return Day. On the return day to the PDS, the same method and daily maximum

applicable to the previous calendar day applies.

H. AEA Not Payable. An AEA may not be claimed for meals or lodging that is:

1. Included in a registration fee.

2. Procured at the traveler’s PDS or residence.

3. Purchased while at or en route to or from a nearby carrier terminal when travel begins or

ends there. AEA also cannot be claimed when a meal is part of a transportation ticket price and is

provided during the trip, but the traveler chooses to purchase a meal after leaving the airplane, train, bus,

or ship.

020308. Reduced Per Diem

An AO should request reduced per diem when a per diem rate is more than the amount necessary,

based on known lodging- or meal-cost reductions in effect due to prearrangements, special discounts, or

other reasons. The AO must request and authorize reduced per diem before travel.

A. Authority to Reduce Per Diem

1. For a Service member, the authority to reduce a per diem rate rests with the DoD

Component head or the Secretary concerned.

2. For a civilian employee, only a DoD Component head may authorize a reduced per diem

rate, except as otherwise specified in the JTR.

B. Requests for Reduced Per Diem

1. Reduced per diem rates may be requested for as low as zero and, once authorized, must be

stated in the travel authorization. If a request is submitted and approved after travel begins, an

amendment to the original travel authorization is made, and applies to a future period. The reduced per

diem does not apply on en route travel days. An increase to the reduced per diem rate for a travel period

that has been completed can only be approved on an AEA basis.

2. Requests for reduced per diem are submitted to the appropriate activity listed at

Per Diem

Rate Reduction. Requests must include the established lodging and meal costs, the traveler’s name, travel

dates, the TDY location, the point of contact’s name and phone number for the request, and the

recommended reduced per diem rate.

C. Exception for U.S. Coast Guard (USCG). USCG Service members assigned to detached duty

at USCG stations (small), USCG Search and Rescue detachments, USCG air facilities, USCG auxiliary

operation stations, and Operation Bahamas, Turks and Caicos may be paid 75% of the reduced M&IE, if

any, prescribed for the site on travel days, if applicable.

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020309. Trip Length As It Affects Per Diem

The length of a TDY trip has a major impact on the amount of per diem reimbursement.

Table 2-20. Per Diem Reimbursement

When travel is… For the…

The per diem rate

is based on…

Computation

12 hours or less,

Not applicable.

Per diem is not authorized.

more than 12

hours but less

than 24 hours

and no lodging

is required,

Not applicable.

the highest locality

rate for each day.

75% of the highest M&IE rate for each

calendar day in a travel status.**

more than 12

hours but less

than 24 hours

and lodging is

required,

Not applicable.

the TDY location

or stopover point

Lodging up to the per diem rate plus

75% of the M&IE rate for each day of

travel.**

24 hours or

more and no

lodging is

required en

route,

en route travel

days to the

TDY location,

the rate for the next

official destination.

a. 75% of the locality M&IE rate for

the day of departure from the PDS.

b. 100% of the applicable M&IE rate

for the subsequent days of travel.

en route travel

days from the

TDY location

to the PDS,

the rate for the last

official destination.

c. 100% of the applicable M&IE rate

for the day of departure from the

TDY location.

d. 75% of the locality M&IE rate for

the day of arrival at the PDS.

24 hours or

more and

lodging is

required en

route,

en route travel

days to the

TDY location,

the TDY or

stopover point

where lodging is

procured.

a. Lodging up to the per diem rate plus

75% of the locality M&IE rate for

the day of departure from the PDS.

b. 100% of the applicable M&IE rate

for the subsequent days of travel.

en route travel

days from the

TDY location

to the PDS,

a. 100% of the applicable M&IE rate

for the day of departure from the

TDY location.

b. 75% of the locality M&IE rate for

the day of arrival at the PDS.

**Per diem payment for TDY of more than 12 hours but less than 24 hours may be taxable (IRS Rule

68-663 and 26 CFR § 1.162-2(a)). The civilian employee should verify possible state and local

implications.

Note: Exception for U.S. Coast Guard. For the day travel ends (return day to the PDS, home, or

authorized delay point), per diem is based on the M&IE applicable to the last TDY or authorized

delay point whether or not overnight lodging was required.

020310. Lodging and M&IE Per Diem Calculation Rules

The calculation of per diem allowance for each day at a TDY location based on the actual amount

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paid for lodging, limited to a ceiling amount, plus an allowance for M&IE, the total limited to the

applicable maximum per diem rate for the TDY location concerned.

A. Reimbursement While En Route from Home or PDS to TDY Location. Lodging

reimbursement is based on the actual cost of lodging, limited to the lodging portion of the locality per

diem rate at the TDY location or at the stopover. The M&IE for the departure day is 75% of the M&IE

rate of the traveler’s stopover point or TDY location that night if lodging is used. If the traveler is

traveling overnight and does not use lodging, the M&IE rate is based on the rate at the next destination.

B. Reimbursement at Stopover Points. A stopover point is necessary when travel is for more

than 1 day. That generally means that lodging is required. Lodging at the stopover point does not include

sleeping in the transportation terminal. Per diem at a stopover point is based on the locality per diem rate

at the stopover. See

stopover point computation example.

C. Reimbursement at the TDY Location. For each full day, a traveler receives the actual cost of

lodging limited to the lodging portion of the locality per diem rate of the stopover point or TDY location

at 2400 hours, plus the applicable M&IE rate. If lodging is required for a TDY that lasts more than 12

hours, but less than 24 hours, then reimbursement is for the actual cost of lodging, limited to the lodging

portion of the locality per diem rate plus 75% of the M&IE rate. A meal provided by a friend or relative

or by a commercial company on an airplane, train, bus, or ship does not affect per diem. A

complimentary meal provided by a lodging establishment does not affect per diem as long as the room

charge is the same with or without meals.

D. Reimbursement While En Route between TDY Locations. When a traveler departs one TDY

location and goes to another, the M&IE rate is 100% based on the traveler’s new TDY location (or

stopover point, if lodging is used). If the traveler is traveling overnight and does not use lodging, the

M&IE rate is based on the new TDY location.

E. Reimbursement While En Route from TDY Location to Home or PDS. Lodging

reimbursement for a stopover point en route to the home or PDS is based on the actual cost of lodging,

limited to the lodging portion of the locality per diem at the stopover point.

1. The M&IE for the return day to the PDS is 75% of the M&IE rate for the preceding day

(whether that day was spent at the last TDY location or at a stopover point, if lodging was used). Any

TDY locations en route on the day travel ends do not affect the M&IE rate for that return day to the PDS

or home.

2. For U.S. Coast Guard Service members, the per diem is based on the M&IE applicable to

the last TDY or authorized delay point the day travel ends (return day to the PDS, home, or authorized

delay point), whether or not overnight lodging was required there.

F. Reimbursement While En Route from Old PDS to New PDS or TDY En Route Location.

When a traveler departs on PCS travel from their old PDS to their new PDS the per diem rate used is the

next official point where overnight lodging is required. If the next official point is a passenger port of

embarkation or debarkation, those points are only considered for per diem purposes if overnight lodging

is required at them.

020312. Return to Permanent Duty Station (PDS) During Long-Term TDY

Long-term TDY means continuous travel for 31 days or more (other than deployment). For purposes

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of this provision, the return to the PDS location must be accomplished on non-duty days or during non-

duty hours. Any expenses greater than what is allowed are the traveler’s responsibility. The return must

be either to the PDS location or to the place from which a traveler commute daily to the PDS location.

There are two types of returns to the PDS location:

A. Authorized Returns

1. Authorized returns must be authorized in the travel authorization.

2. Allowance is for the round-trip cost of transportation and per diem between the TDY

location and the PDS location. No per diem is payable at the PDS location.

3. The AO may authorize or approve lodging retained at the TDY location during the

authorized return as mission essential if the reasons for retaining the lodging are reasonable, necessary,

and not merely for the traveler’s convenience. Retained lodging is paid as a reimbursable expense,

limited to the lodging portion of the locality per diem rate.

Note: Periodic return travel to the PDS is not authorized for U.S. Coast Guard Service members.

B. Voluntary Returns. A TDY traveler may voluntarily return to the PDS or residence from

which the traveler commutes daily to the PDS during non-duty hours or authorized leave periods.

1. No per diem or AEA is payable while at the PDS.

2. Reimbursement is for the lesser of these two: round-trip cost of the transportation used,

plus the en route per diem, or what it would have cost had the traveler remained at the TDY location.

3. Lodging taxes are not included in the constructed cost when the TDY location is in the

CONUS or a non-foreign location OCONUS because the taxes are reimbursable expenses and not part of

lodging.

4. If the TDY location is in a foreign area, then lodging taxes are included in the computation

because they are part of the lodging cost and not separately reimbursable.

5. For exceptions allowing retained lodging at the TDY location during voluntary returns,

see Chapter 3, Part C and Chapter 6

020313. Tax Impact of TDY Travel on a Civilian Employee

Long-term TDY may impact a civilian employee’s taxes when the duration of TDY travel at one

location is more than 365 consecutive days. Although the Government may consider this TDY travel, the

Internal Revenue Service (IRS) may consider TDY of this duration as permanent and any travel and

transportation allowances associated with that TDY as taxable income.

A. TDY Changes. If a TDY is expected to last less than one year, but the expectation changes

some time during the TDY so that the TDY is anticipated to last more than one year, then the IRS may

treat that TDY as temporary until the date that the expectation changed. Allowances from that date

forward at that location become taxable income. Allowances received before the expectation changed are

not taxable (see

CBCA 2594-TRAV, April 13, 2012).

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B. Breaks Between TDYs. There must be a 7-month break between TDYs at one location to stop

the IRS 365-day clock. When a TDY lasts less than 1 year at one location and the civilian employee

returns to the PDS and then returns to the same TDY location for another TDY, allowances for the second

TDY may become taxable. The IRS may consider the second TDY a continuation of the first TDY if at

least 7 months have not elapsed since the first TDY ended.

C. Income Tax Reimbursement Allowance (ITRA) for civilians (FTR §301-11, Subpart F

). A

civilian employee may partially offset the additional Federal, state, and local income tax liabilities that

result from official travel through eligibility for an ITRA. The ITRA will not reimburse a civilian

employee for the full amount of the tax liability, as it takes into account only income taxes. The ITRA

does not compensate for employment taxes (

26 U.S.C. §21 (Federal Insurance Contributions Act) or

Medicare) on these amounts.

D. AOs Must Advise a Civilian Employee. An AO must advise each civilian employee of the

potential obligations for additional income tax if a TDY is expected to fall within possible taxable time

frames. State tax rules differ by state and locality. The AO should advise each civilian employee to

consult a tax expert for guidance on the tax impact on specific situations.

E. Agency Liability. An AO must be aware that the Agency may be liable for the Agency

portion of employment taxes related to the civilian employee’s TDY travel.

020314. Impact of the International Date Line (IDL) on Per Diem

The IDL is an imaginary line along the 180th meridian where each calendar day begins. Thus, when

it is Thursday east of the IDL, it is Friday west of the IDL.

Table 2-23. IDL Impact on Per Diem

If…

Then…

crossing the IDL while traveling from West to

East,

the traveler gains one day of per diem. See

international dateline computation example 1 and

international dateline computation example 2.

crossing the IDL while traveling from East to

West,

the traveler may lose one day of per diem.

Note: For PCS travel, refer to par. 0503.

020315. Other Circumstances Impacting a Traveler’s Per Diem

A. Hospitalization. A traveler who is an inpatient is not authorized per diem reimbursements

during hospitalization except for specific circumstances. See Chapter 3, Part D for rules regarding

inpatient and outpatient treatment.

B. Traveler Dies or Goes Missing While in a TDY Status. A traveler is authorized transportation

and per diem through the end of the calendar day of the death. A traveler who is determined to be

missing under the Missing Persons Act is authorized per diem through the end of the calendar day on

which the traveler was declared missing (

44 Comp. Gen. 657 (1965)).

C. Personnel Are Traveling Together and Travel Authorization Directs Limited or No Per Diem

Reimbursement. The AO may direct personnel to travel together away from the PDS because the mission

requires them to remain together, not just because it saves money. Per diem is not authorized, even at a

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reduced rate, on travel days when personnel are traveling together; the travel authorization directs limited

or no reimbursement; and transportation, food, and lodging expenses are provided without costs to

travelers.

1. The AO may authorize occasional meals and lodging when traveling, not at the TDY

location.

2. The rules on personnel traveling together begin when a traveler departs the PDS location

and end at 2400 on the day that a traveler arrives at the TDY location. Then, it begins again at 0001 on

the day that a traveler departs the TDY location and ends when the traveler returns to the PDS location.

A civilian employee pays the food cost and operating expenses (surcharge) and is authorized

reimbursement only for the food cost.

D. Per Diem Payment during Field Duty. Field duty is a specific status normally associated with

war games and field exercises, and is so directed in the travel authorization. During field duty, the

Government provides lodging and meals to the traveler. The lodging may be non-transient barracks or

tents, and the meals may be field rations.

1. Per diem is not authorized for a Service member in a field-duty status or for a civilian

employee providing non-combatant support, or while accompanying, a military unit that is on designated

field duty. However, the senior commander in charge of an exercise, or a designee, may authorize per

diem reimbursement if lodging is not available without charge or meals are not available without charge

for an enlisted Service member. The Secretary concerned authorizes payment of per diem, including

reduced per diem.

2. If a civilian employee pays the discounted GMR for meals consumed in a dining facility

while on field duty or for field rations, then the civilian employee may be reimbursed the actual costs

incurred. The AO may authorize occasional meals and lodging expenses when needed.

3. The field-duty rules on per diem begin 0001 on the day after arrival and end at 2400 on the

day before the field-duty status ends.

4. The Secretary concerned may authorize a lower per diem for a Service member on field

duty deployed OCONUS away from the PDS. The authorized rate is paid instead of the prescribed per

diem rate and may be paid while the Service member is in field duty. The total per diem paid during the

entire period is about equal to the per diem that would have been paid for the time not in a field duty

status. The Secretary concerned may delegate the authority to a Department headquarters or Naval

Systems Headquarters commander with no further delegation. When authorized, the reduced per diem

rate is paid regardless of the location OCONUS.

E. Essential Unit Messing (EUM) for Meals. EUM refers to using the Government dining

facility as a unit or group, and cannot be applied to an individual traveler. It may be required for

operational deployments or training for certain courses, when the Secretary concerned, the Combatant

Commander, or the Joint Task Force (JTF) Commander determines that it is essential for accomplishing

training and readiness or is necessary for military operations.

1. EUM applies to organizational units, operational elements, operational deployments, or

detachments. When EUM has been established, the Government provides meals to a Service member,

and the M&IE is reduced to only the applicable incidental expenses. The AO may authorize occasional

meals and lodging when necessary.

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2. A civilian employee, when in EUM and in a training status, may receive the discount

GMR. The civilian employee in EUM while supporting an operational deployment or contingency

operation receives the incidental expenses portion of per diem and the discount GMR.

3. The rules on paying per diem for meals during EUM begin at 0001 on the day after arrival

or the first full EUM day and end at 2400 on the day before EUM ends.

F. Per Diem While Aboard a Government Ship. Per diem for the arrival day on board and

departure day are based on the port rates. Per diem is not authorized on the days of arrival and departure

from the ship, if the port is the traveler’s PDS and meals are furnished with or without charge. The

traveler is not charged lodging costs on a Government ship. If a traveler must retain lodging at the same

or prior TDY location, then the actual daily lodging cost is paid, not to exceed the locality lodging per

diem ceiling for the TDY location ashore.

1. A Service member TDY aboard a ship is provided meals with or without charge, and is

ineligible for per diem beginning at 0001 on the day after arrival through 2400 on the day before

departing the ship.

2. If a civilian employee pays for meals aboard a Government ship, the current GMR is paid

for each meal, unless the AO authorizes a different special rate. If the GMR is payable, reimbursement

commences at 0001 on the day after arrival and terminates at 2400 on the day before the time aboard the

ship ends.

3. If a civilian employee performs TDY ashore and is authorized to procure lodging and

meals at personal expense, then the civilian employee may be reimbursed up to the maximum locality per

diem rate.

G. Per Diem for TDY on a Foreign (Non-Government) Ship or TDY on a Ship Constructed by a

Commercial Contractor (Acceptance Trials Before Commissioning). A Service member is not authorized

per diem when the Government furnishes both quarters and all meals without charge.

1. If a Service member is required to retain lodging at the same or prior TDY location, then

dual lodging is authorized in accordance with JTR rules.

2. The rules on paying per diem on a foreign ship, or a ship constructed by a commercial

contractor, begins at 0001 on the day after arrival and ends at 2400 on the day before the status ends.

H. Per Diem While Traveling on a Commercial Ship for Travel of 24 or More Hours (Excludes

Oceangoing Ferry). Per diem is based on the port’s location for the arrival and departure days. A traveler

is not authorized reimbursement for meals if they are furnished without charge or included as part of the

accommodations.

1. A traveler is authorized reimbursement for meals equal to the furnished meal cost and the

AO must set the meals portion of per diem equal to the anticipated expenses and indicate the

circumstances warranting the rate.

2. If the AO establishes a per diem rate payable for travel of 24 or more hours on a

commercial ship, the per diem commences at 0001 on the day after arrival and terminates at 2400 on the

day before the status ends.

I. TDY In Connection with Fitting-out or Conversion of a Ship or Service Craft. Per diem is

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authorized for a Service member during each fitting-out or conversion period. This period includes the

day the ship is commissioned or service craft is placed in-service, and the day the ship is decommissioned

or service craft is placed out of service. Per diem ends on the day the Service member’s assignment is

changed from either of the following:

1. TDY in connection with fitting-out or conversion of a ship or service craft to permanent

duty aboard that ship or service craft.

2. Permanent duty aboard the ship in connection with ship decommissioning or placement of

the service craft out of service changes, even if that status change takes place before the ship

commissioning or decommissioning or before the date the service craft is placed in or out of service.

J. Per Diem While Traveling on a Car Ferry. If lodging on the car ferry is not required, then the

M&IE while on the ferry is the rate applicable to traveler’s location at 2400 on the day departing the

ferry. If lodging is required, then:

1. Reimbursement for required accommodations is authorized unless included in the ferry

transportation cost.

2. The daily per diem rate for the arrival day on the ferry through the day before the

departure day from the ferry is equal to the highest CONUS M&IE rate.

3. On the departure day from the ferry, the M&IE rate is the rate applicable to the traveler’s

location at 2400 on that day.

K. Per Diem Not Allowed During Permissive TDY. Permissive TDY is TDY at no cost to the

Government. See the DoD Financial Management Regulation, Vol. 9 (Travel Policy) for more

information.

L. Per Diem When Lodging and Meals Procured Under Contract. A contracting officer may

contract for rooms and or meals for a traveler on TDY, or a group of travelers. The total daily amount the

Government pays for a traveler’s lodging and M&IE is limited to the applicable locality per diem rate for

the location concerned or the authorized or approved AEA limit. When lodging and meals are contracted,

reimbursement is limited to the incidental expense portion of per diem and is not authorized for other

items or services paid for by a traveler.

M. Per Diem When Delaying Return Travel to Use Reduced Travel Fares. When the traveler

elects to stay at a TDY location longer than required by the assignment to qualify for reduced

transportation fares and the AO authorizes or approves the action, per diem or AEA for the additional

time may be paid if both of the following conditions are met:

1. The delay does not extend the TDY time beyond the time when the traveler is required to

be back at work at the PDS (B-192364, February 15, 1979; B-169024, May 5, 1970

2. The delay does not exceed the cost of travel as originally planned.

N. Travel on a Non-workday to a Location Other than the PDS. A traveler is authorized per

diem on a non-duty or non-workday away from a TDY site at a location other than the residence or PDS

for personal reasons. Transportation costs are not authorized and the per diem is limited to the amount

the traveler would have received at the TDY site. See

par. 033301 for effect of leave or administrative

absence on per diem.

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O. Allowances When a TDY Is Abandoned. When a civilian employee abandons a TDY for

personal reasons acceptable to the AO, either before reporting to the TDY location or before the

assignment is complete, then only travel and transportation allowances to the abandonment point are

allowed. If the personal reasons are unacceptable to the AO, then no travel and transportation allowances

are authorized. Costs to return to the PDS are the civilian employee’s responsibility unless the civilian

employee completed the TDY.

P. Brief Stay in the PDS Vicinity during a TDY

1. A civilian employee traveling between TDY locations who has to stop at the PDS airport

in connection with the transportation and remain overnight at a hotel instead of going home or going to

the workplace may be eligible for travel allowances. The stay at the PDS vicinity is due to circumstances

beyond the traveler’s control and not for the traveler’s convenience (

GSBCA 16144-TRAV, November

14, 2003).

2. Per diem must be paid as specified in section 0203

Q. TDY Location Becomes PDS

1. Service Member. When a Service member is on TDY and receives a PCS order that

makes the TDY location the Service member’s new PDS, the impact on travel allowances is as follows

(for travel to the new PDS, see

Chapter 5):

a. If the change is effective immediately, or the Service member is not required to return

to the old PDS to detach from or sign out of a unit or agency, per diem at the TDY location stops on the

day the Service member receives the PCS order. While the Service member is still in an official travel

status, per diem is not payable as they are at the new PDS location.

b. If the change is effective on a specified future date which occurs after the Service

member returns from the TDY to the old PDS, then per diem continues for the TDY. The official travel

status ends when the Service member returns to the PDS location.

2. Civilian Employee

a. Whenever possible, coordinate the civilian employee’s TDY with the notice about a

change to the PDS so that the civilian employee has time to return to the old PDS from the TDY location.

This allows the civilian employee time to arrange for a residence sale, dependent and household goods

(HHG) transportation, and travel to the new PDS in time to report for duty on the PCS effective date.

b. Payment of per diem stops on the date the civilian employee receives notice that the

TDY location becomes the PDS, unless he or she is performing a TDY at the new PDS before the transfer

is effective. In such case, per diem is paid and the TDY is terminated by a return to the old PDS, where

the civilian employee performs substantial duty.

(1) The civilian employee is authorized PCS allowances if the transfer is in the

Government’s interest. See Chapter 5

for PCS allowances.

(2) If the PDS change is effective at some specific future date, and the civilian

employee completes the TDY and returns to the old PDS before the PCS effective date, then return

transportation and en route per diem are at TDY rates under the TDY order. The civilian employee and

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dependents are then eligible for PCS transportation and per diem from the old PDS to the new PDS under

the PCS order. See Chapter 5

for PCS allowances.

(3) If the PDS change is effective immediately, or if the civilian employee completes

the TDY and returns to the old PDS after the effective date of the PCS orders, then transportation and per

diem from the TDY location to the old PDS are at the PCS transportation and per diem rates under the

PCS order. The civilian employee and dependents are then eligible for PCS travel from the old PDS to

the new PDS, also under the PCS order. See Chapter 5

for PCS allowances.

(4) When the civilian employee returns to the old PDS from the TDY location that

becomes the new PDS, no per diem is payable at the old PDS, regardless of whether the return is before

or after the effective date of the PCS order.

R. Return to PDS Directed During Non-Workdays. The AO may require a traveler to return to

the PDS for non-workdays provided the conditions below are met:

1. Expense for round-trip transportation and per diem or AEA en route is less than the per

diem or AEA that would have been paid had the traveler remained at the TDY location.

2. The last workday at the TDY location before returning to the PDS is not adversely

affected.

3. The first workday at the TDY location after return from the PDS is not adversely affected.

4. The travel authorization states the traveler must return to the PDS for non-workdays.

S. Navigational Proficiency Flights. A Service member is not authorized per diem for a

navigational proficiency flight when the flight is authorized or approved at the Service member’s request.

0204 MISCELLANEOUS REIMBURSABLE EXPENSES

Table 2-24. Miscellaneous Expenses not Listed Elsewhere

Late payment fee on the Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC*), incurred through no personal

fault of the traveler, due to a mission-critical status (for example, when the traveler is unable to file

a voucher due to circumstances specific to travel or when the AO does not approve the travel within

30 days, in accordance with DoDI 5154.31, Vol. 4 (GTCC).

An international transaction fee of up to 1% for qualifying transactions charged by the GTCC*

provider, as listed on the billing statement, or a personal charge card if the traveler is exempt from

using the GTCC*.

A merchant surcharge of up to 4% on the GTCC*, or a personal charge card if the traveler is exempt

from using the GTCC*.

Storage of baggage or property used on official business (when authorized or approved by the AO).

The necessity must be explained in writing.

Foreign currency conversion fees, including cash conversions if necessary (based on the currency

exchange rate at which an authorized expense was charged). Fees charged by hotels and restaurants

when the GTCC* is charged using U.S. dollars instead of the local currency may not be reimbursed

as a separately reimbursable expense and must be included on the receipts as part of the overall cost

for the OCONUS expenses. Losses from currency conversion are not reimbursed.

Charges for immunizations, inoculations, and other disease-preventative medical prophylaxes,

including disease testing, that are required for official travel. If available through a federal

dispensary, medical treatment facility, or the traveler’s insurance covers the costs, then no

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Table 2-24. Miscellaneous Expenses not Listed Elsewhere

reimbursement is authorized. If a civilian employee is on temporary duty travel, then these charges

may be reimbursed as a miscellaneous expense. If a civilian employee is on permanent change of

station travel, then the miscellaneous expense allowance (MEA) is used to reimburse such costs (see

Table 5-81). If the traveler is required by law to obtain a test before re-entering the U.S. from a

foreign location, and a test cannot be obtained through a Federal dispensary, then the cost of the

doctor’s visit to obtain the test may be reimbursable.

The cost of a birth certificate or other acceptable evidence of birth, when required for official travel

to foreign locations.

Guide services (when authorized or approved by the AO).

Interpreter services (when authorized or approved by the AO).

For costs related to a change in status or obtaining a visa, passport, or green card, when required for

official travel, reimbursement is authorized for: required photographs; mandatory biometric fees;

dependent fees (for example, United Kingdom Clearance fee); legal fees, if required by local laws

and customs for obtaining and processing applications; inoculations and other disease-preventive

measures (see item 6); and required physical examinations when not available at a Government

medical facility (effective May 1, 2017). Lawyer retainer fees are not reimbursable. Official travel

is normally on a no-fee passport. The AO may authorize use of a tourist passport when travel is to a

high-threat or high-risk airport by commercial air. See the

DoD Foreign Clearance Guide for

requirements and warnings before traveling to foreign countries.

Automatic teller machine fees in locations OCONUS only when the AO authorizes the expense in

advance and after it was approved through the Secretarial Process by no lower than an O-6 or

equivalent. The traveler must document that the GTCC* cannot be used for security or local

infrastructure reasons when traveling OCONUS. The reimbursement is limited to the fees that the

traveler could incur, based on the amount of cash advance that was authorized in the travel

authorization.

The AO may authorize or approve reimbursement for the following costs related to military working

dogs:

a. Transportation cost of a military working dog, with the handler in the cabin, or as cargo;

whether included in the handler’s fare or when billed separately.

b. Kennel-handling fees at the air terminal for military working dogs.

c. Lodging fees and kennel handling fees at an airport or place of lodging for a military working

dog.

d. Cleaning fees for a rental vehicle when transporting a military working dog.

A baggage transfer fee may be authorized or approved limited to the customary local rate for inter

model transfers between authorized transportation modes. The necessity for the transfer must be

explained in writing.

A civilian employee may be authorized POV tax and license fees if required by the state. The POV

use must be to the Government’s advantage. The civilian employee’s PDS must not be the state

where he or she is on TDY.

The cost of a value added tax (VAT) exemption certificate used to exempt official travelers from

paying VAT or excise taxes in foreign countries.

Energy surcharge fees.

Driver (vehicle services) when authorized or approved by the AO.

Expenses associated with the transport of human breast milk expressed by a Service member or

civilian employee while on TDY travel in accordance with the FTR, Part 301-13, 41 C.F.R. 301-

13.2. Human breast milk shipment may be authorized as a travel accommodation for a special need.

Human breast milk shipment may only be authorized for TDY longer than three calendar days and

up to 12 months from the date the Service member or civilian employee gave birth, which is

consistent with Federal law. Authorized expenses may be reimbursed up to a maximum of $1,000

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Table 2-24. Miscellaneous Expenses not Listed Elsewhere

per TDY trip only when authorized in advance of travel on the travel authorization and

accompanied by all valid receipts ($75.00 minimum not applicable). Expenses may include the

following: commercial shipping fees (packaging and packing material are not authorized), excess

baggage fees, and dry ice or regular ice. Expenses for this purpose may not include the cost of a

rental vehicle. Travelers are ultimately responsible for arranging the transport of their breast milk

and for handling all related logistics. See Service or Agency regulations for more information about

the applicable lactation policy.

The cost of quarantine lodging and meals when a foreign host nation requires a Service member,

civilian employee, or their dependents, traveling on PCS orders, to quarantine in a specified foreign

hotel or similar facility, mandated by the country, before proceeding to their PDS. This expense is

reimbursable regardless of whether the hotel or similar facility is geographically located within the

PDS local area. This expense is not reimbursable for quarantine on a U.S. installation whether in a

U.S. Government or commercial lodging facility.

Expenses associated with the transport or shipment of human breast milk expressed by the Service

member while on PCS travel during the travel period. Human breast milk transport and shipment

may be authorized as a travel accommodation for a special need. This can only be authorized for

PCS travel occurring up to 12 months from the date the Service member gave birth, which is

consistent with Federal law. Authorized expenses may be reimbursed up to a maximum of $1,000

per PCS when authorized in advance of travel on the PCS order and accompanied by all valid

receipts ($75 minimum not applicable). Expenses may include the following: commercial shipping

fees (packaging and packing material are not authorized), excess baggage fees, and dry ice or

regular ice. Service members are ultimately responsible for arranging the transport or shipment of

their breast milk and for handling all related logistics. Expenses may not include the cost of a rental

vehicle.

*See Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC).

0205 SHIPMENT AND STORAGE OF HHG WHILE ON TDY

020501. Shipment of HHG by a Service Member

A. Eligibility. A Service member who is on TDY for 31 or more days may be eligible for travel

allowances to ship HHG.

B. Allowances. Service members must comply with the limitations on weight and transportation

for shipping HHG. See Household Goods (HHG) – Authorized Locations and Weight Allowance.

1. TDY Weight Allowances

a. The AO may authorize or approve shipment of HHG up to the weight allowance in

Table 2-25

designated for the Service member’s grade. In addition to the HHG weights authorized in

Table 2-25, the AO may also authorize shipment of professional books, papers and equipment or required

medical equipment as specified in par. 051304.

(1) The Service member’s grade on the day travel begins determines which weight

allowance is allowed. If the travel authorization is amended, modified, canceled, or revoked, HHG must

be transported to the proper destination at Government expense (see par. 051302

(2) On a case-by-case basis, the Secretary concerned may authorize a higher TDY

HHG weight allowance, up to 1,000 pounds, for a Service member below grade O-7. The higher weight

allowance may be authorized when failure to increase the TDY weight allowance would create a

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significant hardship for Service member.

(a) The TDY HHG shipment is in addition to, and does not include the weight

of, any authorized unaccompanied baggage or any accompanied baggage included on a passenger

transportation ticket.

(b) The weight of the TDY HHG is the actual unpacked and uncrated weight.

The Transportation Officer should establish this weight before packing if possible. For details on

determining the net shipping weight of HHG, see section 0514

when a TDY location becomes the new PDS, the weight of the TDY HHG shipment allowed is in

addition to any weight allowance for PCS HHG shipments.

Table 2-25. TDY HHG Weight Allowance (Pounds)

Grade

Includes an RC member and an Army or Air Force officer holding a temporary commission

Weight

Allowance

Officer Personnel

O-10

2,000*

O-9

1,500

O-8 and O-7

1,000

O-6, O-5, O-4, W-5, and W-4

800

O-3, O-2, O-1, W-3, W-2, and W-1

600

Enlisted Personnel

E-9

600**

E-8

500

E-7 to E-1, and Aviation Cadet

400

Service Academy Cadet or Midshipman

350

*The Secretarial Process may authorize additional weight, up to 2,000 lbs. (up to 4,000 lbs. total), for

the Chiefs of Staff, U.S. Air Force and U.S. Army, the Chief of Naval Operations, the Chief of Space

Operations, the Commandant of the Marine Corps, and the Commandant of the Coast Guard.

**A Service member selected as Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff,

Sergeant Major of the Army, Master Chief Petty Officer of the Navy, Master Chief Petty Officer of

the Coast Guard, Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, or

Senior Enlisted Advisor to the National Guard Bureau, who requires a TDY HHG weight allowance,

is authorized 800 lbs. for a TDY order issued on or after receiving notice of selection to that position

and for the remainder of the Service member’s military career.

2. PCS Weight Allowance for Shipping HHG during TDY

a. For the following situations, the Service member’s PCS weight allowance in

Table 5-

37, may be shipped in addition to the authorized or approved TDY shipment of HHG in Table 2-25.

Circumstances and locations warranting the addition of the PCS HHG weight allowance to the TDY HHG

shipment are the following:

(1) A PCS with TDY en route (see par. 052007

(2) Orders directing a TDY with no return to the PDS, or directing the TDY pending

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further assignment. If the Service member is required to vacate Government quarters, then HHG may be

either packed and moved from the Government quarters to private sector housing in the old PDS vicinity,

or placed in non-temporary storage (NTS) under par. 020503

(3) When a travel authorization for a TDY does not specify the duration and

section

0312 (ITDY) applies.

(4) TDY performed under an order pending a PCS to a PDS OCONUS. HHG may

be shipped to any combination of the following locations:

(a) PDS OCONUS.

(b) Any location in the CONUS that the Service member specifies.

b. For a TDY under an order pending a PCS assignment to a ship, the following apply:

(1) Other than a PCS assignment to a ship described as “unusually arduous sea duty”

or considered as possible or likely to be at sea for a year or longer. PCS HHG weight allowances are

authorized in Table 5-37 and section 0514

. HHG may be transported to a combination of the following:

(a) The ship’s home port.

(b) From Government quarters to private sector housing in the old PDS vicinity

if required to vacate Government quarters.

(2) When a PCS assignment is described as “unusually arduous sea duty” or

considered as possible or likely to be at sea continuously for a year or longer. PCS HHG weight

allowances are authorized in Table 5-37 and section 0514

. The designation of a ship, unit, or afloat staff

as “unusually arduous sea duty” must be specified in writing through the Secretarial Process. HHG may

be transported to any combination of the following:

(a) The duty station OCONUS.

(b) Any location in the CONUS the Service member specifies.

c. A Service member on a TDY order in connection with building, fitting out,

converting, or reactivating a ship is authorized PCS HHG weight allowances in Table 5-37 and

section

0514 if the TDY order directs duty on board when the ship is commissioned. The destination options for

where to transport HHG depend on whether the sea duty is unusually arduous. If the sea duty:

(1) Is not specified as “unusually arduous,” then HHG may be transported to a

combination of the ship’s home port and NTS under par. 020503

(2) Is specified as “unusually arduous” or considered as possible or likely to be at

sea continuously for a year or longer, then HHG may be transported to a combination of any location in

the CONUS the Service member specifies and NTS under par. 020503

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3. Transportation

a. The transportation methods in par. 051403 and section 0515

apply.

b. A Service member on a TDY order may ship HHG anywhere if the origin is the TDY

location or from anywhere if the destination is the TDY location. However, the reimbursement is limited

to what it would have cost to ship the HHG between these authorized points:

(1) From the PDS (or home or PLEAD for an RC member) to the TDY location.

(2) TDY location to TDY location.

(3) From the last TDY location to the old or new PDS (see par. 051002

for a Service

member released or separated from active duty from the TDY location). If the TDY is pursuant to an

order directing no return to the PDS, pending further assignment, indeterminate TDY, or in connection

with a PCS, see

par. 020501-B2a(1), par. 020501-B2a(2), and par. 020501-B2a(3) for locations between

which shipment is authorized.

c. HHG not authorized or approved for transportation, or not within the Service

member’s TDY weight allowance must not be transported with authorized HHG. The Service member

must arrange separate transportation of such articles at personal expense. If a HHG shipment at

Government expense is discovered to include unauthorized articles, then the Service member is

financially responsible for reimbursing the Government all costs expended to transport the unauthorized

articles. If the cost of the articles improperly transported cannot be established, see par. 051306-D

d. Service regulations may restrict the type of HHG shipped to a TDY location based on

unusual circumstances, such as local customs, laws, or military necessity of the mission. Any restrictions

or limits on the content of the HHG authorized for shipment must be stated on the travel authorization.

C. Lost or Destroyed HHG

1. When an original HHG shipped while on TDY is destroyed or lost during transport,

through no fault of the Service member, a replacement shipment within the authorized weight allowance

may be made at Government expense (68 Comp. Gen. 143 (1988)

2. A designated Service representative may authorize or approve forwarding an authorized

HHG shipment while on TDY to the proper destination when, through no fault of the Service member, the

HHG shipment is misdirected or otherwise separated from the Service member.

020502. Storage in Transit and Special Storage of HHG by a Service Member

HHG storage for a Service member may be authorized as either storage in transit (SIT) or special

storage. See Household Goods (HHG) – Authorized Locations and Weight Allowance

A. Storage in Transit (SIT) Eligibility. A Service-designated official may authorize or approve

SIT as necessary for reasons beyond the Service member’s control if the Service member is either on a

PCS with a TDY or deployment en route or is on a TDY or deployment for 90 days or less.

B. SIT Allowances. The Service member’s HHG, up to the TDY weight allowance, may be

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placed in SIT.

Note: See Chapter 5

when HHG are in SIT and the Service member is on a PCS with deployment or

TDY for 91 or more days, or for an indefinite period.

C. Special Storage Eligibility

1. Active-duty Service Member. The Secretarial Process may authorize or approve special

storage when a Service member is on a TDY or deployment for 91 or more days, or an indefinite period,

and no PCS is involved.

2. RC Member. The Secretarial Process may authorize or approve special storage for an RC

member who is called or ordered to active duty under emergency or extenuating circumstances for

reasons other than training and who is ordered to a TDY for any length of time or to a deployment.

D. Special Storage Allowances. The Service member’s HHG, up to the PCS weight allowance,

may be placed in special storage when authorized or approved. Storage costs include shipment, drayage,

packing, crating, unpacking, and uncrating necessary to place HHG into or remove them from a storage

facility. See

Chapter 5 for storage facility selection. Special storage cannot be authorized or approved for

a Service member who is authorized a “home of selection” allowance and has HHG in NTS when recalled

to active duty.

E. Storage after TDY or Deployment. HHG storage may continue for up to 90 days after the

TDY or until deployment is completed. Extensions to this 90-day period may be authorized in

accordance with

section 0518-A.

020503. NTS by a Service Member

A. NTS Eligibility. NTS is authorized only when a Service member is ordered on a PCS with

TDY en route or while on a TDY in the situations listed in Table 2-26.

B. NTS Allowances. NTS begins on the day the travel authorization is issued and continues for

as long as any of the situations in Table 2-26 exist. NTS may continue for 90 days or less after the TDY

or until deployment is completed. Extensions to this 90-day period may be authorized in accordance with

section 0518-B.

Table 2-26. NTS While on a TDY

If the TDY is…

Then the last day of storage is…

without a return to the PDS or is pending

further assignment,*

the departure day from the TDY location when an

order assigns a new PDS.

an ITDY,**

the departure day from the last TDY location before

proceeding to the new PDS.

pending an assignment OCONUS or to a

ship,*

the departure day from the last TDY location before

proceeding to a location OCONUS or to the

assigned ship.

in connection with building, fitting out,

converting, or reactivating of a ship and duty

aboard the ship when commissioned,*

the ship’s arrival day at its assigned home port.

For more information about the above situations, see par. 020501-B2* and Section 0312** and

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Table 2-26. NTS While on a TDY

If the TDY is…

Then the last day of storage is…

Household Goods (HHG) – Authorized Locations and Weight Allowance.

020504. Removal of HHG from Storage by a Service Member

A. Delivery out of Storage. Delivery of HHG out of storage is authorized at Government

expense as long as the travel authorization and the transportation allowances are valid, regardless of the

length of time in storage. This includes shipments that have been converted to storage at the Service

member’s expense.

B. HHG Shipment after Storage. When applicable, HHG may be shipped to any point in the

CONUS in accordance with par. 052002. HHG stored under section 0518-A or under one of the

following conditions may be transported to any subsequent PDS:

1. A TDY order that is without return to a PDS or pending further assignment.

2. A TDY order pending assignment to a location OCONUS or to a ship.

3. An ITDY order.

020505. Shipment of HHG by a Civilian Employee on TDY

A. Eligibility. A civilian employee on TDY for 31 days or more may be authorized or approved

unaccompanied baggage. No other HHG shipment is authorized in connection with a long-term

assignment treated as a TDY.

Note: For a civilian employee on a TDY lasting between 6 months and 30 months that is treated as a

temporary change of station, see Chapter 5.

B. Allowance. The unaccompanied baggage weight limit is 350 pounds. Unaccompanied

baggage is limited to additional clothing, personal effects, and equipment directly related to the mission,

locality, or unusual conditions of the TDY. No authorization exists for excess accompanied baggage

when unaccompanied baggage is authorized.

0206 TRAVEL IN AND AROUND THE PDS

The DoD installation, base, or senior commanders must establish, in a written directive, the local area

within which DoD travelers are eligible for reimbursement, even if they come from different commands,

units, installations, or Agencies (59 Comp. Gen. 397 (1980)

). If the activity does not have a senior

commander or is not located on a military installation, then the senior official determines the local area

for that PDS location. The “local area” is defined as the area within the PDS limits and the metropolitan

area around the PDS served by the local public transit systems; the local commuting area as determined

by the AO or local Service or DoD Agency; and the separate cities, towns, or installations among which

the public commutes on a daily basis. An arbitrary distance radius must not be defined for the local

commuting area. For Service members and employees who are working remotely, whose official

worksite is as defined in

5 CFR 531.602 and determined under the criteria in 5 CFR 531.605, whose

remote official worksite is not within a defined local area, the local area will be considered to be within

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50 miles of that remote official worksite. If the remote worksite or agency worksite is not in an

incorporated city or town, then the boundary is the subdivision, station, or other established area where

the remote worksite or agency worksite is located. For Service members and employees who are working

remotely within the local commuting area of their Services’ or organization’s worksite, transportation

expenses between a Service member’s or an employee’s official worksite and the Service’s or

organization’s worksite may be authorized, at the discretion of the Service’s or organization’s remote

work policy.

020601. TDY within the PDS Local Area but outside the PDS Limits

A. Eligibility. A Service member or civilian employee who requires overnight lodging in the

PDS area to perform a TDY in the vicinity of, but outside the PDS limits may be eligible for travel

allowances.

B. Allowances

1. Transportation. The AO may authorize the transportation selected in accordance with

par.

020203 and reimbursement of the transportation expenses in Chapter 2.

2. Per Diem

a. The AO may authorize per diem (see Table 2-27

) if the travel period is more than 12

consecutive hours and overnight lodging is required.

b. Per diem is not authorized for a TDY performed outside the PDS limits even if it is in

the vicinity of the PDS, unless overnight lodging is required.

020602. Continuing TDY within the PDS Limits under Emergency

Circumstances

Unavoidable Weather-Related Circumstances. A traveler delayed in the PDS vicinity because of

unavoidable weather-related circumstances beyond the traveler’s control, such as a hurricane or snow

storm, that cause a transportation delay after returning from a TDY may be eligible for travel allowances

(

CBCA 2371-TRAV, May 18, 2011). Per diem is payable in connection with eligible transportation

delays at the PDS in accordance with par. 020310.

020603. Travel within the PDS Local Area

See par. 020315

for stops at the PDS airport between TDY locations.

A. Eligibility. Service member or civilian employee who travels in the local area of the PDS on

official business may be eligible for the travel allowances.

B. Allowances

1. Transportation

a. The AO may authorize or approve reimbursement for transportation expenses incurred

in the PDS area for travel during official duty hours:

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(1) Between either the office or duty point and another place of business.

(2) Between places of business.

(3) Between the residence and place of business other than the office or duty point.

b. Commercial transportation reimbursement is authorized or approved only if the

expenses incurred for travel exceed the expenses ordinarily incurred when the traveler commutes to the

PDS workplace (see local travel computation example 5, local travel computation example 6, and

local

travel computation example 7. Reimbursement is for actual and necessary expenses that exceed the

everyday cost incurred for:

(1) Local public transit when tokens, tickets, or cash fares are not provided.

(2) Taxi or TNC fares.

(3) Hire and operation of a rental vehicle, including necessary parking fees.

c. Travel by a POV may not be directed, but may be permitted. Reimbursements are

made only to the traveler responsible for the POV’s operating expenses regardless of the number of

passengers or which passenger contributes funds to defray the POV’s operating expenses. When a POV

is authorized or approved, reimbursement is for:

(1) Mileage based on the vehicle’s odometer readings.

(a) If the traveler ordinarily uses a POV to travel to and from the residence and

POV travel is authorized or approved between the residence or the PDS, and one or more alternate work

sites within the local area, the TDY mileage rate is reimbursed for the distance that exceeds the normal

commuting distance. See local travel computation example 1 and local travel computation example 2

(b) If the traveler does not ordinarily travel by POV to and from home, and POV

travel is authorized or approved between the residence or the PDS, and one or more alternate work sites

within the local area, TDY mileage is reimbursed for the distance driven, less the traveler’s ordinary

transportation cost to get to work and back to the residence.

(2) Actual cost for parking fees; ferry fares; and bridge, road, and tunnel tolls, as

well as for mandatory trip insurance for travel in foreign countries.

d. If a POV and public transportation are authorized or approved for travel between the

residence and one or more alternate work sites within the local area, the traveler is reimbursed all of the

following:

(1) The TDY mileage rate for POV use to travel to and from the commercial

transportation stop, station, or terminal for the distance that exceeds the commuting distance to the regular

work site.

(2) The POV’s parking fees.

(3) The cost of using the local public transit system when tokens, tickets, or cash

fares are not provided.

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Note: See local travel computation example 3 and local travel computation example 4.

e. A Service member who visits a medical facility in the local area may receive a

transportation allowance.

(1) A Service member who is ordered to travel to a medical facility in the local area

to obtain a physical examination, a medical diagnosis, or medical treatment is on official business and

must be reimbursed for transportation when Government transportation is not provided. Reimbursement

is authorized for transportation for additional appointments to complete a required physical examination.

(2) A Service member who voluntarily travels to a medical facility to obtain a

medical diagnosis or treatment is not on official business and is not authorized reimbursement for

transportation.

f. A civilian employee may have to pay taxes on reimbursements received for local

travel.

(1) Reimbursement of local travel to and from the civilian employee’s residence and

the alternate work location is taxable as wages when the civilian employee is both:

(a) Expected to work at a temporary or alternate location for more than one year

and for more than 35 workdays in a calendar year.

(b) Traveling daily between the residence and a temporary or alternate work

location within the general commuting area and to and from the residence within a day.

(2) If there is an expectation that the civilian employee will work at a temporary or

alternate location for more than 35 workdays in a calendar year, the AO must advise the civilian

employee of the potential Federal, state, and local income tax obligations. Tax rules may differ by state

and locality.

(3) The ITRA outlined in par. 020313

does not apply to local travel.

2. Per Diem. Per diem allowances are listed in Table 2-27

Table 2-27. Per Diem within the Local Area

1 Authorized

a. For a traveler who detaches (signs out PCS) from the old PDS, performs a TDY en

route elsewhere, and returns on a TDY en route to the old PDS is authorized per

diem at the old PDS (

B-161267, August 30, 1967).

b. For a Service member receiving per diem for incidental expenses under the Pay and

Allowance Continuation Program (see the

DoD Financial Management Regulation,

Vol. 7A (Active Duty and Reserve Pay).

Not

Authorized

a. For a Service member who travels or has a TDY within the PDS limits.

b. For a civilian employee who travels or has a TDY within the PDS limits or within

the vicinity of or at the residence from which the commute takes place daily to the

official station (CBCA 1795-TRAV, March 12, 2010,

B-318229, December 22,

2009).

c. At the old PDS for a TDY en route in connection with PCS travel if the Service

member has not detached or departed from the old PCS and HHGs have not been

picked up.

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Table 2-27. Per Diem within the Local Area

d. For a Service member hospitalized at the PDS.

3. Occasional Meals and Lodging. Occasional meals and lodging are authorized in

par.

020305 for a Service member who escorts:

a. An entire Arms Control Inspection team within the PDS limits.

b. One or more members of an Arms Control Inspection team engaged in activities

within the PDS limits that relate to the implementation of an arms-control treaty or agreement during the

in-country period referred to in the treaty or agreement (37 U.S.C. §494

4. Travel within the PDS Local Area under Emergency Conditions.

a. A competent authority may authorize standard travel and transportation allowances for

a Service member who performs duty under all of the following circumstances:

(1) During emergencies that threaten injury to human life or damage to Federal

Government property.

(2) At a location other than the residence, but within the PDS limits.

(3) Overnight accommodations are used for duty.

b. The Secretary concerned may authorize reimbursement for lodging costs for a civilian

employee who performs duty under all of the following circumstances (B-271666, April 24, 1996

(1) If an employee in performance of their individual mission is directly supporting

the Federal Emergency Management Agency in relief efforts during a presidentially declared emergency

under the Stafford Act.

(2) At a location other than the residence, but within the PDS limits.

(3) Temporary lodging within the PDS limits is necessary to fulfill disaster relief

duties under the Stafford Act.

c. When a Service member, civilian employee, or dependent returns to a foreign

OCONUS PDS following TDY travel, including evacuation travel, and is required by host nation to

quarantine outside of personal residence, then the traveler remains in an official travel status and standard

travel and transportation allowances are authorized for the duration of the quarantine period.

020604. Taxi or TNC Use Incident to Authorized Work outside Regularly

Scheduled Working Hours

A. Eligibility. A Service member or civilian employee, who depends on public transportation for

travel, is eligible for travel allowances if officially authorized to work outside of regular working hours

and is traveling during hours of infrequently scheduled public transportation or darkness.

B. Allowances. The official who authorized duty outside the regular working hours or the

traveler’s supervisor, if such authority has been delegated, may authorize or approve reimbursement for

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taxi or TNC fares between the office or duty site and residence, in accordance with Service and DoD

Agency regulations (58 Comp. Gen. 188 (1980); B-171969.42, January 9, 1976;

B-202836, November

19, 1981; and B-307918, December 20, 2006).

020605. Recruiting Expense Reimbursement

A. Eligibility. An Armed Forces member who is permanently assigned to a recruiting

organization and performing recruiting duty as either a primary or additional duty is eligible for

reimbursement of specific costs involved in the performance of official duty.

B. Allowances. A recruiter is authorized a reimbursement limited to $150 per month unless an

exceptional monthly expense justifies exceeding this threshold for the actual and necessary costs of:

1. Snacks, non-alcoholic beverages, and occasional lunches and dinners purchased for

prospective recruits and candidates, their immediate families, and other individuals who directly assist in

the recruiting effort.

2. Parking fees at itinerary stops.

3. Official telephone calls.

4. Photographic copies of vital documents for prospective recruits and candidates, such as

birth certificates, school transcripts, diplomas, and registration certificates.

5. Other small, necessary recruiting expenditures.

6. Personally procured and consumed meals at non-Government events when the following

conditions apply:

a. A meal is integral to the event and the recruiter is required to participate because of his

or her assigned duty.

b. Attendance during meal time is required to fully participate in the function.

c. The recruiter is not free to take the meal elsewhere without being absent from the

event’s essential purpose.

7. Reimbursement is not authorized for:

a. Expenses covered or prohibited by other Service regulations or elsewhere in the JTR.

b. Meals purchased for personal consumption.

8. Service regulations may authorize a funds advance.

020606. Recruiting-Related Parking Expenses

A. Eligibility. A DoD Service member or a civilian employee who incurs monthly parking

expenses of more than $20 while on official duty is eligible for reimbursement when assigned to the

following types of duty:

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1. Serving at a recruiting facility of the armed forces.

2. Assigned to an Armed Forces military entrance processing facility.

3. Detailed for instructional and administrative duties at any institution where a Senior

Reserve Officer Training Corps unit is located.

B. Allowances. The traveler is authorized reimbursement for monthly parking expenses not to

exceed $400.

1. The reimbursement covers all expenses for parking a POV at the PDS work site or TDY

location.

2. The statutory authority for this payment only covers parking expense reimbursement.

Contracting for parking must be derived from other authority, if any.

3. Reimbursement may be on monthly, quarterly or annual basis per Service policy.

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CHAPTER 3: TDY TRAVEL

PART A: BUSINESS TRAVEL

0301 ROUTINE TEMPORARY DUTY (TDY)

030101. Common Business Travel

A. Eligibility. A Service member or civilian employee may be eligible for travel allowances on a

routine TDY when:

1. Performing operational or managerial activities, such as site visits, inspections, or

investigations to oversee program activities or grant operations, or to manage activities for internal

control; carrying out an audit, inspection, or repair.

2. Providing technical assistance.

3. Attending meetings to discuss general agency operations or topics of general interest, or to

review status reports.

4. Acting as an attendant to a traveler with a special need or disability when the appropriate

authority determines that the traveler is incapable of traveling alone on official business (

56 Comp. Gen.

661 (1977)).

5. The Component head or designee determines that circumstances justify sending an official

representative to a funeral.

6. The Component head or designee determines that circumstances justify sending an official

representative to a change-of-command ceremony.

B. Allowances. A traveler on routine TDY ordinarily receives the transportation and per diem

allowances in Chapter 2. However, depending on the reason for travel, who travels, and other

circumstances, other computation rules may apply and impact the amount that a traveler is reimbursed.

The AO must verify that the traveler does not meet the conditions addressed elsewhere in

Chapter 3.

030102. TDY Before Reporting to the First Permanent Duty Station (PDS)

If a new civilian employee or appointee is required to perform TDY before reporting to the first PDS,

then he or she is authorized the standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

0302 CONFERENCES (NOT FOR TRAINING)

See section 0321

for allowances available to a traveler who attends a conference for training purposes.

030201. Conference Attendance and Participation

A. Eligibility. A traveler may be authorized to attend a conference or meeting that contributes to

improved conduct, supervision, or management of a Uniformed Service’s or Department of Defense

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(DoD) Component’s functions and activities (5 U.S.C. §4110 and 37 U.S.C. §455). Participation and

attendance may also be authorized to maintain and improve professional competency if funds are

available and work responsibilities permit. Attendance at technical, scientific, professional, or similar

meetings, as well as private membership in non-Federal societies and organizations, may also be

authorized (

38 Comp. Gen. 800 (1959)).

1. Government-Sponsored Conferences. Attendance at Government expense may be

authorized when the traveler’s attendance at a conference is required or related to executing official

duties, for conducting Government business. This includes:

a. Conferences sponsored or co-sponsored by a Federal Agency required in the

performance of official duties.

b. Conferences of state or municipal government organizations, or of international

agencies in which the Federal Government is officially participating when it is related to official duties or

for the purpose of transacting Government business.

c. Conferences of a group of individuals representing private interests, but convened for

the purpose of transacting business directly related to the Services or the DoD Component function or

activity and attendance is in the Service member or civilian employee’s official performance.

2. Conferences not Sponsored by Government. Conference attendance at non-Federal

technical, scientific, professional, and comparable private-membership organizations may be authorized,

subject to Service or DoD Component regulations and in accordance with

DoD 5500.07-R (Joint Ethics

Regulation) which specifies the regulations on acceptance of payment from a non-Federal source for

travel expenses.

a. A Service member or a civilian employee may attend conferences at Government

expense to further Service or DoD Component programs, present scientific and technical papers that

advance the development of U.S. resources, or maintain an effective professional, scientific, technical,

managerial, and supervisory workforce.

b. An appropriate security officer at the traveler’s activity should examine the security

implications for attendance at all meetings and conferences conducted or sponsored by private or

international organizations. A Service member or civilian employee who attends such meetings must be

briefed about security implications, when necessary, before attendance.

B. Allowances

1. Conference registration fees authorized in the travel authorization or approved on a travel

voucher are reimbursable. The travel authorization should state:

a. Whether the conference registration fee includes charges for meals and, if so, the

number of meals and the dates furnished. The proportional meal rate (PMR) applies on any day that the

cost for one or two meals is included in the conference registration fee (see Chapter 2

b. When the conference registration fee includes lodging without charge and, if so, the

number of lodgings and the dates furnished. Only the appropriate and applicable PMR or TDY locality

meal rate and incidental expenses (M&IE) rate is paid. If all three meals are provided, then the traveler

receives the incidental expenses portion of per diem only.

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2. When the Service or DoD Component sponsors a conference, meal costs must be

identified, whether included in a conference registration fee or contracted for separately. Unless the AO

has authorized or approved an actual expense allowance (AEA) for meals (for attendees in a travel status)

reimbursement is limited to the locality meal rate. The maximum contracted amount for one or two meals

for an attendee in a travel status is limited to the difference between the locality meal rate and the PMR.

C. Reimbursement

1. A conference registration fee may be reimbursed when attendance is authorized for a

conference in the local area that is not held at the PDS does not involve travel, per diem, or a travel

authorization.

2. Charges or fees for light refreshments or snacks are reimbursable only when included as

part of the conference registration fee. However, when the only purpose for a registration fee is to

provide light snacks or refreshments, it is not reimbursable.

Note: Conference registration fees, meals, lodging, travel, or other expenses required for conferences or

training at the PDS cannot be paid as travel allowances per 37 U.S.C. §474. Authority to pay

related training costs at the PDS is in 10 U.S.C. §2013; 5 U.S.C. §4109; 42 U.S.C. §218(a) and 14

U.S.C. §469.

3. Entertainment expenses for social events, such as ice breakers, and other personal

expenses not directly required by official duties are not reimbursable.

D. Funds Advance. Advance payment of discounted conference registration fees (

FTR §301-

74.23) is a common practice when conference planners offer discounted “early bird” registration fees,

which are available in the months before the conference begins. If an individually billed Government

Travel Charge Card (GTCC) is used to take advantage of such specials, a traveler should receive a verbal

or written authorization to register early and charge the conference registration fee to the GTCC. A

written authorization to attend the conference is required to claim reimbursement for the discounted

conference registration fee as soon as a written order is generated. When the authority to register early is

verbal, the written authorization must reference the verbal authority for the early conference registration.

This does not prevent other payment methods for advance conference registration fees, such as a

Government Purchase Card.

E. Traveler is Unable to Attend an Event for which Reimbursement Was Made (adopted from

FTR §301-74.24). If a traveler was reimbursed a discounted conference registration fee before the event

and then fails to attend the event, then he or she must seek a refund and repay the Government for the

advance.

1. If no refund is made, then the advanced payment must be absorbed as a preparatory travel

expense if the traveler’s failure to attend the event was because of:

a. A decision by the Service or DoD Component concerned.

b. An acceptable reason beyond the traveler’s control, such as an emergency or illness.

2. If no refund is made, and the traveler’s failure to attend the event was due to a reason

unacceptable to the Service or DoD Component concerned, the traveler must repay the amount advanced.

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0303 RESERVE COMPONENT (RC) TRAVEL (OTHER THAN

TRAINING)

“Reserve Component” (RC) refers to the Army Reserve, the Navy Reserve, the Marine Corps Reserve,

the Army National Guard of the United States, the Air Force Reserve, the Air National Guard of the

United States, the Coast Guard Reserve, and the Reserve Corps of the Public Health Service (

37 U.S.C.

§101).

030301. RC Member Performing Active Duty with Pay Who Commutes

A. Eligibility. An RC member on an official order who travels daily between the duty location

and either the primary residence or place from which entered (or called) to active duty (PLEAD) may be

eligible for travel allowances (see

par. 032301).

B. Allowances. The allowances for an RC member who commutes are in Table 3-1

. In such

circumstances, the commuting RC member may begin travel from a location other than the primary

residence.

Table 3-1. RC Member Commutes

If…

Then…

both the primary residence and place of active

duty are in the corporate limits of the same city

or town,

travel and transportation allowances are not

authorized for travel between the primary

residence and the place of active duty.

the RC member commutes daily between the

primary residence and the place of active duty,

and both are not in the same corporate limits or

town, regardless of the commuting area,

travel and transportation allowances are not

authorized for travel between the primary

residence and the place of active duty.

However, the RC member is authorized the

applicable TDY automobile or motorcycle

mileage rate for one round trip for the duration

of the duty (not daily) between the duty location

and one of the following:

a. Primary residence.

b. Place of assigned unit.

c. Place from which called or ordered to

active duty, limited to the cost for travel

between the duty location and primary

residence.

the AO, when there is no installation or senior

commander, or installation commander

determines that both the primary residence and

place of active duty are within reasonable

commuting distance of each other in accordance

with section 0206

and the duty involved permits

commuting,

the AO or installation commander determines

that the primary residence and place of active

duty are within reasonable commuting distance

as established in accordance with

section 0206,

the duty permits commuting, and Government

quarters or a Government dining facility are

unavailable during a required overnight stay (see

Chapter 2 for documentation requirements),

the RC member’s commanding officer may

authorize reimbursement for actual expenses for

all meals and lodging (see Chapter 2

) other than

the meal ordinarily procured when commuting.

the commuter travels locally at the active-duty

location,

see Chapter 2 for local travel.

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030302. RC Member Performing Active Duty with Pay Who Does Not Commute

A. Eligibility. An RC member on official orders who does not commute daily, but travels

between the duty location and the primary residence or PLEAD, which are outside the local area of the

duty location, may be eligible for travel allowances (see

par. 032301 and par. 032302).

B. Allowances

1. 180 or Fewer Consecutive Days at Any One Location (with No Break in Service). The

standard travel and transportation allowances for TDY, in Chapter 2, are payable.

a. If the RC member begins travel from a PLEAD other than the primary residence, then

transportation allowances are authorized from the PLEAD to the duty location, and return to the PLEAD

or primary residence. However, the reimbursement is limited to what it would have cost for

transportation had the traveler only traveled between the RC member’s primary residence and duty

location.

b. When the original duty period is extended due to unforeseen circumstances, standard

travel and transportation allowances continue for the entire period as long as the days remaining on the

existing order, plus the number of days added by the extension, total 180 or fewer consecutive days.

2. 181 or More Consecutive Days at Any One Location (with No Break in Service) When the

RC Member Does Not Commute

a. An assignment that lasts for 181 or more consecutive days at one location becomes a

PCS (see Chapter 5

). Per diem is not payable at the PCS location.

b. When an original order is amended to extend the TDY to 181 or more consecutive

days from the date of the amendment, the TDY location becomes a PDS. Travel and transportation

allowances are not payable beginning from the day of the amended order.

c. The standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

may be authorized

when the Secretarial Process determines that the call to active duty or an extension is required by any of

the following:

(1) Unusual circumstances.

(2) Emergency circumstances.

(3) Contingency operations.

(4) Exigencies of the Service concerned.

030303. RC Member Performing Active Duty without Pay

A. Eligibility. An RC member who is not a dual-status military technician and is performing

active duty without pay for any reason other than training may be eligible for travel allowances.

B. Allowances. An RC member performing active duty without pay may be authorized or

approved reimbursement for:

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1. Mileage at the authorized automobile or motorcycle mileage rate for travel to and from the

duty station, including travel required in connection with a qualifying physical examination or conditions

precedent to the duty involved.

2. Occasional meals or occasional lodging (see par. 020305

C. Reimbursement. Travelers are not authorized per diem and AEA at the PDS (

44 Comp. Gen.

615 (1965) and 46 Comp. Gen. 319 (1966)).

030304. Dual-Status Military Technician Performing Active Duty without Pay

A. Eligibility. A dual-status military technician (10 U.S.C. §10216

) on leave from technical

employment and performing active duty without pay (5 U.S.C. §6323(d)) outside the United States may

be eligible for travel allowances (see par. 032301 and par. 032302).

B. Allowances. A dual-status military technician can be authorized per diem through the

Secretarial Process.

0304 RETIRED SERVICE MEMBER RECALLED TO ACTIVE

DUTY

This section does not apply to a Service member traveling in connection with a periodic physical

examination (see Chapter 3, Part D

030401. Retired Service Member Called or Ordered to Active Duty (with or

without Pay)

A. Eligibility. A retired Service member receiving retainer pay who is called or ordered to active

duty, on the Temporary Disability Retired List, in the Fleet Reserve, or in the Fleet Marine Corps Reserve

is eligible for travel allowances.

B. Allowances. An eligible retired Service member is authorized the same travel and

transportation allowances that an RC member on active duty with pay would receive (see Chapter 2).

0305 INVITATION TO TRAVEL

An invitational travel authorization (ITA) may be used to reimburse certain travel and transportation

expenses of an individual who is not a Service member or civilian employee. ITAs must be issued

judiciously to ensure prudent, proper and ethical use of appropriated funds. A sample ITA

is posted on

the DTMO website.

030501. Invitational Travel Allowances

A. Invitational Travel Allowances under 5 U.S.C. § 5703. An authorizing official may issue any

of the following individuals an ITA under 5 U.S.C. § 5703 if all of the applicable requirements and

limitations are met. The authorities in Table 3-2.1 are responsible for ensuring that their organization has

policies and procedures in place to ensure that all ITA travelers meet the requirements of 5 U.S.C. § 5703

and are “legitimately performing a direct service for the Government” (Use of Appropriations to Pay

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Travel Expenses of International Trade Administration Fellows, 28 Op. O.L.C. 269, 275 (2004) citing

Memorandum for Michael E. Shaheen, Jr., Counsel, Office of Professional Responsibility, from Robert B.

Shanks, Deputy Assistant Attorney General, Office of Legal Counsel, Re: Use of Department of Justice

Vehicles by Attorney General’s Spouse (Jan. 23, 1984)). Travel and transportation allowances must be

necessary and reasonable in amount in relation to the value of the direct service for the Government

involved. An authority in

Table 3-2.1 must personally certify that the travel meets the requirements of 5

U.S.C. § 5703 and the traveler is “legitimately performing a direct service for the Government” for par.

030501-A11 and A12 travelers. Documentation of Table 3-2.1 certification should be provided to the

traveler’s AO in advance of travel.

1. An employee serving intermittently in the Government service as an expert or consultant

and paid on a daily when-actually-employed basis, or serving without pay or at $1 a year, may be allowed

travel and transportation allowances while away from his or her home or regular place of business and at

the place of employment or service (5 U.S.C. § 5703 and FTR § 301-1.2

). Only a consultant or expert

who is employed for 130 days or less of full-time Government service, performed in any continuous 365-

day period is eligible. When Government service is not intermittent, no authority exists for per diem or

AEA at the regular PDS (

35 Comp. Gen. 90 (1955) and 36 Comp. Gen. 351 (1956)). However, per diem

may be authorized in connection with another TDY at a place of duty away from the regular duty

location.

2. A college or university faculty member requested to perform travel for consultation on the

recruitment of college students to Government service (37 Comp. Gen. 349 (1957)

3. An individual called as a witness in adverse administrative proceedings whether on behalf

of the Government or of a Service member or civilian employee (48 Comp. Gen. 644 (1969)

4. An individual requested to participate in a pre-employment interview (FTR § 301-75

See section 0306.

5. An escort or attendant who is not a Service member or civilian employee and is traveling

incident to another individual’s travel under 5 U.S.C. § 5703 (B-187492, May 26, 1977, and

B-186598,

May 26, 1977).

6. A dependent attending anti-terrorism, political unrest or security training or briefing in

preparation for a PCS to a foreign OCONUS location (71 Comp. Gen. 6 (1991) and

71 Comp. Gen. 9

(1991)).

7. A guest speaker at an event held by a Service or agency in service of training efforts (

Comp. Gen. 303 (1981)).

8. An individual providing voluntary services to support programs of a committee of the

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). See DoDI 1205.22

for more information about the

ESGR and required volunteer agreement.

9. A witness before a military court martial or preliminary hearing conducted under Article

32, Uniform Code of Military Justice (10 U.S.C. § 832 and 50 Comp. Gen. 810 (1971)). See par. 030702

10. An individual who serves as an organ donor for a Service member when authorized

under Service regulations. See par. 033009

11. A volunteer covered by 10 U.S.C. § 1588. See DoDI 1100.21

for more information

about statutory volunteers donating their services under 10 U.S.C. § 1588. An authority in Table 3-2.1

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must personally certify that the travel meets the requirements of 5 U.S.C. § 5703 and the volunteer is

“legitimately performing a direct service for the Government” (28 Op. O.L.C. 269, 275 (2004)).

12. For any other individual, including a spouse, travel must be personally certified by an

authority in Table 3-2.1 that the travel meets the requirements of 5 U.S.C. § 5703

and the traveler is

“legitimately performing a direct service for the Government” (28 Op. O.L.C. 269, 275 (2004)).

Table 3-2.1 5 U.S.C. § 5703 Certifying Authorities

Agency

Certifying Authority

OSD and Defense

Agencies

Director of Administration and Management.*

Joint Staff

Joint Staff Director or Vice Director.*

3 CCMD

Combatant Commanders (CCDR). Re-delegation may be no lower than a

two-star or civilian equivalent.*

Military

Departments

The Secretary concerned. The Secretary Concerned may delegate to a Service

Chief, Vice Chief, Deputy Chief, the Administrative Assistant to the Secretary

Concerned, and four-star major commanders, three-star deputy or vice

commanders, or two-star General Officer, flag officer, or civilian equivalent.*

United States

Coast Guard

The Commandant of the Coast Guard. Re-delegation may be no lower than a

two-star General Officer, flag officer, or civilian equivalent.*

USPHS, NOAA

Corps Members

Only

The Secretary concerned.*

7 National Guard

The Chief of the National Guard Bureau. Re-delegation may be no lower than

an Adjutant General of the National Guard of the 54 States, Territories, and

the District of Columbia; or a two-star National Guard officer or their civilian

equivalent assigned to the National Guard Bureau.*

*No further delegation is authorized.

B. Allowances. Individuals provided invitational travel for the above reasons may be authorized

the standard travel and transportation allowances specified in Chapter 2 for DoD civilian employees.

Except that, if a spouse is authorized to travel under par. 030501-A12 with a Service member or civilian

employee sponsor, the spouse may only receive per diem if the traveler is personally certified as requiring

per diem by an authority in

Table 3-2.1.

C. Invitational Travel Allowances under Other Authorities. Individuals who are not a Service

member or civilian employee may also be issued an ITA under statutory authorities other than 5 U.S.C. §

5703. See Table 3-2.2 for a list of additional ITA travel types and associated JTR references for

additional information. Invitational travel orders under other statutory authorities may be authorized

travel and transportation allowances in accordance with the JTR references listed in Table 3-2.2.

Table 3-2.2 Invitational Travel under Other Authorities

Type of Travel

JTR Reference

Type of Travel

JTR Reference

Attendant or escort for a

sexual assault victim

par. 030704 9

Yellow Ribbon Reintegration

Program event

par. 031902

School board member

travel

par. 030802 10

Funeral honors detail par. 032004

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Table 3-2.2 Invitational Travel under Other Authorities

Type of Travel

JTR Reference

Type of Travel

JTR Reference

Escort for DoDEA

student with a disability

for diagnostic or

evaluation purposes

par. 030803 11

Transfer of remains par. 032006

DoDEA academic

competition and co-

curricular activities

par. 030804

Attendant or escort travel

pars. 030803,

032003, 033004,

033005, 033007,

033101, 033102,

033201, 033202,

060203

Service Academy Board

of Visitors travel

par. 030805 13

Participation in Health

Surveillance Program

par. 033010

Travel incident to an

incentives award program

Sec. 0309 14

Travel to obtain a Consular

Report of Birth Abroad

par. 031903

Repatriation of a Service

member held captive

par. 031401 15

Personal Services Contract

Employee

par. 030503

Chaplain-led program

functions

par. 031901

D. Restrictions. Any unauthorized travel or transportation expense is not the responsibility of the

United States. See 37 U.S.C. § 452(g). Invitational travel must not be authorized for:

1. Travel merely to attend a meeting or conference, even if hosted by a DoD Component on a

matter related to the Component’s official business (31 U.S.C. § 1345

), unless such attendance is

legitimately performing a direct service for the Government (28 Op. O.L.C. 269, 275 (2004)).

2. Travel by a non-appropriated fund official or civilian employee traveling on non-

appropriated fund business.

3. Transportation of the dependent of an individual traveling on an ITA, unless such

dependent has been independently authorized to travel on an ITA.

4. Transportation of household goods (HHG), including freight and parcel post mail, or other

property of an individual traveling on an ITA.

5. A Service member or civilian employee unless the individual is retired, traveling as a non-

medical attendant or authorized pre-employment interview travel under 0306 while in a leave status (

B-

219046, September 29, 1986).

6. A Government contractor or contractor’s employee traveling in performance of a contract.

For information regarding contractor travel see “

Travel for a Government Contractor or Contractor

Employee,” on the DTMO website.

7. Foreign military personnel traveling under the

Security Assistance Management Manual

(SAMM).

8. Employment of relatives. See 5 U.S.C. § 3110

for this prohibition.

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030502. Spousal Travel by Government Aircraft

If a spouse of a Service member or civilian employee is traveling with the DoD sponsor on a

Government aircraft, the spouse’s invitational travel must adhere to the criteria in DoDD 4500.56

, “DoD

Policy on the Use of Government Aircraft and Air Travel” and DoD Instruction 4515.13, “Air

Transportation Eligibility.” The spouse may only travel for an official purpose upon Government aircraft

as permitted by

31 U.S.C. § 1344.

030503. Personal Services Contract Employee

The JTR applies to DoD personal services contract employees. See the JTR Introduction. An AO

seeking to authorize personal services contract employee travel must comply with the limitations outlined

in 5 U.S.C. § 3109

. Subject to the applicable DoD contract, standard travel and transportation allowances

are authorized for a personal services contract employee and the traveler should be issued an ITA where

necessary and appropriate.

0306 PRE-EMPLOYMENT INTERVIEW WITH DOD FOR

CIVILIAN EMPLOYMENT

A. Eligibility. An interviewee is an individual who a DoD Component is considering for civilian

employment.

B. Allowances. When pre-employment interview allowances are offered, they are the same as

the standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2 to a civilian employee.

1. Individuals who are neither in the military nor employed by the Government travel on an

ITA for a pre-employment interview.

2. A Service member on leave travels on an ITA for pre-employment interview travel.

3. A civilian employee on leave from his or her DoD employment travels on an ITA for pre-

employment interview travel.

C. Reimbursement

1. Each DoD Component must establish qualification criteria for determining which

applicants receive payment for pre-employment interview travel expenses. Guidance in creating

qualification criteria is in 5 CFR §572

2. A DoD Component may pay all or part of pre-employment travel expenses to or on behalf

of the interviewee. When electing to pay only per diem or only transportation costs, the DoD Component

must pay the full amount for the selected expenses as authorized for a civilian employee. The DoD

Component must reimburse the interviewee for the offered and allowable travel expenses upon

submission and approval of a travel voucher except for a separate room not used for the traveler’s

lodging, such as a meeting room.

D. DoD Component Responsibilities. A DoD Component must adhere to the general travel

authorization policies and practices in the JTR. Pre-employment interview travel may be authorized only

on a trip-by-trip basis. A limited or unlimited open travel authorization must not be used for pre-

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employment interview travel. See section 0305.

1. A DoD Component must communicate DoD travel rules and procedures to the interviewee

and should ensure that the interviewee understands how travel reimbursements are calculated. The DoD

Component provides the interviewee with written instructions when a travel authorization is issued

explaining the administrative procedures for controlling and accounting for passenger transportation

documents.

2. A DoD Component must not authorize reimbursement for pre-employment interview

travel expenses to help defray permanent change of station (PCS) expenses that are not allowable for a

new appointee under par. 054801

. For example, a DoD Component may not pay pre-employment travel

expenses under this section so that an interviewee or new appointee may look for a house at the

prospective first PDS.

3. Components must use a Government-procured transportation document or a centrally

billed Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC)

to pay for interviewee transportation by air, bus, or rail

that are not local public transit systems.

4. Each DoD Component must prescribe administrative procedures for an interviewee to

follow in submitting a travel voucher that are consistent with the

DoD Financial Management Regulation,

Vol. 9 (Travel Policy). DoD Components should assist an interviewee in preparing and submitting his or

her travel voucher.

5. The DoD Component must advise the interviewee to keep a record of expenditures

chargeable to the Government, including retaining all receipts, until reimbursement claims are settled.

E. Interviewee Responsibilities. The interviewee is expected to exercise the same care in

incurring expenses that a prudent person would exercise if traveling on personal business.

1. Transportation tickets should be provided by the interviewing DoD Component. The

interviewing DoD Component may authorize the interviewee to obtain tickets directly from a Travel

Management Company (TMC) under contract to the Government.

2. An interviewee must use the City Pair Program fares and is bound by the rules in

Chapter 2

3. The interviewee is responsible for, and accountable for, all transportation tickets and

Government-procured transportation documents issued until they are used for pre-employment interview

travel or are otherwise accounted for properly. A statement to this effect must be incorporated on the

travel authorization, or issued as a “Notice to Traveler” and attached to the ticket or transportation

document when issued to the interviewee. This statement must also inform the interviewee that he or she

is financially responsible for the value of the tickets issued if the interview trip is canceled or rescheduled

after tickets or Government-procured transportation documents are issued.

4. If the interviewee exchanges a ticket for one of lesser value, then the carrier should issue a

receipt or a ticket-refund application. The carrier is required to make a refund directly to the appropriate

DoD Component billing office. The DoD Component must provide the interviewee with a “bill charge

to” address for the carrier to use in sending a refund by attaching a copy of the transportation document,

or some other document containing this information, to the ticket or travel authorization (

41 CFR §101-

41.210-1).

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F. Funds Advance. The interviewee cannot be issued a travel advance. The interviewee cannot

use a Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC) issued to a civilian employee or travelers cheques issued

by a Government contractor to pay for pre-employment interview travel.

0307 JUSTICE AND CRIMINAL MATTERS

030701. Service Member or Civilian Employee Who Serves as a Witness

A. Eligibility. The presiding hearing officer determines if travel is necessary when a witness’s

testimony is substantial, material, and necessary for proper case disposition and an affidavit cannot

adequately accomplish the same objective.

B. Allowances. See Table 3-2

C. Reimbursement. Expenses paid by the court, authority, or party causing the civilian employee

to be called as a witness for a non-Government entity must be deducted from the travel authorization.

Table 3-2. Witness Travel

Witness for the United States

(other than as a defendant)

Witness on behalf of the

U.S. for local, state,

territory, or D.C.

governments in a criminal

or civil case in which the

Service has a strong,

compelling, and genuine

interest and is directly

related to a Service or

Service member

Witness

subpoenaed for a

Congressional

committee, a

private individual,

or a corporation

in a case not

involving a

Service

in a case

involving a

Service

Active-Duty Service Members

1 Allowance

Only those

prescribed by

the U.S.

Attorney

General.

Travel and

transportation

allowances in

Chapter 2

Travel and transportation

allowances in Chapter 2

No allowance.

Payment

contact

Department of

Justice (DoJ).

AO. AO.

Individual or agency

requesting

testimony.

Civilian Employee

Witness for the United States

in a case involving his or her

employing activity

Witness in a case not

involving his or her

employing activity

Witness in an

official capacity for

a non-Government

entity

3 Allowance

Travel and transportation

allowances in Chapter 2

Travel and transportation

allowances in Chapter 2

Travel and

transportation

allowances in

Chapter 2.

Payment

contact

AO. (The employing Agency

pays for travel.)

Contact the Agency paying

for travel. The responsible

Agency pays travel expenses.

AO. The employing

Agency pays for

travel.

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030702. Witness Is Not Employed by the Government

A. Military Court Martial

1. A person other than a Service member or civilian employee, who is called as a witness

before a military court martial, is issued an ITA and authorized travel and transportation allowances under

Service administrative regulations. This does not include a witness who testifies at a preliminary hearing

conducted under Article 32, Uniform Code of Military Justice (10 U.S.C. §832

2. A person other than a Service member or civilian employee, who is called to testify as a

witness at a preliminary hearing conducted under Article 32, Uniform Code of Military Justice

, is issued

an ITA and authorized travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2 for a civilian employee on TDY.

Effective May 1, 2017.

B. Adverse Action Case Involving Service Member or Civilian Employee. The presiding

hearing officer must determine that the witness’s testimony is substantial, material, and necessary for

proper case disposition and that an affidavit from the desired witness cannot adequately accomplish the

same objective. A witness not employed by the Government who is called to testify in administrative

proceedings on behalf of the Government is issued an ITA and authorized the same standard travel and

transportation allowances in

Chapter 2 for a civilian employee on TDY.

C. Federal Administrative Hearing. When a complainant who is no longer a Government

employee serves as a witness in an administrative hearing related to his or her Federal employment, he or

she is issued an ITA and is eligible for the same standard travel and transportation allowances as a civilian

employee in

Chapter 2 if retroactively reinstated to Federal service. The hearing must be within Federal

employment regulations it would be unreasonable to require the complainant to appear at personal

expense (

B-180469, February 28, 1974).

030703. Juror Travel

A civilian employee who serves as a juror does not receive travel and transportation allowances

through the policies in this regulation and is not issued a TDY order.

030704. Travel Associated with Sexual Assault

A. Eligibility. A Service member who is a sexual assault victim traveling to testify or participate

in a court martial, hearing, pre-trial interview, or other hearing or panel, including Congressional, in

connection with the sexual assault is eligible for travel allowances (

DoDD 6495.01 (Sexual Assault

Prevention).

B. Allowances. A traveler is authorized the standard travel and transportation allowances in

Chapter 2. Ordinarily, the appropriate office for issuing subpoenas or other requirements to appear for the

event requiring the victim to testify or participate will fund and authorize the travel for the victim. The

sexual assault victim’s commanding officer or AO may authorize or approve an escort to accompany the

sexual assault victim on the trip, or a medical authority may authorize an attendant when required. If the

sexual assault victim is not a Service member or civilian employee, then the Service or Agency

determines which AO authorizes or approves an attendant or escort.

C. Attendant or Escort. Table 3-3

provides the allowances for an attendant or escort to travel.

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Table 3-3. Attendant or Escort Allowances for a Sexual Assault Victim

If the attendant or escort is…

Then the allowances are…

1 a Service member or a civilian employee,

the travel and transportation allowances in

Chapter 2.

a non-DoD Government civilian employee when

the Agency funding the travel is not a DoD

Agency,

the TDY travel and transportation allowances in

accordance with the regulations issued by the

Agency funding the travel.

a non-DoD Government civilian employee when

the Agency funding the travel is a DoD Agency,

the same travel and transportation allowances in

Chapter 2

as a civilian employee on a TDY.

a non-Government civilian traveling on an ITA,

030705. Threatened Civilian Law Enforcement Officer

A. Eligibility. A civilian law enforcement officer, an investigator, and his or her immediate

family may be eligible for travel allowances in FTR §301-31 when their lives are in jeopardy because of

the civilian employee’s assigned duties.

B. Allowances. The DoD Component may authorize or approve transportation and certain

subsistence expenses in FTR §301-31.

C. DoD Component Responsibilities

1. The DoD Component head can delegate the authority to authorize or approve payment of

transportation expenses and an allowable subsistence in this section. Re-delegated authority must stay at

the highest level practicable to ensure proper review of the circumstances that may necessitate protective

action, including moving an eligible individual from home.

2. The DoD Component must establish specific administrative procedures for issuing travel

authorizations and for payment of claims arising from threats to civilian law enforcement officers.

D. DoD Risk Evaluation

Process

1. When a situation occurs that appears to be life-threatening, the DoD Component must:

a. Take appropriate action necessary to protect the eligible individuals, including

removal from their homes.

b. Immediately inform the DoJ Criminal Division of the threat, in accordance with DoJ

regulations.

c. Provide the DoJ with the name of each person involved and other pertinent details that

may help the Agency determine the degree and seriousness of the threat.

d. Be advised by the DoJ, within 7 days, of the seriousness of the threat and recommend

a course of action. Subsistence payments may begin as soon as the DoD Component invokes the

provisions of par. 030705

. If the threatened individual is directed to move into temporary

accommodations during the DoJ’s initial 7-day evaluation period, subsistence payments for this period

may be allowed, even if the DoJ determines that the threat is not serious or no longer exists and the DoD

Component returns the individual to their home.

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e. Update the DoJ, at 30-day intervals, of the situation for reevaluation and

recommendation, to determine if an extension is necessary.

2. The DoD Component is responsible for deciding each individual case. The decision is

based upon an assessment of the situation and the DoJ’s advice as to whether or not protective action

should be initiated or continued and the amount of subsistence and transportation expenses that should be

authorized or approved. When necessary specifically for security reasons, a civilian employee may be

authorized or approved to deviate from the approved mode of transportation and the route taken to or

from a location away from the civilian employee’s PDS.

3. The DoD Component must determine how long allowances continue based on the specific

nature and potential duration of the life-threatening situation and the alternative costs of a PCS. If

temporary accommodations are expected to exceed 120 days, the DoD Component should permanently

relocate the civilian employee if a PCS is advantageous. The DoD Component must consider the specific

nature of the threat and the continued disruption of the family, as well as the PCS costs.

030706. Travel for Military Justice Proceedings

A. Eligibility. A Service member who is not in confinement and required to travel away from

the PDS area to attend their own hearing(s) for a courts martial and associated military justice

proceedings is eligible for travel and transportation allowances.

B. Allowances. The Service is responsible for scheduling and arranging the travel and

transportation at Government expense. As with all Service members, Government quarters and dining

facilities should be directed and used if available. An accused Service member is authorized the standard

travel and transportation allowances in

Chapter 2.

030707. Prisoner on Commandant’s Parole

A prisoner on “Commandant’s Parole” must remain under the supervision of the Commandant of a

U.S. disciplinary barracks. This conditional release from confinement must be authorized by the

Secretary concerned and is exercised when the Service member has not started serving the court martial

sentence because appellate review of the case is not complete.

A. Eligibility. A prisoner released on Commandant’s Parole is eligible for travel allowances.

B. Allowances

1. Meals and Transportation. The Service member is furnished meal tickets

in addition to

transportation in-kind to the home of record or other authorized destination. Transportation expenses are

not reimbursed.

2. Subsequent Travel. If transportation in-kind and meal tickets cannot be provided for any

of the following purposes, then reimbursement is authorized in accordance with the limitations in Chapter

2 for actual transportation costs and occasional meals. The Service member is furnished transportation in-

kind and meal tickets, if practical and appropriate, for travel from the home of record or other authorized

destination to the location concerned, and for return travel if it is required for official travel for:

a. A rehearing ordered when the Service member is not already in a travel status.

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b. Hospitalization.

c. A physical examination.

d. Discharge.

e. Other purposes incident to the parole.

030708. Guards Transporting a Prisoner

A. Eligibility. A prisoner of the United States and the guards assigned to move him or her from

the place of initial confinement to a U.S. installation are eligible for travel allowances.

B. Allowances

1. Transportation. When a prisoner is moved on public transportation, the Service member

in charge should obtain Government-procured transportation for all Service members and the prisoner

named in the travel authorization. Transportation in-kind and accommodations for prisoner and guards,

including enclosed room accommodations, when required, should be in accordance with Service

regulations.

2. Meals. If cooked meals or box lunches are not provided, then the Service member in

charge of the movement must secure meal tickets for the prisoner in sufficient quantity to cover the travel

involved.

Note: Guards transporting a prisoner receive the standard travel and transportation allowances in

Chapter 2.

C. Reimbursement. Guards may be reimbursed for expenses incurred on behalf of the prisoner

during initial travel between the place of initial confinement and a U.S. installation. Military guards are

authorized reimbursement for transportation, lodging, and meals purchased on behalf of a prisoner who

made no prior arrangements and lacks funds to purchase necessary items. Transportation reimbursement

is authorized for the actual amount of personal funds the guard spent on behalf of the prisoner. Total

reimbursement for meals and lodging must not exceed per diem or the actual expense allowances for a

Service member on TDY (see

Chapter 2).

D. Documentation. Guards are responsible for maintaining control of all travel and

transportation documents, including tickets, for themselves and the prisoner and cannot surrender them to

the prisoner for any reason. The documents must be in the name of the Service member responsible for

guarding the prisoner. That Service member in charge must sign the papers when a signature is proper.

030709. Paroled Prisoner

A. Eligibility. A Service member paroled from confinement is authorized transportation

allowances.

B. Allowances. The Service member is authorized transportation in-kind to the home of record

or to the place authorized for residence. The provisions allowing reimbursement for transportation

limited to the directed transportation mode cost, does not apply.

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0308 TRAVEL RELATED TO SERVICE ACADEMIES OR

SCHOOLS

030801. Travel Incident to Nomination and Admission to a Service Academy

A. Eligibility. An active-duty Service member ordered on TDY to take preliminary, entrance, or

final examinations for admission to a Service academy is eligible for travel allowances.

1. An individual traveling to compete for a Congressional nomination is ineligible for travel

allowances.

2. An individual who is not on active duty, including an RC member, in connection with

travel performed for examinations preparatory for admission to an academy is ineligible for travel

allowances.

B. Allowances. An eligible traveler is authorized the standard travel and transportation

allowances in Chapter 2.

030802. School Board Member Travel

The Secretary of Defense may provide for reimbursement of expenses incurred by the school board

member for travel, transportation, lodging, meals, program fees, activity fees, and other appropriate

expenses if the expenses are reasonable and necessary for a traveler to perform school board duties.

A. Eligibility. A school board member may be eligible for reimbursement of expenses incurred

while traveling on official duty on behalf of schools and school boards in accordance with DoDI 1342.25

(DDESS School Board). See 10 U.S.C. § 2164(d)(7) for the statutory authority that provides this

allowance.

B. Expenses and Reimbursement. The traveler may claim actual travel and transportation

expenses, and program fees, activity fees, and other appropriate and reasonable expenses. The DoD

Domestic Dependent Elementary and Secondary Schools fund all official school board travel and issue

the necessary travel authorization. The traveler must follow the rules for standard travel and

transportation allowances in

Chapter 2 and the guidance provided by the Director of the Domestic

Dependent Elementary and Secondary Schools, which may be more restrictive than the rules in Chapter 2.

030803. Travel of a Disabled DoD Education Activity (DoDEA) Student with a

Disability for Diagnostic and Evaluation Purposes

A. Eligibility. A student with disabilities identified in DoDI 1342.12

(Dependent Early

Intervention and Special Education Services) is eligible for travel allowances when medical or

educational authorities request a diagnosis or evaluation. Parents or guardians of a dependent student

with disabilities are eligible for travel allowances when medical or educational authorities within the

DoDEA request under

DoDI 1342.12 (Dependent Early Intervention and Special Education Services) that

one or both of them be present to:

1. Participate during an evaluation of the student.

2. Participate during diagnosis of a disability.

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3. Escort the student.

B. Allowances. A student, parent, or guardian is authorized the standard travel and

transportation allowances in Chapter 2 equivalent to those for a civilian employee on TDY.

030804. DoDEA Academic Competitions and Co-Curricular Activities

A. Eligibility. A dependent student of either a Service member or civilian employee attending

DoDEA schools is eligible for transportation at Government expense to participate in academic

competitions and co-curricular activities (

20 U.S.C. §§ 921-932).

B. Responsibilities. The Director, DoDEA, or designee determines appropriate activities for

student participation. The responsible DoDEA activity determines the most appropriate transportation

method and the DoDEA appropriations to use for a student in support of co-curricular activities.

C. Allowances. A student may only receive a transportation allowance under an ITA. The

DoDEA activity determines the transportation method. The DoD Component may authorize an individual

related by blood or whose close association with the DoDEA student is equivalent of a family relationship

to accompany the DoDEA student. No other travel allowances are authorized.

030805. Service Academy Board of Visitors Travel

A. Eligibility. An individual serving without compensation on a Board of Visitors as specified in

DoDD 4515.12 and U.S. Code (10 U.S.C. § 7455, 10 U.S.C. § 8468, and 10 U.S.C. § 9455) may be

issued an ITA.

B. Allowances. A Service Academy Board of Visitors member is authorized the standard travel

and transportation allowances in Chapter 2.

0309 TRAVEL TO RECEIVE OR PRESENT AWARD

030901. Receive Federally or Non-Federally Sponsored Honor Award

A. Eligibility. A Service member or civilian employee may be authorized travel allowances to

receive an honorary award sponsored by a Federal or non-Federal organization if the award is closely

related to the traveler’s official duties and the Service or Agency’s functions or activities (55 Comp. Gen.

1332 (1976)). When attendance at the meeting or convention at which the award is given was authorized

or approved for another reason, no further authorization is required for the traveler to accept the award.

B. Allowances. An award recipient is authorized the standard travel and transportation

allowances in Chapter 2 when the award recipient and a guest are geographically distant from the

ceremony site.

C. Reimbursement. Reimbursement from a private organization for travel and other expenses to

receive a non-federally sponsored award are not authorized.

D. Guest. The head of the DoD Component concerned may authorize one guest, chosen by the

award recipient, to accompany the traveler receiving a significant Federally sponsored honor award. A

guest is a person who is related to an award winner by blood or marriage, or whose close association with

the award winner, as viewed by the DoD Component, is the equivalent of a family relationship. A guest

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who is neither a Service member nor civilian employee is issued an ITA. See 69 Comp. Gen. 38 (1989),

10 U.S.C. § 1124 and 5 U.S.C. § 4503 for more information about the statutory authority that provides

this allowance.

E. Attendant. An attendant may be allowed at Government expense if an award winner requires

assistance because of a disability (see Chapter 2). An attendant who is neither a Service member nor

civilian employee is issued an ITA. See 5 U.S.C. § 3102 for the statutory authority that provides this

allowance for civilian employees.

F. Allowances for Guests and Attendants. A guest or attendant is authorized the standard travel

and transportation allowances in Chapter 2 for TDY, but with the following limitations.

1. En route transportation is for direct travel to and from the ceremony location.

2. Transportation between terminals and hotel, and to and from the ceremony is also

authorized.

3. Per diem is allowed for the en route travel and for the day of the ceremony itself.

030902. Award Ceremony Related to Presentation

A. Eligibility. An individual invited to attend an incentive award ceremony as part of the award

presentation is eligible for travel allowances and provided an ITA. See 32 Comp. Gen. 134 (1952), 10

U.S.C. § 1124 and 5 U.S.C. § 4503 for more information about the statutory authority that provides this

allowance. Travel and transportation allowances to an award presentation for a dependent or relative of

an award recipient is prohibited, unless authorized under par.

030901-D.

B. Allowances. The presenter is authorized the standard travel and transportation allowances in

Chapter 2 for a civilian employee on TDY.

0310 REPATRIATION OF U.S. CIVILIAN EMPLOYEE

Repatriation of a U.S. citizen civilian marine employee of the Department of the Army applies to a

civilian employee who was left ashore somewhere other than at the PDS or home port, which is

sometimes referred to as an “outport,” in the course of employment with no advance arrangements for

return to the ship or home port. It includes all actions taken to aid a civilian marine employee, or former

marine employee, who is left in an outport. It does not cover ordinary TDY, PCS, or other travel

conditions under an agreement.

A. Eligibility. Repatriation does not apply to a local marine employee in an area OCONUS who

is employed under a labor contract, or to a civilian marine employee paid under native wage scales. The

command concerned repatriates such employees under local law and local prevailing maritime practice.

A repatriate is eligible for travel allowances in this section and is designated Class I or II by the

repatriating authority, which is ordinarily the Army Port Commander.

1. A Class I repatriate is a civilian marine employee who was left in an outport for reasons

other than employee misconduct or negligence. This includes a civilian marine employee put ashore

because of any of the following events:

a. A sudden, unannounced change in the ship’s schedule.

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b. A disability incurred while servicing the ship requires hospitalization or outpatient

treatment.

c. A shipwreck.

2. A Class II repatriate is a civilian marine employee or former civilian marine employee

who has been left in an outport because of his or her own negligence, misconduct, or desire to leave

employment. This includes a civilian marine employee:

a. Hospitalized as a result of misconduct.

b. Who has deserted from the ship.

c. Detained by police authorities.

B. Allowances

1. A civilian marine employee designated as a Class I or II repatriate may be furnished

assistance to return to any of the following places:

a. The ship.

b. Another Army civil service manned ship.

c. His or her home port.

d. A port in the continental United States (CONUS).

2. If a Government civil service-manned ship is unavailable to transport a Class I repatriate,

then a travel authorization may be issued for travel and transportation.

3. Transportation ordinarily is provided to a Class II repatriate as an unpaid crew member,

also called a “work-away,” of an Army ship. If a Class II repatriate is disabled and cannot perform work

as an unpaid crew member, then the traveler is still classified as a work-away for determining travel and

transportation allowances. See appropriate personnel directives for Class II repatriates to determine work

and duty performance and whether he or she will be subsisted with the crew.

4. Work-Away Transportation and Subsistence

a. Transportation on an Army ship and subsistence in-kind furnished to a work-away are

at no cost to the Government.

b. Government funds can only be used for a Class II repatriate’s travel and transportation

if the individual is destitute. If destitute, follow appropriate collection procedures to recover all

Government funds spent, including deductions from the traveler’s compensation due.

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0311 TRAVEL WHILE ON DUTY WITH PARTICULAR UNITS

031101. Mobile Units

Eligibility. A Service member who is away from the PDS on duty with or under training for

any of the following is eligible for travel allowances (47 Comp. Gen 477 (1968)):

1. The Air Mobility Command.

2. Marine Corps Transport Squadrons.

3. Fleet Logistics Support Squadrons.

4. Naval Aircraft Ferrying Squadrons.

5. Any other unit that the Secretary concerned determines to be performing duties similar to

those performed by the above command or squadrons.

B. Allowances. A Service member without a specific travel authorization is authorized the

standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2. A Service member’s commanding officer or

designated representative must approve standard travel and transportation allowances.

031102. Service Member Serving on A Ship Constructed, Overhauled, or

Inactivated at Other Than the Home Port

A. Eligibility. A Service member with dependents is authorized transportation allowances for

the Service member or dependents while on permanent duty aboard a ship being overhauled, inactivated,

or constructed. A Service member must be permanently assigned to the ship for 31 or more consecutive

days to be eligible for allowances.

B. Allowances. Authorization for the transportation allowances accrues on the 31st day, and

every 60th day thereafter. The clock for counting the 31st day and every 60th day thereafter begins on

either the day the ship enters the overhaul or inactivation port, or the day the Service member is

permanently assigned to the ship, whichever occurs later. A Service member or his or her dependents, but

not both, may elect transportation during each accrual period. A traveler is authorized the standard

transportation allowances as in

Chapter 2. Per diem and reimbursable expenses are not authorized.

1. Transportation in Connection with Ship Overhaul or Inactivation

a. If the overhaul or inactivation location:

(1) Is other than the home port, then round-trip transportation is authorized between

that location and the home port.

(2) Becomes the home port, then round-trip transportation is authorized between the

new and old home port for dependents, instead of PCS allowances, if the dependents do not relocate to the

new home port for personal reasons, such as an unavailability of necessary medical care.

b. Dependents must reside within the normal daily commuting area of the original home

port.

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2. Transportation in Connection with Ship Construction

a. If construction is taking place at a location other than the ship’s designated future

home port or the dependents’ residence, then round-trip transportation is authorized between the

construction location and the future home port or the dependents’ residence.

b. If the dependents reside at the construction location, they are ineligible for

transportation allowances.

C. Reimbursement

1. Reimbursement for personally procured transportation is in accordance with section 0202

and section 0502 for transoceanic travel.

2. Mixed-mode transportation reimbursement is in accordance with par. 050203-A1b

3. Reimbursement for personally procured transportation at the automobile mileage rate

cannot exceed the policy-constructed airfare (see Appendix A) for the Service member between either of

the following:

a. The ship overhaul or inactivation location and the original home port.

b. The ship construction location and the future home port or location where the

dependents reside (see par. 031104

4. If a dependent travels instead of the Service member, then the family transportation cost is

limited to the cost of Government-procured, commercial round-trip transportation for the Service member

(see Chapter 2)

5. Per diem, meal tickets, and reimbursement for meals and lodging are not authorized.

D. Accrual of Allowances. After the required 31st day to receive transportation allowances and

every 60th day thereafter, an opportunity is available for the Service member or dependent to travel and

receive the transportation allowances.

1. A Service member who does not use one or more of the accrued travel opportunities

retains all opportunities, but all travel under section 0311

must begin before the ship departs the

construction, overhaul, or inactivation location.

2. Each opportunity may alternate between a Service member’s or dependent’s travel.

031103. Service Members Conducting Aerial Surveys

The standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

or AEA are authorized for a Service

member assigned to complete or assist in aerial surveys of rivers, harbors, or Government projects not

pertaining to the Service.

031104. Army Corps of Engineers-Related Travel

A. Eligibility. A Service member or civilian employee on TDY on a floating plant is eligible for

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travel allowances.

B. Allowances. Eligible travelers may receive:

1. Meals furnished aboard a Corps of Engineers floating plant during TDY when one of the

following circumstances occur:

a. Meals are furnished at no cost to the traveler, no per diem is authorized.

b. Only one or two meals are provided at no cost to the traveler, the AO must authorize

an M&IE rate to cover the cost of meals not provided.

c. No meals are provided, the traveler is paid the standard CONUS M&IE rate regardless

of whether the traveler paid for the meal or not. The TDY order must state the circumstances and rate.

2. Lodging cost aboard a Corps of Engineers floating plant during TDY, limited to the

standard CONUS lodging rate.

031105. Crash Firefighter and Operations and Maintenance Technician

A. Eligibility. The following civilian employees may be eligible for unique air-transportation

allowances because of their job requirements:

1. A crash firefighter required to travel by aircraft because it is necessary for his or her

duties.

2. An operations and maintenance technician whose duties involve the repair, maintenance,

or performance of aircraft or airborne equipment.

B. Allowances. An eligible traveler accepts unique transportation allowances as part of

executing the required duties of his or her job.

Table 3-4. Unique Travel for Crash Firefighter or Operations and Maintenance Technician

1 Conditions

a. Travel by aircraft for any distance when required as part of the assignment

conditions.

b. Be aboard an aircraft to make repairs or observe aircraft performance.

c. Use air travel for expeditious duty performance in different geographical

locations.

d. Be aboard any type of Government aircraft on a scheduled or unscheduled flight.

Mission-

Driven

Transportation

a. Travel by aircraft for any distance is required with or without the civilian

employee’s consent when necessary for mission accomplishment or air is the

only transportation mode available.

b. A civilian employee may be required to travel on scheduled commercial aircraft

or on transport-type.

c. Government aircraft operated on scheduled or semi-scheduled flights.

d. A civilian employee’s acceptance of a travel authorization that authorizes air

travel constitutes an agreement to the provisions of the particular TDY order.

C. Air Evacuation Required for Medical Reasons. Travel by appropriate aircraft is required

when a medical authority determines it is necessary for a civilian employee’s medical evacuation. See

par. 033102 for allowances available to eligible travelers.

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0312 INDETERMINATE TDY (ITDY)

031201. ITDY Determination

A. Authority. Only Service Headquarters can authorize or approve ITDY.

B. Eligibility. A Service member who receives a TDY order that either does not provide for

return to the PDS or does not specify or imply a limit to the period of absence from the PDS is eligible for

travel allowances (

37 U.S.C. §476(e)(2)).

C. Allowances. Whether the Service member receives PCS allowances or TDY allowances

depends on the travel authorization.

1. If the ITDY order contains instructions to return to the current PDS, but provides no firm

duration or length of TDY, then the standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

for TDY

apply both en route and while at the ITDY location. In this situation, dependents are not authorized any

allowances.

2. If the ITDY is en route PCS or specifies TDY pending further orders and a PDS is not

named, then the Service member is paid PCS allowances en route. See Chapter 5

for PCS allowances.

The Service member receives the standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2 for TDY

while at the ITDY location.

3. If authorized or approved through the Secretarial Process, HHG transportation (within the

PCS weight allowance, see Household Goods (HHG) – Authorized Locations and Weight Allowance

)

under a travel authorization from the PDS to TDY for an indeterminate period of time, may be made to

any combination of:

a. The TDY location.

b. Any point in the CONUS.

c. Another location authorized for dependent travel through the Secretarial Process.

d. Non-temporary storage under par. 020504

4. HHG stored or shipped may be transported to the Service member’s PDS after TDY.

0313 COURIER TRAVEL

031301. Accompanying Package or Controlled Pouch

A. Eligibility. A courier or control officer accompanying a package or controlled pouch for

delivery is eligible for travel allowances.

B. Allowances. An eligible traveler is authorized to receive the standard travel and

transportation allowances in Chapter 2. This includes a potential upgrade in accommodations if the

traveler or TMC provides the required documentation in Chapter 2 and the upgrade is written in the travel

authorization. Upgrades in accommodations may be approved after completing travel if the courier or

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control officer cannot maintain adequate security of the package or pouch in coach or business class. If

the air terminal is the Service member’s PDS he or she may not be reimbursed for POV operating

expenses to and from the air terminal when performing TDY travel.

0314 REPATRIATION OF A SERVICE MEMBER HELD

CAPTIVE

031401. Family Member Travel in Connection with the Repatriation of A

Service Member Held Captive

A. Eligibility

1. Eligible Service Member. A Service member who is serving on active duty, was held

captive (as determined by the Secretary concerned) and is repatriated or returned to a site inside or outside

the United States.

2. Family Members. The Service member’s spouse, children (including step or adopted, and

illegitimate children) the Service member’s siblings, and the Service member’s parents (including fathers

and mothers through adoption and persons who have stood in loco parentis to the Service member for no

less than 1 year immediately before the Service member entered the Uniformed Service). Only one father

and one mother, or their counterparts, may be recognized in any one case. See

37 U.S.C. § 481j and 37

U.S.C. § 452(b)(13) for the statutory authority that provides this allowance.

3. Family Members and Other Relatives Authorized Travel and Transportation. No more

than three individuals in a Service member’s family are eligible for travel and transportation allowances.

However, the Service member may select up to two other persons related to him or her if no family

members can travel to the repatriation site. Each of the two Designated Individuals receives the same

travel and transportation allowances that a family member would receive.

Note: The Secretary concerned may waive the limitation on the number of family members to whom

travel and transportation allowances are provided in circumstances that the Secretary determines

are appropriate.

B. Allowances

1. Transportation. Round-trip transportation is authorized between the home of the traveler

receiving transportation and the repatriation site where the Service member is located using Government

transportation. If Government transportation is not provided, then the traveler is authorized:

a. Transportation in-kind.

b. Mileage reimbursement at the authorized TDY automobile mileage rate in Chapter 2

for the official distance traveled by a POV.

c. Reimbursement for the commercial transportation cost, limited to the cost of

Government-procured, round-trip air travel.

2. Per Diem. Lodging and per diem based on the Lodgings Plus computation method or

AEA in Chapter 2 for the allowable travel time to, from, and while at the repatriation site.

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C. Attendant. The Secretary concerned may provide the standard travel and transportation

allowances in Chapter 2 for an attendant to accompany a family member unable to travel unattended due

to age, physical condition or other reason determined by the Secretary concerned if no other family

member or other relative selected by the Service member can travel to the repatriation site. An attendant

or escort who is neither a Service member nor civilian employee is issued an ITA.

D. Funds Advance. These funds may be paid in advance.

0315 ARMED FORCES, NATIONAL, AND INTERNATIONAL

AMATEUR SPORTS COMPETITION

031501. Amateur Athletes Train, Attend, or Compete

A. Eligibility. A Service member may be authorized to train for, attend, or participate in national

and international amateur sports competitions (including qualifying or preparatory events (10 U.S.C. §717

and 37 U.S.C. §420).

1. Competing in the Annual National Matches for rifle and pistol shooting is authorized.

2. Competing in the Pan American Games, Olympic Games, and Paralympic Games

activities is authorized. The DoD consults with the Secretary of State on all other international sports

competitions to determine if participation is in the Nation’s interest. Among those, the

International

Military Sports Council (CISM) and the Interallied Confederation of Reserve Officers are the only

international sports competitions that the State Department has pre-approved for participation.

Participation in any other international sports competition requires the State Department’s authorization.

B. Allowances. A participant in amateur sports competitions is authorized standard travel and

transportation allowances in Chapter 2. A competitor must comply with DoDI 1330.04 (National and

International Sports Activities), and Service regulations to receive travel and transportation allowances.

See

DoD 5500.07-R (Joint Ethics Regulation) when considering a non-Federal source to accommodate or

pay travel expenses. See COMDTINST M1710.13D (Morale, Well-Being, and Recreation) for U.S.

Coast Guard Service members.

0316 OBSERVER TO UNITED NATIONS (UN)

PEACEKEEPING ORGANIZATION

A Service member assigned TDY as an Observer to a UN peacekeeping organization, who receives a UN

mission subsistence allowance (the UN’s name for a mission-specific per diem) is also authorized to

receive the DoD’s per diem allowances for TDY travel up to a combined total of no more than the State

Department’s locality per diem rate. This regulation does not authorize a reduction in the UN mission

subsistence allowance. A Service member assigned to a PCS as an Observer to any UN peacekeeping

organization may be eligible for station allowances and a housing allowance (see Chapter 5

0317 LABOR ORGANIZATION REPRESENTATIVE TRAVEL

031701. Labor-Management Meetings

A. Eligibility. A civilian employee who serves as a labor organization representative and travels

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to attend labor-management meetings that are certified to be in the Government’s primary interest may be

eligible for travel allowances.

B. Allowances. A labor organization representative is authorized the standard travel and

transportation allowances in Chapter 2.

C. Documentation. Each travel authorization for a labor organization representative must

include a statement that the labor-management meetings are in the Government’s best interest as well as a

brief explanation of the basis for reaching that conclusion. The travel authorization must:

1. Identify what makes it necessary to participate in the activities, such as “joint labor

management cooperation committees concerning accident prevention,” “absenteeism reduction,”

“improving communications,” “ensuring equal employment opportunity,” or “maintaining employee

productivity and morale.”

2. Include the statement: “I certify that the above information is true and correct.”

Note: The Government does not fund travel and transportation for a labor organization representative

engaging in activities covered by 5 U.S.C. §7131(b), which states that internal labor organization

business is conducted only when a civilian employee is in a non-duty status.

0318 TRAVEL WITH A DIGNITARY

The following types of travel with dignitaries may warrant AEA authorization or approval.

031801. Dignitary

A. Eligibility. A Service member or civilian employee traveling with the following dignitaries is

eligible for additional travel allowances without further demonstration of unusual or extraordinary

requirements.

1. The U.S. President, Vice President, or members of their families.

2. U.S. Congress members not traveling under authority of 31 U.S.C. §1108(g)

3. U.S. Cabinet members.

4. Department Secretaries, Deputy Secretaries, Under Secretaries, or Assistant Secretaries.

5. Supreme Court Justices.

6. The Chairman or Vice Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

7. The Chief of Staff of the U.S. Army; the Chief of Staff of the U.S. Air Force; the Chief of

Naval Operations; the Chief of Space Operations; the Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps; the

Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard; the Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration; the Surgeon General of the U.S. Public Health Service; and the Chief of the National

Guard Bureau.

8. U.S. Ambassadors, Ministers, or Consuls to foreign countries.

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9. U.S. Delegates to international conferences or meetings.

10. Very important persons, as specified by the U.S. President or Vice President.

11. Candidates for the office of U.S. President or Vice President, or their family members.

12. The President-Elect or Vice President-Elect of the United States.

13. Other U.S. or foreign dignitaries equivalent in rank to any of those mentioned above.

B. Allowances. A traveler is authorized or approved AEA at or below 300 percent of per diem

without further justification.

031802. Exceptions for Traveling with a Member of Congress

A. Eligibility. An Armed Forces member or civilian employee accompanying a Member of

Congress, congressional staff employee, or funeral support under the authority in 31 U.S.C. §1108(g) may

be eligible for additional travel allowances. A “congressional staff employee” is an employee of a

Member of Congress or an employee of Congress, committee of Congress, or congressional agency.

1. DoD Components see the following DoD regulations for guidance: DoDD 4515.12

(Congressional Travel) and DoDI 4515.19 (Congressional Funerals).

2. Non-DoD Services consult Service regulations.

B. Allowances. The Chairman (Leadership) sets the transportation service class, per diem, or

AEA rate. A Member of Congress may prescribe travel and transportation allowances consistent with 31

U.S.C. §1108(g) that may differ from other policies within this regulation.

C. Reimbursement. An Armed Forces member or civilian employee accompanying a Member of

Congress or congressional staff employee on official travel under the authority in 31 U.S.C. §1108(g) is

authorized reimbursement for travel and transportation expenses. Reimbursement includes:

1. Transportation accommodations cost on the same class of service used by a Member of

Congress or congressional staff employees who the Armed Forces member or civilian employee is

accompanying.

2. Per diem or AEA, limited to the rate prescribed for the Member of Congress or

congressional staff employee, provided that the Secretary of Defense or the Secretary concerned

authorized or approved the travel.

Note: Approval codes required on documentation for Congressional travel “other than economy or

coach” are “FC” for first class and “BC” for business class.

0319 FAMILY PROGRAMS

031901. Chaplain-Led Program Functions

Each Secretary of the military departments is authorized, per 10 U.S.C. §1789

, to provide Chaplain-

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led Programs that assist Service members on active duty, and RC members in an “active status” as

defined in 10 U.S.C. §10141

, and their spouses and children, in building and maintaining a strong family

structure.

A. Eligibility. A Service member, and his or her spouse and children are authorized to attend a

Chaplain-led Program in an official capacity.

B. Allowances

1. A Service member authorized to attend these functions is issued an official TDY order and

authorized to receive the standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

. A Service member

attending a Chaplain-led Program in an unofficial capacity should consult the organization or agency

directing or sponsoring travel to determine the appropriate funds for the event. Travel authorization are

not used to document attendance at, or payments related to, an individual participating in a chaplain-led

program in an unofficial capacity.

2. The Service member’s spouse and children attending a Chaplain-led Program in an official

capacity are authorized travel and transportation allowances specified in the ITA.

031902. Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program Event

The Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program (DoDI 1342.28

(Yellow Ribbon Program)) prepares

Service members and their families for deployment; sustain their families during deployment; and helps

reintegrate Service members with their families, communities, and employers upon re-deployment.

A. Eligibility. A Service member may designate, in writing, up to two individuals to attend an

event. The Service member may change any or all of the designated individuals at any time. Only two

designated individuals may attend each separate trip event. However, the Secretarial Process may

authorize or approve more than two designated individuals in circumstances the Service Concerned

deems appropriate. The designated individuals should be those whose presence at the event may

contribute to the event’s purpose. See

37 U.S.C. § 481l and 37 U.S.C. § 452(b)(15) for the statutory

authority that provides this allowance.

B. Allowances. The AO may authorize travel and transportation allowances, in Chapter 2

, for a

Service member and any designated individuals attending an event in an official capacity. A Service

member travels on a TDY order and a designated individual travels on an ITA.

031903. Travel to Obtain a Consular Report of Birth Abroad

A Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) is a document that certifies that a child acquired U.S.

citizenship at birth. Service members should report the birth of a child born abroad at a U.S. embassy or

consulate overseas. The U.S. embassy or consulate will then issue a CRBA.

A. Eligibility. A Service member, their dependents (parent and child), or both may be authorized

travel to attend a mandatory interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate outside the local commuting area to

obtain a CRBA for a dependent acquired in a foreign location. See

37 U.S.C. § 451(b)(1)(E) and 37

U.S.C. § 452(a) for the statutory authority that permits this allowance.

B. Allowances. The AO may authorize travel and transportation allowances, in Chapter 2

, for a

Service member, their dependents (parent and child), or both. A Service member must travel on a TDY

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order and dependents must travel on an ITA.

0320 TRAVEL IN THE EVENT OF DEATH

When a DoD traveler dies while on TDY, the commander, commander’s designee, or supervisor must

follow applicable Departmental regulations to inform the deceased traveler’s next of kin, or legal

representative, of the allowances available in this situation. When a Service member dies, the designated

casualty assistance office must be immediately notified. The DoD Component must render all reasonable

assistance in arranging for the preparation and transportation of the traveler’s remains, the return of any

personal property from the TDY location to the PDS, the finalization of any expenses related to the TDY

(for example, checking out of a hotel room, returning a rental car) and assisting any beneficiary in

completing and filing a final travel claim for the travel involved. When a traveler dies in a TDY status,

per diem accrues through the date of death. Reimbursement for transportation, TDY mileage, or a

monetary allowance in lieu of transportation (MALT) accrues from the PDS, old station, or last TDY

location, as appropriate, to the place of death, limited to the Defense Table of Official Distances (DTOD)

distance.

032001. Escort for Remains of a Deceased Service Member

A. Authority

1. Procedures for transporting the remains of a deceased Service member are established in

DoDD 1300.22 (Mortuary Affairs); DTR 4500.9-R, Part VII

(Human Remains Movement) and

sponsoring Service regulations.

2. Only the following individuals may be designated to direct disposition of the remains of a

deceased Service member (10 U.S.C. §1482(c)

a. The person identified on DD Form 93, or any successor to that form, as the Person

Authorized to Direct Disposition, regardless of the relationship of the designee to the deceased.

b. The surviving spouse of the deceased.

c. Blood relatives of the deceased.

d. Adoptive relatives of the deceased.

e. A person standing in loco parentis to the deceased if none of the above can be found.

B. Eligibility. The Services and DoD Agencies implementing administrative and procedural

regulations, and the applicable DoD regulations, determine who escorts the remains.

C. Allowances. A Service member who escorts the remains is authorized the standard travel and

transportation allowances in Chapter 2.

032002. Funeral of a Deceased Service Member, Cadet, or Midshipman

A. Eligibility. When a Service member, Service Academy cadet or midshipman, or a Senior

Reserve Officer’s Training Corps (SROTC) cadet receiving pay under 37 U.S.C. §209(d) dies, while on

active or inactive duty, or while separated and participating in the career intermission program under 10

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U.S.C. §710 (h)(4) in par. 051008, the following eligible relatives are authorized travel and transportation

allowances to attend the burial:

1. The deceased Service member’s, cadet’s, or midshipman’s surviving spouse, including a

remarried surviving spouse.

2. The deceased Service member’s, cadet’s, or midshipman’s children (including

stepchildren, adopted children, and illegitimate children) regardless of age.

3. The deceased Service member’s, cadet’s, or midshipman’s parent or parents. In this case,

the term “parent” means a parent of the Service member, cadet, or midshipman (natural, step or adopted);

a parent of the Service member’s, cadet’s, or midshipman’s spouse (natural, step, or adopted); and any

other person (including a former stepparent) who has stood in loco parentis to the Service member at any

time for a continuous period of at least five years before the Service member became age 21 (

37 U.S.C.

§401(b)(2)).

4. The deceased Service member’s, cadet’s, or midshipman’s siblings, which must have one

or both parents in common.

5. The person who directs the disposition of the deceased Service member’s, cadet’s, or

midshipman’s remains or the person who would have been designated to direct disposition of the remains

(under 10 U.S.C. §1482(c)

) if individual identification had been made in the case of a deceased Service

member, cadet, or midshipman whose remains were commingled and buried in a common grave in a

national cemetery.

6. If no relative listed above is provided travel and transportation allowances, then the Person

Authorized to Direct Disposition or the person who would have been designated to direct disposition of

remains (under 10 U.S.C. §1482(c)

) may select no more than two guests to receive round-trip travel and

transportation allowances to attend the burial ceremonies. The guests are in addition to the Person

Authorized to Direct Disposition.

B. Allowances. A traveler is authorized the standard travel and transportation allowances in

Chapter 2. Per diem is authorized for the en route travel to and from the burial location, and for a

maximum of 2 days at the burial location.

032003. Escort of Eligible Relative of Service Member (Funeral Travel)

A. Eligibility. An attendant or escort accompanying an eligible traveler who was provided travel

and transportation allowances (see par. 032002) for travel to the burial ceremony for a deceased Service

member may be eligible for travel allowances if both of the following criteria are met:

1. The accompanied eligible traveler is unable to travel unattended or unescorted because of

age, physical condition, or other justifiable reason acceptable to the AO.

2. No other eligible traveler listed in par. 032002

is traveling to the burial ceremony and

qualified to serve as the attendant or escort.

B. Allowances. The escort or attendant may be provided round-trip transportation to the burial

ceremony and receive the standard allowances in Chapter 2 for civilian employees on TDY. An attendant

or escort who is neither a Service member nor civilian employee is issued an ITA.

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032004. Funeral Honors Duty Travel

A. Eligibility. An RC member who performs funeral honors for a veteran at a location 50 or

more miles from his or her place of residence is eligible for these allowances (10 U.S.C. §12503 or 32

U.S.C. §115). A person who is neither a current Service member nor a civilian employee and who

participates in funeral honors duty for a veteran (10 U.S.C. §1491) may also receive allowances.

B. Allowances

1. An RC member traveling for funeral honors duty may be authorized to receive the

standard allowances in Chapter 2

for TDY.

2. A traveler who is neither a current Service member nor a civilian employee, such as a

retired Service member, and who participates in funeral honors duty for a veteran (10 U.S.C. §1491

) will

use the available transportation mode that is least costly and still adequately meets the detail’s needs.

Reimbursement for actual transportation expenses, which is not a TDY mileage allowance, is payable

when a POV is the authorized transportation mode. Reimbursement for actual expenses when using a

POV is limited to fuel; oil; parking fees; ferry fares; and road, bridge and tunnel tolls. The actual cost of

lodging and meals may be reimbursed up to the per diem rate prescribed for the area concerned.

Reimbursement for expenses in

Chapter 2 may be authorized or approved.

032005. Memorial Service for a Deceased Service Member

In addition to a funeral, a memorial service may also be held for a deceased Service member.

A. Eligibility. A traveler identified as eligible for travel allowances in par. 032002

is eligible for

allowances to attend a memorial service for a deceased Service member who dies while on active duty

when the memorial service is at a location other than the burial ceremony location.

B. Allowances. An eligible traveler may be authorized the standard travel and transportation

allowances in Chapter 2. One round trip and per diem is authorized for en route travel to and from an

installation, home port, or unit memorial service; and for a maximum of 2 days at the memorial site. This

round trip is in addition to that for the burial ceremony and must be completed within two years of the

Service member’s death, unless the Secretary Concerned waives the time limitation. The memorial

service must take place in the CONUS, a non-foreign area OCONUS, or the deceased Service member’s

last PDS or home port. It cannot be held in a theater of combat operations.

032006. Family Member Attendance During Transfer of Remains

A. Eligibility. The Primary Next of Kin (see DoDI 1300.18, par E2.46

(Personnel Casualty

Matters)) and two additional family members may travel to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware to

participate as official observers at the dignified transfer of remains of a deceased Service member or

deceased civilian employee who dies in a theatre of combat operations, or when a forensic pathology

investigation of the remains has been directed by the Office of the Armed Forces Medical Examiner

(AFME) at Dover and the decedent dies overseas. This policy does not apply to the repatriation of

remains from past conflicts. A family member used in this context is the same as an eligible relative

defined in

37 U.S.C. §481f(c) and listed in par. 032002. The Secretarial Process may authorize additional

family member travel on a case-by-case basis.

B. Allowances. Family members attending transfer of remains per the USD(P&R) memorandum

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dated May 25, 2018, are eligible to receive the standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

for civilian employees traveling from home or from the place of notification. Authorized allowances

should be specified on an ITA.

C. Escort. At the Primary Next of Kin request, the Secretary Concerned may authorize the

Casualty Assistance Officer or Family Liaison Officer to escort and or accompany the Primary Next of

Kin to the transfer.

032007. Deceased Civilian Employee or Dependent

Procedures for transporting the remains of a deceased civilian employee or dependent are established

in DoDD 1300.22 (Mortuary Affairs) and FTR §303

(Expense Payment Connected with Employee

Death).

032008. Escort for Remains of Deceased Civilian Employee

A. Eligibility. An escort for a civilian employee’s remains when he or she dies while on official

travel or on TDY, performing official duties OCONUS, or while reassigned away from the home of

record under a mandatory mobility agreement executed as a condition of employment is eligible for travel

allowances.

B. Allowances. The AO may authorize round-trip travel allowances for up to two escorts.

Authorized travel is from or to any place the AO determines appropriate for burial.

1. If an authorized escort is a civilian employee, then he or she is issued a TDY order to

receive the standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

, which requires the transportation

to be arranged through a TMC.

2. If an authorized escort is not a civilian employee or Service member, then he or she is

issued an ITA to receive the standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

for TDY. The AO

arranges the escort’s transportation through a TMC unless the escort has a justified reason to arrange

transportation directly with a commercial transportation provider for the least expensive and unrestricted

economy or coach transportation.

Note: Family members traveling together as escorts should not be separated.

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CHAPTER 3: TDY TRAVEL

PART B: TRAINING TRAVEL

0321 CONFERENCES FOR TRAINING

A conference is considered training when the stated purpose is educational or instructional and more than

half of the time is scheduled for a planned exchange of information that meets the definition of training.

A conference is also considered training when the content is slated to improve individual or

organizational performance and the attendee will gain professional development benefits.

032101. Training Conferences outside the Permanent Duty Station (PDS)

A. Eligibility. A Service member or Department of Defense (DoD) civilian employee who

attends training conferences held outside the PDS when travel is involved is eligible for travel allowances.

B. Allowances. An eligible traveler is authorized the standard travel and transportation

allowances in Chapter 2.

Note: Charges and fees for light refreshments and snacks are reimbursable only when included as part of

the conference registration fee. However, when the only purpose for a registration fee is to

provide light snacks or refreshments, it is not reimbursable.

032102. Training Conferences at the PDS

Conference fees, per diem, travel, and other miscellaneous expenses associated with conferences held

at the PDS cannot be reimbursed as travel and transportation allowances per 37 U.S.C. §474

. Authority

to pay related training costs at the PDS is in 10 U.S.C. §2013; 5 U.S.C. §4109; 42 U.S.C. §218(a); and 14

U.S.C. §469.

0322 SERVICE MEMBER

032201. Courses of Instruction at a School or Installation

A. Eligibility. A Service member on active duty attending instructional courses at a school or

installation may be eligible for travel allowances, based upon the scheduled duration using the guidance

below.

1. Permanent Change of Station (PCS) or TDY Status

a. Courses with a scheduled duration of 139 or fewer days (less than 20 weeks) are TDY.

b. Courses with a scheduled duration of 140 or more days (20 weeks) are PCSs, and the

course location is the Service member’s PDS.

c. The scheduled duration is the actual period a Service member receives instruction,

including weekends, but not counting holiday periods when the Service member is not attending classes,

or incidental time spent at the duty station before classes begin or after they end.

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d. A PCS order to a course of instruction cannot be changed to a TDY order after the

Service member’s arrival at the new PDS unless the travel authorization was issued in error.

2. Extensions of Instruction. If a Service member is assigned additional instruction that

extends the scheduled duration from 139 or fewer days (less than 20 weeks) to 140 or more days (20

weeks) at the same location, and the time remaining on the original TDY order plus the additional

instruction time is 139 or more days, then the assignment becomes a PCS.

3. Exceptions to Status. The Secretary concerned (this authority cannot be delegated) may

authorize a designated course scheduled to last 140 or more days (20 weeks), but not 181 or more days to

be attended and completed in a TDY status instead of a PCS status.

a. Requests for such action must be forwarded through Service Command channels to

the Secretary concerned and include the course number, description, length, school location, specific

Service of each attendee, number of attendees who traditionally return to the previous PDS, and written

justification for TDY instead of PCS.

b. All Service members attending a course must be in the same status (either TDY or

PCS) regardless of the Service or DoD Agency affiliation; however, if a Service member is permanently

assigned to the course location immediately before attending the course, then the Service member remains

in a PCS status while attending the course. Enlisted Service members in the accession pipeline are not

authorized per diem during TDY before reporting to the first PDS. See par. 050701

c. The Secretary concerned must obtain agreement from the Secretary concerned (may

be delegated to PDTATAC Principal) for each of the other affected Services before changing a course

status (for example, TDY to PDS, or PDS to TDY) attended by multiple Services or DoD Agencies.

d. The Secretary concerned must obtain the Per Diem, Travel, and Transportation

Allowance Committee’s (PDTATAC) authorization or approval for specific courses to be designated and

attended as TDY when unusual circumstances, such as infrastructure destruction caused by hurricanes,

floods, or similar events, require training courses at one location to last for 181 or more consecutive days.

B. Allowances. See Table 3-5

for travel and transportation allowances while attending a course

of instruction.

1. A Service member attending training in a TDY status receives the standard travel and

transportation allowances in Chapter 2, unless stated otherwise in Table 3-6

2. The schoolhouse commander determines the availability of meals and lodging. If

Government quarters are not available, then a statement of non-availability must be obtained.

3. If Government quarters are not provided at no cost, a Service member with dependents is

eligible for per diem paid equal to the amount of the basic allowance for housing without-dependent rate

applicable to the Service member’s pay grade and PDS when participating in professional military

education or training classes with a scheduled duration of a period not more than 1 year under a PCS

order, with PCS orders to return to the prior duty station where the Service member maintains primary

residence and the dependents of the Service member reside while the Service member is attending

training. Refer to Table 3-5

, Rule 5 for further clarification.

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Table 3-5. Allowances for a Service Member Attending Courses of Instruction

If… Then…

Allowances while at

the training location

Allowances when

departing the

training location

the Service member is

traveling to the course

under a TDY order,

the Service member

receives the standard

travel and transportation

allowances in

Chapter 2

while traveling to the

course location.

Standard travel and

transportation

allowances in Chapter 2

Standard travel and

transportation

allowances in

Chapter 2

the Service member is

traveling to the course

location in a PCS with

TDY En Route status,

the Service member

receives the PCS

allowances in

Chapter 5

while traveling to the

course location.

Standard travel and

transportation

allowances in Chapter 2

PCS allowances in

Chapter 5

the Service member is

traveling to the course

location on a PCS order

that names the course

location as the new PDS

upon arrival,

the Service member

receives the PCS

allowances in Chapter 5

while traveling to the

location.

No per diem w

hile at the

course location.

Not applicable.

the Service member is

traveling to the course

on a PCS order and the

new PDS is not named,

the Service member

receives the PCS

allowances in

Chapter 5

while going to the

location.

Standard travel and

transportation

allowances in

Chapter 2

up to the point that the

new PDS is named.

the Service member is

traveling to the course

on a PCS order for a

period of not more than

1 year and return travel

to the prior duty station

where the Service

member maintains

primary residence and

the dependents of the

Service member reside,

the Service member

receives the PCS

allowances in Chapter 5

while traveling to the

course location.

Per diem paid equal to

the amount of the basic

allowance for housing

without-dependent rate

plicable to the Service

member’s pay grade and

PDS.

PCS allowances in

Chapter 5

032202. Field Training Exercises, Maneuvers, and Simulated Wartime

Operations

Allowances for field training exercises, maneuvers, and simulated wartime operations are in

Chapter

3, Part C.

0323 RESERVE COMPONENT (RC) MEMBER

032301. RC Member Called or Ordered to Active Duty for Training (ADT)

A. Eligibility. An RC member called or ordered to ADT with pay may be eligible for travel

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allowances.

B. Allowances. The RC member’s travel allowances depend on where he or she resides, whether

he or she commutes daily, and the length of the duty. Travel and transportation allowances for an RC

member who commutes to the ADT location are in

Table 3-6. Allowances for an RC member who does

not commute are in Table 3-7. An RC member training at one location for 140 or more days (20 weeks)

is in a PCS status.

Table 3-6. Training Travel When an RC Member Commutes

If…

Then…

both the primary residence and place of active

duty are in the corporate limits of the same city

or town,

travel and transportation allowances are not

authorized for travel between the primary

residence and the place of active duty.

the RC member commutes daily between the

primary residence and the place of active duty,

and both are not in the same corporate limits or

town, regardless of the commuting area,

travel and transportation allowances are not

authorized for travel between the primary

residence and the place of active duty.

However, the RC member is authorized the

applicable TDY automobile or motorcycle

mileage rate for one round trip for the duration

of the duty (not daily) between the duty location

and one of the following:

a. Primary residence.

b. Place of assigned unit.

c. Place from which called or ordered to

active duty, limited to the cost for travel

between the duty location and primary

residence.

the AO or installation commander determines

that both the primary residence and place of

active duty are within reasonable commuting

distance of each other in accordance with

section

0206 and the duty involved permits commuting,

the AO or installation commander determines

that the primary residence and place of active

duty are within reasonable commuting distance,

the duty permits commuting, and Government

quarters or a Government dining facility are

unavailable during a required overnight stay (see

Chapter 2 for documentation requirements),

the RC member’s commanding officer may

authorize reimbursement for actual expenses for

all meals and lodging (see Chapter 2

) other than

the meal ordinarily procured when commuting.

the commuter travels locally at the active duty

location,

see Chapter 2 for local travel.

Table 3-7. Training Travel When an RC Member Does not Commute

If…

Then…

duty is 139 or fewer days (20 weeks), including

courses with a scheduled duration of 139 or

fewer days (20 weeks) (see par. 030301),

standard travel and transportation allowances as

in Chapter 2

An RC member begins travel from a place from

which entered (or called) to active duty

(PLEAD) other than the primary residence,

transportation allowances are authorized from

the PLEAD to the duty location, limited to the

cost of transportation between the RC member’s

primary residence and duty location, and return

to the PLEAD or primary residence.

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Table 3-7. Training Travel When an RC Member Does not Commute

If…

Then…

the original TDY order is extended due to

unforeseen circumstances and the number of

days on the extension plus the remaining days on

the original TDY order is 139 or fewer days,

per diem continues.

shipping household goods (HHG) is authorized,

see section 0205.

5 ADT is 140 or more days at one location,

no per diem or an actual expense allowance

(AEA) is authorized at the ADT location.

an extension plus the remaining days on the

original TDY order total 140 or more days,

per diem stops on the day of the order that

extend the travel. Government quarters or

Government dining facilities availability does

not change this determination.

the ADT period is 140 or more days at one

location, including courses with a scheduled

duration of 140 or more days (see par. 030302),

the PCS allowances in Chapter 5 apply.

an RC member is on ADT at one location for

140 or more days and is ordered on a TDY away

from that ADT location,

the standard travel and transportation

allowances in Chapter 2 are payable for the

ordered TDY.

032302. RC Member Called or Ordered to Active Duty with Pay for a Specific

Duty Status

A. Eligibility. The following RC members are ineligible for per diem or AEA:

1. A Public Health Service officer called to active duty solely to participate in the

Commissioned Officer Student and Extern Program.

2. A newly enlisted RC member who is undergoing processing, indoctrination, initial basic

training including follow-on technical or home training, or instruction.

3. An RC member listed below when both Government quarters, other than temporary

lodging facilities, and a Government dining facility are available.

a. An RC member performing annual training (AT). In this case the training location is

the PDS, and no per diem is payable. Per diem is payable for TDY away from the annual training

location or for travel to and from the annual training location if not in a commuting status.

b. An RC member ordered to involuntary ADT because of unsatisfactory participation in

the reserve commitment.

c. An RC member newly enlisted and attending courses with a break in active duty

between courses.

B. Allowances. Transportation to and from these duty locations, and the per diem on travel days

is in accordance with Table 3-6 and Table 3-7. When an RC member performs ADT, and no per diem or

AEA is payable, then he or she may be reimbursed for lodging service charges when occupying transient

Government housing. Reimbursement for other than service charges for Government quarters is not

authorized.

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032303. Inactive Duty Training (IDT) with or without Pay

A. Eligibility. An RC member performing IDT ordinarily receives no travel or transportation

allowances, except as listed in Table 3-8.

B. Allowances. Allowances for an RC member are in Table 3-8

Table 3-8. Inactive Duty Training with or without Pay

If an RC member …

Then…

in the local commuting area performs local

travel in and around the training duty station,

drill site, or city or town,

he or she may receive the local travel allowances

in par. 020601

but outside the PDS limits.

travels between home and an alternate duty or

work site in the local commuting area,

TDY mileage is authorized only for the distance

that exceeds the distance between home and the

assigned unit.

is directed to travel from home to a TDY

location outside the local area of the assigned

unit or home,

he or she is authorized the standard travel and

transportation allowances in Chapter 2

However, transportation is limited to the travel

cost from the assigned unit to the TDY location.

is directed to travel from an alternate duty or

work site to a TDY location outside the local

area of the assigned unit or home,

travels from a place other than home or an

alternate duty or work site in the local

commuting area,

he or she is authorized only TDY automobile

mileage limited to the distance from the assigned

unit to the alternate site, minus the distance from

home to the assigned unit.

occupies transient Government housing while

performing IDT with or without pay, and is not

authorized per diem or AEA,

effective May 1, 2017, he or she may be

reimbursed for lodging service charges or

provided lodging in-kind. Only transient

Government housing is reimbursed.

performs IDT at the training duty station, drill

site, assigned unit city or town location, or local

area of the assigned unit or home,

travel and transportation allowances are not

authorized.

travels between home and the unit training

assembly location or alternate place of duty,

in the Standby Reserves voluntarily performs

IDT without pay,

032304. IDT outside the Normal Commuting Distance

A. Eligibility. The Secretary concerned may authorize reimbursement for travel and

transportation for certain RC members in the Selected Reserve of the Ready Reserve who perform IDT

that requires them to commute outside the local commuting distance.

1. An eligible RC member must meet one of the following eligibility criteria:

a. Qualified in a skill designated as critically short by the Secretary concerned.

b. Assigned to a unit of the Selected Reserve with a critical staffing shortage, or in a pay

grade in the Service member’s RC with a critical staffing shortage.

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c. Assigned to a unit or position that is disestablished or relocated as a result of Defense

Base Realignment and Closure or other force structure reallocation.

2. For purposes of this paragraph, “outside the local commuting distance” is defined as either

of the following:

a. The local travel area in section 0206

but not less than 150 miles one way, as

determined by the Defense Table of Official Distances (DTOD).

b. For non-contiguous states and U.S. territories and possessions requiring off-island or

inter-island travel to an IDT location that is not normally served by boat or ferry and does not meet the

local commuting conditions in section 0206

B. Allowances

1. The Secretary concerned may authorize or approve reimbursement for the following actual

expenses to and from the IDT location, limited to $500 for each round trip.

a. Transportation. Transportation cost to and from the IDT location, including

transportation between home and the terminal and between the terminal and the training location, is

reimbursed. If a privately owned vehicle (POV) is used, reimbursement is at the “other mileage rate” for

the official distance to and from the IDT location and for any parking fees and highway, bridge, and

tunnel tolls. If a rental car is authorized or approved, only costs for travel days to and from the IDT

location may be paid.

b. AEA

(1) Actual meal cost, including tips and taxes but excluding alcoholic beverages, up

to the maximum locality meal rate and incidental expenses (M&IE) rate for the duty location is

reimbursed.

(2) Actual cost of lodging plus taxes, including service charges, up to the maximum

amount of the locality lodging rate for the duty location is reimbursed. See Table 2-15

for rules on

lodging taxes.

2. On a case-by-case-basis, the Secretary Concerned may authorize or approve, a higher

reimbursement amount, when the Service member:

a. Resides in the same State as the training location; and

b. Resides outside of an urbanized area with a population of 50,000 or more (as

determined by the U.S. Census Bureau) and

c. Is required to commute:

(1) To a training location using an aircraft or boat (due to limited or non-existent

vehicular routes to the training location or other geographical challenges); or

(2) From a permanent residence more than 75 miles from the training location.

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0324 CADET OR MIDSHIPMAN

032401. Service Academy Applicant, Cadet, Midshipman, or Graduates

A. Eligibility. A Service member on active duty who is ordered to take preliminary, entrance, or

final examinations for admission to a Service academy, a Service academy student on TDY, or a new

Service academy graduate is eligible for travel allowances.

Note: An RC member not on active duty, a civilian, and a civilian employee traveling for examinations

preparatory to admission to a Service academy are ineligible for travel allowances.

B. Allowances. See Table 3-9

for allowances.

Table 3-9. Allowances for Service Academy Cadets and Midshipmen

If…

Then…

an active-duty Service member travels to take

preliminary, entrance, or final examinations for

admission to a Service academy,

the Service member receives standard travel and

transportation allowances in Chapter 2

an active-duty Service member travels to

compete for a Congressional nomination,

the traveler receives no travel or transportation

allowances.

an aviation cadet on active duty travels on

TDY away from a Service academy,

the cadet receives the standard travel and

transportation allowances in Chapter 2.

traveling TDY away from a Service academy

to another Service academy,

the cadet or midshipman receives no per diem

when both Government quarters and a

Government dining facility are available,

beginning on the day after the arrival day and

ending on the day before the departure day. The

meal rate for cadets and midshipmen is equal to

the Enlisted Basic Allowance for Subsistence rate.

a graduate officer who remained at the Service

academy after graduation and commissioning

is ordered away from the Service academy on

TDY,

the graduate officer is authorized the standard

travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

a graduate officer remains at the Service

academy after graduation and commissioning

but before beginning travel under PCS orders,

the Service academy is the PDS for per diem

purposes. Graduate officers are not authorized

per diem while at the Service academy.

032402. Senior Reserve Officer Training Corps (SROTC) --Advanced Training

A. Eligibility. An SROTC applicant or a Service member appointed for advanced training is

authorized travel and transportation allowances for travel to observe military functions or operations, for

medical or other examinations, or for other observations the Service concerned deems appropriate.

B. Allowances. Allowances for an SROTC applicant or appointee are listed in Table 3-11

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Table 3-11. Allowances for SROTC Applicants and Service Members

If…

Then…

an RC member or designated applicant is

appointed to SROTC Advance Training

under

10 U.S.C. §2104 (53 Comp. Gen. 957

(1974)),

per diem is not authorized.

Government or Government-procured

transportation and Government-supplied

meals are authorized, but the traveler uses a

POV,

the TDY automobile mileage rate (see par. 020210,

but no per diem is authorized. The TDY automobile

mileage rate may be paid in advance of return from

the activity site.

transportation for part of the journey is

personally procured,

the TDY automobile mileage rate, but no per diem,

is authorized between the nearest appropriate public

transportation terminals and both the RC member’s

home and activity site.

travel is by mixed modes,

the allowance is the TDY automobile mileage rate

for the Defense Table of Official Distances (DTOD)

distance for the official travel, but no per diem.

Reimbursement cannot exceed what the cost would

have been for Government-procured transportation

plus Government-supplied meals for travel between

the authorized points minus the cost of any actually

provided Government transportation or meals.

through no fault of the traveler, a delay

occurs at a place where no Government

quarters or Government dining facility are

available (B-195791, March 31, 1980),

reimbursement for occasional meals and occasional

lodging in Chapter 2

is authorized when traveling to

or from field training or practice cruises.

032403. Traveler in the Financial Assistance Program for SROTC Cadets or

Midshipmen

A. Eligibility. A cadet and midshipman who performs TDY travel away from the educational

institution is authorized travel and transportation allowances (10 U.S.C. §2107).

B. Allowances

1. The standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

are authorized, except no

per diem is authorized when both Government quarters (other than temporary lodging facilities) and

Government dining facilities are available for either of the following:

a. While performing field or at-sea training.

b. Travel from home or the SROTC unit location in the travel authorization to the place

designated for field or at-sea training and return.

2. For TDY under this paragraph, a Government dining facility is a facility designated for

officers’ use except when other dining facilities have been designated for use by SROTC members.

3. The automobile mileage rate may be paid for the return trip to the location in the travel

authorization before an RC member departs from either the field or at-sea training site.

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C. Travel to Accept Appointment

1. A person who travels to an educational institution to accept an appointment as a cadet or

midshipman and is participating in the Financial Assistance Program is authorized PCS allowances in

accordance with par. 050703

2. PCS allowances may not exceed those payable from the appointee’s permanent residence,

home, school, or duty station at the time travel begins, to the educational institution.

3. Reimbursement is authorized for travelers with a notice of selection for appointment, or

other evidence showing the travel is conducted in accordance with the appointment.

032404. Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) Cadet on Recruiting Duty

A. Eligibility. An ROTC cadet who performs recruiting duty while attending the educational

institution at which the ROTC unit is located may be eligible for travel allowances.

B. Allowances. The ROTC cadet may be authorized per diem or AEA on an ITA for recruiting

duty performed while attending the education institution where the ROTC unit is located. However, no

allowances are authorized when the recruiting duty is in the local area of the cadet’s residence while at the

educational institution. See

section 0206.

032405. Allowances for Service Academy Cadets and Midshipmen during

Remote Duty

A. Eligibility.

1. The Secretary concerned for the Service Academies may authorize travel and

transportation allowances for cadets or midshipmen when ordered to perform temporary duty from remote

locations away from the academy during a Presidentially Declared National Emergency, or are dislocated

due to other related emergency conditions as determined by the Secretary concerned.

2. The Secretary concerned may determine eligibility based on the circumstances of

individual cadets and midshipmen.

3. If the emergency exceeds 30 days, then the Secretary concerned must reassess the

allowances payable every 30 days, at minimum.

B. Allowances. The Secretary concerned may authorize reimbursements for any combination of

transportation, meals and incidental expenses, and lodging if applicable.

1. Transportation.

a. One-way transportation between the Service Academy and home or other authorized

location; or

b. Round-trip transportation between the Service Academy and home or other authorized

location.

2. Meals and Incidental Expenses (M&IE).

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a. Locality M&IE based on the Standard CONUS rate; or

b. Proportional Meal Rate based on the Standard CONUS rate; or

c. Government Meal Rate; or

d. Occasional Meals, not to exceed the Standard CONUS rate; or

e. Other reduced M&IE Rate.

3. Lodging.

a. Actual lodging expense, not to exceed the Standard CONUS rate; or

b. Actual lodging expense, not to exceed the locality rate; or

c. Actual lodging expense, not to exceed other reduced lodging rate.

d. Lodging expenses are not payable when lodging is provided at no cost, such as when

the cadet or midshipman stays with family or friends.

0326 CIVILIAN EMPLOYEE

A civilian employee may attend training at the PDS or in a TDY status away from the PDS and receive

the standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

. When sending a civilian employee to

training, the DoD Component must determine if the event is primarily for training or for work

performance. Each training event, and any move associated with it, must be evaluated individually to

determine if training allowances apply.

Note: For conference training, see section 0321

032601. Training in the PDS

A. Eligibility. A civilian employee attending training courses in the PDS area may be eligible

for travel allowances.

B. Allowances. See Table 3-12

for allowances available to a civilian employee while training.

Table 3-12. Civilian Employee Training in the PDS Area

If a civilian employee is training …

Then…

1 at the PDS,

no travel and transportation costs are payable. The

JTR is not the authority for these allowances.* See

Training or Comptroller personnel for guidance.

2 in the PDS area, but not at the PDS,

the AO may authorize or approve a civilian

employee to travel by POV, taxi, TNC, rental car,

bus, train, or other transportation mode appropriate

to the mission.

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Table 3-12. Civilian Employee Training in the PDS Area

If a civilian employee is training …

Then…

in the PDS area, but not at the PDS, and an

overnight stay is required at the training

location,

the AO may authorize or approve per diem or

AEA, round-trip TDY mileage for POV use or the

cost of round-trip public transportation from the

residence to the training location.

*10 U.S.C. §2013; 5 U.S.C. §4109; 42 U.S.C. §218(a); and 14 U.S.C. §469.

032602. Training outside the PDS Area

A. Eligibility. A civilian employee who attends training courses (Government Employees

Training Act of 1958) away from the PDS may receive travel allowances (5 U.S.C. §4104-§4109).

B. Allowances. The civilian employee may receive the standard travel and transportation

allowances in Chapter 2 or authorized dependent (no per diem) and household transportation allowances.

The AO must compare the cost and if the cost of round trip transportation for dependents and HHG is less

than the total per diem or AEA the employee would receive, then the AO may authorize round trip

dependent and HHG transportation. See

Chapter 5 for allowances available when training is in

conjunction with a PCS and the civilian employee will not return to the old PDS.

Table 3-13. Pay Either

1 TDY

Total per diem or AEA available to the civilian employee in Chapter 2. If specific

rates are established in accordance with par. 020308, consider the special rate.

Dependent

and HHG

Transportation

HHG shipping and round-trip transportation of a dependent to the training location

(no per diem).

1. When standard travel and transportation allowances are authorized or approved, the

allowances are described in Table 3-14

Table 3-14. Specific Rules for TDY Training outside the PDS

If…

Then…

a civilian employee is authorized per diem or

AEA, but instead commutes between the

training location and the PDS,

the rules for voluntary return to the PDS apply.

See par. 020312

a contracting officer contracts for rooms or

meals directly with the school or institution

sponsoring the training course,

the lodging and meals may exceed the applicable

per diem rate for a civilian employee when the

lodging and meals are included as part of the

training costs. The total actual cost for lodging and

M&IE may exceed the applicable per diem rate.

The civilian employee is authorized only incidental

expenses.

items are contracted or rented with the option

to buy,

reimbursement is not authorized.

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Table 3-14. Specific Rules for TDY Training outside the PDS

If…

Then…

readiness requires Government dining facility

use, the Secretary concerned may authorize

Essential Unit Messing for particular courses,

a civilian employee receives the incidental

expenses portion of per diem and the discount

Government meal rate. The AO may authorize

occasional meals for commercial meals the civilian

employee is required to purchase.

a civilian employee pays for Government

quarters during training at the Survival

Training School at Fairchild Air Force Base,

Washington,

the fixed $12.50 per diem rate at this location is

increased by the actual amount of the Government

quarters charge. No per diem is payable during

field duty and compound training periods.

2. When movement of dependents and HHG is authorized or approved, the following

provisions apply.

Note: Dependent travel and HHG transportation are in Chapter 5

Table 3-15. Allowances for Dependent and HHG Transportation

If…

Then…

a dependent and HHG are moved to the

training site,

the civilian employee receives no per diem at the

training site only while traveling.

at the training site or traveling en route,

the dependent receives no per diem.

a civilian employee and a dependent travel

together to the training site by POV,

a monetary allowance in lieu of transportation

(MALT) is payable. See Chapter 5.

4 transportation has not started,

the authorization for dependent and HHG

transportation can be changed to per diem or AEA

for the civilian employee, as specified in Chapter 2.

5 transportation has started,

the civilian employee’s allowances and the

Government’s obligation are fixed and cannot be

changed.

a dependent and HHG are moved to the

training site,

a RIT Allowance is authorized (expires December

31, 2025).

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CHAPTER 3: TDY TRAVEL

PART C: DEPLOYMENTS, EXERCISES, MANEUVERS,

WAR GAMES, AND CONTINGENCY OPERATIONS

0327 ROUTINE OR ROTATIONAL DEPLOYMENTS

The Services have missions that require routine and rotational deployments. These deployments are not

specifically attached to a combatant command (CCMD) or a joint task force (JTF). It is the responsibility

of the Senior Commander of the deployment to ensure equity of travel and transportation allowances

among deployment participants.

032701. Deployment Allowances

A. Eligibility. Service members who participate in routine rotational deployments may be

eligible for travel allowances.

B. Allowances

1. In preparation for the deployment an advance party often arrives at the planned

deployment location to ensure operational readiness. Upon completion of the routine deployment, a rear

party remains behind to ensure any actions necessary to vacate the location and end the event are

completed.

2. Transportation modes are specified in the travel authorization and transportation

allowances for the directed mode are as specified in Chapter 2

3. Advance parties and rear parties may be authorized the standard travel and transportation

allowances in Chapter 2

4. A Service member on a routine rotational deployment should be in a group travel status

with no per diem authorized for the trip to and from the deployment location. While at the deployment

location, these participants are normally in a field duty status and receive no per diem.

5. The Secretary concerned may authorize per diem in par. 020315

when lodging, meals, or

incidentals are not provided.

6. The Secretary concerned may authorize a reduced per diem rate as authorized in

par.

020315-D4.

0328 EXERCISES, MANEUVERS, AND WAR GAMES

Exercises, maneuvers, war games and similar events are all types of TDY intended to enhance military

readiness. Advance parties and rear parties (par. 032701

) are often used in these events. These events

may involve only one Service or multiple Services, one or more Joint Commands, CCMDs, JTFs,

coalition forces from other counties, and any combination of these potential participants.

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032801. Exercises, Maneuvers, and War Games Allowances

A. Eligibility. A Service member or a civilian employee who participates in field training

exercises, practice maneuvers, simulated wartime operations, and JTF exercises (must be field duty) that

enhance unit readiness and mission capability are eligible for travel allowances. The U.S. Coast Guard

may be part of a JTF performing exercises, maneuvers, or war games and is eligible for travel allowances.

B. Allowances

1. Transportation modes are specified in the travel authorization and transportation

allowances are as specified in Chapter 2

for the mode directed.

2. Advance parties and rear parties may be authorized the standard travel and transportation

allowances in Chapter 2

3. A participating Service member is normally in a field-duty status. No per diem is payable

when lodging, meals, and incidentals are provided. However, per diem may be authorized as specified in

par. 020315

when lodging, meals, or incidentals are not provided. If a status other than field duty is

designated, then Service members receive the standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2.

4. A civilian employee is considered in a field duty status. No per diem is payable when a

Government dining facility (including meals ready to eat) and Government-provided lodging are

available. “Government-provided lodging” includes non-transient barracks and tents. However, a

civilian employees are authorized reimbursement for actual costs incurred for meals and lodging during

the TDY. If a status other than field duty is designated, then a civilian employee receives the standard

travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

0329 OPERATIONAL DEPLOYMENTS AND CONTINGENCY

OPERATIONS

032901. Authority

A. No Cost Government Quarters. The Secretary concerned or AOR’s CCDR/JTF Commander

may direct the use of no-cost Government contracted or owned quarters when a Service member or

civilian employee is assigned to a contingency operation or operational deployment or performing duty

under similar conditions. These no-cost Government quarters may be at or near the U.S. installation and

are specifically for Service members and civilian employees assigned to a contingency operation or

operational deployment or performing duty under similar conditions.

B. Meals. In CONUS, the Secretary concerned or AOR’s CCDR may direct the use of no cost

Government contracted quarters off the U.S. installation but may not direct the use of Government meal

rate (GMR). However, GMR may be directed if the Service member is assigned to a contingency

operation or operational deployment or performing duty under similar conditions, and the location is

OCONUS. For civilian employees assigned to an OCONUS contingency operation or operational

deployment or performing duty under similar conditions, and the Secretary concerned or AOR’s

CCDR/JTF Commander has directed GMR for Service members, civilian employees are paid actual

expense allowance, not to exceed GMR.

032902. Reimbursement Options

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A. Eligibility. A Service member or civilian employee who is temporarily assigned to a CCMD

or JTF for operational deployment or contingency operations, or performing duty under similar conditions

within the same area of responsibility (AOR), may be eligible for travel allowances.

B. Allowances. The CCDR or JTF Commander determines the TDY allowances, as specified in

Chapter 2, including designating Essential Unit Messing or field duty, and when personnel travel together

with limited or no reimbursement. The CCDR or JTF Commander must attempt to ensure that travel and

transportation allowances in the AOR, and the requirements to receive them, are equitable among eligible

travelers within the AOR.

1. The CCDR or JTF Commander may delegate, in writing, the authority to prescribe a

different rate for lodging, meals, incidental expenses, or the entire per diem rate to a subordinate

commander who directs the travel in individual travel cases.

a. Services must be notified, in writing, of delegations of authority.

b. The CCDR and JTF Commander’s decision about what is payable must be stated in

the travel authorization. The determination of the CCDR and JTF Commander supersedes what the AO

puts in the TDY order.

2. The Secretarial Process for each Service may direct a TDY option different than the one

used for a CCMD or JTF traveler who is either of the following:

a. Not located in the CCMD or JTF AOR, but operating in a support capacity.

b. Located in the CCMD or JTF AOR, but not part of the CCMD or JTF.

C. Special Rules for Deployment and Contingency Travel. If a Service member or civilian

employee travels from one TDY location in an AOR to another TDY location within the same AOR, the

standard per diem calculation rules in

par. 020310-D do not apply. Instead, the CCDR or JTF

Commander for the AOR or contingency operation establishes the per diem rate for the travel day

between TDY locations within the AOR. If the availability of Government quarters and dining facilities

changes between the two locations in the AOR, then the per diem is based on the new TDY location when

authorized or approved by the CCDR, JTF Commander, or designee.

1. If a Service member or civilian employee travels from one location in an AOR to another

location within the same AOR, the per diem does not change unless lodging meals or incidentals are not

available and a statement of non-availability is provided.

2. If a Service member or civilian employee is traveling into or out of an AOR, then the rules

in Chapter 2 apply for the regular travel days while en route between TDY locations. See

AOR

computation example.

3. If a Service member or civilian employee consumes meals at the CCMD or JTF temporary

dining facility and is charged the discounted Government meal rate (GMR), reimbursement is for the

discounted GMR plus one of the following incidental expense amounts listed in Table 3-16

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Table 3-16. Incidental Expense Amounts

If…

Then the incidental expense amount is…

the traveler is sent TDY to a location in the CONUS,

$5.00.

the traveler is TDY to a U.S. installation OCONUS

and Government quarters are available on the

installation,

$3.50.

the CCDR or JTF Commander determines that $3.50

is adequate,

$3.50.

4 the traveler’s TDY location is not a U.S. installation,

the applicable locality incidental expense

rate applies unless the $3.50 is adequate.

4. When a civilian employee is deployed to a combat zone to support ongoing contingency

operations, the requirements for a TDY of 181 or more consecutive days do not apply. The authority to

exceed 180 days for this type of a TDY was extended indefinitely by the Under Secretary of Defense for

Personnel and Readiness (USD(P&R)) memorandum, “Extended Periods of Temporary Duty Authorized

for Department of Defense Civilian Employees Deployed to a Combat Zone,” dated August 26, 2019.

Before travel begins, the travel authorization must cite the August 26, 2019, USD(P&R) memorandum, as

the waiver authority, which does not require Under Secretary of Defense for Civilian Personnel Policy

review. This provision also applies to a non-DoD civilian employee if the travel authorization is DoD-

funded.

032903. Lodging Reimbursement during an Authorized Absence While TDY in

Support of an Operational Deployment or Contingency Operation

For allowances when a civilian employee in support of a contingency operation takes leave, see

par.

020312. For purposes of this paragraph, an “authorized absence” refers to a period when a Service

member is in an authorized leave status or when the Service member’s absence is otherwise authorized

under regulations prescribed by the Secretary concerned (

37 U.S.C. §474b(d)).

A. Eligibility. A Service member deployed in support of a contingency operation who retains

lodging at the TDY location during an authorized absence may be eligible for TDY lodging as a

miscellaneous reimbursable expense provided all four of the following criteria are met:

1. TDY in support of a contingency operation for 31 or more days.

2. Performing duty away from home or the PDS immediately before taking the authorized

absence.

3. Receiving per diem for lodging expenses.

4. Returns to the TDY location at the end of the authorized absence.

B. Allowances. For authorized absence days, the amount reimbursed for lodging retained at the

TDY location depends on the type of per diem the Service member was receiving while TDY. Per diem

is not payable for days at the Service member’s PDS or home. If the Service member was receiving per

diem under the “lodging plus” method, then the lodging reimbursement is limited to the lodging portion

of the locality per diem rate at the TDY location.

032904. HHG Storage for a Service Member on TDY for an Operational

Deployment or Contingency Operation

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HHG storage for a Service member may be authorized as either “storage in transit” (SIT) or “special

storage.” See par. 020502

for allowances.

032905. POV Storage when a Service Member is TDY for an Operational

Deployment or Contingency Operation

A. Eligibility. A Service member may be eligible to have one POV stored at Government

expense when on a contingency operation for 31 or more days. The storage facility must be a commercial

storage facility and the vehicle size must conform to the Surface Deployment and Distribution Command

storage contract maximum standard size. The Secretarial Process may authorize or approve the storage of

an oversized POV if the Service member requires the oversized POV for medical reasons.

B. Allowances. An eligible Service member may be authorized or approved the POV storage

allowances in Chapter 5.

032906. POV Storage when a Civilian Employee is TCS for an Operational

Deployment or Contingency Operation

A. Eligibility. A civilian employee or dependent is eligible to have one POV stored at

Government expense if the civilian employee is assigned a temporary change of station (TCS) in support

of a contingency operation (including humanitarian operations, peacekeeping operations, and similar

operations). The POV must be owned or leased for personal use by the civilian employee or dependent.

The civilian employee must be eligible for TCS allowances and the head of the Agency must determine it

to be to the Government’s advantage to authorize POV storage.

B. Allowances. POV storage must be in a commercial storage facility and may be at a place

determined to be reasonable by the Agency concerned. Allowable expenses include POV storage

preparation, actual storage cost, and POV preparation for removal from storage after the TCS ends;

transportation of the POV to and from the storage facility; and other necessary expenses related directly to

POV storage and transportation. POV insurance costs while in storage are the civilian employee’s

financial responsibility.

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CHAPTER 3: TDY TRAVEL

PART D: MEDICAL TRAVEL

Note: See par. 020601

for travel to a medical facility in the local area.

0330 VARIOUS TYPES OF MEDICAL TRAVEL

033001. Inpatient, Hospitalization, Rehabilitation, and Outpatient

A. Eligibility. A Service member who is an inpatient, in an outpatient status away from the

permanent duty station (PDS), or who is assigned to a rehabilitation center, may be eligible for travel and

transportation allowances. An “outpatient status” means that the patient is no longer assigned a bed, but

is in a non-leave status. An outpatient is not medically able to return to duty, but is continuing treatment.

B. Allowances

1. An inpatient is not authorized per diem while hospitalized. However, per diem is

authorized when in an outpatient status away from the PDS and for days of travel to, from, and between

hospitals.

2. An AO may approve reimbursement of occasional lodging when the Service member must

retain lodging at the same or a prior TDY location (see par. 020305

3. A Service member eligible for allowances under the Pay and Allowance Continuation

Program receives the incidental expense portion of per diem (see the

DoD Financial Management

Regulation, Vol. 7A, Chapter 13 (Illness or Injury Payment Programs)).

4. A Service member assigned to a rehabilitation center or activity for training or treatment is

not authorized per diem when both Government quarters and a dining facility are available.

033002. Emergency Travel Due to Illness or Injury

A. Eligibility. A civilian employee who must discontinue TDY due to illness or injury may be

authorized travel and transportation allowances based on the civilian employee’s personal situation and

the Service’s or DoD’s mission (see

FTR §301-30).

B. Allowances. The civilian employee should contact the AO immediately for instructions when

TDY must be discontinued due to illness or injury. A civilian employee who returns to the PDS or home

because of an incapacitating illness or injury is authorized the standard travel and transportation

allowances in

Chapter 2. Allowances for all other eligible travelers follow.

1. Per Diem

Note: Per diem is not allowed at the alternate location. An “alternate location” is a destination other than

the civilian employee’s PDS or the point of interruption where necessary medical services or

emergency situations exist.

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a. Per diem is authorized for a civilian employee who discontinues the TDY assignment

and takes any type of leave due to an incapacitating illness or injury. However, it:

(1) Must not exceed the per diem rate for the TDY location at which the interruption

occurs.

(2) May be continued at the location where the injury or illness occurred, or is being

treated, for 14 or fewer days unless authorized by the Service or Department of Defense (DoD)

Component.

b. Per diem is not authorized in the following circumstances while a civilian employee is

confined to a hospital or medical facility:

(1) In the vicinity of the PDS.

(2) That is the same hospital or medical facility the civilian employee would have

been admitted to had the injury or illness occurred at the PDS.

(3) If the civilian employee is paid or reimbursed for hospital expenses under any

Federal statute, including for hospitalization in a Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center or

military hospital. However, the civilian employee receives per diem if medical expenses are paid under

the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program while in a travel status (5 U.S.C. §§8901-8913

2. Transportation. A civilian employee who interrupts the TDY and takes leave to travel to

obtain medical services at an alternate location and then returns to the TDY may be authorized certain

excess transportation costs. See

Table 3-17 to determine excess transportation costs. Excess

transportation costs are not payable for medical services obtained from the nearest hospital or medical

facility because it is not considered an alternate location.

3. Attendant or Escort. An attendant or escort is only authorized transportation expenses, not

per diem, to accompany a civilian employee. An attendant or escort who is neither a Service member nor

civilian employee is issued an ITA. Authorization may include either round-trip or one-way

transportation between the PDS and TDY location (

B-169917, July 13, 1970). A medical authority must

certify that an attendant is medically necessary.

C. Reimbursement. Reimbursement may be authorized for excess travel costs. Calculate the

excess travel costs by adding the actual travel costs from the interruption point, to the alternate location,

and return to the TDY location and subtracting the total from the constructed cost of round-trip travel

between the PDS and the alternate location. The “interruption point” is where a civilian employee

discontinues a travel assignment because of an incapacitating illness or injury and includes the nearest

hospital or medical facility capable of treating the civilian employee. These costs are computed as

follows in

Table 3-17.

Table 3-17. Calculating Excess Transportation Costs

Type of Excess Cost

Calculation

1 Actual Travel

The transportation costs incurred to the per diem allowed for traveling from

the interruption point to the alternate location and the per diem allowed for

traveling from the alternate location plus the TDY assignment. The total does

not include per diem while the traveler is at the alternate location because it is

not authorized.

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Table 3-17. Calculating Excess Transportation Costs

Type of Excess Cost

Calculation

Policy-Constructed

Travel

The transportation expenses that the traveler would have incurred for round-

trip travel between the PDS and the alternate location plus the per diem

allowed for the time spent traveling between those two places.

Compare the actual travel cost to the policy-constructed travel cost and pay the lesser amount.

033003. Convalescent Leave Transportation

A. Eligibility. A Service member traveling due to illness or injury while eligible for hostile fire

pay may be eligible for transportation allowances (37 U.S.C. §481a).

B. Allowances. A Service member is authorized transportation from the place of medical

treatment in the continental United States (CONUS) to a place that he or she selects, and that is

authorized or approved through the Secretarial Process, and from that location to any medical treatment

location. If deemed necessary by the attending physician, additional trips may be authorized through the

Secretarial Process. The Service member is authorized the standard transportation allowances in

Chapter 2. Per diem and reimbursable expenses are not authorized.

033004. Service Member on the Temporary Disability Retired List (TDRL)

Required to Submit to Periodic Physical Examinations

A. Eligibility

1. The following Service members are eligible for travel allowances:

a. A Service member on the TDRL who is traveling to a medical facility for a required

periodic physical examination.

b. A Service member who is retired or separated due to a physical disability and is

traveling to a hearing before the Physical Examination Board.

2. Eligibility ends when TDRL status expires.

B. Allowances

1. When both the Service member’s home and the medical facility or hearing location are

within the same corporate city limits, travelers receive local transportation reimbursement. For the

purpose of travel under TDRL, the Service member’s home is the PDS.

2. When outside the corporate limits, a Service member is authorized the standard travel and

transportation allowances in Chapter 2

for travel to and from the medical facility. The same allowances

apply to, from, and during a hearing.

3. A Service member admitted as an inpatient is reimbursed the actual cost charged by the

hospital for daily meals. This rate begins day after arrival and continues through the day before

departure. If the Service member is an outpatient, he or she receives the standard travel and

transportation allowances in Chapter 2

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4. An attendant or escort may be authorized per Agency or Service regulations if the Service

member is incapable of traveling alone.

C. Attendant or Escort. If authorized or approved, the attendant or escort may receive the

standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2. An attendant or escort who is neither a

Service member nor civilian employee is issued an invitational travel authorization (ITA). See 59 Comp.

Gen. 675 and 37 U.S.C. § 451(2)(C) for more information about the statutory authority that provides this

allowance.

033005. Transfer to or from a Medical Facility or to Home (Including Patients

Diagnosed with a Mental Disorder)

A. Eligibility. A patient who is an active-duty Service member and is ordered to travel for

necessary medical care is eligible for travel and transportation allowances.

B. Allowances

1. A Service member is authorized the standard travel and transportation allowances in

Chapter 2

or permanent change of station (PCS) allowances, as applicable. Advances may be paid against

such allowances to an attendant or escort.

2. When transportation in-kind is furnished, the Service member patient and attendant or

escort must be furnished in closed room accommodations when required under Service regulations.

C. Attendant or Escort

1. If an attendant or escort is authorized, he or she is eligible for the standard travel and

transportation allowances in Chapter 2

for civilian employees. An attendant or escort who is neither a

Service member nor civilian employee is issued an ITA. See 59 Comp. Gen. 675 and 37 U.S.C. §

451(a)(2)(C) for more information about the statutory authority that provides this allowance.

2. The AO may authorize an attendant to travel separately or at a different time than the

patient when the need for an attendant arises during treatment or there is a need for an attendant only

during a portion of the patient’s travel.

033006. Service Member Discharged from St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, a

Department of Health and Human Services Medical Facility, or a Veterans Affairs

Medical Center

A. Eligibility. A Service member who is a patient in St. Elizabeth’s Hospital, a Health and

Human Services medical facility, or a Veteran’s Affairs Medical Center and is discharged from the

medical facility may be eligible for travel allowances.

B. Allowances

1. A Service member in the care of an attendant or escort who was discharged from the

Service upon entry to the medical facility, and subsequently discharged from the medical facility, is:

a. Not authorized travel and transportation allowances if the medical facility is in the

locality of the Service member’s home.

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b. Authorized monetary allowance in lieu of transportation (MALT) Plus from the

medical facility to the Service member’s home if the medical facility is not in the locality of the Service

member’s home. See Chapter 5

for details on MALT Plus.

2. A Service member who was not discharged from the Service, upon admission to the

medical facility for observation and treatment, is authorized PCS travel and transportation allowances

upon release from the medical facility.

033007. Medical Specialty Care Travel

This paragraph does not apply to a dependent outside of the continental United States (OCONUS)

authorized travel in par. 033101

or to an active-duty Service member who is authorized medical travel.

A. Eligibility. A patient may be eligible for travel allowances when the qualifications, as

specified in health care programs established and administered by the Military Health System, are met for

travel reimbursement.

B. Allowances

1. Transportation

a. Government transportation should be used to the maximum extent practicable.

b. If Government transportation is not available, a patient who needs specialty medical

care may be authorized or approved to use the following modes of transportation:

(1) Government-Procured Commercial Transportation

(a) The home and the terminal.

(b) The terminal and the specialty care provider facility.

must make between these two places.

(2) Personally-Procured Commercial Transportation

(a) The actual cost of the transportation is authorized, not to exceed the cost if

Government-procured transportation had been available.

(b) Reimbursement is authorized for actual expenses for round-trip

transportation between:

1. The home and the terminal.

2. The terminal and the specialty care provider facility.

3. The specialty care provider facility and lodging, and for all trips the

patient must make between these two places.

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the patient’s needs.

(3) POV

(a) Reimbursement is authorized at the Other Mileage Rate for the official

distance between the patient’s residence and the specialty care facility. A cost comparison is not required.

(b) Reimbursement is authorized for parking fees and highway, bridge, and

tunnel tolls.

2. Lodging and Meals. Reimbursement is authorized for the actual cost of lodging (including

tax, tip, and service charges) and the actual cost of meals (including tax and tips, but not including

alcoholic beverages) limited to the locality per diem rate. See

Table 2-15 for rules on lodging taxes.

3. No other reimbursable expenses are authorized.

4. A medical authority may authorize a parent, guardian, or another adult member of the

patient’s family who is 21 years of age or older to serve as an attendant. The patient and the attendant

cannot be reimbursed for the same travel expense.

C. Attendant. If authorized, round-trip travel and transportation allowances are payable to only

one attendant.

1. An eligible attendant who also is an active-duty Service member or a civilian employee

receives the standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

2. Other family members who are 21 years of age or older are authorized reimbursement of

travel and transportation expenses as in par. B above. A family member in this category is issued an ITA

or is included on the patient’s travel authorization and identified as an attendant. See 10 U.S.C. § 1074i

for the statutory authority that provides this allowance.

3. A travel authorization for an attendant is limited to 30 days unless a medical authority

authorizes or approves an extension.

a. Travel authorizations for attendants must cite this paragraph as authority.

b. A written statement by the medical authority, military or civilian, must support the

travel authorization that specifies travel to a specialty care provider facility is necessary.

033008. Medical and Dental Care for an Injury, Illness, or Disease Incurred or

Aggravated in the Line of Duty for a Reserve Component (RC) Member

A. Eligibility. An RC member is authorized to receive travel allowances when authorized

medical or dental care for an injury, illness, or disease incurred or aggravated while (10 U.S.C. §1074a):

1. On active duty for a period of 30 or fewer days.

2. On Inactive Duty Training (IDT).

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3. On funeral honors duty or lodged overnight immediately before serving on funeral honors

duty at a location outside the commuting distance of the RC member’s residence.

4. Traveling directly to or from a place where the RC member performs or has performed

one of the following: active duty for a period of 30 or fewer days, IDT, or funeral honors duty.

B. Allowances

1. The standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

are authorized for a

Service member to travel between home and the treatment facility.

2. No allowances are authorized while at the treatment facility.

3. Allowances are not authorized if the injury is sustained or aggravated as a result of the

Service member’s gross negligence or misconduct.

033009. Organ Donation

An AO may authorize invitational travel using an ITA when travel is by an individual who serves as

an organ donor for a Service member when the donation is authorized under Service regulations.

033010. Participation in Health Surveillance Program

A former civilian employee invited to participate in a DoD Health Surveillance Program consistent

with DoDI 6055.05

(Occupational and Environmental Health), dated November 11, 2011, may be issued

an ITA. A Service may authorize or approve per diem and round-trip transportation between the

residence and the medical facility to complete the health-surveillance evaluation.

033011. Service Member Escort or Attendant for Dependent Transferred

Between Medical Facilities in CONUS

A Service member may be authorized as an escort or attendant, for a dependent that is transferred in

a patient status from one medical facility to another in the CONUS, when required treatment is not

available.

033012. Travel to Obtain a Vaccination

If a Service member or civilian employee is unable to obtain a required vaccination at a Military -

Treatment Facility (MTF), then the standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2 may be

authorized.

033013. Travel for Non-Covered Reproductive Health Care Services

A. Policy. It is Department of Defense (DoD) policy that:

1. Service members will be able to access lawfully available non-covered reproductive health

care regardless of where they are stationed.

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2. It is the responsibility of commanders or approval authorities to meet operational

requirements and protect the health and safety of those in their care. Commanders or approval authorities

are expected to display objectivity, compassion, and discretion when addressing all health care matters,

including reproductive health care matters, and have a duty to enforce existing policies against

discrimination and retaliation in the context of reproductive health care choices.

3. Consistent with existing law and Departmental policy, commanders will protect the

privacy of protected health information they receive under this policy, as they should with any other

protected health information. Such information must be restricted to personnel with a specific need to

know; that is, access to the health information must be necessary for the conduct of official duties.

Personnel must also be accountable for safeguarding this health information consistent with existing law

and Departmental policy.

4. Service members must not be granted travel and transportation allowances under this

paragraph if their intention is to sell, to offer for sale, or to receive proceeds from a sale resulting from an

Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) procedure.

B. Eligibility. Service members and authorized dependents are eligible for travel and

transportation allowances in Chapter 2 to receive non-covered reproductive health care services when

timely access to non-covered reproductive health care services is not available within the local area of the

member’s Permanent Duty Station (PDS), Temporary Duty (TDY) location, or the last location the

dependent was transported on Government orders when authorized by the appropriate authority.

1. Non-covered Abortion. Travel and transportation allowances for Service members

(Active Duty Service members, Reserve Component Service members on active duty orders for more

than 30 consecutive days, and Service academy cadets and midshipmen) and dependents of such Service

members receiving care may be authorized when a licensed medical provider has validated the pregnancy

and substantiating documentation is provided.

2. Non-covered Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART). Travel and transportation

allowances for Service members (including Active Duty Service members and Reserve Component

Service members on active duty orders for 180 days or more) and spouses of such Service members

receiving care may be authorized when the non-covered ART procedure is confirmed by documentation

by the licensed health care provider or clinic that will be performing the ART services. Substantiating

documentation provided by the traveler to the approving official (AO) must include details of the

procedures to be performed, dates of consultation appointments and/or procedures, and include any of the

following: identification of a treatment plan schedule, medical diagnosis, and patient names to verify

eligibility.

3. Location. The Service member or dependent must certify in writing the location of the

closest available, capable medical facility for the non-covered reproductive health care service.

Certification should be provided to the traveler’s AO in advance of travel.

a. For a non-covered abortion, the determination of the closest, capable clinic, office, or

medical facility must consider the availability of the time sensitive procedure as a factor for the

determination.

b. When a Service member or dependent uses a different location than the certified

closest available, capable medical facility, a cost comparison is done to determine reimbursement. In this

situation the certification must provide details on both the closest facility and the facility to be used.

Travel reimbursement is limited to the cost to the closest available medical facility for the non-covered

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abortion or ART procedure if a different location is used. The transportation cost is compared to the

constructed cost of transportation to the authorized location and the lesser of the two amounts is

reimbursed. The per diem is limited to the lesser of the costs that would have been incurred for travel to

the authorized location, or the amount listed in par. 033013-B.

B. Allowances.

1. The Service member is authorized the standard travel and transportation allowances in par.

033001

2. An eligible dependent may be authorized the following:

a. The actual cost of lodging (including tax, tips, and service charges) limited to the

lodging portion of the locality per diem rate at the non-covered reproductive health care service care

location.

b. The actual cost of meals (including taxes and tips, but excluding alcoholic beverages)

and incidental expenses, limited to the maximum meal rate and incidental expenses (M&IE) portion of the

locality per diem rate at the non-covered reproductive health care service care location.

c. Round-trip transportation between the member’s PDS or the last location the

dependent was transported on Government orders and the non-covered reproductive health care service

care location.

d. An invitational travel authorization (ITA) will be used to reimburse travel and

transportation expenses authorized dependent and must be issued judiciously to ensure prudent, proper

and ethical use of appropriated funds. See section 0305

3. Attendant or Escort. If a Service member or dependent is incapable of traveling alone,

standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

are authorized for one or more necessary

escorts. An attendant may also be authorized round-trip travel and transportation allowances, if required.

The authorization for an attendant or escort must be cited on the travel authorization.

a. An attendant or escort is authorized the standard travel and transportation allowances

in Chapter 2

b. A Service member or civilian employee serving as an attendant or escort travels under

a TDY order.

c. A non-Government civilian serving as an attendant or escort must be issued an ITA

and be legitimately performing a direct service for the Government. See section 0305

4. Accompanying Dependent.

a. The AO may authorize an accompanying dependent who is neither an attendant nor

escort if all of the following conditions apply:

(1) The accompanying dependent is a command-sponsored dependent at the

PDS OCONUS and incapable of self-support.

(2) No suitable care arrangements can be made at the PDS.

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(3) The travel is in the Government’s interest.

b. An accompanying dependent is limited to round-trip transportation between the

member’s PDS or the last location the dependent was transported on Government orders and the non-

covered reproductive health care service care location.

c. No per diem is payable and any further travel costs are the financial responsibility of

the Service member.

d. This authority should be used as a last resort.

0331 MEDICAL TRAVEL WHEN STATIONED OCONUS

033101. Dependent Medical Care Travel OCONUS

A. Eligibility. A medical authority must determine the dependent’s medical or dental care is

necessary. If a medical authority is unavailable, then reference this paragraph (see par. 033101-C).

1. A dependent located OCONUS who has an active-duty sponsor who has been authorized,

through the Secretarial Process, to receive medical care in a Service medical facility without

reimbursement, may be eligible for travel and transportation allowances. The dependent must be

accompanying a Service member who has been on active duty for 31 or more days, and the required

medical or dental care must be unavailable at the PDS area OCONUS.

2. Transportation is not authorized for a dependent participating in a dental care plan

(currently TRICARE) except for:

a. Emergency dental care.

b. Dental care provided at a location OCONUS.

c. Dental care not covered by the dental plan.

3. A dependent who travels for elective surgery is ineligible for travel and transportation

reimbursement.

B. Allowances

1. Transportation. An eligible dependent may receive transportation to the nearest medical

or dental facility where adequate care is available. A dependent’s return transportation is authorized to

the Service member’s PDS or to another place the AO determines to be appropriate.

a. Government transportation should be used to and from a medical or dental facility

when available and meets the travel requirements. If Government transportation is not available, then a

Service member’s dependent who is a patient must be transported by one of the following:

(1) Government-procured commercial transportation.

(2) Personally procured transportation, limited to the actual cost of the transportation

and to what it would have cost had the Government furnished the transportation, unless Government or

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Government-procured transportation is not available.

(3) POV authorized at the Other Mileage Rate for the official distance and

reimbursement for parking fees and highway, bridge, and tunnel tolls. If multiple official travelers are in

a POV, then only the person responsible for the vehicle’s operating expenses is reimbursed mileage.

Reimbursement for personally procured transportation is limited to what it would have cost had the

Government furnished the transportation, unless Government or Government-procured transportation is

not available.

b. An outpatient is reimbursed for the actual expenses for transportation between the

transportation terminal, the medical or dental facility, and the lodging used for care received outside the

Service member’s PDS area. The transportation mode used should be the least costly mode that meets the

patient’s needs. If a POV is used, then the person responsible for its operating expenses is reimbursed at

the Other Mileage Rate, based on odometer readings of distance traveled.

2. Lodging and Meals. An eligible dependent may be authorized the following at the

medical or dental facility:

a. The actual cost of lodging (including tax, tips, and service charges) limited to the

lodging portion of the locality per diem rate.

b. The actual cost of meals (including taxes and tips, but excluding alcoholic beverages)

and incidental expenses, limited to the maximum meal rate and incidental expenses (M&IE) portion of the

locality per diem rate.

Note: A dependent is not authorized reimbursement for meals for round-trip travel that is performed

within 12 hours.

c. A newborn infant is authorized actual expense not to exceed one-half of the applicable

daily locality M&IE rate.

3. Reimbursable Expenses. A dependent is authorized reimbursable expenses in Chapter 2

4. Attendant or Escort. If a dependent is physically incapable of traveling alone, round-trip

travel and transportation allowances are authorized for one or more necessary attendants. An escort may

also be authorized round-trip travel and transportation allowances, if required. See

10 U.S.C. § 1040, 22

U.S.C. § 4081 and 37 U.S.C. § 451(a)(2)(C) for the statutory authority that provides this allowance.

a. The authorization for an attendant or escort must be cited on the travel authorization.

b. The Agency directing the travel funds the attendant or escort travel.

5. Accompanying Dependent. The AO may authorize an accompanying dependent who is

neither an attendant nor escort if all of the following conditions apply:

a. The accompanying dependent is command-sponsored at the PDS OCONUS and

incapable of self-support.

b. No suitable care arrangements can be made at the PDS OCONUS.

c. The travel is in the Government’s interest.

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C. Documentation

1. A written statement from a medical authority must support the need for travel confirming

both of the following:

a. The seriousness of the condition.

b. The absence of adequate military and civilian facilities for proper treatment.

2. A travel authorization is required to support reimbursement.

a. The travel authorization must cite this paragraph by number as the authority for travel.

b. For all non-emergency medical care, the medical facility must agree to accept the

patient before the AO issues a travel authorization.

c. If a medical authority is not available, the travel authorization must indicate this. The

AO may determine in that case if proper medical or dental facilities are not available.

D. Attendant or Escort

1. An attendant or escort is authorized the standard travel and transportation allowances in

Chapter 2

2. A Service member or civilian employee serving as an attendant or escort travels under a

TDY order.

3. A non-Government civilian serving as an attendant or escort must be issued an ITA. See

10 U.S.C. § 1040, 22 U.S.C. § 4081 and 37 U.S.C. § 451(a)(2)(C)

for the statutory authority that provides

this allowance.

E. Accompanying Dependent. An accompanying dependent is limited to round-trip air

transportation between the PDS OCONUS and the medical facility. No per diem is payable and any

further travel costs are the financial responsibility of the Service member. This authority should be used

as a last resort.

F. Funds Advance. A travel advance is authorized for the patient and the attendant or escort in

accordance with the DoD Component’s policy and par. 010204.

033102. Medical Travel and Transportation Allowances When a Civilian

Employee Is Assigned to a Foreign PDS OCONUS

A locally hired civilian employee who does not have a Service agreement is ineligible for this

allowance.

A. Eligibility. An eligible civilian employee assigned to a foreign PDS OCONUS, or the civilian

employee’s dependent, may be authorized travel and transportation to another location when the local

medical facilities (military or civilian) cannot accommodate his or her medical or dental needs. The

Secretarial Process determines when the local medical facilities cannot accommodate.

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1. Eligible individuals include:

a. A civilian employee permanently assigned to a foreign PDS OCONUS or who is

performing foreign PCS travel OCONUS.

b. A dependent who resides with the civilian employee at the foreign PDS OCONUS or

who is performing foreign PCS travel OCONUS.

c. A dependent who boards at a foreign school OCONUS and otherwise resides with the

civilian employee at the foreign PDS OCONUS.

d. A dependent who was born during his or her mother’s health care travel.

e. An attendant and an escort may be eligible to receive these medical travel allowances

if the civilian employee or his or her dependent is incapable of traveling alone.

(1) An attendant is appointed by a medical authority.

(2) An escort is appointed by the civilian employee’s supervisor or AO.

f. An accompanying dependent under the conditions in par. 033102-B5

2. Eligibility factors include:

a. A civilian employee or dependent who requires treatment that must be completed

before the next scheduled renewal agreement travel (RAT) or environmental morale leave (EML) and, if

delayed, could result in the condition becoming worse. This includes specialized examinations, special

inoculations, obstetrical care, and hospitalization (GSBCA 15948-TRAV, April 30, 2003

(1) Schedule medical travel with other non-medical travel, if possible.

(2) The travel may be authorized under the conditions and limitations in this section

whether or not the health care is at Government expense.

b. A civilian employee or dependent requires dental care that, if delayed, could result in

severe damage. Eligible dental care is defined Table 3-18

Table 3-18. Eligible Dental Care for a Civilian Employee OCONUS

Type of Care

Parameters

1 Required Dental

Required care is treatment that must be completed before the next RAT or

EML travel and, if delayed, could result in a need for Emergency Dental

Care.

Orthodontic Dental

Orthodontic care is treatment required for proper occlusion.

3 Periodontal Disease

Periodontal care is treatment necessary to prevent permanent damage to the

teeth and supporting structures.

3. Ineligible Medical and Dental Care. The following care is not considered required

treatment and, therefore, does not meet the eligibility requirements:

a. Medical care for elective treatment, routine medical examinations, or routine

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immunizations.

b. Dental care for elective treatment, routine cleaning, superficial scaling, fluoridation

treatment, or elective cosmetic dental treatment.

B. Allowances. The standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

are payable

subject to the following limitations:

1. Transportation

a. The AO authorizes appropriate transportation to the facility closest to the civilian

employee’s PDS where suitable health care can be obtained, also known as the “designated point.” The

AO determines the designated point based on the advice of a professional certifying physician.

b. A civilian employee or dependent should use Air Mobility Command (AMC)

resources when available and it meets the mission. The AO may authorize the standard travel and

transportation allowances in Chapter 2

for health care transportation or follow the physician’s

recommendation for travel by private airline, ambulance service, or other specialized medical

transportation provider when needed.

c. Transportation for health care is authorized from the foreign PDS OCONUS to the

designated point and return to the PDS. However, an AO may authorize or approve transportation for

health care to a location other than the designated point at the civilian employee’s request.

(1) Transportation reimbursement to and from the civilian employee’s requested

location is limited to what the cost of the Government would have been had the official traveler arrived at

the designated point.

(2) The civilian employee must agree, in writing to pay or reimburse the

Government any excess travel and transportation costs incurred by the civilian employee or his or her

dependent, or accompanying family members. See “Sample Excess Cost Agreement

.”

(3) An obstetrical patient may choose to travel to the CONUS or non-foreign area

OCONUS, but transportation at Government expense is authorized only to the nearest port of

embarkation in the CONUS. Alternately, an obstetrical patient may choose to travel to a foreign location

OCONUS that is not the “designated point,” provided an Excess Cost Agreement is executed.

(4) A civilian employee or his or her dependent is only authorized health care

transportation once per year for required dental care. The year begins on the first day of health care travel

for the required dental care.

2. Baggage. The AO may authorize or approve excess accompanied baggage for medical

travel because of climatic factors, health care necessity, or other adequate reasons in accordance with par.

020207.

3. Per Diem

a. Per diem is not payable for hospital stays.

b. Per diem is only authorized for a maximum of 180 consecutive days, which includes

all of the following:

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(1) Travel time to and from the designated point or elective destination.

(2) Necessary delays before treatment and while awaiting return transportation.

(3) Necessary outpatient treatment periods.

c. Per diem for dental patients may not be authorized for more than:

(1) Three days for emergency dental care. However, the AO may authorize a longer

period if the severity of the dental condition requires more time to complete the emergency dental care.

(2) One day for required dental care.

d. Per diem may be authorized for travel periods to and from a location for health care

other than the designated point requested by the civilian employee or his or her dependent. However, the

number of days for which per diem is payable is based on the constructed travel time to and from the

designated point.

e. The per diem rate is based on the applicable locality rate. If the civilian employee or

his or her dependent travels to a destination other than the designated point, then the per diem rate is

limited to the rate for the designated point.

f. Per diem for obstetric care travel may not be approved by the AO for 91 or more days,

unless an early departure from, or a delayed return to, the PDS is medically required.

g. A newborn infant is authorized per diem under the same circumstances and conditions

as the mother, except at half the locality per diem rate.

4. Attendant or Escort. A civilian employee or dependent physically incapable of traveling

alone may be authorized an attendant or escort. This authorization must be in the civilian employee’s or

dependent’s travel authorization and cite this section as the authority. An attendant or escort may be any

person who provides the necessary assistance required by the civilian employee or dependent. See 10

U.S.C. § 1040, 22 U.S.C. § 4081 and 37 U.S.C. § 451(a)(2)(C) for the statutory authority that provides

this allowance.

Note: A professional health care provider, attendant, or escort ordinarily is unnecessary on AMC medical

evacuation flights.

5. Accompanying Family Member. The AO may authorize or approve a civilian employee

or his or her dependent to have an accompanying family member on the medical travel if the AO

determines that all three circumstances apply:

a. The family member is incapable of self-care at the PDS.

b. No suitable care arrangements can be made at the PDS.

c. The travel is in the Government’s interest.

6. Separate Maintenance Allowance (SMA). The civilian employee can request a Voluntary

SMA on behalf of the dependent. See DSSR Section 260 (Separate Maintenance Allowance), for details

about the allowance.

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C. Attendant or Escort. An attendant or escort is authorized to receive the standard travel and

transportation allowances in Chapter 2. In addition to per diem for travel periods, an attendant or escort is

authorized up to 3 days of per diem after arrival at the treatment center to consult with the treating health

care providers and arrange return travel. See

10 U.S.C. § 1040, 22 U.S.C. § 4081 and 37 U.S.C. §

451(a)(2)(C) for the statutory authority that provides this allowance.

1. Travel Authorizations and Orders

a. A Service member or civilian employee serving as an attendant or escort travels under

a TDY order.

b. A non-Government civilian serving as an attendant or escort must be issued an ITA or

included on the same travel authorization as the civilian employee or dependent and identified on that

authorization as the attendant or escort.

2. Contracting for an Attendant or Escort. The AO may authorize the PDS contracting

officer to enter into a contract with a non-family member or a professional health care provider to provide

reasonable compensation in addition to the standard travel and transportation allowances in

Chapter 2, to

include compensation for excess accompanied baggage.

3. Travel Authorization or Order Extension. In extraordinary cases, the AO may approve

longer periods of per diem if the attendant or escort is the patient’s dependent and his or her presence is

necessary to:

a. Help with the adult patient’s treatment regimen.

b. Resolve a minor patient’s medical problems, provide psychological support during

inpatient confinement, or provide parental care while awaiting inpatient admission or during outpatient

treatment.

4. Non-Concurrent Travel. The AO may authorize an attendant to travel separately or at a

different time than the patient when the need for an attendant arises during treatment or there is need for

an attendant only during a portion of the patient’s travel.

D. Accompanying Dependent. An accompanying dependent is limited to round-trip air

transportation between the PDS OCONUS and the medical facility. No per diem is payable and any

further travel costs are the financial responsibility of the civilian employee. This authority should be used

as a last resort.

0332 DESIGNATED INDIVIDUAL AND NON-MEDICAL

ATTENDANT TRAVELING TO A WOUNDED, ILL, OR

INJURED SERVICE MEMBER OR CIVILIAN EMPLOYEE

033201. Travel of a Designated Individual for the Health and Welfare of a

Wounded or Ill Service Member

A retired Service member who incurs a serious injury or illness after retirement, whose injury or

illness reoccurs or is aggravated after retirement, or whose death becomes imminent after retirement is not

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covered under this authority.

A. Eligibility. An active-duty Service member, an RC member on active duty, a Service

Academy cadet or midshipman paid under 37 U.S.C. §209(d), a Senior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps

(SROTC) cadet paid under 37 U.S.C. §209(d), or a retired Service member who is seriously ill or

seriously injured may be eligible to have up to three Designated Individuals visit him or her at a medical

facility. See

37 U.S.C. § 481k and 37 U.S.C. § 452(b)(14) for the statutory authority that provides this

allowance.

1. The attending physician or surgeon and the commander or head of the military medical

facility in charge of the Service member must determine in writing that the presence of a “Designated

Individual” is necessary for the Service member’s health and welfare. Once that determination is issued,

the Service member may select a Designated Individual and the AO may authorize up to three Designated

Individuals to visit.

2. A Service member may change any or all of the Designated Individuals during the

duration of the Service member’s inpatient treatment.

3. If the Service member is unable to select a Designated Individual, then the attending

physician, surgeon, commander, or head of the military medical facility selects the Designated Individual.

4. A Service member who is seriously ill or seriously injured does not require a declaration

of brain death or that electrical brain activity still exists when death is imminent.

Table 3-19. Service Members Authorized Visits from Designated Individuals

Eligible Service

Member

Eligibility Criteria to Receive Designated Individuals

Active-duty

Service Member

1. Seriously wounded, ill, or injured, including diagnosed with a serious mental

disorder, or when death is imminent, who is hospitalized in a medical facility

anywhere in the world.

2. Suffering from a wound or injury incurred in an operation or area designated

by the Secretary of Defense as a combat operation or combat zone, who is

hospitalized in a medical facility in the United States for treatment of that

wound or injury.

RC Member on

Active Duty

RC Member

Entitled to

Disability Pay

and Allowances

(

37 U.S.C.

§204(g))

3. Physically disabled as the result of an injury, illness, wound, or disease

incurred or aggravated, or when death is imminent.

4. Hospitalized in a medical facility anywhere in the world as a result of illness,

injury, or disease in the line of duty while performing Inactive Duty Training

or while traveling directly to or from such training.

Retired Service

Member

5. Retired solely due to a wound, illness, or injury, or because death was

imminent and he or she is hospitalized in a medical facility anywhere in the

world.

6. Travel should occur about the same time as the incident because the authority

is not intended to provide transportation at a later date.

B. Allowances. If the attending physician or surgeon and the commander or head of the military

medical facility in charge of the Service member determine in writing that the presence of a Designated

Individual is necessary for the Service member’s health and welfare; a traveler is authorized the standard

travel and transportation allowances in

Chapter 2. Only one round-trip may be provided between the

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Designated Individual’s home or place of notification and the medical facility in any 60-day period. Not

more than a total of three round trips may be provided in any 60-day period when a Service member is

authorized multiple Designated Individuals. The number of round trips in any 60-day period is reduced

by the number of non-medical attendants the Service member is authorized. During any time period, only

three Designated Individuals may be paid per diem; however, transportation and per diem may be

authorized or approved by the Secretarial Process for more than three individuals in extenuating

circumstances. A Service member or civilian employee serving as a Designated Individual travels under

a TDY order. A non-Government civilian serving as a Designated Individual must be issued an ITA.

C. Funding. The wounded or ill Service member’s organization is responsible for funding the

travel of the Designated Individuals.

033202. Travel of a Non-Medical Attendant for a Seriously and Very Seriously

Wounded, Ill, or Injured Service Member, Service Academy Cadet or Midshipman,

or SROTC Cadet

A. Eligibility. A non-medical attendant is chosen by the Service member, the Service Academy

cadet or midshipman paid under 37 U.S.C. §209(d), or the SROTC cadet receiving pay under 37 U.S.C.

§209(d), who is hospitalized or requires continuing outpatient treatment for the wound, illness, or injury.

The attending physician or surgeon and the commander or head of the military medical facility in charge

of the Service member must determine in writing that an individual is appropriate to serve as a non-

medical attendant and that his or her presence may contribute to the health and welfare of the Service

member. See

37 U.S.C. § 481k and 37 U.S.C. § 452(b)(14) for the statutory authority that provides this

allowance.

1. A non-medical attendant may not also be a Designated Individual.

2. Ordinarily, only one non-medical attendant is allowed. Only in extenuating circumstances

and then only through the Secretarial Process may more than one non-medical attendant be authorized or

approved.

B. Allowances

1. A Service member, civilian employee, or other authorized traveler serving as a patient’s

non-medical attendant receives the standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

. Only one

round-trip may be provided between the non-medical attendant’s home and the medical facility.

2. If an authorized non-medical attendant resides near the medical facility where the Service

member is receiving treatment, which becomes the Service member’s PDS, then local travel may be

authorized if necessary to obtain treatment for the Service member at the PDS. Per diem is not authorized

while in the local area.

3. A non-medical attendant may be provided transportation only from the treatment location

to any subsequent medical facility where the Service member is transferred for treatment. However, if the

non-medical attendant uses a POV when a patient is transferred to another medical facility at the Service

member’s PDS, then the non-medical attendant is only authorized the mileage from the old treatment

location to the new treatment location. It is not the non-medical attendant’s location used to calculate

mileage; it is the location of the patient.

4. Per diem may not be authorized for 31 or more days unless an extension is approved.

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C. Funds Advance. Non-medical attendants may be authorized a travel advance, as outlined in

par. 010204.

033203. Travel of a “Designated Individual” for the Health and Welfare of a

Wounded or Ill Civilian Employee

A. Eligibility. A civilian employee who becomes critically ill or is seriously wounded while on

official duty at an unaccompanied duty station and is subsequently medevac’d to another medical facility

may be eligible for a Designated Individual (

10 U.S.C. §1599b; 22 U.S.C. §4081). An “unaccompanied

duty station” is a permanent duty station to which dependents are not permitted to go with the civilian

employee. A TDY location in an area designated by the Secretary of Defense as a combat zone also

qualifies. The injury or illness must be life threatening or have the potential for permanent life-changing

conditions for the civilian employee.

1. The attending physician or surgeon must determine that a “Designated Individual” is

necessary for the civilian employee’s health and welfare. Once that determination is issued, the civilian

employee may select a Designated Individual and the AO may authorize up to three Designated

Individuals to visit him or her at a medical facility.

2. A civilian employee’s dependent or family member, which includes parents or guardians,

siblings, non-dependent children, or any individual who holds a medical power of attorney to make

medical decisions for the civilian employee may be eligible for travel allowances as a Designated

Individual. Each Designated Individual is issued an ITA.

3. The authority to exceed three Designated Individuals may be authorized or approved

through the Secretarial Process only if the number of dependent children plus the spouse exceeds the

limitation.

4. If the civilian employee is unable to select a Designated Individual, then the attending

physician or surgeon selects the Designated Individual.

B. Allowances

1. Transportation

a. A Designated Individual for a critically ill or seriously wounded civilian employee is

authorized:

(1) Transportation in-kind.

(2) Reimbursement for personally procured commercial transportation, up to the cost

of Government-procured commercial air transportation. The rules for commercial air travel in Chapter 2

apply.

(3) Reimbursement for travel between terminals, which is only authorized for ground

or air transportation between interim airports.

b. Government or Government-procured transportation must be used to the maximum

extent practicable for transoceanic travel.

2. Per Diem

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a. Per diem may be paid when a Designated Individual is authorized a round trip to and

from a medical facility at Government expense:

(1) For travel to the medical facility.

(2) While at the hospital during visits with the critically ill or seriously wounded

civilian employee for 30 or fewer days.

(3) For return travel to the Designated Individual’s home.

b. Per diem is authorized for the travel time to and from the medical facility, and up to

30 days at the medical facility. Per diem is limited to 30 days at the medical facility.

3. Reimbursable Expenses. Reimbursable expenses as outlined in Chapter 2

are authorized,

except for baggage expenses. There is no authority for the reimbursement of either excess or

unaccompanied baggage expenses.

C. Funding. The civilian employee’s command is responsible for funding.

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CHAPTER 3: TDY TRAVEL

PART E: LEAVE IN CONJUNCTION WITH TDY

0333 LEAVE AND TDY

Personnel directives dictate when and how leave is charged for time spent on personal business if it is not

justified as official travel in accordance with the JTR. A Service member is not in a travel status while on

an administrative absence. A civilian employee is not in a travel status while on an excused absence or

administrative leave. See DoDI 1400.25, Vol. 630

(civilian employee leave).

033301. Leave or Personal Travel Combined with Official Travel

A. Eligibility. The AO may permit a Service member or civilian employee to combine leave or

personal travel with official travel at no additional cost to the Government provided that:

1. City Pair Program airfare, and other contracted travel rates, are limited to official

Government business and not authorized for personal travel.

2. The official transportation is arranged through the Defense Travel Management Office-

contracted Travel Management Company.

3. The traveler arranges personal travel at personal expense.

4. The AO does not permit a TDY trip that is an excuse for personal travel.

B. Allowances. Table 3-20

provides the travel and transportation allowances available for

various combinations of leave and official travel.

1. Reimbursement is authorized for the actual cost of the transportation used and en route per

diem, limited to what the Government’s cost would have been between the official duty locations using a

Policy Constructed Airfare (YCA vice CA) had there been no personal travel taken.

2. Economy or coach accommodations must be used unless other accommodations are

approved in Chapter 2

3. If a travel authorization identifies any location as personal or leave travel, then the

authorization must state that any excess costs over the costs for official travel are the traveler’s financial

responsibility.

Table 3-20. Situations Involving Leave and Official Travel

If…

Then the traveler…

the TDY trip is known before going on

leave,

a. is reimbursed per diem while at the TDY location.

Actual travel expenses to and from the TDY

location are authorized, but limited to the

constructed round-trip cost between the PDS and

TDY location.

b. cannot use City Pair Program airfares for

transportation to or from the leave location.

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Table 3-20. Situations Involving Leave and Official Travel

If…

Then the traveler…

the traveler is absent from the PDS for

personal reasons and has to return to the

PDS for official reasons before the

originally intended return,

is not authorized reimbursement for expenses incurred

for the return travel.*

a traveler is on leave away from the PDS

and receives an order to perform TDY at

the leave location,

is authorized per diem for the TDY performed

according to the travel authorization. Reimbursement

for transportation expenses is also authorized for the

return trip, but limited to the transportation costs that

exceed what the traveler would have incurred if no

TDY were required (31 Comp. Gen. 509 (1952)).

a traveler is on leave away from the PDS

and the leave is interrupted to perform

TDY at various places, with or without a

return to the PDS, and the traveler is

allowed to resume leave upon TDY

completion,

is authorized the following:

a. Per diem and transportation expenses from the

place at which leave was interrupted to the TDY

locations.

b. Per diem while at the TDY locations, but no per

diem while at the PDS.

c. Per diem and transportation to return to the place

at which the leave was interrupted (

25 Comp.

Gen. 347 (1945); 28 Comp. Gen. 237 (1948); 39

Comp. Gen. 611 (1960)).

a traveler is on leave and the leave is

interrupted to perform TDY (including

TDY at various places) but not including a

return to the PDS, and the traveler is

allowed to resume leave upon TDY

completion,

is authorized the following:

a. Per diem and transportation from the place where

leave was interrupted to the TDY locations.

b. Per diem while at the TDY locations.

c. Per diem and transportation expenses to return to

a leave location, which can be different than

where leave was interrupted.

A traveler is allowed per diem and transportation

expenses to resume leave at a point more distant from

the TDY location than the point at which leave was

interrupted, provided the round trip distance and

expense are not greater than the distances and

constructed travel expense between the traveler's PDS

and the TDY location (27 Comp. Gen. 648 (1948)).

a traveler’s leave is interrupted for TDY,

and the traveler is required to return to the

PDS and not allowed to resume leave at

the end of the TDY,

is authorized the following:

a. Per diem and transportation from the leave

location to the TDY location.

b. Per diem while at the TDY location.

c. Return travel from the TDY location to the PDS.

These allowances are limited to the excess cost over

the constructed per diem and transportation expense

for return directly from the leave location to the PDS.

a traveler is on leave away from the PDS,

and receives orders to go to a TDY

location immediately upon completion of

leave, and return to the PDS upon

completion of the TDY,

is authorized the following:

a. Per diem and transportation expenses from the

leave location to the TDY location.

b. Per diem while at the TDY location.

c. Per diem and transportation from the TDY

location to the PDS.

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Table 3-20. Situations Involving Leave and Official Travel

If…

Then the traveler…

These allowances are limited to the excess of the

constructed cost from the leave location directly to the

PDS (19 Comp. Gen. 977 (1940)).

a traveler is on leave away from the PDS,

receives orders to go to a TDY location

immediately upon completion of leave,

and return to the PDS upon completion of

the TDY, and the traveler must go through

the PDS to get to the TDY location,

is authorized per diem and transportation expenses,

limited to the cost of round-trip travel and

transportation between the PDS and the TDY location

(24 Comp. Gen. 443 (1944)

a Service member is recalled from leave to

return to the PDS for operational reasons

because of an actual contingency or

emergency war operation, or because of an

urgent and unforeseen circumstance when

a substantial portion of the scheduled leave

period has been eliminated by the recall or

the leave purpose has been defeated (

Comp. Gen. 648 (1981)),**

is authorized the standard travel and transportation

allowances in Chapter 2 beginning on the day of

departure from the leave location, or place where the

order canceling the leave was received, to the PDS

and, if authorized to resume leave, standard travel and

transportation allowances from the PDS to a leave

location no farther from the duty station than the place

at which the order canceling the leave was received.

Per diem is not authorized at the PDS.

*Per diem and transportation expenses from the leave location to the PDS may be authorized when

the Service member or civilian employee is recalled from leave due to an unforeseen official need.

The travel authorization must state or indicate that the personal expense incurred in traveling to the

leave location makes it unreasonable to require the Service member or civilian employee to bear the

additional travel expense to comply with the recall or TDY order (39 Comp. Gen. 611 (1960)).

**A Service member recalled from leave for disciplinary action is not authorized standard travel and

transportation allowances under this provision, and is responsible for the costs to return to the PDS.

C. Effect of Leave or Administrative Absence on Per Diem

1. Service Member. Per diem is not authorized for any day a Service member is not in a

travel status or on any day classified as leave or an administrative absence (DoDI 1327.06 (Leave and

Liberty)).

Note: For long-term TDY, see also par. 032902 and par. 033501

2. Civilian Employee

a. A civilian employee is authorized per diem for a day when leave is taken for only part

of the workday. Per diem is not authorized when leave is taken for the entire workday.

b. A civilian employee may be authorized per diem for leave for up to two non-workdays

if leave is taken for all workdays between non-workdays.

c. A civilian employee is not authorized per diem for leave on non-workdays when:

(1) Leave is taken for the whole workday before, and the whole workday following,

the non-workday.

(2) The civilian employee returns to the PDS or residence.

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d. When a civilian employee is authorized to depart the PDS on a work day to perform

authorized TDY the following work day with non-work days in between for personal reasons, per diem is

authorized only for the time allowed in the constructed cost of the trip between leaving the PDS and

arriving at the TDY point.

e. When a civilian employee chooses not to return to the PDS immediately upon

completion of the TDY for personal reasons, per diem is authorized only for the time allowed in the

constructed cost of the trip between leaving the TDY point and arriving at the PDS.

(1) When constructing the costs of returning to the PDS, if the trip is short or travel

is authorized on carriers with sleeping accommodations, then the departure day used to construct the

travel costs is the same day that the TDY is completed.

(2) When sleeping accommodations are not available on the authorized

transportation mode, the departure date used to construct the travel costs is the morning of the day after

TDY is completed.

f. When on leave at a dependent safe haven location, see Chapter 6

g. See non-workday computation example 1, non-workday computation example 2

, and

non-workday computation example 3.

033302. Leave Taken while on a TDY with Long-Term Lodging

When a traveler rents or leases lodging on a weekly, monthly, or long-term basis, the daily TDY

lodging cost is computed by dividing the total periodic lodging cost by the number of days the traveler is

authorized the lodging portion of the locality per diem rate (62 Comp. Gen. 63 (1982)

). This computation

presumes that the traveler acts prudently in renting by the week or month, and that the Government does

not exceed the cost of renting conventional lodging at a daily rate. See long-term TDY computation

example 4.

033303. Ship Relocated During Authorized Absence

A. Eligibility. A Service member assigned to a ship who is on leave or liberty when the ship

relocates may be eligible for travel allowances if he or she was not notified of the ship’s relocation before

departing on leave. A Service member who was on emergency leave when the ship moved follows the

policy in

Chapter 4.

B. Allowances. A Service member may receive travel and transportation allowances to pay for

the additional costs of returning to the ship at its new location, limited to the cost of transportation from

the ship’s old location to the new location.

1. Transportation in-kind is authorized for transoceanic travel.

2. Government-procured transportation is authorized, but the Service member is financially

responsible for all costs above the limit. City Pair Program airfares are not authorized when the Service

member’s transportation cost is higher than the limit.

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0334 PERSONAL EMERGENCIES WHILE ON TDY AWAY

FROM THE PDS

See DoDI 1327.06

(Leave and Liberty) and Service regulations for specifics on situations that warrant

emergency leave. For emergency leave travel associated with medical situations, see Chapter 4.

033401. Service Member Personal Emergency Travel While on TDY

A. Eligibility. A Service member who is on TDY, or assigned to a ship operating away from the

home port, and experiences a personal emergency is authorized travel and transportation allowances.

B. Allowances. The standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

are authorized

for an eligible Service member to travel round trip from the TDY location, or location of a ship operating

away from the home port, to the PDS or home port.

1. When emergency travel to a location other than the PDS or home port is authorized, then

the standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

are reimbursed. When round-trip travel

occurs, the reimbursement is limited to the costs between the TDY location, or ship operating away from

home port location, and the PDS or home port, and return.

a. If it is unnecessary to return to the TDY location, or to the ship operating away from

the home port, when the personal emergency is finished, then the Service member is authorized limited

return travel and transportation directly to the PDS or home port.

b. If a Service member returns from the emergency leave location to the PDS instead of

to the TDY location, then the reimbursement is limited. The total cost of travel from the TDY location to

the emergency leave location and from the emergency leave location to the PDS is limited to the cost had

the Service member traveled directly from the TDY location, or ship operating away from the home port,

to the PDS or home port.

2. Space-required Government transportation must be used if reasonably available. A

Service member who does not use available Government transportation is not reimbursed for

transportation costs.

3. If space-required Government transportation is not reasonably available, then contracted

City Pair Program airfares may be used. If travel to the emergency leave location is more expensive than

travel to the PDS or home port, then City Pair Program airfares are not authorized.

4. Authority does not exist for one-way travel and transportation to a ship’s new location if

the Service member departed on emergency leave while the ship was in its home port.

5. Per diem is not authorized while the Service member is at the emergency leave location or

any time his or her travel status is classified as leave or an administrative absence.

033402. Civilian Employee Personal Emergency Travel While on TDY

If a civilian employee interrupts his or her TDY because of an incapacitating illness or injury, see

par.

033002.

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A. Eligibility. Civilian employees who are on TDY away from the PDS or home port and must

discontinue or interrupt the mission before completion because of a personal emergency may be eligible

for travel and transportation allowances.

B. Allowances. The DoD Component may authorize or approve the standard travel and

transportation allowances in Chapter 2 based on the civilian employee’s personal situation and the

Service’s or Component’s mission. This authority may be delegated, but must be held to the highest

administrative level practical to ensure adequate consideration and review of the circumstances

surrounding the need for the emergency travel.

1. From TDY Location to Home or PDS. If a civilian employee discontinues his or her TDY

and returns home or to the PDS, then transportation expenses and en route per diem may be authorized or

approved from the interruption point to the PDS. The unused portion of the Government-funded

transportation for the TDY must be used, if possible. City Pair Program airfares may be used. A new

TDY order must be issued if the civilian employee returns to the TDY location after the personal

emergency is resolved.

2. From TDY Location to Alternate Destination and Return to the TDY Location. A civilian

employee who discontinues his or her TDY and takes leave for travel to an emergency leave location

(other than the PDS or from the point at which the civilian employee was notified of the emergency) and

then returns to the TDY location, may be authorized or approved certain excess travel costs.

a. The excess travel costs allowed are the excess actual travel costs from the point at

which the civilian employee was notified of the emergency, to the emergency leave location, and return to

the TDY assignment that exceeds the constructed cost of round-trip travel between the PDS and the

emergency leave location. See Table 3-17

for rules on calculating the excess transportation costs.

b. City Pair Program airfares cannot be used for travel to an emergency leave location

and return to the TDY location.

c. If a civilian employee does not have sufficient personal funds to pay for transportation

to an emergency leave location and the return trip to the TDY location, then the DoD Component may

provide transportation for the civilian employee, or provide an advance of funds to enable the

transportation purchase. The civilian employee must reimburse the Government for any Government-

funded transportation cost or travel advance over the authorized or approved allowance.

0335 SERVICE MEMBER ON A TDY AFTER EVACUATION

033501. Lodging Expenses for a Service Member on Leave during an

Authorized or Ordered Evacuation

A. Eligibility. A Service member who is on a TDY and takes leave to travel at personal expense

to the safe haven where the dependent is evacuated, may be eligible for a lodging allowance if the Service

member meets all of the following criteria:

1. Has an order to the TDY location for 31 or more days.

2. Receive per diem while at the TDY location to cover TDY lodging expenses because

Government quarters are not available at no cost to the Service member.

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3. Return to the TDY location immediately after completing the authorized leave.

B. Allowances. The Service member is authorized reimbursement for lodging retained at the

TDY location, during leave, limited to the lodging portion of the locality per diem rate for the TDY

location for each day. The allowance is claimed as a miscellaneous reimbursable expense.

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CHAPTER 4: GOVERNMENT FUNDED LEAVE

0401 APPLICABLE ALLOWANCES FOR GOVERNMENT-

FUNDED LEAVE TRAVEL

040101. Standard Transportation and Reimbursement

A. Standard Transportation. Transportation authorized in par. 020101

applies to this chapter;

however, travelers must use Government transportation for Government-funded leave, when available. If

the command determines that Government transportation is reasonably available and a traveler does not

use it, then reimbursement is not authorized. A commander must determine “reasonable availability”

after considering the frequency and scheduling of flights and other relevant circumstances, including

those personal to the Service member. The AO determines the authorized transportation mode if

Government transportation is unavailable.

Table 4-1. Standard Transportation Allowances for Government-Funded Leave Travel

Type of Leave

Transportation Mode

Government

Transportation

Commercial

Privately Owned

Vehicle (POV)

Airplane

Bus or Rail

Emergency Leave

Space required.

An eligible

traveler may use

City Pair airfares

between

authorized

locations. If

travel is to a

more expensive

alternate

destination, then

the City Pair

airfares cannot be

used.

Transportation is

limited to the

policy

constructed

airfare.

a. Other Mileage

Rate (see par.

020210).

b. Transportation

is limited to the

policy

constructed

airfare.

Emergency

Visitation Travel

(EVT)

Funded

Environmental and

Morale Leave

(FEML)

Rest and

Recuperation

(R&R)

Special R&R

(SR&R)

Special Leave

Transportation

Allowance from

Alaska

An eligible

traveler may use

City Pair airfares

between the PDS

and HOR.

Not authorized.

B. Standard Reimbursements. Table 4-2

lists the reimbursable expenses authorized and not

authorized during Government-funded leave. When travel is by commercial air, rail, or bus, the total

transportation reimbursement is for the actual expenses incurred, limited to the Government-procured

transportation cost between authorized locations. Reimbursable transportation costs include the actual

ticket cost and those expenses identified in

Table 4-2 when not included as part of the ticket cost.

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Table 4-2. Reimbursable Expenses for Government-Funded Leave Travel

Authorized

(when not part

of the ticket

cost)

a. Travel Management Company fees.

b. Charges for first checked bag up to carrier’s standard checked baggage

allowance.

c. Arrival or departure taxes or fees.

d. Currency conversion fees for allowable transportation costs.

e. Ground transportation between interim airports.

2 Not Authorized

a. Per diem or meal tickets.

b. Excess accompanied baggage.

c. Unaccompanied baggage.

d. Transportation from PDS, home, or destination to the airport and return,

except FEML.

e. Terminal parking fees.

040102. Allowances if Isolation or Quarantine is Required When Returning

from Government-Funded Leave Travel

If a public health official, medical official, or authorizing/order-issuing official orders a Service

member to isolate or quarantine before proceeding to the PDS, then the Service member may be issued

TDY orders and is authorized standard travel and transportation allowances in accordance with Chapter 2.

If lodging in-kind or meals in-kind are provided, then per diem is not payable.

0402 EMERGENCY LEAVE FOR SERVICE MEMBERS

040201. Transportation in Personal Emergencies

A. Eligibility. Criteria for a Service member or dependent to receive emergency leave

transportation appear in Table 4-3. The personal emergency must be evaluated in accordance with DoDI

1327.06 (Leave and Liberty). Cadets and midshipmen are not eligible for emergency leave

transportation.

1. A Service member’s domicile is relevant to personal emergency transportation if the

Service member is stationed in the continental United States (CONUS). A “domicile” is a Service

member’s home of record, place from which entered (or called) to active duty, place of first enlistment, or

permanent legal residence.

2. For an eligible dependent, personal emergencies are circumstances similar to those for

which a Service member receives emergency leave travel. For escort of remains of a deceased Service

member, see par. 032001

Table 4-3. Eligible Traveler for Personal Emergency Leave

Traveler

Eligibility Criteria

Service

Member

a. On permanent duty outside the continental United States (OCONUS).

b. Assigned to a ship or unit operation OCONUS.

c. Has a domicile OCONUS and is on permanent duty or initial training in the

CONUS, ordered to active duty with the PDS not designated in the order, or is a

Service academy graduate and emergency leave location is OCONUS.

Dependent

a. Is command-sponsored and residing OCONUS with the Service member.

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Table 4-3. Eligible Traveler for Personal Emergency Leave

Traveler

Eligibility Criteria

b. Authorized to reside at a location OCONUS and for whom the Service member

receives a station allowance while on permanent duty OCONUS.

c. A dependent residing in the CONUS with an emergency leave location OCONUS

is eligible for travel allowances only if the Service member is on permanent duty

OCONUS or has a domicile OCONUS. A dependent’s domicile is irrelevant.

B. Allowances. An eligible Service member or dependent is authorized transportation from

locations in Table 4-4. This applies to a Service member traveling alone or with one or more dependents

and one or more dependents traveling without the Service member. A different destination may be

approved through the Secretarial Process. Return transportation from the destination to the originating

location or PDS is authorized if transportation to the destination was under

section 0402. Additionally,

travel across the CONUS is at Government expense if the CONUS must be crossed to get to the

emergency leave location OCONUS. See

section 0401 for transportation and reimbursable expenses.

C. Authorized Locations. Origins and destinations that are authorized for an eligible Service

member or dependent on emergency leave travel appear in Table 4-4.

Table 4-4. Authorized Origins and Destinations for Emergency Leave Travel

Authorized Origins

Authorized Destinations

Eligible Service Member or Dependent in the CONUS

International airport nearest the Service

member’s PDS.

An international airport in a non-foreign area

OCONUS, or any other location OCONUS, as

determined by the Secretarial Process.

International airport nearest the

dependent’s location when notified of the

personal emergency.

Eligible Service Member or Dependent OCONUS

a. A Service member’s PDS.

b. The dependent’s authorized location

OCONUS.

c. The Service member’s or dependent’s

location when notified of the personal

emergency, if the location is OCONUS.

a. The international airport in the CONUS closest* to

the location from which the Service member or

dependent departed and to which air transportation

is available along a normally traveled international

route. This is the only criterion for the cost limit to

be used for transportation to another airport.

b. Any airport in the CONUS that is closer to the

Service member’s or dependent’s destination if the

transportation cost is less than the transportation

cost to the international airport closest* to the

location from which he or she departed and to

which air transportation is available along a

normally traveled international route.

c. An airport in a non-foreign area OCONUS.

d. Any foreign location OCONUS, as determined

through the Secretarial Process.

*The closest port of entry in the CONUS is the standard of measure for determining the cost limitation

(37 U.S.C. §481d).

See emergency leave computation example 1, emergency leave computation example 2, emergency

leave computation example 3, and emergency leave computation example 4.

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Note: No authority exists for one-way emergency leave transportation from the CONUS back to a PDS

OCONUS if a Service member or dependent is on personal leave in the CONUS when the

emergency occurs. Nor does authority exist for one-way emergency leave transportation from

OCONUS back to the CONUS PDS if the Service member or dependent is on personal leave

OCONUS when the emergency occurs.

0403 EMERGENCY VISITATION TRAVEL (EVT)

The reasons for EVT are divided into six categories with varying allowances, requirements, and

limitations and are detailed in the subsequent paragraphs.

040301. Travel in Response to a Medical Emergency, Eldercare, Death, Unusual

Personal Hardship, or New Child

EVT is not discretionary for travel under this paragraph once the approval authority confirms the

need.

A. Eligibility. A civilian employee or dependent residing with the civilian employee at a foreign

PDS OCONUS is authorized transportation allowances in specific emergency circumstances (as specified

10 U.S.C. §1599b; 22 U.S.C. §4081; and 3 FAM §3740 (DoS Foreign Affairs Manual)).

1. The civilian employee must be a U.S. citizen and have a Service agreement that provides

for return travel to the civilian employee’s “actual residence” (see Appendix A).

a. Medical. Table 4-5

summarizes what a traveler may be authorized.

Table 4-5. Medical Travel

Authorizing

or Approval

Authority

AO with the assistance of medical authority, if available

2 Authorization

a. The civilian employee or the civilian employee’s spouse or domestic partner can

take one round trip to visit an immediate family member who is seriously ill or

injured (see

par. 040301-B).

b. If the civilian employee, spouse, or domestic partner returns to the PDS from the

EVT visit, and the ill or injured family member subsequently dies, then the AO

may authorize or approve a second trip.

Limitation

of EVT Visit

One round trip for each serious illness or injury of each family member.

(1) EVT is to visit an immediate family member who is seriously ill or injured, such

that death is likely to occur.

(2) The AO must validate that the family member’s condition meets the

requirements for EVT. A civilian employee’s request for EVT for a medical reason must include

sufficient information to enable the AO (with the assistance of a medical authority, if available) to

determine whether the medical condition of the family member to be visited is severe enough that death is

likely to occur. The request must also include:

(a) Name and address of the family member.

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(b) Family member’s relationship to the civilian employee or the civilian

employee’s spouse or domestic partner.

physician or hospital.

(d) Name, address, and telephone number of a person at the family

member’s location who may be contacted about the emergency and that person’s relationship to the

family member.

(3) If the family member is located in a foreign area, the AO must request assistance

from the nearest PDS or medical facility to validate that the family member’s medical status meets the

requirements for EVT.

b. Eldercare. Table 4-6

summarizes what a traveler may be authorized.

Table 4-6. Eldercare Travel

Authorizing

or Approval

Authority

2 Authorization

a. A civilian employee is limited to two round trips using EVT during his or her

lifetime. The civilian employee’s spouse or domestic partner is also limited to

two round trips using EVT during the spouse’s or domestic partner’s lifetime.

b. The eligible traveler may use both EVT trips to visit one incapacitated parent,

or may use one trip for each incapacitated parent.

Limitation

of EVT Visit

Two round trips over the lifetime of each eligible traveler.

(1) EVT for eldercare is authorized when it is necessary to arrange medical care,

arrange home care services, evaluate a facility placement, or otherwise assess the need for a new living

situation or other form of care for an incapacitated parent when the parent may not be able to live

independently.

(2) When requesting EVT for eldercare, the civilian employee must submit a written

statement or certification to the AO. It must contain:

(a) The number of EVT trips already taken by the civilian employee, spouse, or

domestic partner during his or her lifetime for eldercare. After an individual uses EVT for eldercare for

two parents, he or she cannot select any additional parents for EVT purposes.

(b) The name and address of the parent and the care facility, if the parent is

under temporary care away from the normal residence. When the EVT request is authorized or approved,

the parent’s identity and the EVT must be recorded in the civilian employee’s personnel record.

(d) Details about the manner in which the person who stood in loco parentis has

fulfilled the role in place of a biological, step-, or adoptive parent.

(3) The civilian employee may designate the civilian employee’s spouse or domestic

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partner to travel in the civilian employee’s place, or the civilian employee may travel in the spouse’s or

domestic partner’s place.

c. Death of an Immediate Family Member. Table 4-7

summarizes what a traveler may

be authorized.

Table 4-7. Travel for Death of an Immediate Family Member

Authorizing

or Approval

Authority

2 Authorization

a. The civilian employee or the civilian employee’s spouse or domestic partner is

limited to one round trip to the place of interment when a family member dies.

Travel must begin as soon as practicable upon notice of the death.

b. When a civilian employee or the civilian employee’s spouse or domestic

partner visits a sibling at personal expense, and the sibling dies within 45

calendar days of when the traveler departed from the foreign PDS, then the

traveler may elect either reimbursement for the round-trip visit already taken at

personal expense or EVT round-trip transportation for the sibling’s interment.

Limitation

of EVT Visit

One round trip and travel must begin as soon as practicable following death

notification.

(1) EVT is authorized for the interment of a civilian employee’s spouse or domestic

partner; child (including a stepchild or adopted child) or individual who is or was under legal

guardianship of the civilian employee, spouse, or domestic partner; parent of the civilian employee,

spouse, or domestic partner, or a brother, stepbrother, sister, or stepsister of the civilian employee, spouse,

or domestic partner.

(2) Either the civilian employee or the civilian employee’s spouse or domestic

partner may be eligible for EVT, but not both.

d. Death of a Civilian Employee or Dependent. Table 4-8

summarizes what a traveler

may be authorized.

Table 4-8. Travel for Death of a Civilian Employee or Dependent

Authorizing

or Approval

Authority

2 Authorization

When a civilian employee or dependent dies in a foreign location, regardless of

whether death occurs at the PDS or elsewhere in a foreign area, each of the civilian

employee’s dependents is authorized to accompany the body anywhere in the

world.

Limitation

of EVT Visit

One round trip to the place of interment for each eligible dependent who resides at

the civilian employee’s PDS.

e. Unusual Personal Hardship. EVT may be authorized for a civilian employee, spouse,

or domestic partner who has exceptional circumstances that require emergency family visitation for

reasons other than visiting an ill or injured family member, death of a family member, or care of an

incapacitated parent.

Table 4-9 summarizes what a traveler may be authorized. Requests must be

supported by a statement from the civilian employee, detailing the exceptional circumstances.

Documentation must:

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(1) Include the nature of the circumstances and any available documentation relating

to the circumstances of the request.

(2) Include the statement: “I [declare, certify, verify, or state] under the penalty of

perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed on

[date]. [Signature]”.

Table 4-9. Travel for Unusual Personal Hardship

Authorizing

or Approval

Authority

Individual delegated authority by the DoD Component concerned

2 Authorization

Each DoD Component establishes general criteria that warrant approval of EVT in

exceptional circumstances for a civilian employee or a spouse or domestic partner

residing with the civilian employee at a foreign PDS.

Limitation

of EVT Visit

One round trip from PDS to EVT location and return.

2. The civilian employee or one dependent, but not both, is authorized EVT for a qualifying

emergency. In exceptional circumstances, the AO may authorize or approve additional family members

for EVT travel. Exceptional circumstances may include when:

a. A critical injury occurs to a dependent child attending school away from the PDS.

b. The civilian employee or dependent dies at the PDS and the remains are being

returned for interment in the CONUS or a non-foreign area OCONUS.

c. A nursing child needs to accompany the mother, or a preschool child needs to

accompany a single parent.

3. A civilian employee is ineligible for EVT when either of the following situations occurs:

a. The emergency travel is wholly within the foreign PDS area or country.

b. The civilian employee is not at the foreign PDS OCONUS on one of the following:

(1) Leave in the CONUS or a non-foreign location OCONUS.

(2) Temporary duty in the CONUS or non-foreign location OCONUS.

4. A dependent is ineligible for EVT when the emergency travel is wholly within the foreign

PDS area or country.

f. New Child. Table 4-10

summarizes what a traveler may be authorized.

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Table 4-10. New Child Travel

Authorizing

or Approval

Authority

AO with the assistance of medical authority as required.

2 Authorization

The civilian employee or the civilian employee’s spouse or domestic partner may

depart the PDS up to 45 days before expected date of delivery and up to 45 days

after date of delivery and may return to the PDS at any time (example, if parents

want to bond with baby at birth location).

Limitation

of EVT Visit

One round trip PDS to EVT location and return per birth. There are no lifetime or

yearly caps on the number of New Child EVTs a traveler may take.

(1) EVT for new birth may be authorized for a non-birth parent to care for a civilian

employee, spouse, or domestic partner who is giving birth in another country.

(2) There are two types of New Child EVT:

(a) New Child EVT in Connection with Obstetric (OB) Medevac: The birth

parent departed the PDS on OB medevac and the traveler is visiting the birth parent at the medevac

location; or

(b) New Child EVT for Non-Medevac Births: The birth parent and non-birth

parent are in different locations, and the birth parent is not on OB medevac travel orders. The New Child

EVT traveler is visiting the birth parent at the birth location.

B. Allowances. An eligible civilian employee or dependent is authorized round-trip

transportation from a foreign PDS to the CONUS or a non-foreign area OCONUS. In certain family

emergencies, the AO may approve another location. See

section 0401 for transportation and reimbursable

expenses. The provisions below apply to each traveler.

1. Transportation

a. Transportation is authorized from the eligible civilian employee’s PDS to the CONUS

or a non-foreign OCONUS location of the seriously ill, injured, deceased dependent, for eldercare, or new

child.

(1) Use special or discounted fares offered for a short, round trip (excursion fares)

with restrictions, such as minimum and maximum stays, to the maximum extent possible.

(2) Indirect routing may be authorized only when a civilian employee is performing

official duties en route or when it is to the Government’s advantage to purchase a ticket in foreign

currency at an intermediate point.

b. When a civilian employee is on leave in a foreign location, or an eligible family

member is in a foreign location away from the civilian employee’s PDS, EVT allowances are limited to

the Government’s cost for traveling between the PDS and the EVT destination.

c. If the destination is in a foreign location, then reimbursement is limited to the

transportation costs that would have been incurred between the civilian employee’s PDS and actual

residence. The only exception is if the traveler is using EVT to visit a person in a foreign location who is

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there because of the civilian employee’s assignment at the foreign PDS. In such case, reimbursement is

for the actual cost of transportation.

d. A civilian employee must repay the Government-paid or Government-reimbursed

EVT expenses when EVT is used as a substitute for travel for purposes for which EVT is not authorized.

2. Travel Before Authorization. The civilian employee or the civilian employee’s eligible

spouse or domestic partner may travel before the AO authorizes the EVT.

a. Personally incurred transportation expenses may be reimbursed if the travel is

approved after the fact.

b. The Government may provide transportation for EVT justified by medical reasons or

for eldercare after the traveler executes a repayment acknowledgment. The repayment acknowledgment

must include:

(1) “I certify that I have read and understand Joint Travel Regulations (JTR),

Chapter 4, section 0403

, and related JTR sections, and that all expenditures made by the Government in

connection with my emergency visitation travel, [or emergency visitation travel of my eligible spouse or

domestic partner, [Name]], must become my personal financial responsibility. These expenditures are

subject to collection as an overpayment in the event that approval of such transportation is determined to

be unwarranted under the provisions in

section 0403. If I do not repay these funds immediately upon

demand, I understand that the Government may pursue collection of these funds through deductions from

salary, allowances, lump payments, or any other remedy.”

(2) The civilian employee’s signature.

c. The civilian employee is financially liable for any expenditure not approved and must

repay the cost of any transportation provided by the Government if the travel is determined to have been

unwarranted under the conditions governing EVT.

d. In 30 or fewer calendar days after travel is completed, the EVT traveler must provide

a written certification to the AO detailing the name, address, and relationship to the traveler of the person

visited. The certification must:

(1) Detail the circumstances that necessitated the EVT, including any illness, health

conditions, or other circumstances at the time of travel that met the requirements for EVT.

(2) Attach a report from the attending physician or hospital, describing the nature of

the dependent’s illness at the time of travel.

(3) Detail the parent’s health status when travel is for eldercare.

(4) Detail the exceptional circumstances requiring the EVT.

(5) Include the signed and dated statement: “I [declare, certify, verify, or state]

under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the foregoing is true and

correct.”

e. Based on the statement and supporting documentation that the civilian employee,

spouse, or domestic partner provides, the AO determines if the travel satisfied all of the requirements for

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EVT.

(1) If the travel meets the EVT requirements, then the AO issues the appropriate

travel order for the EVT.

(2) If the travel does not meet the requirements, then the AO notifies the civilian

employee or dependent that the conditions did not satisfy the requirements for EVT. The civilian

employee may request reconsideration by providing the AO additional supporting documentation.

3. EVT Affects Other Types of Travel. See Chapter 5

for the effect of EVT on RAT and

Chapter 6 for the effect on family visitation travel.

C. Funding. The civilian employee’s command funds the EVT and reimburses the authorized

expenses. The civilian employee is financially liable for any expenditure not authorized or approved. For

information about charging leave, see

DoDI 1400.25, Vol. 630 (civilian employee leave) and DoDI

1400.25, Vol. 1260 (civilian employee home leave).

0404 FUNDED ENVIRONMENTAL AND MORALE LEAVE

(FEML)

The FEML policy is established for a Service member in DoDI 1327.06

(Leave and Liberty). This policy

is adopted and used for civilian employees.

040401. FEML Transportation

A. Eligibility

1. A Service member or a civilian employee may be eligible for FEML if he or she is

stationed at an authorized FEML PDS for 24 or more consecutive months (10 U.S.C. §1599b and

U.S.C. §4081(6)). The required 24 months can include a 12-month tour that is extended for an additional

consecutive 12 months. FEML is not discretionary for travel under this paragraph when an individual

meets eligibility requirements, unless otherwise prohibited in this regulation.

2. A dependent is eligible for FEML when residing with the Service member or civilian

employee serving an accompanied tour, if the Service member’s dependent is command-sponsored or the

civilian employee’s dependent is authorized. A student attending school away from the PDS is

considered to be residing with the Service member or civilian employee in terms of FEML eligibility. An

authorized dependent may travel separately or alone, even if the Service member or civilian employee

elects not to travel.

3. FEML may be combined with other official travel or another funded-leave transportation

program. However, each traveler is eligible to take only the number of trips authorized in Table 4-11

Receiving dual allowances or comparable allowances from another Agency is not allowed. When two

eligible Service members or civilian employees reside in the same household at the FEML PDS, each is

authorized only one FEML trip. Any eligible dependent or family member who qualifies for FEML

under both of the Service members or civilian employees may receive only one of the allowances.

Similarly, if an eligible traveler’s transportation is funded by a host government in a way that is

comparable to FEML, the traveler is not eligible for a FEML trip.

4. The number of FEML trips an eligible traveler may take depends on the Service member’s

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or civilian employee’s tour length, as shown in Table 4-11. A Service member executing an in-place

consecutive overseas tour (IPCOT) is authorized additional FEML trips based on Table 4-11, as is a

civilian employee who signs a tour-renewal agreement. No more than two FEML trips are authorized for

any overseas tour, including extensions to that tour.

5. The time frame for FEML travel is set closer to the middle of an eligible tour by limiting

the number of months after it begins or before it ends when a traveler can use FEML. However, on a

case-by-case basis, a Combatant Commander (CCDR) or the Secretary concerned for members of the

U.S. Public Health Service, may waive the following three-month rule and six-month rule. FEML must

be performed before the traveler completes his or her tour of duty (CBCA 1067-TRAV, June 26, 2008

)

and:

a. Should not be performed within three months of the beginning or end of a 12-month

extension to a tour that previously was at least 24 months long but less than 36 months.

b. Should not be performed within six months after the beginning or six months before

the end of a 24- or 36-month tour of duty.

Table 4-11. FEML Trips Authorized by Assignment Length and Tour Extension

Tour Length

FEML Trips

Authorized

At least 24 months, but less than 36 months

Tour extended at least 12 months

1 additional

New tour assignment at least 24 months, but less than 36 months

1 additional*

At least 36 months

Tour extended for any length of time

0 additional

New tour assignment at least 24 months

1 additional*

New tour assignment at least 36 months

2 additional*

*A new tour assignment, such as a Service member’s IPCOT or when a civilian employee signs a

renewal agreement, starts the number of FEML trip authorizations over. When a traveler on a 12-

month tour to a FEML location without a dependent extends for a consecutive second 12-month tour,

the traveler is only eligible for one funded-leave transportation program: COT travel (Service member

only), RAT (civilian employee only), or FEML.

B. Allowances. An eligible traveler is authorized transportation from an authorized FEML origin

to an authorized FEML destination. See Funded Environmental and Morale Leave (FEML) Locations

and Destinations. This site also specifies the authorities designated to certify a place as a FEML location

or destination. A Service member or dependent and a civilian employee or family member may travel

together or separately during FEML. Eligible travelers may not use cruise or tourist packages to or from

the authorized destination. See

section 0401 for transportation and reimbursable expenses.

1. Alternate Destination(s) Transportation. An eligible traveler may select an alternate

destination location, or multiple destination locations, rather than the one listed at Funded Environmental

and Morale Leave (FEML) Locations and Destinations, and be reimbursed transportation up to the cost of

Government-procured transportation between the FEML PDS and the authorized destination.

a. An eligible student attending school away from the PDS may be authorized FEML to

join the family at the authorized FEML location or alternate destination. The Government-funded

transportation costs from the school to the designated FEML location or alternate destination must not

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exceed the Government’s cost had the dependent traveled from the PDS to the authorized FEML location.

b. See FEML computation example 1 and FEML computation example 2

2. FEML Repayment. A civilian employee must repay the Government-paid or

Government-reimbursed FEML expenses when he or she does not complete the tour for reasons other

than:

a. A compassionate transfer.

b. A management initiated transfer.

c. An involuntary separation that is no fault of the civilian employee.

d. Training needs.

e. A new assignment that shortens the length of the current tour, disqualifying FEML

eligibility for a trip that was previously authorized and completed.

0405 TRAVEL FOR REST AND RECUPERATION (R&R)

LEAVE

Regular R&R leave and Special R&R (SR&R) leave policy is established in DoDI 1327.06

(Leave and

Liberty). This policy is adopted and used for civilian employees. A dependent or family member is

ineligible for R&R leave transportation.

040501. R&R Leave

A. Eligibility. A Service member or a civilian employee on a tour of duty for 12 months or more

is eligible for R&R leave transportation when assigned to an authorized location OCONUS. See

Authorized Rest and Recuperation (R&R) Locations and Destinations.

B. Combined Leave and Travel. R&R leave can be combined with liberty, administrative

absences, TDY, or travel for other purposes only when the Service member or civilian employee requests

it. The CCDR or designated representative, who must be at least a General Officer or flag officer, may

authorize the combined travel if it is in the Government’s best interest. Travelers may be eligible for

additional R&R leave transportation depending upon the tour of duty identified in

Table 4-12.

C. Allowances

1. An eligible traveler receives transportation allowances for round-trip travel between the

authorized duty location and an authorized R&R destination.

2. A civilian employee stationed in Iraq, Afghanistan, or Pakistan uses Table 4-14

3. An eligible traveler may not use cruise or tourist packages to or from the authorized

destination.

4. See section 0401

for transportation and reimbursable expenses.

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5. See FEML computation example 1 and FEML computation example 2.

Table 4-12. Tours of Duty that Receive R&R Transportation

Type of Tour

Criteria for Eligibility

1 Standard

The eligible traveler must be at an authorized duty location for 91 or more days

before taking the first R&R leave. One R&R leave trip is authorized for each

standard 12-month tour.

2 Contingency

A traveler on a TDY for 12 months or more at an authorized duty location OCONUS

is eligible for one R&R leave trip after serving 60 or more consecutive days at the

TDY site. The CCDR at the TDY location, or a designee not lower than the General

or flag officer level, may waive the 60-day minimum requirement for R&R leave.

3 Extended

If the traveler volunteers to extend a 12-month tour of duty to 18 months or more,

then the traveler is eligible for an additional R&R leave trip after serving 18 months

in the authorized duty location.

D. Designating Authorities. The authorities listed in Table 4-13

designate the authorized duty

locations and destinations for R&R leave, which must meet the requirements of DoDI 1327.06 (Leave

and Liberty). Do not send designation requests to the Per Diem, Travel, and Transportation Allowance

Committee.

Table 4-13. Designating Authorized Duty Locations for R&R Leave Transportation

Service or Agency

Point of Contact for Requests

1 DoD Services

Send requests through Combatant Command channels to Deputy

Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness.

National Oceanic and

Atmospheric Administration

Send requests to the Director of NOAA Corps.

3 U.S. Public Health Service

Send requests to the Assistant Secretary for Health, Department of

Health and Human Services.

U.S. Coast Guard

Send requests to the Commandant (CG-133), U.S. Coast Guard.

040502. Official Duty in Iraq, Afghanistan, or Pakistan

A. Eligibility. A civilian employee on a permanent duty assignment, temporary change of

station, or TDY in Iraq, Afghanistan, or Pakistan for the specified amount of time is eligible for R&R

leave transportation to an authorized R&R destination. See Authorized Rest and Recuperation (R&R)

Locations and Destinations.

1. An eligible civilian employee must be in an approved leave status while traveling to, from,

and during the R&R leave trip (see DoDI 1400.25, Vol. 630

(civilian employee leave)).

2. The civilian employee is expected to return following the R&R leave trip. The

Government has the authority to reclaim its costs for transporting a civilian employee who does not return

to Iraq, Afghanistan, or Pakistan after the R&R leave trip.

B. Allowances. The number of R&R trips is in Table 4-14

. An eligible traveler receives

transportation allowances for round-trip travel between the authorized duty location and an authorized

R&R destination. An eligible traveler may not use cruise or tourist packages to or from the authorized

destination.

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Table 4-14. Duty Assignments for a Civilian Employee in Iraq, Afghanistan, or Pakistan that

Receive R&R Transportation

Length of Assignment

Criteria for Eligibility

At Least 6 Months

but Less than 12

Months

A civilian employee eligible for R&R leave is authorized one round trip

after serving a minimum of 60 days in Iraq, Afghanistan, or Pakistan.

12 Consecutive

Months or More

A civilian employee eligible for R&R leave is authorized three round trips.

The first trip can be taken after serving a minimum of 60 days in Iraq,

Afghanistan, or Pakistan and the remaining trips taken at reasonable

intervals.

040503. Special R&R (SR&R) Absence in Connection with a Tour Extension

A. Eligibility. A Service member classified in a career specialty designated for SR&R must meet

all of the following criteria to be eligible for SR&R transportation allowances:

1. Be entitled to basic pay.

2. Complete a tour of duty at a designated PDS OCONUS and execute an agreement to

extend that tour for one or more years.

B. Allowances

1. An eligible Service member may receive one of the following:

a. Round-trip transportation and 15 days of SR&R absence after completing a designated

tour OCONUS of 12 or fewer months.

b. Round-trip transportation and 20 days of SR&R absence after completing a designated

tour OCONUS of 12 or more months.

c. Special pay for an extension of duty instead of SR&R.

2. Round-trip transportation for SR&R leave is authorized between the PDS OCONUS and

either the nearest port in the CONUS (10 U.S.C. §705(b)(2)

) or an alternate destination. The round-trip

cost to the alternate destination cannot exceed the cost of round-trip transportation between the PDS

OCONUS and the nearest port in the CONUS. See

section 0401 for transportation and reimbursable

expenses. See FEML computation example 1 and FEML computation example 2.

0406 SPECIAL LEAVE TRANSPORTATION ALLOWANCE

FOR ALASKA

040601. Special Leave Transportation Allowance from Alaska

A. Eligibility. Effective December 23, 2022 to December 31, 2023, a Service member who is

assigned to a PDS in Alaska and authorized to travel by an officer in a grade O−6 or above in the chain of

command of the member is eligible for a special leave transportation allowance from Alaska. The

Service member must be a member of one of the Armed Forces to be eligible.

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B. Treatment of Time as Leave. A special leave transportation allowance from Alaska is only

authorized for Service members during annual leave, in accordance with DoDI 1327.06, “Leave and

Liberty Policy and Procedures.”

C. Allowances. Between December 23, 2022 and December 31, 2023, an eligible Service

member is authorized reimbursement for cost of one roundtrip airfare per tour between the Service

member’s PDS in Alaska and his or her HOR. Transportation may only be authorized via Government or

commercial aircraft.

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CHAPTER 5: PERMANENT DUTY TRAVEL (PDT)

PART A: STANDARD PERMANENT CHANGE OF

STATION ALLOWANCES FOR SERVICE MEMBERS

0501 INTRODUCTION

This part includes permanent change of station (PCS) rules for travel by a Service member, travel by a

dependent, local travel, and shipment and storage of belongings. It also covers the eligibility for types of

standard PCS allowances: transportation, per diem, miscellaneous reimbursable expenses, dislocation

allowances (DLA), and temporary lodging expenses (TLE). The standard travel and transportation rules

in Chapter 2

apply unless otherwise indicated in this chapter.

050101. PCS Transportation Allowance

A. Transportation Options. Transportation allowances are for travel directly from the old PDS to

the new PDS, or between authorized locations in the JTR. Multiple options are available for arranging

and paying for transportation, subject to the limitations in this chapter. Use the actual amount, without

rounding, when computing a monetary allowance in lieu of transportation (MALT).

1. Government transportation.

2. Government-procured commercial transportation.

3. Personally procured commercial transportation.

4. Privately owned transportation.

B. Using Mixed-Mode Transportation. If more than one mode of transportation is used between

official locations, this is mixed-mode travel (see Appendix A definition). A Service member or

dependent may use more than one mode of transportation.

050102. PCS Per Diem Allowance

The per diem allowance is determined by the mode of transportation authorized and used, the official

distance, the number and age of dependents authorized to travel, and whether a dependent is traveling

with the Service member. Use the actual amount, without rounding, when computing per diem

allowances.

050103. Miscellaneous Reimbursable Expenses

See sections 0202 and 0204

for information about the miscellaneous reimbursable expenses that may

be authorized during a PCS.

050104. Dislocation Allowance (DLA)

A DLA partially reimburses a Service member for expenses incurred in moving a household. The

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household move must be required by a PCS, ordered for the Government’s convenience, required due to

an evacuation, or otherwise authorized in section 0505

. A DLA is a flat amount and may be paid as a

primary DLA, a secondary DLA, or a partial DLA, depending upon the circumstances of the household

move. A DLA is mandatory when the conditions in this chapter are met. Only one DLA is permitted in a

fiscal year, unless the situation qualifies as an exception in

par. 050501. See the DTMO website for

current DLA rates.

050105. Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE)

A TLE is an allowance designed to partially reimburse a Service member for the cost of lodging and

meals when he or she or a dependent occupies temporary lodging in the continental United States

(CONUS) during a PCS move. Use the actual amount, without rounding, when computing TLE

allowances.

050106. Isolation or Quarantine

If a public health official, medical official, or authorizing/order-issuing official orders a Service

member and a Service member’s dependent to isolate or quarantine after detaching or signing out of the

unit, then per diem may be authorized for both the Service member and dependent at the location

specified in the orders. If the Service member or dependent is required to travel to an alternate location,

then standard PCS allowances are paid in accordance with this Part. If lodging in-kind or meals in-kind

are provided, then per diem is not payable. If the dependent refuses to isolate or quarantine, then per

diem is not authorized.

050107. Pet Expenses Due to a PCS

A. Authority Effective January 1, 2024. On January 1, 2024, the following pet transportation

allowances apply:

1. Eligibility. A Service member on a PCS order with an effective date of January 1, 2024 or

later, as defined in Appendix A, may be authorized reimbursement for the costs related to the relocation

of one household pet that arises from a permanent change of station. A household pet is a cat or a dog,

owned for personal companionship. A Service member is responsible for following rules for importing

and exporting a pet to and from the United States in order to be eligible for reimbursement. Denial of

entry could result in denial of reimbursement. See

How to Compute a Permanent Change of Station

(PCS) Order’s Effective Date.

2. CONUS. A Service member may be authorized the reasonable and substantiated cost of

mandatory microchipping, boarding fees, hotel service charges, licensing fees at the new PDS, and pet

shipping fees if the member flies rather than drives, or the pet is shipped separately from the member.

Reimbursement for the actual cost of all expenses is limited to $550 per PCS move.

3. OCONUS. A Service member may be authorized the reasonable and substantiated cost of

mandatory microchipping, quarantine fees, boarding fees, hotel service charges, licensing fees at the new

PDS, testing titer levels for entry, and pet shipping fees if the member flies rather than drives, or the pet is

shipped separately from the member. For transoceanic travel, use of Government or Government-

procured transportation must be used if available or reimbursement for transportation costs is not

authorized. Reimbursement for the actual cost of all necessary expenses described above in connection

with the movement of a pet is limited to $2,000 per PCS move.

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B. Pet Transportation. Transportation for a household pet due to an evacuation from a foreign

PDS is a reimbursable expense in accordance with par. 060204.

C. Authority prior to January 1, 2024. A Service member on a PCS order is authorized

reimbursement for mandatory quarantine fees for household pets. A household pet is a cat or a dog.

Reimbursement for the actual cost of these fees is authorized, limited to $550 per PCS move.

050108. Pilot Program to Reimburse Child Care Provider Transportation Costs

Due to a PCS

A. Eligibility. Effective October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2027, a Service member on a PCS

order is eligible for a designated child care provider transportation reimbursement if all of the following

circumstances apply:

1. The Service member is authorized dependent travel allowances;

2. Child care is not available at a child development center at the new PDS within 30 days of

the Service member’s reporting date;

3. The Service member’s dependent child is on the wait list for the child development center

at the new PDS; and

4. The Service member is a member of one of the Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force,

Marine Corps, Space Force, or Coast Guard).

B. Allowances. An eligible Service member may be reimbursed for commercial transportation

expenses incurred by a designated child care provider for travel to the PCS location, up to the maximum

reimbursement amounts below. If a household contains more than one Service member eligible for

reimbursement (e.g. Service members married to one another, cohabitating, etc.), then only one Service

member may be reimbursed for child care provider transportation as such members shall jointly elect.

1. CONUS. For a PCS between CONUS locations, reimbursement is limited to $500.

2. OCONUS. For a PCS to or from an OCONUS location, reimbursement is limited to

$1,500.

C. Documentation. To meet statutory requirements, a Service member must provide written or

electronically generated documentation in accordance with Service guidance establishing that the child is

on the waitlist (e.g. militarychildcare.com), the child development center is unavailable within 30 days of

arrival at the new PDS, and the child care provider has been designated by the Service member in writing.

D. Time Limitation. The time limit for a member to apply for reimbursement for child care

provider transportation reimbursement is no later than 1 year from the Service member’s reporting date at

the new PDS.

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0502 PDT TRANSPORTATION

050201. Transportation Types Most Advantageous to the Government for PCS

Travel

A Service member or dependent should use a POV for PDT. A Service member or dependent

must use Government or Government-procured transportation for transoceanic travel. See DoDI 4500.57

“Transportation and Traffic Management” and par. 050203 when transoceanic travel is involved. A

Service may further restrict POV use within its own regulations, but an AO may not add a POV

restriction for a Service member or dependent on a PCS move unless it is stated in a regulation.

050202. Airplane, Train, Ship, and Bus Transportation

A Service member or dependent must use the Travel Management Company (TMC) for PDT. The

standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

apply, unless otherwise indicated in this

chapter.

A. Government. An AO may direct a Service member or a dependent to use Government

transportation. See DoDI 4500.57, “Transportation and Traffic Management” and the Defense

Transportation Regulation (DTR) 4500.9-R-Part 1, “Passenger Movement.”

1. A Service member or dependent who, for personal reasons, uses a transportation mode

other than the mode directed is not reimbursed for transportation costs.

2. The AO must authorize or approve any reimbursement for excess accompanied baggage

when a Service member or dependent uses Government transportation.

B. Commercial. Reimbursement of personally procured transportation is limited to what the

Government would have paid had the Service member or dependent purchased the ticket through the

TMC for authorized transportation over a usually traveled and direct route (see “policy-constructed

airfare” in Appendix A).

C. Medical Accommodation. When air travel is medically inadvisable for a family member:

1. The family should not be separated unless the family members agree to be separated, or

military necessity requires the Service member to travel separately.

2. Surface transportation by the least costly commercial train or ship passenger

accommodations must be used.

3. The Service member cannot be directed to use Government or Government-procured

transportation.

D. Oceangoing Car Ferry

1. A Service member or dependent traveling by POV partly by road and partly by car ferry

may be authorized transportation allowances. Only a passenger automobile, light truck, or similar vehicle

used primarily for personal transportation, regardless of size, may be authorized for passage on the car

ferry. The cost of transporting a POV on a car ferry with the Service member or dependent is considered

a reimbursable transportation expense, not a shipment allowance for the POV.

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a. MALT is authorized for the official distance from the old PDS to the car ferry port of

embarkation and from the car ferry port of debarkation to the new PDS.

b. The traveler is authorized Government-procured ferry transportation or reimbursement

for personal transportation costs on the car ferry. Personal transportation costs include any part of the

costs related to POV movement, limited to the Government-procured ferry transportation cost.

c. If the same POV is used for more than one trip, then the MALT and car ferry fees

apply for each trip. When a Service member is authorized or approved reimbursement for using more

than two POVs, MALT and car ferry fees are authorized for each POV.

2. A U.S. flag car ferry must be used, if available. See par. 020206

for U.S. flag carrier

requirements.

3. A Service member does not pay for excess transportation costs when a POV is transported

aboard an oceangoing car ferry at Government expense.

E. Directed Use of other than a Usually Traveled Route. When a Service member is ordered to

travel over a route involving a higher cost to the Government because the travel order is amended or

modified while he or she is en route, then a Service member is authorized allowances for traveling the

ordered route.

F. Household Pet. When a traveler chooses transportation that is more expensive than the lowest

Government-contracted airfare because he or she is transporting a pet, then the traveler is financially

responsible for the additional costs.

050203. Privately Owned Vehicle (POV)

A Service member or dependent who uses a POV may be authorized MALT

. MALT is based on the

official distance in par. 020204 when traveling on a PCS order between any of the official locations in

Table 2-2. A rental car used for PCS travel is considered a POV. Use the actual amount, without

rounding, when computing MALT. The MALT rate in effect on the date PCS travel begins applies even

if the rate changes while en route. See

Chapter 2 for POV use to or from a transportation terminal or

PDS, or for miscellaneous reimbursable expenses associated with POV transportation.

A. Transoceanic Travel

1. POV. An AO may authorize a Service member or dependent to use a POV on a route

normally involving transoceanic travel if it is to the Government’s advantage.

a. This provision applies only if the POV is used for the entire distance between the

official locations in par. 020205

, regardless of whether the expected reimbursement exceeds the

constructed cost of using other transportation modes.

b. If the Service member or dependent does not use a POV for the entire distance as

authorized and instead uses mixed-mode transportation, then reimbursement is limited to the actual

transportation cost or the policy-constructed POV cost, whichever is less.

2. Privately Owned Boat. A Service member or dependent who travels by privately owned

boat may be reimbursed for either the policy-constructed airfare or the actual cost for fuel, oil, and

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docking fees, whichever is less.

B. Multiple Travelers

1. Passengers in a POV. When more than one traveler on official orders uses the same POV,

only one traveler may receive reimbursement for MALT and POV-related reimbursable expenses. All

other travelers in the same vehicle are considered passengers and receive no transportation

reimbursement. See

PDT computation example 7.

2. Use of More than One POV. A Service member authorized travel for a dependent can be

reimbursed when they use two POVs. More than two POVs used for PDT within the same household

may be authorized or approved through the Secretarial Process.

Table 5-1. Use of More than One POV

If…

Then…

a Service member and dependent relocate on a

PCS move and use two POVs,

reimbursement is authorized for each vehicle,

including car ferry fees for each POV.

a Service member does not use a POV and the

dependents use two POVs,

reimbursement is authorized for each vehicle.

more than two POVs are authorized,

the same POV is used to transport the Service

member or dependent for more than one trip

between the old and new PDS,

reimbursement is authorized for each official trip.

more than two licensed drivers are in the family,

the family has more than two POVs, and this is

the only reason additional POVs are requested,

reimbursement is authorized for only two POVs.

Examples of when More Than Two POVs are Routinely Authorized or Approved

The number of family members, including their luggage, cannot be transported in two vehicles.

A dependent requires special accommodations due to physical conditions or age-related restrictions

and two POVs are required for the Service member or dependent.

A Service member must report to the new PDS before the dependents and the delayed travel is for

reasons acceptable to the AO, such as school-term completion or personal business-affairs

settlement and there are more dependents than can reasonably fit together with luggage in a single

POV.

The dependents perform unaccompanied travel between authorized points other than those that the

Service member uses, such as travel to a designated place or to the new PDS while the Service

member has a TDY en route, and there are more dependents than can reasonably fit together with

luggage in a single POV.

The dependents perform unaccompanied travel to the new PDS before the Service member’s

reporting date for reasons acceptable to the AO, such as to enroll dependents in school at the

beginning of the term, and there are more dependents than can reasonably fit together with luggage

in a single POV.

050204. Indirect or Circuitous Travel OCONUS

A. Eligibility. A Service member or dependent who performs PCS travel to, from, or between

locations OCONUS over an indirect or circuitous route at personal expense and convenience is authorized

travel allowances unless he or she was directed to use Government transportation and did not use it when

it was available.

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B. Allowances. A Service member may receive the following travel allowances, limited to the

amount he or she would have been authorized traveling the direct route between the old and new PDS:

1. MALT plus flat per diem (MALT Plus) for land travel performed from the time the

Service member or dependent departs the old PDS until the Service member reports to, or the dependent

arrives at, the new PDS.

2. Reimbursement for the cost of transoceanic U.S. flag transportation used and per diem.

3. Reimbursement for transoceanic travel on non-U.S. flag transportation as specified in

par. 020206

050205. Authorized Travel Time

A. Travel Time Rules. A Service member or dependent is authorized travel time to complete a

PDT move. The Department of Defense (DoD) Component determines the authorized arrival and

departure date, but the AO computes the authorized travel time using the official distance, the mode of

transportation authorized, and the transportation used. The distance from the home, office, or residence to

the local transportation terminal is not considered when computing travel time. Compute the maximum

authorized travel time for PDT as if travel were performed using a POV.

1. If the ordered travel is 400 or fewer miles between official locations and the traveler uses a

POV, Government automobile, or rental vehicle, then 1 day of travel is authorized for the official

distance.

2. If the distance is greater than 400 miles, then divide by 350 to determine the number of

authorized travel days. If the remainder is 51 or more, one additional travel day is allowed. The result

determines the maximum number of authorized travel days.

Table 5-2. Authorized Travel Time Rules

If…

Then…

1 authorized travel by commercial air,

one day is allowed in the CONUS and within areas

outside the CONUS (OCONUS).

the Government purchases airplane, train, or

bus transportation,

the authorized travel time is the actual time needed

to travel over the direct route, including necessary

delays.

3 traveling by train,

compute the authorized travel time using the

scheduled departure and arrival dates.

a traveler using an airplane, train, or bus

chooses to travel by a transportation mode

other than the one authorized,

use the actual travel time, limited to the travel time

for the authorized mode of transportation.

the time between the departure date and the

arrival date (elapsed time) is less than the

authorized travel time,

the elapsed time is the basis for the payment.

a Service member is reassigned between

activities at the same PDS,

no travel time is allowed.

a PCS order is modified, canceled, or revoked

after travel has begun,

travel time is allowed between the same locations

used to determine the Service member’s allowances.

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Table 5-2. Authorized Travel Time Rules

If…

Then…

a Service member travels to a local

transportation terminal from the home, office,

or residence,

this travel is not included when calculating

authorized travel time.

a Service member has a TDY en route,

travel time is the time allowed for the authorized

mode of transportation between official locations.

the elapsed time is more than the authorized

travel time, such as when the traveler takes

leave,

a PCS is a unit move and a Service member is

not escorting a dependent,

compute the travel time for the authorized mode of

transportation.

a PCS is a unit move and a Service member is

on an accompanied tour,

a PCS is a unit move and a Service member

escorts a dependent to or from a designated

place while changing duty locations to or

from an unaccompanied tour OCONUS,

compute the Service member’s travel time for the

authorized mode of transportation to the new PDS.

The following legs of the trip are limited to the

policy-constructed travel time as if the travel were

by Government-procured transportation:

a. The return trip after escorting the dependent

from the old PDS to the designated place.

b. The trip from the new PDS in the CONUS to

the designated place to retrieve the dependent

after the unaccompanied tour OCONUS ends.

a POV delivery or pick-up is separate from en

route PCS travel,

par. 020302 applies.

the PCS involves two afloat units or an afloat

unit and a shore activity,

use the unit’s location on the departure date or the

planned location at the arrival date to determine

travel time. This is subject to correction after the

fact if either location changes.

See PDT computation example 1

B. Mixed-Mode Travel. When travel is by mixed-mode transportation, compute the maximum

number of days authorized as though a POV was used. Travel between the duty location and local

terminal, or between local terminals is not considered. Follow the steps in Table 5-3 to compute travel

time for mixed-mode transportation.

Table 5-3. Computation for Mixed-Mode Travel*

Determine the official distance between the authorized separate legs of the journey in par. 020205.

If the distance is 400 or fewer miles, then 1 day of travel is allowed. If the distance is greater than

400 miles, then divide by 350 to determine the number of authorized travel days. If the remainder is

51 or more, then 1 additional travel day is allowed. The result determines the maximum number of

authorized travel days.

Determine the actual number of miles a POV was used between the official locations, including the

distance to a leave location. If this is greater than the official distance in Step 1, then the authorized

travel is the same as in Step 1 and no further computation is required. If the distance is less than

what was allowed in Step 1, then divide by 350. If the excess distance is 51 or more miles, one

additional travel day is authorized.

Allow 1 day for travel by airplane, train, or bus transportation.

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Table 5-3. Computation for Mixed-Mode Travel*

4 Add Step 2 and Step 3 together, to determine the authorized travel time.

*When computing the authorized travel time, do not include travel while at the leave locations, old PDS,

new PDS, or TDY location, or when traveling from a leave location and returning to the same leave

location. When travel is through a port of embarkation or debarkation that is not in the local area of

the PDS, travel time is calculated as separate legs of travel (even if per diem is not based on that

location when overnight lodging is not required). If the leg of travel does not involve mixed modes,

see Table 5-2 for travel time rules.

PDT computation example 2 (no leave involved)

PDT computation example 3 (leave involved)

C. Transoceanic Travel Time. The actual time required for transoceanic travel by aircraft or

ship, over a usually traveled direct route, is authorized. The embarkation or debarkation day at the

terminal or port while awaiting transportation is included, regardless of the arrival or departure time.

D. Additional Travel Time. A Service member may request additional travel time for reasons

beyond his or her control. The commanding officer may authorize or approve the actual time used or a

shorter period than requested. Per diem is payable for any day additional travel time is authorized. The

commanding officer may require additional documentation supporting the circumstances.

0503 PCS PER DIEM

The specified per diem rates apply for all related travel unless otherwise authorized or restricted in the

JTR. This includes but is not limited to necessary delays awaiting further transportation, delays at the

ports of embarkation or debarkation, and a TDY en route. Calculate travel time for en route per diem

payments using the lesser of either the authorized travel time or the actual travel time. When travel

includes crossing the International Date Line (IDL) eastward, the traveler gains one day of per diem, see

international date line computation example 4 for eastward PCS travel as well as the PCS examples for

additional computation guidance. When travel includes crossing the IDL westward, the traveler may lose

one day of per diem, see international date line computation example 3 for westward PCS travel. When

residence relocation is unnecessary because the PCS is a short-distance move, no MALT Plus is

authorized unless the Service member is ordered to perform a TDY en route.

050301. PCS Per Diem when Traveling by POV

Table 5-4. PCS Per Diem Rules when Traveling by POV (MALT Plus)

If a Service member uses a POV…

Then…

between authorized locations,

MALT Plus at the standard CONUS per diem rate

is paid for each authorized travel day. Any Service

member traveling on an official PCS order in a

POV may receive MALT Plus.

and uses Government quarters or dining

facilities while traveling between authorized

locations,

there is no impact to the MALT Plus calculation.

and takes leave in connection with a PCS, or

has a TDY en route,

MALT Plus is authorized for the allowable travel

time between official locations.

on any day that Lodging Plus and MALT

Plus could both apply, such as the arrival day

at a TDY location or port of embarkation,

apply the rules in par. 020310 for that day. The day

cannot be considered an authorized travel day for

MALT Plus. Although per diem in this situation is

paid using the Lodging Plus rules, the transportation

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Table 5-4. PCS Per Diem Rules when Traveling by POV (MALT Plus)

If a Service member uses a POV…

Then…

is still paid at the MALT rate.

050302. PCS Per Diem when Traveling by Airplane, Train, Ship, or Bus

Table 5-5. PCS Per Diem Rules when Traveling by Airplane, Train, Ship, or Bus

If a Service member travels…

Then…

1 between official points,

follow the calculation rules in par. 020310 for per

diem at the locality rate of the next official point,

where overnight lodging is required, paid for official

travel time between official points.

2 and has a TDY or leave en route,

at the same time as family and Government

quarters cannot accommodate them to stay

together,

neither the Service member nor family is required to

use the Government quarters at ports of embarkation

and debarkation.

by oceangoing car ferry and is required to

spend the night on the car ferry anywhere

in the world,

a. lodging is authorized for required accommodations

unless they are included in the cost of car ferry

transportation.

b. on the day of arrival on the car ferry (the day of

embarkation) and for each day thereafter through

the day before the departure day from the car ferry,

the meal and incidental expenses (M&IE)

allowance is computed using the highest M&IE

rate in the CONUS.

c. on the day of departure from the car ferry (the day

of debarkation) compute the M&IE allowance as

follows:

(1) If travel ends on the debarkation day, then use the

locality per diem rate for the new PDS.

(2) If travel does not end on the debarkation day, use

the locality per diem rate for the Service member’s

or dependent’s location at 2400 on that day. The

Service member or dependent is authorized MALT

Plus beginning the day after the debarkation day

from the car ferry if travel by POV continues the

day after the debarkation day from the car ferry.

by oceangoing car ferry and is not required

to spend the night on the car ferry,

the M&IE rate is MALT Plus while on the car ferry.

by commercial ship and meals are

furnished without charge or are part of the

accommodations cost,

per diem is authorized only on embarkation and

debarkation days. On those days, use the locality per

diem rate for the port of embarkation or debarkation.

050303. PCS Per Diem for Dependents

A. Per Diem Rates. When dependent travel is authorized, per diem is payable for travel directly

from the old PDS to the new PDS (see Table 5-6).

Note: PCS allowances are not authorized for dependent travel to, from, or while at an en route TDY

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location.

Table 5-6. Per Diem Rates for Authorized Dependents Traveling on a PCS Order

Conditions

12 Years of Age* and Older

Less Than 12 Years of Age

Dependent Travels with

the Service Member

a. Per diem is calculated at 75

percent of the per diem the Service

member receives for direct travel

between the old and new PDS and

authorized delay locations.

b. Per diem is calculated at 50

percent of the per diem the

Service member receives for

direct travel between the old and

new PDS and authorized delay

points.

One Dependent Travels

Separately from the

Service Member

100 percent of what the Service member would have received.

Two or More

Dependents Travel

Separately from the

Service Member**

a. Per diem is calculated at 100

percent for the first dependent and

75 percent for each of the remaining

dependents traveling with the first

dependent.

b. Per diem is calculated at 50

percent for each dependent

traveling with the first

dependent for direct travel

between the old and new PDS.

*See Table 5-7 for the effect of the dependent’s age on per diem.

**Dependents use different routes or travel at different times.

Note: If the dependents are awaiting transportation, then they are reimbursed under the lodging plus

per diem calculations. Table 2-15, Rule 3 applies if lodging is shared by multiple official

travelers. See PDT Computation Example 21. See PDT Computation Example 5.

B. Dependent Age and Eligibility. Eligibility for dependent travel and transportation allowances

is based on whether the individual is a dependent on the effective date of the PCS order. If an individual

is not a dependent when travel begins, then there is no authorization for travel and transportation

allowances at Government expense unless specifically authorized within the JTR. The timing of when a

dependent child reaches 12 years of age impacts the per diem rate paid.

Table 5-7 specifies how to

determine the dependent’s age for payment of travel and transportation allowances.

Table 5-7. Effect of Dependent Age Changes on Allowances

If…

Then…

dependent travel begins 60 or fewer days

after the PCS order’s effective date,

travel and transportation allowances are based on the

dependent’s age on the date travel begins.

dependent travel begins more than 60

days after the PCS order’s effective date,

travel and transportation allowances are based on the

dependent’s age on the 60th day.

dependent travel begins on or before the

PCS order’s effective date and ends after

the PCS order’s effective date,

per diem is based on the dependent’s age on the

effective date of the PCS order.

dependent travel ends before the PCS

order’s effective date,

per diem is based on the dependent’s age on the date

travel ends.

the Service member is traveling on a PCS

travel and transportation allowances to a designated

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Table 5-7. Effect of Dependent Age Changes on Allowances

If…

Then…

order to a location OCONUS and

dependent travel is delayed,

place are determined in Rows 1-4 of this chart.

the dependent traveled to a designated

place awaiting authorization to travel to

the PDS OCONUS,

authorized travel and transportation allowances to the

PDS OCONUS from the designated place are based on

the dependent’s age at the time of travel.

a dependent is authorized to travel to,

from, or between locations OCONUS,

travel and transportation allowances are determined

separately for each leg of the journey.

a dependent travels from the old PDS to

the aerial or water port of embarkation,

travel and transportation allowances are in rows 1-6 of

this chart.

a dependent travels from the aerial or

water port of embarkation to the port of

debarkation,

travel and transportation allowances are based on the

dependent’s age on the embarkation date.

a dependent travels from the aerial or

water port of debarkation to the

destination,

travel and transportation allowances are based on the

dependent’s age on the date travel begins from the port

of debarkation, unless personal reasons delay travel. A

Service member is liable for costs associated with an

undue delay for personal reasons.

a Service member has a TDY en route in

connection with the PCS, and dependent

travel is authorized but the dependent

delays travel until the TDY is completed,

travel and transportation allowances are based on the

dependent’s age on the date travel actually begins.

When travel begins 60 or more days after the TDY

ends, then travel and transportation allowances are

based on the dependent’s age on the 60th day after

TDY completion.

a Service member performs a TDY en

route in connection with a dependent-

restricted PCS tour, and the dependent

does not travel to a designated place until

the TDY ends,

travel and transportation allowances are based on the

dependent’s age on the date travel actually begins.

When travel begins 60 or more days after the PCS

order’s effective date, then allowances are based on the

dependent’s age on the 60th day after the PCS order’s

effective date.

0504 STANDARD DEPENDENT TRAVEL ALLOWANCES

050401. Time Limit

A Service member’s authority for dependent travel and transportation allowances may be used while

the PCS order remains in effect and before receipt of a new PCS order to another PDS, unless specifically

restricted in the JTR. This includes receipt of a home port change announcement. However, dependent

travel must be because of the Service member’s PCS and not for personal reasons.

050402. Funds Advance and When Transportation Documents or Funds are

Lost or Stolen

A. Funds Advance. A Service member authorized dependent travel and transportation

allowances may receive an advance of funds for the allowances. A Service member authorized dependent

transportation in connection with a separation or relief from active duty may be advanced an amount

equal to 75 percent of the MALT. However, if a Service member fails to complete at least 90 percent of

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the initial active-duty obligation and is separated from the Service or relieved from active duty under

section 0510

, the advance is limited to 75 percent of the amount for the least costly transportation mode

available. A Service member authorized dependent travel and transportation upon retirement is

authorized a funds advance.

B. Transportation Documents or Funds are Lost or Stolen. A dependent traveling on a PCS order

at Government expense who is stranded en route because documents or funds needed to purchase

authorized transportation were lost or stolen may be furnished transportation-procurement documents in

accordance with Service regulations.

050403. Dependent Travel before an Order is Issued

This paragraph does not apply to travel for an early return of a dependent, for evacuation travel, or for

moves OCONUS.

A. Eligibility. Ordinarily, travel that occurs before an order is issued is at personal expense and

no reimbursement is authorized. However, a Service member is authorized dependent travel and

transportation allowances for dependent travel that occurs before a PCS order is issued but after the

Service member has been advised that such an order would be issued. The Service member must be

otherwise eligible for dependent travel and transportation allowances.

B. Conditions. Any travel voucher for travel occurring before a PCS order is issued must cite

this paragraph as the authority for payment, and must be supported by a statement from the PCS AO or

designated representative that the Service member was advised that the order would be issued.

Information provided to the Service member concerning order issuance before the determination is made

to actually issue the order (such as time of eventual release from active duty, when the service term

expires, retirement eligibility date, or expected rotation date) is not advice that an order will be

issued.Transportation must not be provided before a PCS order is issued.

050404. Deferred Dependent Travel

If a Service member chooses not to move a dependent when he or she is authorized to do so, the

dependent travel and transportation allowances for an eligible dependent are payable during a subsequent

PCS, as indicated below.

A. The allowance is for the actual travel to the new PDS. However, the allowance is limited to

the greater of the distances from one of the following locations to the new PDS:

1. Home of record (HOR) or place where last entered or called to active duty (PLEAD),

unless the dependent was moved to the HOR or PLEAD in connection with a move to a non-PDS

location.

2. Designated place.

3. PDS from which the Service member elected not to move the dependent.

4. Last PDS.

B. Any interim PCSs for which the Service member did not claim dependent travel and

transportation allowances are ignored.

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050405. When Dependent Travel and Transportation Allowances are not

Payable

A. No Allowances Authorized. Table 5-8

specifies the situations when dependent travel and

transportation is not authorized. Section 0508 contains the reasons when dependent travel and

transportation are not payable for OCONUS. In addition to Table 5-8, dependent travel and

transportation allowances are not authorized in the following circumstances:

1. Between locations otherwise authorized in section 0504

to a place where the dependent

does not intend to establish a permanent residence, including pleasure trips. For a student’s PCS travel,

the student’s permanent residence while at school is the Service member’s PDS, or the designated place

of the Service member’s other dependents.

2. For transoceanic transportation or land transportation OCONUS when the Service member

is without dependents, unless a Service member is assigned to a COT and will serve an accompanied tour

at the new PDS.

3. To a PDS OCONUS when a Service member’s remaining time in service is less than the

specified tour, unless he or she voluntarily extends the term of service to permit completion of the

specified tour or the Secretary concerned grants an exception to the normal tour on a case-by-case basis.

4. To a TDY location when a Service member is assigned to an indeterminate TDY (ITDY).

Table 5-8. Dependent Travel and Transportation Allowances are not Authorized

Traveler

Not Authorized Dependent Travel and Transportation Allowances

Service

Member

a. A cadet or midshipman.

b. Assigned to a school or installation as a student, the course of instruction is less

than 20 weeks, and the Service member is in a TDY status.

c. A Reserve Component (RC) enlisted member called or ordered to initial active duty

for training for less than 6 months.

d. Called or ordered to active duty for training for:

(1) 139 or fewer days when the active duty for training period intended in an order

is for 139 days or less, and the Service member is in a TDY status.

(2) 140 or more days when the active duty is at more than one location, but less

than 140 days when the Service member is in a TDY status, at any one location.

e. Called to active duty for reasons other than training for:

(1) 180 or fewer days.

(2) 181 or more days when the active duty is at more than one location, but 180 or

fewer days at any one location.

(3) 181 or more days at one location, but authorized per diem in section 0303

f. Absent Without Leave.

g. A deserter or straggler.

h. Dropped from the rolls or dismissed.

i. Transferred as a prisoner to a detention facility.

j. Transferred to a different location to await trial by court-martial.

k. In confinement, except as in par. 050804.

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Table 5-8. Dependent Travel and Transportation Allowances are not Authorized

Traveler

Not Authorized Dependent Travel and Transportation Allowances

2 Dependent

a. Is a Service member on active duty, on the PCS order’s effective date (see section

0509 for travel and transportation allowances after the spouse is no longer on active

duty).

b. Is not a dependent, except as in par. 050409, on the PCS order’s effective date.

Allowances when a spouse separates or retires from the Service after the Service

member’s PCS order’s effective date and when a dependent’s travel and

transportation is due to an IPCOT are unaffected.

c. Is a Service member’s or spouse’s parent, stepparent, or person in loco parentis,

who does not reside in the Service member’s household, unless otherwise

authorized or approved through the Secretarial Process. However, a dependent

listed in this table who was transported at Government expense to a PDS OCONUS

as an eligible dependent, but who no longer qualifies as a dependent and is returned

to the CONUS at Government expense remains eligible for allowances.

d. Is a dependent child who is not in the Service member’s legal custody and not under

his or her control on the PCS order’s effective date. See section 0512 for travel

authorization when legal custody or control changes after the PCS order’s effective

date.

e. Receives any other Government-

funded travel and transportation allowances for this

travel.

B. Only Per Diem Authorized

1. Per diem is payable for any part of a trip that a U.S. flag air carrier or ship is available, but

a dependent uses foreign flag transportation.

2. Per diem is payable when dependent transportation is made available (whether used or

not) by a foreign Government, at no cost to the United States or the Service member, under a contract or

agreement with the United States.

050406. Service Member Attains Eligibility for Dependent Travel

A Service member ineligible for dependent travel and transportation allowances to a new PDS under

Table 5-8

who later attains eligibility is authorized dependent travel and transportation allowances on the

next qualifying PCS.

Table 5-9. Allowances for a Service Member Who Attains Eligibility for Dependent Travel

If a Service

member is on

active duty at a…

And…

Then the Service member is authorized dependent travel

and transportation allowances …

location in the

CONUS to

which

dependent

travel is

authorized

attains eligibility

for dependent

travel and

transportation

allowances while

at that location,

on the Service member’s next qualifying PCS in or to the

CONUS. Unless otherwise specified in the JTR, travel is

authorized from the dependent’s location on the date the PCS

order was received, limited to travel from the current PDS to

the new PDS or to another authorized location.

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Table 5-9. Allowances for a Service Member Who Attains Eligibility for Dependent Travel

If a Service

member is on

active duty at a…

And…

Then the Service member is authorized dependent travel

and transportation allowances …

location

OCONUS to

which

dependent

travel is

authorized,

attains

eligibility for

dependent

travel and

transportation

allowances

while at that

location,

a. the

dependent is

command-

sponsored.

(2) The cost of HHG transportation is limited to the cost from the place where the

HHG was previously transported at Government expense to the PDS OCONUS. The Service member

must have 12 or more months remaining on the tour at the PDS OCONUS on the day the HHG is

scheduled to arrive at that PDS. Exceptions may be granted through the Secretarial Process when the

HHG shipping time uses a portion of the 12 months at the PDS OCONUS.

052006. HHG Transportation and Storage When Ordered on a PCS to a PDS in

the Vicinity of Storage

A. Authorization. A Service member is authorized NTS when ordered on a PCS to a PDS that is

at or in the vicinity of a place where the Service member already has HHG in NTS. HHG transportation

from NTS to the residence is also authorized. A Service member must take delivery of his or her HHG

within the first 90 days.

B. Extensions. Due to conditions beyond the Service member’s control, if the HHG cannot be

withdrawn from NTS during the first 90 days, then an additional 90 days of NTS may be authorized or

approved as in

section 0518-A. An additional period of NTS beyond 180 days may be authorized or

approved as in section 0518-A.

052007. PCS with TDY en Route, PCS While on TDY, or PCS Following TDY

Pending Further Assignment

A. PCS with a TDY En Route or While on a TDY

1. Eligibility. A Service member on a PCS order with a TDY en route, or on a PCS order

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without return to the old PDS while on a TDY, is authorized HHG transportation to the new PDS.

2. Allowances

a. The Service member may choose to transport HHG up to the TDY weight allowance

to the TDY location for personal use, or may choose to put the HHG in NTS for the TDY’s duration. The

Service member retains the TDY HHG transportation allowance, regardless of the provisions of

section

0205. The Service member’s commanding officer, the AO, the destination Transportation Officer, or any

other Service-designated official at the TDY location may authorize SIT for any portion of the TDY HHG

at the TDY location. When the TDY is completed, the TDY HHG, including those in SIT at the TDY

location, may be transported to the new locations authorized in the PCS order.

b. HHG placed in NTS may remain in NTS, when authorized in the PCS order, or it may

be transported to the new PDS. The total weight of the HHG transported plus the weight of HHG stored

is limited to the Service member’s authorized PCS weight allowance.

B. PCS Following TDY Pending Further Assignment

1. Eligibility. A Service member whose HHG was placed in NTS at Government expense

when the Service member was ordered to a TDY pending further assignment is eligible for HHG

transportation or storage.

2. Allowances

a. An eligible Service member is authorized NTS for the full TDY period. An additional

90 days of NTS may be authorized or approved under the same provisions as those for SIT in

section

0518 in one of the following circumstances:

(1) The new PDS is OCONUS or at a location to which HHG transportation is

prohibited or restricted.

(2) For reasons beyond the Service member’s control, the HHG cannot be withdrawn

within 90 days following TDY completion or during the first 90 days after the arrival date at either the

PDS OCONUS or PDS where HHG transportation is prohibited or restricted.

b. HHG transportation from storage to the residence is authorized under Table 5-35

when the new assignment is to one of the following:

(1) Sea duty.

(2) Duty OCONUS.

(3) Duty at a PDS to which HHG transportation is prohibited and the designated

place under par. 050907

is at or in the NTS location vicinity.

052008. HHG in Connection with a Course of Instruction of 20 or More Weeks

at Any One Location

A. Eligibility. A Service member who is on active duty, or ordered to active duty, to attend a

course of instruction where the scheduled cumulative duration at one location is 20 or more weeks is

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authorized HHG transportation. This includes courses taught at schools, military installations, and

Foreign Service schools.

B. Allowances

1. HHG transportation may be authorized from the last, or any previous PDS or place of

storage, or from the HOR or PLEAD, to the place where the course is conducted.

2. Upon approval by the Service concerned, all or part of the HHG already in NTS at the

origin location may be converted to SIT at the Service member’s request if the travel order authorizes

HHG transportation or NTS. The NTS is converted to SIT at Government expense. Once the storage is

converted from NTS to SIT, any storage costs accruing after the 180th day are the Service member’s

financial responsibility. Unless additional SIT days are authorized under section 0518-A

, no additional

HHG storage is authorized until the next PCS order is issued.

3. If a Service member is permanently assigned when the course is completed to the location

where the course was conducted, HHG transportation is authorized from NTS to the PDS. Any HHG not

placed in storage in connection with a tour extension may be transported to the new PDS.

4. A Service member who is called or ordered to active duty for a course of instruction under

this paragraph is authorized transportation of HHG from NTS to the HOR or PLEAD upon release from

active duty, or to the new PDS if retained on active duty upon course completion.

052009. HHG Transportation When a PCS is in Connection with Disciplinary

Action

A. HHG Transportation when a Service Member is Reduced in Pay Grade

1. Eligibility. A Service member who is reduced in pay grade after HHG was transported on

a PCS order to a PDS is authorized HHG transportation upon receipt of a PCS order from that PDS.

2. Allowances. A Service member is authorized HHG transportation of the weight

allowance for the pay grade held at the time of the PCS from that PDS, or when ordered to that PDS,

whichever is greater. When the Service member is serving in a pay grade lower than that held when

ordered to the PDS, the PCS order from that PDS must cite this paragraph as authority and state the

weight allowance for the Service member’s former pay grade. The transportation origins and destinations

continue to be the same as they were before the reduction in pay grade. NTS authority continues

regardless of the reduction in pay grade until the effective date of the Service member’s next PCS order.

B. HHG Transportation Located in the CONUS when Disciplinary Action Is Taken Against a

Service Member Stationed OCONUS. Generally, HHG may be transported from any location and from

NTS to a designated place. HHG may be transported to a destination in the dependent’s native country if

the dependent is foreign-born. The Service member is also authorized NTS or continued NTS. However,

certain limitations exist as specified below. An order may be issued providing HHG transportation before

the Service member’s PCS if authorized or approved under

par. 052005.

1. An order may be issued for HHG transportation before the Service member’s PCS if

authorized or approved when disciplinary action is taken against a Service member who is stationed

OCONUS, discharged under other than honorable conditions, or sentenced to confinement with or

without discharge as follows:

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a. A Service member whose PDS is OCONUS who is not provided HHG transportation

from the PDS OCONUS because the Service member has no dependents, or the dependents traveled at

personal expense without an order, or other similar reason may be eligible for HHG transportation as

indicated in Table 5-47

Table 5-47. Circumstances Allowing HHG Transportation when Disciplinary Action is Taken

If the Service member is…

Then…

serving OCONUS and is dropped from the rolls, sentenced

to prison, or transferred as a prisoner to a place of

detention,*

a. the officer exercising special or

general court-martial jurisdiction

over the Service member may

authorize or approve HHG

transportation when it is in the

Government’s best interest.

b. HHG transportation is limited to

the authorized weight allowance

of the grade held at the time the

HHG is transported or when

ordered to duty OCONUS,

whichever is greater.

c. the AO must determine the

destination to which

transportation is authorized and

must ensure that a reasonable

relationship exists between that

destination and the conditions

and circumstances.

serving OCONUS and is transferred to a different ship or

location to await trial by court-martial as a Deserter or

Straggler,*

sentenced by a court-martial to be confined or to receive a

punitive discharge, including a bad conduct discharge,

dishonorable discharge, or dismissal,*

sentenced to confinement in a foreign or U.S. civil

confinement facility,*

returned to the CONUS for discharge under other than

honorable conditions,*

returned to the CONUS to serve a sentence of confinement

in civil or military confinement facilities,*

discharged OCONUS under other than honorable

conditions,*

discharged under other than honorable conditions after

surrendering to military authorities in the CONUS following

a period of absence without leave from the PDS OCONUS,*

convicted by a court-martial and placed on leave

involuntarily while awaiting completion of appellate

review,**

*HHG transportation may be authorized when the Service member has dependents, limited to the

Government’s cost of moving the HHG from the Service member’s last PDS, former PDS

OCONUS, or the place where the HHG was last transported at Government expense. If the

dependent is foreign-born, HHG transportation may be authorized to the destination in the

dependent’s native country where the dependent is residing or will reside. If the Service member

has no dependents, HHG transportation is authorized from the Service member’s PDS OCONUS to

any location, limited to the cost from the PDS OCONUS to the Service member’s HOR or PLEAD,

as the Service member selects.

**The Government’s cost for HHG transportation, whether the Service member has dependents or not,

is limited to the cost of transportation from the Service member’s last or former PDS OCONUS to

the HOR or PLEAD, as the Service member selects. When HHG is transported under this provision,

it is the final separation of HHG transportation unless the Service member is restored to duty.

b. A Service member whose HHG was transported while he or she was awaiting

completion of appellate review of a court-martial conviction and then is later restored to duty following

the appellate review. HHG transportation is authorized from the location where HHG was transported

when the Service member was placed on appellate leave to the new PDS.

c. A Service member separated from the Service. NTS of HHG is not authorized as an

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alternative to transporting HHG or if the HHG is moved from Government or Government-controlled

quarters.

2. When the Service member is released from confinement and returns to duty at a new PDS:

a. If the HHG was transported at Government expense under one of the conditions in

Table 5-47

, the HHG may be transported from any location to the new PDS, limited to the cost from the

Service member’s HOR or PLEAD to the new PDS. The Service member’s PCS weight allowance is

based on the pay grade held on the effective date of the new PCS order.

b. If the HHG was not transported at Government expense under one of the conditions in

Table 5-47

, HHG transportation is authorized from the location where the HHG was last transported at

Government expense to the Service member’s new PDS. The Service member’s PCS weight allowance is

based on the pay grade held on the effective date of the new PCS order.

C. HHG Transportation Due to a Court-Martial Sentence or Administrative Discharge Under

Other than Honorable Conditions for a Service Member with a Dependent Stationed in the CONUS.

1. Eligibility. A Service member with a dependent who is stationed in the CONUS may be

eligible for HHG transportation. HHG transportation may be requested by the Service member, the

Service member’s spouse, or another dependent if the Service member has no spouse or the spouse is not

available. The HHG transportation is directly related to dependent transportation under

par. 051005 when

the Service member is sentenced by a court-martial to any of the following:

a. Confinement for more than 30 days.

b. Dishonorable or bad-conduct discharge.

c. Dismissal from a Uniformed Service.

d. Administrative discharge under other than honorable conditions.

2. Allowances. A Service-designated authority determines the authorized destination of the

HHG and ensures that a reasonable relationship exists between that destination and the conditions and

circumstances on a case-by-case basis. The HHG transportation must be to a designated place. A

foreign-born dependent may have HHG transported to a destination in his or her native country. The

HHG must be turned over to a Transportation Officer or carrier within 180 days from the date the court-

martial is completed or the date the Service member is given an administrative discharge. Additional

time to turn over the HHG to the Transportation Officer or carrier may be granted through the Secretarial

Process in

par. 051002. NTS is not authorized when HHG is moved out of Government or Government-

controlled quarters or privatized housing, or as an alternative to transportation when the dependent is

returned from OCONUS (see

Table 5-47).

3. HHG transportation reimbursement may be paid to the Service member, or a dependent or

ex-spouse when the Service member authorizes payment to either of those individuals.

052010. HHG Transportation Due to Medical Travel or the Death of a Service

Member

A. Service Member Ordered to a Hospital in the CONUS

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1. When a Service member on active duty is ordered to a hospital in the CONUS from either

a PDS or another hospital in the CONUS, HHG transportation may be authorized. The receiving

hospital’s commanding officer must issue a statement that the Service member’s case has been evaluated

and the observation period or treatment in that hospital is expected to be prolonged.

a. If the receiving hospital’s commanding officer does not issue a statement regarding

prolonged hospitalization, the Service member is authorized transportation of unaccompanied baggage,

limited to 225 pounds gross weight. If the unaccompanied baggage is improperly transported or is

unavoidably separated from the Service member, the unaccompanied baggage should be forwarded to the

correct hospital’s destination. The improperly transported unaccompanied baggage may be transported

by an expedited mode when the origin’s commanding officer determines circumstances require the

expedited mode.

b. If the receiving hospital’s commanding officer issues the prolonged hospitalization

statement, the HHG transportation is the same as that authorized for a PCS. The HHG transportation cost

is limited to the cost to the hospital from any combination of: the last or any previous PDS, the place

where the HHG was last transported at Government expense, or the place of storage. As an alternative to

transporting HHG, the Service member may choose to place all or part of the HHG in NTS. Additionally,

any HHG already in storage when the Service member is hospitalized may stay in storage.

2. When a Service member on active duty OCONUS transfers to a hospital in the CONUS

for observation or treatment, the HHG may be transported from any authorized place to the hospital. All

or part of the HHG may be transported and placed in NTS. Any HHG in storage when the Service

member is hospitalized may stay in storage. For the initial movement involving return from OCONUS to

the hospital in the CONUS, the receiving hospital’s commanding officer’s statement that observation or

treatment is expected to be prolonged is not required.

3. When a Service member is transferred to a hospital in the CONUS, he or she is authorized

HHG transportation to any place in the CONUS instead of to the hospital, limited to the cost of

transporting the HHG to the hospital. When the HHG is transported from OCONUS, the cost is limited

from the port through which transportation was made to the hospital. If the HHG is transported overland

from Canada or Mexico, the cost is limited to the cost of HHG transportation by the carrier and route

ordinarily used for similar shipments from the origin to the hospital in the CONUS.

4. Release from Observation or Treatment

a. HHG transportation is authorized when a Service member is released from observation

or treatment and is any of the following:

(1) Restored to duty.

(2) Separated from the Service.

(3) Relieved from active duty.

(4) Placed on the TDRL.

(5) Retired, including transfer to the Fleet Reserve or Fleet Marine Corps Reserve.

b. HHG transportation is authorized from any combination of the last or any prior PDS

or place where HHG was last transported at Government expense to a destination otherwise authorized in

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this part. HHG previously transported due to hospitalization can be moved from the place last transported

at Government expense to the authorized destination, limited to the cost from the hospital to the

authorized destination.

B. HHG Transportation When a Cadet or Midshipman Dies While Enrolled in a Service

Academy. The personal items belonging to a cadet or midshipman who dies while enrolled in a Service

academy may be transported at Government expense to the home of the person legally authorized to

receive the items.

C. HHG Transportation When a Service Member is Officially Reported as Injured or Ill, Absent

for 30 or More Days in a Missing Status, or Upon Death. For a Service member who died after retirement

or release from active duty, see Table 5-55. Table 5-48 specifies the HHG transportation for a Service

member under one of the following statuses:

1. An active-duty Service member who is officially reported as dead, injured or ill, or absent

for a period of 30 or more days in a missing status in 37 U.S.C. §484

2. An active-duty Service member who dies while entitled to basic pay in 37 U.S.C. §476(f)

Table 5-48. HHG Transportation when a Service Member is Officially Reported as Injured or Ill,

Absent for 30 or More Days in a Missing Status, or Upon Death

If…

Then…

official notice is received that a Service member

is dead,

HHG transportation is authorized to any of the

following:

a. A Service member’s HOR.

b. A dependent’s residence, including the

residence of a Service member’s spouse in

the case of a Service member married to

another Service member.

c. Next of kin.

d. Other person authorized to receive custody

of the HHG.

official notice is received that a Service member

is injured or ill and the anticipated period of

hospitalization or treatment is expected to be for a

prolonged duration as shown by a statement by

the receiving hospital’s commanding officer,

official notice is received that a Service member

is absent for a period of 30 or more days in a

missing status,

an injured or ill Service member, or his or her

dependent, next of kin, or another person

authorized to receive custody of the HHG requests

special routing and service,

Section 0513 of this chapter authorizes special

routing and service.

a dependent resides OCONUS when a Service

member on permanent duty OCONUS dies,

the HHG OCONUS may be transported to NTS,

or part of the HHG may be transported to the

interim location where the dependent will reside,

pending the dependent’s decision on the

destination of the final HHG move.

the dependent requests HHG transportation to a

final destination,

the HHG transported to an interim location may

later be transported to the final destination within

the limitations in this paragraph.

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Table 5-48. HHG Transportation when a Service Member is Officially Reported as Injured or Ill,

Absent for 30 or More Days in a Missing Status, or Upon Death

If…

Then…

a dependent takes physical possession of the HHG

at an interim location,

the dependent is financially responsible for all

transportation costs incurred in exceeding the

18,000-pound maximum HHG weight allowance

in one lot from the origin OCONUS to the

interim location, and the 18,000-pound

maximum HHG weight allowance from the

interim location to the final destination. In

determining excess costs, the cost of authorized

SIT while the HHG is in transit is part of the cost

of one lot from the origin to the final destination.

the dependent’s final destination is at the interim

location to which the HHG will be transported,

the HHG in NTS, at a designated place, or at a

specific location may be transported to the

interim location at Government expense for the

dependent’s use.

an official notice is received that the Service

member has died after the HHG has been

transported,

the HHG transported under par. 052010-C3a

may again be moved.

an official notice is received that the Service

member’s status has changed from one status to

another,

it is determined through the Secretarial Process

that circumstances justify an additional move after

the Service member has been officially reported

as absent in a missing status for a period of more

than 1 year,

the HHG may again be moved.*

*If a mobile home was previously moved under Chapter 5, Part D, then HHG may be transported under

this paragraph.

3. Limitations

a. HHG transportation may be authorized or approved only if a reasonable relationship

exists between the requested transportation destination and the circumstances of the Service member, the

dependent, the next of kin, or other person authorized to receive custody of the HHG.

b. The authorized PCS HHG weight allowance limits do not apply to the HHG

transported under this paragraph. However, the Service member’s HHG weight allowance is subject to

the 18,000 pounds net-weight limitation imposed by 37 U.S.C. §476(b)(1)(C)

c. HHG transportation authority ends if HHG is not turned over to a Transportation

Officer or carrier for transportation within the time limits in Table 5-49

Table 5-49. Time Limits

-If…

Then…

HHG is not turned over to a Transportation

Officer or carrier for transportation within 1

year from the date of the official status report,

the transportation authority ends 1 year after the

date of the official status report.

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Table 5-49. Time Limits

-If…

Then…

HHG is not turned over to a Transportation

Officer or carrier for transportation within 1

year after the Service member dies while

entitled to basic pay,

the transportation authority ends 1 year after the

Service member’s death.

HHG is not turned over to a Transportation

Officer or carrier within the 1year limit,

transportation at a later date may be authorized or

approved through the Secretarial Process (see

section 0510).

the decedent’s estate becomes the subject of

litigation during the authorized 1-year period,

HHG may be transported within 1 year from the

final court decree date.

an active-duty Service member entitled to

basic pay died on or after January 6, 2006,

the Secretary concerned must give the dependent

at least 3 years, beginning on the date of the

Service member’s death, to choose an HOS for

travel and transportation allowances. This time

period may be extended, limited to a total of 6

years, through the Secretarial Process.

a retiree died on or after January 6, 2006, and

had not chosen an HOS at that time,

the dependent, or the retiree’s executor if there are

no dependents, have 3 years from the Service

member’s retirement date (when the Service

member first accrued the right to select a home) to

choose an HOS for travel and transportation

purposes. This time period may be extended,

limited to a total of 6 years, through the

Secretarial Process.

4. When the identity of the person authorized to receive the Service member’s HHG is not

known, is subject to litigation, or is known but has not yet been located and notified to take custody of the

HHG, the HHG may be stored or kept in storage until a proper disposition can be made.

a. SIT of HHG turned over to transportation within the time limits in Table 5-49

may be

authorized or approved. However, SIT of more than 180 days is the financial responsibility of the Service

member, the dependent, the next of kin, or whomever is authorized to receive custody of the HHG.

b. NTS of HHG belonging to a Service member is authorized when he or she is officially

reported as absent for a period of 30 or more days in a missing status, is declared dead while in a missing

status, or dies while entitled to basic pay and his or her dependent requests NTS.

(1) When a missing status is officially terminated and the Service member returns to

active duty, HHG may stay in NTS at Government expense until the Service member’s specific reporting

date or the reporting-not-later-than date and the next PCS order.

(2) If the Service member does not return to active duty, the transportation authority

of the HHG placed in NTS is determined under section 0510, or provisions in par. 052010-C

upon death

of a Service member, as applicable.

5. If an active-duty Service member is married to another Service member, then the spouse

may transport the deceased, injured, ill, or absent Service member’s HHG in connection with the spouse’s

next immediate PCS under the circumstances authorized in par. 052010-C

. Transportation of HHG in this

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situation replaces any other transportation authorized in par. 052010-C. The 1-year time limit and the

requirement for additional time in Table 5-49 do not apply. For transportation purposes, the Service

member’s and surviving spouse’s HHG may be combined. The total weight is limited to 18,000 pounds

plus the HHG weight allowance of the surviving spouse.

052011. HHG Transportation When a Service Member is Ordered from a PDS

to Await an Order, Detail, Assignment, or Separation

A. Ordered from a PDS in the CONUS. A Service member who is ordered from a PDS in the

CONUS may place his or her HHG into NTS. Upon receipt of an order assigning the new PDS, HHG

transportation from NTS is authorized from storage or the previous PDS to the new PDS.

B. Ordered from a PDS OCONUS. When a Service member is ordered to the CONUS from a

PDS OCONUS, HHG transportation may be authorized from the PDS to the place in the CONUS where

he or she is ordered to report even if it is not the new PDS, which is unknown. If an order to the new PDS

is not available when the HHG arrives, then the HHG may be placed in NTS. Upon receipt of the order

naming the new PDS, the same HHG may be transported to that PDS. In these circumstances, the order

that detaches the Service member from the PDS OCONUS and the order naming the new PDS are

considered one PCS order. If the Service member takes physical possession of the HHG, then the

Government must not further transport the HHG because that is considered to be for the Service

member’s convenience.

Table 5-50 specifies HHG transportation allowances for a Service member

ordered from a PDS OCONUS to the United States or to a non-foreign area OCONUS for separation

processing when he or she is authorized to select an HOS.

Table 5-50. Ordered from a PDS OCONUS to the United States or

to a Non-foreign Area OCONUS for Separation Processing with HOS Authorized

If the Service member…

Then the HHG…

is ordered from a PDS OCONUS

to an area in the CONUS or non-

foreign area OCONUS for

separation processing with HOS

authorized under par. 051003,

may be placed in NTS or may be transported from the PDS to

the place to which ordered to report. Once the HOS is selected,

this HHG may be transported under par. 051003

takes possession of the HHG at

the processing station,

transportation to the HOS from the processing station is still

authorized. The Service member must agree to bear all costs in

excess of transporting the maximum authorized PCS HHG

weight allowance in one lot directly from the PDS OCONUS to

the HOS via the processing location. The costs of delivering,

unpacking, re-packing, and re-shipping of the HHG to the

Service member at the processing location are not part of the

Government’s cost obligation (

44 Comp. Gen. 826 (1965)). In

determining excess costs, the cost of the authorized SIT is part

of the cost of one lot from origin to final destination.

has a HOS at the same location as

the processing station,

in NTS at a designated place or location during the tour

OCONUS may be transported to the processing station.

Note: A NOAA Marine and Aviation Operations and Commissioned Personnel Center is a processing

station for NOAA.

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052012. HHG Transportation Due to Separation from the Service or Relief from

Active Duty

A. HHG Transportation and NTS—General

1. A Service member on active duty who is separated from the Service or relieved from

active duty under par. 051002

, is authorized HHG transportation, limited to the authorized PCS weight

allowance, to the HOR or PLEAD, whichever the Service member selects.

a. HHG transportation is authorized from the last or any previous PDS, a designated

place, or an authorized storage location. The Service member may transport the HHG between any

locations other than those authorized. Any excess costs are the Service member’s financial responsibility.

b. If the Service member transports his or her HHG between locations other than those

authorized, the Transportation Officer or Finance Office computes the excess costs based on either the

cost that the Government would have incurred for transporting the Service member’s maximum PCS

HHG weight allowance in one lot from the last PDS or the cost of transporting the HHG from its actual

location, whichever would result in a lower cost to the Government.

2. A Service member who is authorized HHG transportation under par. 051002

is authorized

NTS. The authority begins on the date the order is issued and terminates on the end of the 180th day from

the active-duty termination date.

3. SIT of the HHG transported from NTS under par. 051002

is authorized only when

necessary due to conditions beyond the Service member’s control that arise after HHG transportation

from NTS and the SIT is authorized or approved according to Service regulations. Any HHG not placed

in NTS may be placed in SIT under

section 0518-A in connection with transportation under par. 051002.

B. HHG Transportation and NTS—Other Circumstances

1. Table 5-51

specifies circumstances affecting the allowance for separation from the Service

and release from active duty and the associated allowances.

Table 5-51. Separation or Relief from Active Duty under Certain Circumstances

If…

Then…

a Service member is separated or relieved from

active duty to continue on active duty in a

Uniformed Service,

HHG transportation or NTS is authorized only if

the Service member is transferred on a PCS

order in connection with his or her continuance

or re-entry into a Service.

a Service member is separated or relieved from

active duty because his or her enlistment or term

of service expires and, on the following day, re-

enters the Service at the location where he or she

was separated or relieved with no change of PDS,

neither HHG transportation nor NTS is

authorized.

a Service member serving in the CONUS has no

dependents and is separated from the Service

under other than honorable conditions,

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Table 5-51. Separation or Relief from Active Duty under Certain Circumstances

If…

Then…

an RC member is ordered to:

a. Initial active duty for training for 6 or fewer

months,

b. Active duty, including active duty for

training, for less than 20 weeks,

c. Active duty for training for 20 or more weeks

when the active duty is performed at more

than one location, but less than 20 weeks at

any location,

HHG transportation, including SIT for 30 or

fewer days, is authorized upon relief from such

duty. The weight allowance authorized is the

TDY HHG weight allowance, not the PCS

weight allowance. HHG transportation is

authorized from the last duty location or place

where the HHG was last transported at

Government expense to the HOR or PLEAD or

active duty for training location. NTS is not

authorized.

a Service member is separated to pursue an

undergraduate degree through the ROTC

scholarship program,

HHG transportation to that college, the HOR, or

PLEAD, as the Service member chooses, is

authorized. Transportation is authorized from

the last or any previous PDS, a designated place,

or an authorized storage location. If the Service

member chooses HHG transportation between

other places, he or she is financially responsible

for all costs in excess of those that would have

been incurred had the HHG been transported

between authorized locations. Storage is

authorized in section 0518.

a Service member is separating from the Service

or is being released from active duty and:

a. is authorized HHG transportation,

b. is required by appropriate authority to vacate

Government quarters, Government-

controlled quarters, or privatized housing

before actual separation or release from

active duty,

a short-distance move of HHG up to the Service

member’s authorized PCS weight limit is

authorized from the vacated quarters or

privatized housing to a local temporary

residence in the vacated quarters or privatized

housing vicinity.

a Service member actually separates or is released

from active duty after moving from vacated

quarters or privatized housing to a local,

temporary residence, under the circumstances in

item 6 of this table,

HHG transportation within the time limits and

within the Service member’s weight allowance

is authorized from the local temporary residence

to the Service member’s HOR or PLEAD,

whichever the Service member selects.

2. A Service member awaiting the results of physical disability proceedings is authorized

HHG transportation to the home or specific location where he or she is awaiting those results. If

separated or relieved from active duty, the Service member is authorized HHG transportation to an

authorized point. The cost of HHG transportation is limited to the cost of transporting the HHG from the

Service member’s PDS when he or she received the order to proceed in an awaiting-orders status to the

point authorized due to separation or relief from active duty, less any amount previously paid for HHG

transportation to the point where he or she awaited the results. To be authorized HHG transportation, the

Service member must:

a. be found unfit to perform the duties of his or her pay grade by a physical evaluation

board.

b. not be authorized an HOS move under par. 051003

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c. have been ordered home or to a specific location to await the results of the disability

proceedings for the Government’s convenience.

d. sign a written release agreeing not to contest the initial physical evaluation board

results.

C. Time Limit. Authority for HHG transportation is limited to 180 days. Such authority ends on

the 181st day following separation from the Service or relief from active duty, unless a written request for

HHG transportation is submitted to a Transportation Officer or designated representative before the end

of the 180th day.

1. When an HHG transportation application is made within 180 days, HHG must be turned

over for transportation as soon as practicable after the submission. The Transportation Officer or

designated representative determines the reasonableness on a case-by-case basis.

2. A time-limit extension for HHG transportation does not extend the Government’s

obligation for storage costs for a period greater than what was authorized or approved under par. 051002

for NTS or section 0518 for SIT. Following NTS expiration, the HHG must be transported as soon as

possible to the final destination.

3. In hardship cases, a time-limit extension may be authorized or approved for a specific

period of time through the Secretarial Process.

D. Service Member Recalled to Active Duty after Separation from the Service or Relief from

Active Duty. A Service member who is recalled to active duty after being separated from the Service or

relieved from active duty, and who was previously authorized HHG transportation and NTS, may be

authorized either HHG transportation or NTS under the recall order.

1. If the Service member has his or her HHG in NTS when recalled to active duty, then the

HHG is authorized to remain in NTS if the Service member is otherwise authorized NTS. The

authorization is valid from the active-duty recall date until the date he or she is again separated from the

Service or relieved from active duty.

a. If the Service member is ordered on a TDY due to a recall, then continued storage may

be authorized only if he or she qualifies for special storage under Chapter 2

b. If the Service member is ordered on a PCS due to the recall, then continued NTS

under the PCS order may be authorized.

2. If the Service member had HHG in NTS when recalled to active duty, and he or she is

again separated from the Service or relieved from active duty under honorable conditions, then the

Service member is authorized NTS under par. 051002

and HHG transportation to the HOR or PLEAD,

whichever location the Service member selects. The HHG must be turned over to a carrier for

transportation within 180 days after the date the Service member is separated or released from active duty

following a recall.

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052013. HHG Transportation in Connection with Retirement, Placement on the

TDRL, Discharge with Severance or Separation Pay, or Involuntary Release from

Active Duty with Readjustment or Separation Pay

A. HHG Transportation and Storage—General

1. A Service member on active duty is authorized HHG transportation from the last or any

previous PDS; from a designated place in the CONUS, from a designated place in a non-foreign location

OCONUS, or from anywhere the Service member selects, subject to par. 051306

; from storage; or any

combination of these locations to the Service member’s HOS when the Service member is:

a. Retired for physical disability or placed on the TDRL, regardless of length of service.

b. Retired with pay for any other reason, including transfer to the Fleet Reserve or Fleet

Marine Corps Reserve. The retirement must occur immediately following 8 years or more of continuous

active duty with no single break in service of 91 or more days.

c. Separated with severance or separation pay immediately following 8 years or more of

continuous active duty with no single break in service of 91 or more days.

d. Involuntarily released from active duty with readjustment or separation pay

immediately following 8 years or more of continuous active duty with no single break in service of 91 or

more days.

2. HHG transportation is authorized to a place other than the Service member’s HOS, or for a

split shipment that sends part of the HHG to the HOS and part to some other place, provided the Service

member bears all costs in excess of transportation of his or her maximum PCS HHG weight allowance in

one lot to the HOS, HOR, or PLEAD, whichever provides the greatest cost savings to the Government.

3. Transportation to the Service member’s HOR or PLEAD under par. 052012

, but not to a

HOS, is authorized when a Service member:

a. Is retired without pay.

b. Has less than 8 years of continuous active duty immediately preceding retirement for

any reason other than physical disability.

c. Has less than 8 years of continuous active duty immediately preceding discharge with

severance or separation pay, or is involuntarily released to inactive duty with readjustment or separation

pay.

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Table 5-52. HHG Storage

(Retirement, TDRL, Discharge with Severance or Separation Pay, or

Involuntary Release from Active Duty with Readjustment or Separation Pay)

Allowance

Authorization

Limitation

HHG to

NTS

Service member

or dependent is

authorized

HHG

transportation

under either

par.

051003 or Table

5-33.

The authority begins on the date the order is issued and ends 1 year

from the active-duty termination date, unless otherwise indicated

in this paragraph. A Service member undergoing hospitalization

or medical treatment on the date of active-duty termination, or for

any period of time during the 1-year period following such date is

authorized NTS in Table 5-33.

HHG from

NTS to

SIT*

Only when necessary due to conditions beyond the Service

member’s control that arise after transportation from NTS, and the

SIT is authorized or approved according to Service regulations.

*Any portion of a Service member’s HHG not placed in NTS may be placed in SIT as part of the HHG

transportation under the authorization.

B. Time Limits. HHG must be turned over for transportation within 3 years following active

duty termination, except as in Table 5-33. A Service member is eligible for the 3 year time limitation if

the active duty termination effective date is on or after June 24, 2022. The 3 year time limitation does not

apply retroactively to a HHG shipment authorized for a Service member with an effective active duty

termination date before the effective date. Any further extensions must be granted on an annual basis.

Table 5-53. Extensions of HHG Shipping Time Limits

If a Service member…

Then HHG transportation…

authorized HHG transportation to an HOS, is

confined in or undergoing treatment at a

hospital on the active-duty termination date,

and NTS are authorized, but authorization ends 1

year after either the date of discharge from the

hospital or the termination of the medical

treatment, whichever is later. This 1-year period

may be extended through the Secretarial Process.

authorized HHG transportation to a HOS, is

confined in or undergoing treatment at a

hospital for any period of time during the 1-

year period following active-duty termination,

and NTS are authorized until 1 year after the

active-duty termination date plus a period equal

to the Service member’s hospitalization or

treatment period. The time period for HHG

transportation may be extended through the

Secretarial Process. The NTS time period cannot

be extended. Any NTS in excess of this total

time is the Service member’s responsibility.

authorized HHG transportation under par.

051003-A and par. 051003-B is undergoing

education or training to qualify for transition

into civilian employment on the active-duty

termination date,

is authorized until 1 year after completing the

education or training, or 2 years after the active

duty termination date, whichever is earlier. This

time period may be extended through the

Secretarial Process. There is no authority to

extend NTS beyond the 1 year active-duty

termination.

begins education or training to qualify for

transition into civilian employment during the

1-year period following the active-duty service

termination date, or during a longer period

authorized due to hospitalization or medical

treatment,

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C. Other Deserving Cases

1. Time-limit extensions may be authorized or approved through the Secretarial Process

when:

a. An unexpected event beyond the Service member’s control occurs that prevents him

or her from moving to the HOS within the specified time limit.

b. The extension is in the Service’s best interest or to the Service member’s benefit, and

it is not more costly or adverse to the Service. This includes cases where the 1-year time limit has already

been extended due to hospitalization, medical treatment, education, or training.

2. Time-limit extensions may be authorized or approved only for the specific period of time

the Service member anticipates is needed to complete the move. If, at the expiration of this extension

period, additional time is required, the Service member may request an additional extension through the

Secretarial Process, explaining the reasons for the extension. An additional authorized period for a

specific time may then be authorized or approved through the Secretarial Process. Time-limit extensions

are not authorized for any reason for more than 6 years from the date of separation, release from active

duty, or retirement. Also see par. 051003-I

for restrictions on time-limit extensions.

3. Delays in HHG transportation under this subparagraph must be due to the Service

member’s separation from the Service.

4. Extensions for HHG transportation do not change the Government’s obligation for storage

costs for longer than a 1-year period from the active duty termination date, except when a longer period is

authorized for hospitalization or medical treatment.

D. Service Member Required to Vacate Government or Government-Controled Quarters or

Privatized Housing before Selecting a Home. When a proper authority requires a Service member to

vacate Government or Government-controled quarters, or privatized housing, before choosing an HOS,

the Service member is authorized HHG transportation for a short-distance move from the vacated quarters

or housing to a local temporary residence in the vacated housing vicinity. The Service member’s PCS

weight allowance applies for this short-distance move. HHG transportation is authorized within the

specified time limits and for the Service member’s PCS weight allowance from the local, temporary

residence to the HOS.

E. Recall to Active Duty. When a Service member is eligible to select a home under

par.

051003, and is recalled to active duty, certain HHG transportation allowances are authorized. Table 5-54

identifies the situations and allowances when such a recall occurs.

Table 5-54. Recall to Active Duty

If a Service member

is recalled to active duty…

Then…

before selecting a home and has

HHG in NTS under Table 5-52

NTS may continue from the date the Service member is recalled

to active duty until he or she reverts to a retired status, provided

he or she is otherwise authorized NTS storage.

before selecting a home and

ordered on a TDY due to the

recall,

continued NTS storage may be provided only if the Service

member qualifies for special storage under par. 032903 and

section 0205.

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Table 5-54. Recall to Active Duty

If a Service member

is recalled to active duty…

Then…

before selecting a home and

ordered on a PCS due to the

recall,

NTS may continue if authorized on the PCS order.

before selecting a home and had

his or her HHG in NTS at the

time of recall,

when the Service member reverts to a retired status under

honorable conditions, NTS and HHG transportation to an HOS

are authorized. The HHG must be turned over to a carrier for

transportation within 1 year after the date the Service member is

released from active duty following the recall and reversion to

the retired status.

after selecting and traveling to

an HOS,

HHG transportation is authorized to the previous HOS or

PLEAD, whichever the Service member chooses for travel

allowances, upon termination of active duty under honorable

conditions.

F. Service Member on the TDRL Who Is Discharged or Retired. When a Service member on the

TDRL is discharged with severance pay or retired for any reason, including transfer to the Fleet Reserve

or Fleet Marine Corps Reserve, HHG transportation is not authorized. However, the Service member

may be eligible for HHG transportation to the HOS, storage, or having his or her time-limit extensions

granted due to hospitalization, medical treatment, education, training, or other deserving cases in this

section.

G. Service Member Ordered Home to Await Disability Retirement. A Service member is

authorized HHG transportation when a physical evaluation board finds that he or she is unfit to perform

the duties of his or her pay grade and the Service member is ordered home or to a specific location for the

Government’s convenience to await another order in connection with disability retirement. HHG

transportation is authorized to the home or a specific location. HHG transported under this paragraph

may be re-transported when a retirement or other order is finally issued. However, the maximum HHG

authorization is for the distance from the Service member’s PDS at the time he or she received the order

to proceed in an awaiting-orders status, to the point where the Service member is authorized due to

retirement or release from active duty, less any amount previously paid for transportation of the HHG to

the waiting point.

H. Service Member Dies after Retirement or Release from Active Duty. If a Service member

authorized HHG transportation to an HOS under par. 051003-A and par. 051003-B dies after retirement

or release from active duty, then certain HHG transportation allowances are authorized. Table 5-55

specifies the conditions and allowances associated with this event. The time limits in par. 051003-I apply

to HHG transportation under this paragraph.

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Table 5-55. HHG Transportation when a Service Member

Dies after Retirement or Release from Active Duty

If a Service member dies…

Then…

after choosing an HOS in

par. 051003 but before

transporting HHG,

the HHG may be transported, at a dependent’s request, to the Service

member’s HOS, other dependent-selected place, or partially to each

location. The dependent is financially responsible for all costs in

excess of the transportation cost in one lot to the Service member’s

chosen HOS. If there are no surviving dependents, then the HHG

may be transported to the home of the person legally authorized to

receive them. That person is financially responsible for all costs in

excess of the transportation of the Service member’s maximum PCS

HHG weight allowance to the Service member’s chosen HOS.

after choosing an HOS and

traveling to that HOS but

before HHG transportation,

after choosing a home but

has not traveled to the

HOS, has not executed any

travel allowance associated

with the HOS, or

transported his or her

HHG,

the HHG may be transported at Government expense, at a

dependent’s request, to the Service member’s HOS or the dependent-

selected home that would have been authorized under

par. 051003-B

or partially to each location. The dependent is financially responsible

for all cost in excess of the transportation of the Service member’s

maximum PCS HHG weight allowance in one lot to the dependent-

selected home. If there are no surviving dependents, then the HHG

may be transported to the home of the person legally authorized to

receive them.

choosing an HOS under

par. 051003,

052014. HHG Transportation for a Dependent Relocating for Personal Safety

See par. 051205

0521 HHG AND MOBILE HOME ALLOWANCES

When a Service member chooses to move a mobile home, ordinarily, HHG transportation is not

authorized. The mobile home shipment is instead of the HHG shipment. However, there are a few

instances when HHG transportation may be authorized when a mobile home is also being shipped.

052101. Transportation of HHG Removed from a Mobile Home to Meet Safety

Requirements

The HHG that must be removed from a mobile home to meet safety requirements may be transported

at Government expense. Determine the cost limit on mobile home transportation under Chapter 5, Part D

by deducting the cost of transporting the removed HHG from the total Government-constructed cost to

transport the Service member’s maximum authorized HHG PCS weight allowance. The remaining

amount is the cost limit.

052102. HHG Transportation Authorized When a Mobile Home is Also

Transported

A. PCS between a PDS in the CONUS to Alaska, a PDS in the CONUS to OCONUS, a PDS in

Alaska to Alaska, or a PDS in Alaska to OCONUS. See PDT computation example 15.

1. When concurrent dependent travel is authorized or will be authorized within 20 weeks

from the Service member’s port-reporting month, but not all of the dependents can travel to the new PDS

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OCONUS, a Service member is authorized both of the following:

a. Unaccompanied baggage and other HHG transportation to the PDS OCONUS.

b. Mobile home allowances to a designated place in the CONUS or Alaska if the

dependents who are not traveling to the PDS will use the mobile home as a residence during the Service

member’s tour OCONUS under one of the following conditions:

(1) When a Service member married to a Service member can combine their PCS

weight allowances to a new PDS and each of them is authorized to move a mobile home on a PCS order.

(2) A dependent travels to or from a designated place or selected point in the

CONUS or Alaska to a new PDS that is neither in the CONUS nor Alaska.

2. If a Service member is assigned to duty OCONUS and concurrent travel of a dependent is

denied or is delayed for an anticipated period of 20 or more weeks from a Service member’s port-

reporting month, then the Service member may choose mobile home allowances to a designated place in

the CONUS or Alaska. If the Service member chooses to move a mobile home to a designated place,

then the Service member is authorized unaccompanied baggage and other HHG transportation to the PDS

OCONUS, subject to the following limitations:

a. The Government’s total liability for the cost of moving the mobile home, shipping the

unaccompanied baggage and other HHG is limited to the total Government-constructed cost to transport

the Service member’s maximum authorized PCS HHG weight allowance between the old PDS and new

PDS.

b. If the dependent is later authorized to travel to the PDS OCONUS at Government

expense, then the Service member may transport the HHG from the designated place to the PDS

OCONUS. The Government’s cost liability for the HHG transportation allowance for moving the mobile

home, any unaccompanied baggage and HHG already shipped to the PDS OCONUS, plus any HHG

shipped from the designated place to the PDS OCONUS is limited to what it would have cost the

Government to ship the Service member’s maximum authorized PCS HHG weight allowance between the

old PDS and new PDS.

3. A Service member stationed OCONUS or outside Alaska who is returned to the CONUS

or Alaska under a PCS order and who chooses mobile home allowances within the CONUS or Alaska, is

also authorized HHG and unaccompanied baggage transportation from the PDS OCONUS or Alaska to

the new PDS, HOR, PLEAD, or HOS, as applicable. The Government’s cost liability for the total of the

mobile home move, the shipment of HHG, and the unaccompanied baggage transportation is limited to

what it would have cost the Government to transport the Service member’s authorized maximum PCS

HHG weight allowance between the old PDS and new PDS, HOR or PLEAD, or HOS, as applicable.

4. A Service member who chooses mobile home allowances between a PDS in Alaska and a

PDS in the CONUS is not authorized HHG or unaccompanied baggage transportation, unless the HHG

was removed from the mobile home to meet safety requirements.

B. Unusual or Emergency Circumstances

1. A Service member who is stationed in Alaska or OCONUS is authorized his or her HHG

and unaccompanied baggage from the PDS to a designated place, but not for the HHG removed from the

mobile home to meet safety requirements, when both of the following occur:

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a. A dependent is returned to the CONUS or Alaska under the rules for an early return of

the dependent or under section 0508 or section 0512

b. The Service member chooses mobile home allowances within or between the CONUS

or Alaska under the rules for an early return of a dependent.

2. A Service member is not authorized HHG or unaccompanied baggage transportation, but

is authorized transportation of the HHG removed from the mobile home to meet safety requirements

when both of the following occur:

a. A dependent is returned from Alaska to the CONUS due to a personal situation

OCONUS, including travel in the CONUS when disciplinary action is taken against a Service member

who is stationed OCONUS.

b. The Service member chooses mobile home allowances from Alaska to the CONUS.

C. Mobile Home Delivery not Completed. When circumstances beyond the Service member’s

control prevent mobile home delivery at the authorized destination, HHG transportation is authorized as

specified below.

1. When the HHG has been turned over to the Government to transport, and the

Government-procured transportation is unable to deliver the mobile home to the destination, compute the

HHG transportation cost in Table 5-56

Table 5-56. Computation when Government-Procured Transportation

Is Unable to Complete Delivery

1 Determine what would have been payable to transport the mobile home to the destination.

Add the cost to transport any HHG removed from the mobile home to meet safety requirements.

3 Add any unaccompanied baggage and other HHG transported.

Subtract any cost to the Government for mobile home transportation to the location where the

Government-procured transportation is unable to deliver the mobile home, also known as the

breakdown point.

The remainder is the allowable cost to ship the HHG.

2. When a Service member personally arranges for HHG transportation, and the personally-

procured commercial transportation is unable to complete the delivery of a mobile home to the

destination, HHG transportation is authorized, limited to:

a. What would have been payable if the mobile home had been transported by

Government-procured transportation to the authorized destination, less any TDY HHG weight allowance

transported, SIT, and dry storage that was provided for the mobile home transportation to the point of

breakdown.

b. The Government’s total cost is limited to the cost to transport the PCS weight

allowance of HHG from the old PDS to the new PDS not to exceed the GCC.

D. HHG Removed from a Mobile Home to Meet Safety Requirements. The HHG that must be

removed from a mobile home to meet safety requirements may be transported at Government expense.

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HHG transportation cost must be deducted from the total cost of what it would have cost the Government

to transport the Service member’s maximum authorized HHG weight to determine the Service member’s

cost limit on mobile home transportation under Chapter 5, Part D

052103. HHG Transportation Not Authorized

HHG transportation is not authorized for a Service member who chooses mobile home allowances

except:

A. Those HHG transportation allowances specified in this section.

B. For a Service member married to a Service member (see Chapter 5, Part D

C. When a mobile home is transported in connection with an alert notice.

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CHAPTER 5: PERMANENT DUTY TRAVEL (PDT)

PART D: MOBILE HOME TRANSPORTATION

(SERVICE MEMBERS)

0522 INTRODUCTION

This Part identifies mobile home transportation allowances for a Service member ordered on a permanent

change of station (PCS). A mobile home may be moved by commercial or Government means between

the old permanent duty station (PDS) and new PDS, when the PDSs are located within specific

geographic boundaries, or to or from authorized selected points when one of the PDSs is at a location

outside the continental United States (OCONUS) other than in Alaska. A selected point is a location

within the continental United States (CONUS) or Alaska where the mobile home is kept while a Service

member, with or without dependents, is at a PDS OCONUS other than Alaska. Transportation in this Part

includes packing, pickup, line-haul or drayage, delivery, and unpacking.

0523 STANDARD ALLOWANCES

052301. Transporting a Mobile Home Instead of Household Goods (HHG)

A. Eligibility. A Service member on a PCS order may be authorized mobile home transportation

allowances instead of household goods (HHG) transportation at Government expense when traveling to a

new PDS that is either in the CONUS or Alaska. The Service member either has no dependent or has a

dependent who travels to the new PDS at the same time as the Service member. A dependent may also be

eligible for mobile home allowances when he or she is authorized to travel to or from the designated place

or selected point in the CONUS or Alaska to a new PDS OCONUS. A mobile home eligible for

transportation must meet all of the following conditions:

1. The mobile home is acquired on or before the PCS order’s effective date to use as a

residence by the Service member or a dependent at the location where it is being moved.

2. The mobile home’s condition is maintained (including body, chassis, tires, and tubes) to

withstand the transportation rigors. Any necessary maintenance to prepare the mobile home for

transportation is at either the Service member’s, dependent’s, or heir’s expense and to the Government’s

satisfaction.

B. Allowances

Table 5-57. Dependent Travel that Affects PCS Allowances for Moving a Mobile Home

If…

Then…

two Service members are

married to each other and

both have PCS orders,

they may combine their authorized PCS HHG weight allowances.

Determine the maximum amount the Government may pay is equal

to the Government’s constructed cost of shipping the combined

maximum authorized HHG weight allowances for both Service

members between authorized locations.

a Service member is married

to a civilian employee and

they may combine their PCS HHG weight allowances.

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Table 5-57. Dependent Travel that Affects PCS Allowances for Moving a Mobile Home

If…

Then…

both have PCS orders,

a dependent is authorized to

travel to or from the

designated place or selected

point in the CONUS or

Alaska to a new PDS

OCONUS,

a. the Service member is authorized mobile home transportation and

shipment of the HHG removed from the mobile home to the

border crossing or appropriate port or designated place or

selected point (see

par. 052101).

b. The Service member may transport unaccompanied baggage and

HHG, which includes the cost of packing, pickup, line-haul or

drayage, delivery and unpacking to the new PDS.

c. The Government’s maximum liability to transport the mobile

home, any HHG removed from the mobile home, and any

unaccompanied baggage or HHG transported to the new PDS for

the Service member’s use, limited to the Government’s cost to

transport the HHG at the Service member’s PCS weight

allowance from the old PDS to the new PDS.

C. “Best Value” Transportation. The “Best Value” Transportation methodology is used to

determine the maximum cost authorization for Armed Forces and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration (NOAA) for the channel times and for the maximum HHG weight for pay grade and

dependency status. The constructed mobile home transportation is always the “Best Value” transportation

cost of the Service member’s maximum PCS HHG weight allowance between the authorized points. For

details on how “Best Value” costs are determined, see the

DTR 4500.9-R, Part IV, Chapter 403 (Best

Value).

Note: U.S. Public Health Service (USPHS) computes the Government’s cost to transport the Service

member’s maximum PCS weight allowance by using the method USPHS would have selected to

transport the Service member’s HHG.

D. Constructed Government Cost. The constructed Government cost to transport the Service

member’s mobile home, plus any HHG removed from the mobile home, and any unaccompanied baggage

or HHG transported is limited to the Governments “Best Value” cost to transport HHG at the maximum

PCS weight allowance from the old PDS to the new PDS.

E. Delayed or Deferred Mobile Home Transportation. The Service member may choose not to

move a mobile home when authorized. Mobile home transportation is authorized on a subsequent PCS to

the new PDS from either of the following, whichever distance is greater:

1. The former PDS where the mobile home was not moved.

2. The Service member’s most recent PDS.

F. Limitations. Mobile home transportation can be chosen instead of HHG transportation. This

choice is available for PCS moves within the CONUS, within Alaska, or between the CONUS and

Alaska. Selection of mobile home transportation does not allow unaccompanied baggage or HHG

transportation unless the HHG was removed from the mobile home for safe transportation. The Service

member may not request or accept payment for PCS HHG weight allowance transportation at

Government expense when a mobile home has been moved in connection with the same PCS order.

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G. Upon Separation from the Service, Relief from Active Duty, Placement on the Temporary

Disability Retired List (TDRL), or Retirement. A Service member being separated from the Service,

relieved from active duty, placed on the TDRL, or retired must turn over his or her mobile home to a

Transportation Officer for shipment in accordance with the same time limits as the HHG to be authorized

mobile home allowances. See

par. 052012-C for time limits.

H. Funds Advance. Advance payment for personally procured mobile home transportation is

authorized, limited to the estimated amount allowable. An advance cannot be paid directly to a carrier.

052302. Geographic Limitations

A Service member, dependent, or heir may be authorized mobile home transportation allowances

between the geographic locations in Table 5-58

. The cost limitation for shipping a mobile home is what

the cost to the Government would have been to transport the HHG at the PCS HHG weight allowance

between the old PDS and new PDS.

Table 5-58. Geographic Limitations for Mobile Home Transportation Allowances

Locations

Defined Areas

Origin and

Destination

Points

a. Within the CONUS.

b. Within Alaska.

c. Between the CONUS and Alaska.

d. Through Canada en route between Alaska and the CONUS.

e. Through Canada en route between one point in the CONUS and another, such

as traveling from Buffalo, New York to Detroit, Michigan.

f. From the old PDS in the CONUS or in Alaska to a border crossing point or

appropriate port.

g. From a border crossing point or appropriate port in the CONUS to a new PDS

in the CONUS or in Alaska or from a border crossing point or appropriate port

in Alaska to a new PDS in Alaska.

Appropriate

Port

A port within CONUS or Alaska ordinarily used when a mobile home is

transported at personal expense between a port in the CONUS or Alaska and a

PDS neither in the CONUS nor Alaska.

Border

Crossing Point

A border crossing point ordinarily used for mobile home movement between the

CONUS, or Alaska, and either Canada or Mexico.

0524 TRANSPORTATION

052401. Government-Procured Transportation for Short-Distance Moves

The Service member or dependent or heir must own the mobile home when it is moved. When the

Installation Commander orders the Service member to vacate the premises (Government or local housing)

he or she is authorized Government-procured transportation or reimbursement for expenses incurred,

including storage in transit (SIT), to move the mobile home to another location in the PDS vicinity.

Reimbursable expenses associated with moving a mobile home are listed in Table 5-59

Table 5-59. Reimbursable Expenses for a Mobile Home Move

1 Authorized

a. SIT.

b. Preparing the mobile home for transportation, including the preparation costs

specified in par. 052403-B2.

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Table 5-59. Reimbursable Expenses for a Mobile Home Move

c. Installing the mobile home at the new site.

d. Actual transportation.

Not

Authorized

a. Excess preparation fees.

b. Connecting or disconnecting appliances, equipment, and utilities involved in

relocation and of converting appliances for operation on available utilities.

c. Special handling requested by the Service member.

d. Excess transportation costs.

e. Insurance or excess valuation over the carrier’s maximum liability.

f. Costs associated with ensuring that the body, chassis, frame, springs, wheels,

brakes, and tires are in good condition and that any extra property placed in the

mobile home does not constitute an overload condition that could result in damage

or repair charges.

g. Repairs or maintenance performed en route, including structural repairs, brake

repairs, and parts or tire replacement.

h. Storage accruing at any location unless caused by conditions beyond the Service

member’s control.

B. Cost Limitation. The transportation cost limitation in this part does not apply to short-

distance moves. There is no cost constraint nor is the Service member limited to the cost of transporting

18,000 pounds of HHG.

052402. Government-Procured Transportation

The Service member may turn over their mobile home to the Government for transportation to the

new PDS or authorized location. The Government pays all transportation costs up to what it would have

cost the Government to transport the Service member’s PCS HHG weight allowance from the old PDS to

the new PDS. These costs include pickup, transportation, and delivery of the mobile home to the

destination ready for occupancy. Other reimbursable expenses are listed in Table 5-60

Table 5-60. Reimbursable Expenses for Government-Procured Transportation

1 Authorized

a. Actual transportation.

b. Ferry fares.

c. Bridge, road, and tunnel tolls.

d. Taxes.

e. Preparing the mobile home for transportation, including the preparation costs in

par. 052403-B2

f. Charges or fees fixed by a municipal authority for permits to transport mobile

homes in and through its jurisdiction and the carrier service charges for obtaining

such permits.

Not

Authorized

a. Excess preparation fees.

b. Excess transportation costs.

c. Special handling requested by the Service member.

d. Insurance or excess valuation over the carrier’s maximum liability.

e. Connecting or disconnecting appliances, equipment, and utilities involved in

relocation and of converting appliances for operation on available utilities.

f. Costs associated with ensuring that the body, chassis, frame, springs, wheels,

brakes, and tires are in good condition and that any extra property placed in the

mobile home does not constitute an overload condition that could result in damage

or repair charges.

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Table 5-60. Reimbursable Expenses for Government-Procured Transportation

g. Repairs or maintenance performed en route, including structural repairs, brake

repairs, and parts or tire replacement.

h. Storage accruing at any location unless caused by conditions beyond the Service

member’s control.

A. Allowance Limitations. The Service member may not transport any HHG separately at

Government expense or receive any other allowances for the transportation involved.

B. Routing. Expenses for transporting a mobile home at Government expense are limited to the

usual highway routing in the CONUS and Alaska, and through Canada between origin and destination in

the CONUS and Alaska.

052403. Personally Procured Transportation

The Service member is responsible for making personally procured transportation arrangements for

the mobile home.

A. Commercial Transportation. A Service member or a deceased Service member’s heir, is

authorized mobile home allowances and may transport a mobile home at personal expense.

1. Allowances. A Service member may be reimbursed for the transportation and SIT costs,

and the cost to transport the TDY HHG weight allowance, if applicable, when TDY en route is involved

while using commercial transportation to move a mobile home at personal expense. The reimbursement

is limited to the constructed Government cost in

par. 052301-D.

Table 5-61. Reimbursable Expenses for Commercial Transportation

1 Authorized

a. Pilot or flag car, or escort services, if required by law.

b. The carrier’s charges for the actual transportation, limited to charges approved by

the Surface Transportation Board or a similar state regulatory body.

c. Preparing the mobile home for transportation, including the preparation costs in

par. 052403-B2

d. Charges or fees fixed by a municipal authority for permits to transport mobile

homes in and through its jurisdiction and the carrier’s service charges for obtaining

such permits.

e. Taxes.

f. Bridge, road, and tunnel tolls.

g. SIT.

h. Ferry fares.

Not

Authorized

a. Special handling costs requested by the Service member.

b. Insurance or excess valuation costs over the carrier’s maximum liability or charges

designated in the tariffs as “Special Service.”

c. Carrier’s maintenance or repair charges to the mobile home en route, including

structural repairs, brake repairs, tire replacement, and incidental charges.

d. Costs of connecting or disconnecting appliances, equipment, and utilities involved

in relocation and of converting appliances for operation on available utilities.

2. Paying the Carrier. When paying the carrier the Service member, dependent, or heir

ensures that the carrier’s preparation responsibility is known.

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a. The transporter’s bill or invoice includes specific cost itemization of charges.

b. The body, frame, springs, wheels, brakes, and tires are in condition to permit

transportation.

c. Any extra property placed in the mobile home does not constitute an overload

condition that could result in damage or repair charges that would be the financial responsibility of the

Service member, dependent, or heir.

B. Personally Procured Transportation not by a Commercial Transporter. A Service member,

dependent, or heir may use transportation other than a commercial transporter. Reimbursement is for the

actual transportation costs subject to the limitations in this paragraph.

1. Allowances. A reimbursable allowance includes costs generally associated with mobile

home preparation at an origin inside Alaska or the CONUS for transportation and resettling at the

destination inside Alaska or the CONUS.

Table 5-62. Distance Determination

Origin or Destination

Allowable Distance

Within the CONUS

or Alaska

Compute the distance using the Defense Table of Official Distances (DTOD)

for official worldwide PCS and TDY distances. The statute distance to and

from the usual place of arrival or departure on the mainland is allowed when

the origin or destination is an island within the CONUS or Alaska.

2 OCONUS

Compute the distance using the DTOD. The allowable distance is limited to

the distance the mobile home is transported:

a. Within or between any points in the CONUS.

b. Within or between any points in Alaska.

c. Through Canada en route between Alaska and elsewhere in the CONUS.

2. Preparation Costs Allowed. Reimbursement is for the following preparation costs:

a. Rental, installation, removal and transportation of hitches and extra axles with wheels

and tires.

b. Blocking and unblocking, including anchoring and un-anchoring, labor costs at the

origin and destination.

c. Blocks purchased instead of transporting blocks from old PDS and cost of replacement

blocks broken while the mobile home was being transported.

d. The HHG packing and unpacking associated with the mobile home and dismantling

and assembling costs for a portable room appended to a mobile home.

e. Disconnecting and connecting utilities and extension costs of existing water and sewer

lines.

f. Skirting removal and installation labor costs and movement and reassembling costs of

separating, preparing, and sealing each half of a double-wide mobile home.

g. Trailer towing lights installation and removal.

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h. Costs for expanding, stabilizing, and sealing room expansion sections in a single-wide

mobile home, also known as expando charges.

i. Transportation expenses, such as anti-sway device charges, , over-dimension charges

and permits, , and wrecker service when required.

j. Travel lift fees.

k. Similar expenses.

3. Non-Reimbursable Expenses. Costs are not reimbursable for preparation of mobile homes

located outside Alaska or outside the CONUS for transportation or resettling outside Alaska or the

CONUS.

4. Over-Water Transportation of a House Boat, Used as a Primary Residence, that is Towed

by Pulling, Pushing, or Carrying. Over-water house boat transportation is authorized from and to points

in the CONUS or Alaska. Transportation costs, in this paragraph, are subject to limitations and

authorized for:

a. Fuel and oil used for propulsion of the boat.

b. Harbor pilot charges.

c. Pilots and navigators in open water.

d. A crew.

e. Docking fees incurred in transit.

f. Harbor and port fees and charges relating to entry and navigation through ports.

g. Towing, in-tow, or towing by pushing from behind.

h. Similar expenses.

5. Self-propelled House Boat Driven over Water. Reimbursement is at the automobile

mileage rate, per overland mile, for the official distance between authorized points, subject to the

limitations in this paragraph, and must not exceed the Government’s constructed cost between official

points. SIT is authorized.

C. Self-propelled Mobile Home Driven Overland . Reimbursement is at the automobile mileage

rate for the official distance between the points authorized or for actual transportation costs subject to the

limitations in this paragraph and must not exceed the Government’s constructed cost between official

points. SIT is authorized for a self-propelled mobile home driven overland.

D. Mobile Home Moved by Overland Towing. Reimbursement is authorized for the actual

transportation costs subject to the limitations in this paragraph and limited to the Government’s

constructed cost to move the mobile home between official points. SIT is authorized.

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052404. Storage in Transit (SIT)

SIT is authorized with mobile home transportation. It is cumulative with accrual from any

combination of the origin, in transit, or at the destination. The law limits SIT to no more than 180 days.

The Service member is financially responsible for all SIT costs when a mobile home is placed in storage

under a PCS order but not transported, with limited exceptions. When storage facilities are unavailable at

the origin or the destination, storage may be in the nearest available storage facility authorized or

approved by the Transportation Officer.

A. Costs

1. In computing the storage periods, the SIT is based on actual storage dates, not on a

monthly rate, regardless of billing practices.

2. When computing the authorized allowance, the SIT cost is excluded when comparing the

mobile home transportation total cost with the Service member’s PCS weight allowance transportation

total cost.

B. Time Limits. A Service member is authorized mobile home SIT at Government expense for

90 days with any authorized mobile home transportation. All accrued storage charges after expiration of

the first 90-day period are the Service member’s financial responsibility unless additional storage is

authorized or approved. After the first 90 days:

1. Requests for authorization or approval of additional storage must be submitted to the

appropriate official or designated representative.

2. When conditions arise beyond the Service member’s control and a mobile home must

remain in SIT after the first 90 days, the Transportation Officer or other officer designated by the Service

concerned may authorize the Service member 90 days of additional storage.

C. Order Amended or Modified. A Service member whose PCS order is amended or modified

before he or she arrives at the initially directed new PDS is authorized the storage type under the original

PCS order. The authorization is valid from the date the mobile home was released to a transportation

service provider or the Government for shipment or SIT until the amended or modified order’s effective

date. On that effective date, the amended or modified PCS order establishes the storage allowance.

D. Order Canceled or Revoked. A Service member whose PCS order is canceled or revoked

after the date a mobile home is released to a transportation service provider or the Government for

shipment or SIT, is authorized the storage type under the original PCS order until the date of cancellation

or revocation. After the PCS order is canceled or revoked, the Service member is authorized SIT with

mobile home return shipment and delivery to an authorized place.

E. Another PCS Order Is Issued after the Service Member Arrives at the New PDS. A Service

member who receives another PCS order after arriving at a new PDS while the mobile home is in SIT, is

authorized continued SIT until either the new PCS order’s effective date or for 180 days, whichever

occurs first. The new PCS order establishes the subsequent storage authorization.

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0525 MOBILE HOME TRANSPORTATION WHEN AN

ACTIVE-DUTY SERVICE MEMBER IS ILL, INJURED, OR

REPORTED ABSENT FOR 30 OR MORE DAYS IN A MISSING

STATUS, OR UPON DEATH

A. Authorization. A dependent otherwise authorized to transport the HHG, is authorized mobile

home transportation for use as a residence when official notice is received that the Service member:

1. Died while on active duty or while authorized basic pay.

2. Is injured or ill and the anticipated period of hospitalization or treatment is expected to be

of prolonged duration as shown by a statement of the receiving hospital’s commanding officer.

3. Is absent for 30 or more days in a missing status.

B. Transportation. Transportation is authorized to a Service member’s official HOR or to

another location authorized or approved through the Secretarial Process and by one or a combination of

the following:

1. Government-arranged transportation.

2. Personally arranged transportation using a commercial transporter.

3. Transportation by a means other than Government-arranged or personally arranged.

C. Reimbursement of Transportation and Incidental Costs. Transportation and incidental costs

incurred while transporting a mobile home under this subparagraph are at Government expense. The

limits elsewhere in this Part do not apply.

D. Additional Moves. A mobile home transported under this paragraph may again be transported

when the Service member has officially been reported as absent for more than 1 year in a missing status,

when, through the Secretarial Process, it is determined the circumstances justify an additional move.

E. Advance Payment. An advance of mobile home allowances is authorized and paid in

accordance with the DoD Financial Management Regulation, Vol. 9 (Travel Policy) for DoD Services or

Agencies and Service regulations for non-DoD Services.

F. Death of a Service Member. When a Service member with a mobile home dies on active duty,

one dependent of the Service member is authorized mobile home transportation allowances from the

mobile home location on the date of death to a place designated by that dependent, provided all of the

following conditions are met:

1. The mobile home is used by the dependent as a residence at the destination.

2. Mobile home transportation is completed within 1 year after the Service member’s death

unless an extension is authorized or approved through the Secretarial Process.

3. For Government-procured transportation, the mobile home is turned over to a

Transportation Officer within 1 year after the Service member’s death unless an extension is authorized or

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approved through the Secretarial Process.

0526 EXCESS MOBILE HOME TRANSPORTATION COSTS

FOR A SERVICE MEMBER SEPARATED OR DECEASED, OR

HEIRS OF A DECEASED SERVICE MEMBER

A. Financial Responsibility. The Government is obligated only for the total authorized cost to

transport a mobile home. The Service member, a dependent, or heir must sign a written agreement to be

financially responsible for all excess costs. This includes excess distance charges, excess HHG charges,

and costs not allowed as listed in this paragraph.

B. Unique Circumstances . Transportation of a mobile home that involves excess costs may be

paid initially by the Government. However, excess costs must be subsequently reimbursed by the Service

member or heir when a Service member is:

1. Discharged, resigns, or separates from active duty resulting in a non-pay status.

2. Deceased.

3. Authorized by Service regulations.

0527 MOBILE HOME TRANSPORTATION UNDER UNUSUAL

OR EMERGENCY CIRCUMSTANCES

A. Dependent Travel before the Service Member’s PCS due to Official or Personal Situations.

See PDT computation example 16.

1. When disciplinary action is taken against a Service member stationed OCONUS, or when

he or she is discharged under other than honorable conditions, or sentenced to confinement with or

without discharge, the Service member is authorized mobile home transportation for one of the following

moves:

a. To a designated place in the CONUS or Alaska.

b. From a point outside the CONUS and Alaska to a designated place in Alaska.

2. Authorized Transportation for Dependent Travel

a. Mobile home transportation under this subparagraph is instead of transporting the

HHG except as authorized when a Service member is stationed OCONUS or in Alaska and both of the

following occur:

(1) Dependents are returned to CONUS or Alaska under Early Return of Dependents

or categories in Chapter 5, Part B

(2) The Service member chooses mobile home allowances instead of HHG

allowances within or between CONUS or Alaska under this paragraph or under section 0528

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b. The Service member is also authorized HHG and unaccompanied baggage

transportation from the OCONUS or Alaska PDS to the designated place except for the HHG removed

from the mobile home to meet safety requirements.

3. Dependent Travel before the New PDS

a. The order authorizing dependent transportation in Chapter 5, Part B or in section 0528

also may authorize mobile home transportation. The order should specify the authority that justifies the

special circumstances for the transportation authorization.

b. After a mobile home is transported due to dependent travel and transportation before

issuance of a PCS order, no further mobile home transportation is authorized before the Service member’s

next PCS from the PDS OCONUS.

4. Service Member Assigned to Full PCS Weight Allowance Area. The Government’s

financial responsibility for mobile home and HHG transportation to the designated place is limited to the

Government’s cost to transport the Service member’s PCS HHG weight allowance from the PDS

OCONUS to the designated place.

5. Service Member Assigned to Administratively Weight-Restricted Area

a. The mobile home may be transported from a point in the CONUS or Alaska to the

designated place.

b. The Government’s financial responsibility for mobile home and HHG transportation is

in accordance with the eligibility requirements in the beginning of this section. The authorization to

transport the Service member’s HHG is limited to the PCS HHG weight allowance, minus the weight of

HHG transported from OCONUS, from either of the following:

(1) The Service member’s last PDS in the CONUS or Alaska.

(2) The port in the CONUS or Alaska through which the Service member’s HHG

from OCONUS would be transported to the designated place, whichever is to the Service member’s

advantage.

B. Mobile Home Transportation Due to Alert Notice

1. A Service member authorized HHG transportation due to an alert notice is authorized

mobile home transportation to a designated place in the CONUS or Alaska, if the eligibility requirements

in par. 052301

are met.

2. When a mobile home is transported after an alert notice, but the Service member’s

movement to the dependent-restricted PDS OCONUS is canceled, subsequent mobile home transportation

is authorized to the Service member’s PDS if the PDS is in the CONUS or Alaska.

3. When the PDS is in Canada, Mexico, or other parts of Central America, authorization is

limited to the cost to the Government to transport the Service member’s HHG PCS weight allowance

between the old PDS and new PDS.

C. Mobile Home Transportation Due to Tour Extension. A Service member on a tour at a PDS

for less than the specified tour length, who used the mobile home authorization when assigned to that

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PDS, is authorized mobile home transportation at Government expense from the place where the mobile

home is located to the PDS, limited to the authorization from the old PDS to the new PDS.

1. This authorization also applies if a Service member initially chooses not to move a mobile

home to that PDS due to the anticipated short assignment.

2. The authorization is limited to that situation when the tour is extended due to unusual

circumstances and the needs of the Service.

D. Breakdown, Damage, or Destruction of a Mobile Home en Route. When a mobile home

delivery to the authorized destination is prevented by breakdown, damage, or destruction of the mobile

home while en route under circumstances beyond the Service member’s control, mobile home allowances

are authorized to the point where the mobile home was transported.

1. The Service member may then transport the HHG that was removed from the mobile

home to meet safety requirements.

2. Total transportation cost is limited to the Government’s constructed cost, which is the total

cost to transport the Service member’s PCS HHG weight allowance from the old PDS to the new PDS.

E. Improper Shipments. When a mobile home is transported to an improper destination through

no fault of the Service member, the mobile home may be transported from there to the proper destination

upon authorization or approval from the appropriate Service’s Transportation Officer. The Service

member is responsible for the excess costs that would have been incurred had the shipment been

transported to the proper destination by the direct route.

F. Order Amended, Modified, Canceled, or Revoked. When the Service member personally

procures mobile home transportation and the PCS order is amended, modified, canceled, or revoked, the

Service member is responsible for modifying the mobile home transportation arrangements. The distance

is computed in accordance with the Defense Table of Official Distances (DTOD) from the origin or

destination within the CONUS or Alaska. The Service member is authorized mobile home allowances for

one of the following moves:

1. To the original destination as if the transportation was completed.

2. To the point the mobile home was intercepted en route and then to the ultimate new PDS.

3. To another place authorized in this Part.

4. For return to the old PDS, as appropriate.

G. Transportation before an Order Is Issued. When required by necessity, as determined by the

appropriate official of the Service concerned, a Service member’s mobile home may be transported before

a PCS order is issued when the Service member has personally procured transportation arrangements for

the mobile home in the same manner as his or her HHG. The request for transportation must be supported

by all of the following:

1. A statement from the AO or designated representative that the Service member was

previously advised that the order would be issued. The Service member should retain the AO’s or

designated representative’s written certification that the Service member was advised before the mobile

home was transported that this PCS order would be issued in case finance regulations require submission

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of that certification with the reimbursement voucher.

2. A signed agreement by the applicant to pay any additional costs incurred for transportation

to another point required because the new PDS named in the order is different than that named in the

AO’s statement.

3. A signed agreement by the applicant to pay the entire transportation cost if a PCS order is

not later issued to authorize the transportation. A Service member is authorized reimbursement only if a

PCS order is later issued.

4. The length of time before the PCS order is issued, during which a Service member may be

advised that an order will be issued, is limited to the relatively short period between the time when a

determination is made to order the Service member perform a PCS and the date on which the order is

actually issued.

5. General information furnished to the Service member concerning order issuance before

the determination is made to actually issue the order (such as the time of eventual release from active

duty, time when the service term expires, retirement eligibility date, expected rotation date from duty

OCONUS) is not advice that the order will be issued.

H. Mobile Home Transportation from a Previous PDS. The Service member or dependent is

responsible for notifying the AO of the mobile home’s location if it is not at the current PDS. If the

mobile home was not moved from a prior PDS, then mobile home allowances from the last PDS may be

authorized at any combination of the point of origin, in transit, or at the destination.

0528 MOBILE HOME TRANSPORTATION RELATED TO

EARLY RETURN OF DEPENDENTS (ERD)

The order granting the dependent’s transportation authorization may also authorize HHG or mobile home

transportation and must specify the regulatory authority. When a mobile home is transported due to an

authorized Early Return of Dependents (ERD), no further mobile home transportation is authorized before

the Service member’s next PCS from the PDS OCONUS.

A. Mobile Home Transportation Instead of HHG Shipping. Mobile home transportation instead

of shipping the HHG may be authorized to a designated place in the CONUS or from a point outside the

CONUS to a designated place in Alaska.

B. Service Member Assigned to Full PCS Weight Allowance Area. The amount the Government

pays for mobile home and HHG transportation to the designated place is limited to what it would have

cost the Government to transport the Service member’s PCS weight allowance from the PDS OCONUS

to the designated place.

C. Service Member Assigned to Administrative Weight-Restricted Area. The mobile home may

be transported from a point in the CONUS or Alaska to the designated place.

1. The Government’s cost for transporting the mobile home is limited to what it would have

cost the Government to transport the Service member’s PCS weight allowance from one of the following,

minus the weight of the HHG transported from OCONUS:

a. The Service member’s last PDS in the CONUS or Alaska.

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b. A port in the CONUS or Alaska through which the Service member’s HHG from

OCONUS would be shipped to the designated place, whichever is to the Service member’s advantage.

2. If a Service member owned a mobile home and was authorized to move it to the last PDS

in the CONUS while serving there, but chose not to do so, then the mobile home may be transported at

Government expense from that location to the Service member’s last PDS in the CONUS or Alaska when

the dependent returns early from an administrative weight-restricted area. The Government’s constructed

cost for this mobile home transportation is based on the Service member’s PCS weight allowance on the

order’s effective date from that location.

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CHAPTER 5: PERMANENT DUTY TRAVEL (PDT)

PART E: POV TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE

(SERVICE MEMBERS)

0529 SHIPMENT OF A POV IN THE CONUS

052901. Shipment of a POV at Government Expense

A. Eligibility. A POV may be transported within CONUS, when authorized, if an order has been

received for any of the following:

1. An authorized change in ship’s home port, or

2. A PCS from the construction site to the newly constructed ship if the initial homeport is

not the same PDS as the construction site, or

3. A PCS between CONUS permanent duty stations (PDSs) and the Service member is

physically unable to drive or has insufficient time to drive and report to the PDS as ordered. A

dependent's inability to drive does not satisfy criterion.

B. Allowances. See par. 053001

052902. Shipment of a POV by the Service Member

A. Eligibility. A Service member with dependents, who are relocating due to PCS orders in

CONUS, may be authorized to transport a privately owned vehicle (POV). A Service member is not

authorized reimbursement to ship a POV if he or she has no dependents or has dependents who are either

ineligible for transportation at Government expense or are not being relocated as a result of the Service

member’s permanent change of station (PCS).

B. Allowances. Reimbursement for shipping for one POV may be authorized in the CONUS

under the circumstances in Table 5-63. See PDT computation example 13.

Table 5-63. Shipment of a POV by the Service Member

A Service member with eligible dependent are relocating between PDSs in the CONUS and must

meet all of the following conditions:

a. The dependent is eligible for transportation at Government expense and relocates with the

Service member.

b. The Service member or his or her eligible dependent owns more than one POV that must be

relocated.

c. The Service member and all of his or her dependents travel at one time in one POV.

The Government’s transportation cost to ship the second POV is limited to the remainder of the

monetary allowance in lieu of transportation (MALT) plus flat per diem (MALT Plus) for driving two

POVs to the new PDS.

The Service member is financially responsible for all excess costs and additional expenses associated

with shipping the second POV.

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MALT and cost reimbursement are separately authorized for the POV being driven.

1. Limitations. A Service member who is authorized to ship a POV is ineligible for any of

the following allowances:

a. Commercial travel at Government expense for the Service member or dependent.

b. Government-procured transportation (as the Service member must self-obtain).

c. Reimbursement for TDY mileage or MALT to drop off or pick up the POV.

d. POV storage at Government expense instead of POV transportation.

e. Transportation of a POV from the location in the CONUS where the POV was left

while the Service member was stationed overseas to a new PDS in the CONUS unless it was stored at

Government expense because it could not be transported to the PDS outside of the CONUS (OCONUS).

2. A Service member who drives one vehicle and ships his or her second vehicle must

receive authorization or approval through the Secretarial Process to drive any additional vehicles.

0530 SHIPMENT OF A POV OCONUS

053001. Authorized Shipment of a POV at Government Expense

A. Eligibility. A Service member on a PCS order to or from a PDS OCONUS is authorized to

ship one POV unless restricted by the AO or Service regulations.

B. Allowances. POV transportation allowances are discretionary. Transportation of a POV may

be prohibited or suspended when the Secretary concerned or a higher authority determines it necessary for

national interest, or as the other country’s government directs.

1. Location Points Authorized for POV Transportation. POV shipment may be authorized

even if the POV can be driven between PDSs OCONUS. The Service member or a dependent may be

authorized POV transportation for his or her use when either a change in a ship’s home port is authorized

or the Service member is ordered on a PCS between any of the following locations:

a. From a PDS in the CONUS to a PDS OCONUS.

b. Between two PDSs OCONUS.

c. From a PDS OCONUS to a PDS in the CONUS.

Table 5-64. Types of Transportation Used for Shipping a POV OCONUS at Government Expense

1 Authorized

a. Government transportation.

b. Personally procured transportation only when the Service member has not

transported a POV at Government expense on the current PCS order and the POV

was shipped based on erroneous advice of a Government representative. The

reimbursement is limited to what the transportation would have cost had the POV

been transported by the Government.

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c. Commercial transportation.

d. Car ferry. See par. 050202-D.

Not

Authorized

a. Transportation by air.

b. Personally procured transportation unless the POV was shipped based on

erroneous advice of a Government representative designated to provide POV

shipment counseling, such as a Transportation Officer.

Note: Reimbursement for some transportation costs are authorized to transport a POV in accordance

with section 0531 when a Service member is reported as ill, injured, absent for a period of 30 or

more days in a missing status, or dead.

2. Excess POV Transportation Costs. An authorized POV shipment may not weigh more

than 20 measurement tons.

a. A Service member whose POV exceeds the weight limit must sign an agreement to

pay the excess transportation costs. When the excess POV weight is due to an oversized POV used for

medical reasons, obtain authorization or approval for the extra cost through the Secretarial Process.

b. Two Service members married to each other who both receive PCS orders may ship

two POVs or combine their 20-measurement-ton limitation and ship one large POV at Government

expense, limited to the total cost the Government would have paid to ship two POVs.

3. Port or Vehicle-Processing Center (VPC) Used. The Service concerned designates the

ports or VPCs used. In the absence of a designation, the port or VPC serving the origin point and the port

or VPC serving the new PDS, Port of Debarkation and any port in between the old and new PDS are the

authorized loading and unloading points for a POV.

a. From Old to New PDS. When POV transportation is authorized, one POV not to

exceed 20 measurement tons may be transported from the POV port/VPC serving the old PDS or a POV

port/VPC serving the passenger Port of Debarkation or any POV port/VPC in between the old and new

PDS to the:

(1) POV unloading port/VPC serving the new PDS;

(2) POV unloading port/VPC serving another authorized place

(3) New PDS if authorized/approved by the Secretarial Process for locations

requiring approval; or

b. The home of record (HOR) or place last entered active duty (PLEAD) is considered

the old PDS for POV transportation to the first PDS, to the POV unloading port, or VPC serving the first

PDS.

c. The HOR, PLEAD, or authorized HOS is considered the new PDS for POV

transportation upon separation or retirement.

d. A POV may be shipped between ports or VPCs other than those designated by the

Service concerned on the condition that the Service member reimburses the Government for all excess

costs involved.

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(1) Alternate ports or VPCs OCONUS should be in the same country as the

designated port or VPC.

(2) Alternate ports or VPCs in a different country must be authorized or approved

through the Secretarial Process. A Service member is not required to go through the Secretarial Process

when he or she selects an alternate port in the CONUS to ship a POV, even if the primary port or VPC is

OCONUS.

e. A POV shipped from a port or VPC OCONUS to the designated port or VPC in the

CONUS may be reshipped to another port or VPC in the CONUS if all of the following occur:

(1) The reshipment is authorized through the Secretarial Process.

(2) The PCS order is amended or modified before the Service member takes delivery

of the POV at the designated unloading port or VPC.

(3) The Service member agrees to reimburse the Government for the reshipment

cost.

(4) Direct ocean service is not available from the designated POV loading port or

VPC to the designated POV unloading port or to the VPC in a reasonable amount of time after POV

delivery.

4. Unit Moves. A Service member who is on a PCS order to, from, or between PDSs

OCONUS due to a unit move may be provided POV transportation from the unit’s old PDS to the

designated POV loading port or VPC and from the designated POV unloading port or VPC to the new

PDS.

5. Travel Hazards. A Service member who is on a PCS order to, from, or between PDSs

OCONUS may be provided POV transportation between the PDS OCONUS and the port OCONUS or

VPC if authorized or approved through the Secretarial Process due to one of the following reasons:

(1) Travel hazards exist between the port or VPC and the PDS.

(2) The Service member is physically unable to drive between the port or VPC and

the PDS.

(3) The conditions of the Service member’s assignment or PCS order justify

overland travel as a prudent alternative.

6. Allowance for POV Delivery Pick up or Drop Off . A Service member who is authorized

POV transportation when ordered on a PCS is also authorized reimbursement to deliver or pick up the

POV from the designated loading and unloading ports or VPC.

a. A Service member whose POV pick-up or POV delivery is a separate trip from his or

her en route PCS travel is authorized round-trip transportation at the automobile mileage rate from the old

PDS to the designated loading port or VPC and from the unloading port or VPC to the new PDS. PCS

travel time is allowed and computed for the round trips to deliver and pick up the POV in par. 050205

b. A Service member and his or her dependent who pick up or deliver a POV

concurrently with PCS travel are authorized the following when the PCS does not involve a TDY en

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route:

(1) PCS allowances for direct travel from the old PDS to the designated POV

loading port or VPC.

(2) Reimbursement for transportation from the POV loading port or VPC to the

passenger port.

(3) PCS allowances for travel from the old PDS to the passenger port for the Service

member and his or her dependent, from the location where the dependent is dropped off, and from the

passenger port to the designated POV loading port or VPC for the Service member. Reimbursement for

the Service member to return to the passenger port is not authorized.

(4) PCS allowances for direct travel from the passenger port to the designated POV

unloading port or VPC and then to the new PDS.

c. A Service member who has a TDY en route with a PCS and who delivers a POV to a

designated POV port or VPC is authorized all of the following:

(1) A MALT for the official distance from the old PDS to the TDY en route location

plus per diem.

(2) A MALT for the official distance from the TDY location to the designated POV

port or VPC plus per diem.

(3) PCS allowances for direct travel from the designated POV port or VPC to the

passenger port.

d. A dependent who delivers the POV or accompanies a Service member who is

delivering a POV is authorized the same allowances as when a dependent joins or accompanies the

Service member during TDY en route.

e. When a dependent picks up the POV from the designated POV port or VPC without

traveling to the TDY en route location, PCS allowances are authorized for direct travel from the

passenger port to the designated POV unloading port or VPC, then to the new PDS.

7. Responsibility for POV after Delivery. The Government’s responsibility begins when the

POV is accepted for transportation and continues until the POV is delivered either to the Service member

at the destination or to a commercial warehouse. A POV that is not claimed within a reasonable time

after notification of arrival is provided, as determined by the port commander, may be placed in

commercial storage at the Service member’s expense.

8. Transporting a POV before a PCS Order Is Issued. An eligible Service member may

transport a POV before a PCS order is issued when all of the following criteria are met:

a. The PCS AO or designated representative provides a supporting statement that he or

she advised the Service member ahead of time that the PCS order would be issued.

(1) The time between when the Service member is advised that the PCS order will be

issued and when the actual PCS order is issued must be a relatively short period.

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(2) General information provided to the Service member, such as the eventual

release from active duty, retirement eligibility, or the expected rotation date from duty OCONUS, does

not constitute advice that a PCS order will be issued.

b. The Service member agrees in writing to reimburse the Government for the entire cost

of transporting the POV if a PCS order is not issued or if the PCS order does not authorize transportation

of a POV once it is issued.

c. The Service member agrees to pay any additional costs for reshipping the POV to

another port due to a change in the PDS from the PDS named in the PCS AO’s supporting statement.

9. Transporting a POV and Dependent Does not Travel OCONUS. A Service member with

a dependent who transports a POV to the PDS OCONUS anticipating that the dependent will join him or

her may be authorized or approved the advance return transportation of the POV through the Secretarial

Process when circumstances beyond the Service member’s control prevent the dependent’s transportation.

It must be in the best interest of the Service member, the dependent, and the Government. If advance

return of the POV is approved, the Service member has no further POV transportation authority on the

PCS order from that PDS.

10. Disciplinary Action Taken Against Service Member OCONUS. A Service member

stationed OCONUS who has disciplinary action taken against him or her, is discharged under other than

honorable conditions, or sentenced to confinement with or without discharge when no dependent travel is

involved is authorized POV transportation to the designated POV unloading port or VPC of the Service

member’s HOR or PLEAD.

11. Reassignment from Accompanied PDS OCONUS to Unaccompanied PDS OCONUS

before POV Is Transported. When a Service member is on a PCS order from a PDS in the CONUS to a

PDS OCONUS where dependents and a POV are authorized, and is reassigned after arriving at the new

PDS to a PDS OCONUS where dependents and a POV are not authorized, then the POV cannot be

shipped to the newly assigned PDS. If the Service member delivered a POV to a loading port or VPC in

the CONUS for shipment to a PDS OCONUS and the POV has not already shipped, then he or she may

be authorized transportation to pick up the POV from the unloading port or VPC that ordinarily serves the

CONUS designated place.

Table 5-65. Factors Affecting POV Transportation OCONUS

If…

Then…

a POV is transported by the

Government to the wrong place,

the POV must be reshipped, or transferred from one ship

(or other form of transportation) to another and transported,

to the proper destination at Government expense.

a Service member authorized to

transport his or her POV at

Government expense chooses not to

do so,

he or she may select the greater of the following options

upon assignment to a new PDS where a POV is authorized:

a. Transportation of the POV from the PDS where the

Service member chose to leave the POV to the POV

unloading port or VPC of the newly assigned PDS.

b. Transportation of a POV from the Service member’s

current PDS to the POV unloading port or VPC of the

newly assigned PDS.

an eligible Service member transports

a POV due to a PCS order and that

order is later amended, modified,

canceled, or revoked,

he or she may have the POV reshipped at Government

expense. This includes having his or her POV returned to

the old PDS.

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Table 5-65. Factors Affecting POV Transportation OCONUS

If…

Then…

a Service member divorces or has his

or her marriage annulled while

stationed OCONUS,

the Service member or previously command-sponsored

dependent may be authorized transportation allowances for

a POV. See par. 053302.

an eligible Service member is

separating from the Service or being

relieved from active duty,

he or she must turn in his or her POV to the designated

POV loading port for transportation before the 181st day

from his or her separation or relief from active duty. An

extension for a specific additional time period may be

authorized or approved through the Secretarial Process if

POV transportation within the initial time period would

create a hardship for the Service member. See

par. 051002

for restrictions to time limitations.

an eligible Service member retires or

is placed on the Temporary Disability

Retired List (TDRL), discharged with

severance or separation pay, or

involuntarily released from active

duty with readjustment or separation

pay,

he or she must turn in his or her POV to the designated

POV loading port for transportation within 3 years

following his or her active service termination. An

extension for up to 1 year may be approved through the

Secretarial Process when a Service member is undergoing

hospitalization, medical treatment, education, training, or

other justifiable situations. See

par. 051003 for restrictions

to time limitations.

an eligible Service member is

authorized to transport a POV on a

PCS order,

he or she may ship the POV any time while the PCS order

remains in effect. The POV must be shipped before the

receipt of another PCS order. The POV transportation

must be related to the Service member’s PCS rather than

for personal reasons.

053002. POV Transportation when Transportation to the PDS OCONUS is not

Authorized

A. Reasons a POV is not Transported to the PDS OCONUS. A POV may not be transported to a

PDS OCONUS under any of the following reasons:

1. POV transportation is not permitted to the new PDS.

2. The Service member serves a dependent-restricted or unaccompanied tour and he or she

elects not to have a POV transported to the new PDS.

3. The Service member elects not to have a POV transported to the new PDS when

concurrent travel of a dependent has been denied and the dependent has moved to a designated place.

B. Situation Authorizing Transportation of One POV. When a POV is not transported due to one

of the reasons in 053002-A, but is required for the Service member’s or dependent’s use, the Service

member is authorized transportation of one POV to a destination other than the new PDS. The

transportation is from the designated POV loading port or VPC ordinarily serving the Service member’s

old PDS to the designated POV unloading port or VPC ordinarily serving one of the following locations:

1. Any place in the CONUS that the Service member designates, if the old PDS is OCONUS.

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2. Alaska, Hawaii, or any U.S. territory or possession where dependent transportation is

authorized.

3. Any location OCONUS where dependent transportation is authorized when the Service

member is on an accompanied tour immediately after completing the dependent-restricted tour, or a tour

under unusually arduous sea duty, and the Service member has sufficient time in service remaining to

complete the dependent-restricted tour and the tour immediately thereafter.

4. A location OCONUS that has been justified under unusual conditions or circumstances

and authorized or approved by the Secretary concerned. This authority may not be delegated below the

Service headquarters that directs dependent travel and transportation policy and procedures. For the

Armed Forces, the Secretary concerned may only authorize a location OCONUS to return a foreign-born

dependent to the spouse’s native country in accordance with DoDI 1315.18

(Military Personnel

Assignments). The Commandant of the Coast Guard (CG-13) may make an exception for a Coast Guard

member.

C. Subsequent Transportation

1. When a Service member is on a dependent-restricted tour or an unaccompanied tour at a

PDS OCONUS and receives command sponsorship of a dependent at the PDS, he or she is authorized

transportation of one POV. Transportation is from the POV loading port, or VPC serving the location

where a dependent was previously moved at Government expense, to the POV unloading port or VPC

serving the Service member’s PDS.

2. Transportation of one POV is authorized when a Service member is ordered on a PCS to a

PDS where a POV transportation is permitted, or where dependent transportation is authorized. The

transportation is authorized from the POV loading port or VPC serving the place where a POV was

shipped (see par. 053002-A

) to the POV unloading port or VPC serving the Service member’s new PDS.

053003. Replacement POV Shipment

A. Authorization. When the POV that was transported to an area OCONUS at Government

expense is no longer adequate for the Service member’s transportation needs, a replacement POV may be

authorized through the Secretarial Process. A POV may be replaced if authorized and only if one of the

following conditions exists:

1. The POV has deteriorated due to severe climatic conditions.

2. The POV was lost through fire, theft, or similar cases.

3. The POV has worn out due to age and normal deterioration and the Service member is on

consecutive tours of duty OCONUS (B-212338, December 27, 1983).

B. Limitation. A Service member may transport only one replacement POV during any 4-year

period when the POV being transported replaces a POV that is worn out due to age and normal

deterioration.

053004. POV Purchased in a Non-Foreign Area OCONUS

POV- transportation is not authorized when a Service member purchases a POV in a non-foreign area

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OCONUS and is not permanently assigned in that non-foreign area OCONUS at the time of the purchase.

A Service member may be authorized POV transportation when the POV is purchased in a non-foreign

OCONUS area if the POV is used by the Service member or his or her dependent at the PDS OCONUS

or to an alternate transportation port and it is authorized through the Secretarial Process.

0531 POV SHIPMENT AND STORAGE WHEN SERVICE

MEMBER REPORTED AS ILL, INJURED, ABSENT FOR A

PERIOD OF 30 OR MORE DAYS IN A MISSING STATUS, OR

DEAD

A. Eligibility. A Service member on active duty is authorized POV transportation when he or

she is:

1. Injured or ill and the Service concerned accepts a statement by a medical authority that

hospitalization or treatment is anticipated for 140 or more days.

2. Absent for a period of 30 or more days in a missing status.

3. Officially reported as dead.

B. Allowances

1. Transportation. The AO may authorize transportation for two POVs. The destination

must be one of the following:

a. The Service member’s HOR.

b. The dependent’s residence.

c. Location of the next of kin, or person authorized to receive custody of the Service

member’s personal items.

d. A place or places as determined by Service regulations.

2. Limitations

a. The 20-measurement-ton restriction does not apply to this paragraph.

b. POVs may be driven by the dependent, next of kin, or any person authorized to

receive custody of the Service member’s personal items. Both POVs must be driven to the same

destination.

(1) Reimbursement is authorized for road, bridge, and tunnel tolls; fuel; oil; parking

fees; and ferry fares.

(2) A mileage reimbursement is not authorized.

c. Arranged transportation must be to the same authorized destination.

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d. When POV transportation is personally procured, the total reimbursement is limited to

what it would have cost the Government to transport and store the POVs. Reimbursement is also limited

to the cost of over-water and overland transportation between the authorized points or between the actual

locations where the POV is transported, whichever is less.

e. A rental car is authorized when POVs are transported at Government expense and do

not arrive at the authorized destination by the designated delivery date. Reimbursement for a rental car is

limited to $30 per day and a maximum of 7 days. If two POVs are transported at Government expense,

then no rental car reimbursement is authorized unless both POVs do not arrive at the authorized

destination by the designated delivery date.

3. Storage

a. POVs transported at Government expense for a Service member under this paragraph

may be placed in non-temporary storage (NTS) at Government expense when the person authorized to

receive custody of the POVs is unknown, subject to litigation, or known but not located or notified to take

custody of the POVs. Storage is authorized until proper disposition can be made.

b. Storage in transit (SIT) may be authorized or approved for one or both of the POVs to

the nearest available storage facility provided the POVs are turned over for transportation within the time

limitations in Table 5-49

. In this circumstance, the Service member’s POVs are not restricted to the

maximum standard size usually allowed by the military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command

storage contract. SIT of 181 or more days becomes the financial responsibility of the person to whom the

POV shipment is being made.

4. Subsequent POV Transportation. One or both POVs, transported at Government expense

when a Service member is reported dead, ill, injured, or absent for a period of 30 or more days in a

missing status, may be transported again if either of the following occur:

a. The status of the Service member changes within these same categories.

b. The Service member is officially reported as absent for a period of more than 1 year in

a missing status. The additional move must be approved through the Secretarial Process.

0532 POV STORAGE

A. Eligibility

1. Storage for one POV may be authorized if a Service member is:

a. Ordered to a foreign or non-foreign PDS OCONUS where POV transportation is not

permitted due to the country, area, U.S. laws, regulations, other restrictions, or the extensive modification

of the POV required as a condition of entry.

b. Sent on a TDY in support of a contingency operation for more than 30 days.

c. Sent on a TDY in support of humanitarian assistance or other emergency operations as

declared by an Executive Order or by the administering Secretary. In this circumstance, POV storage

must be authorized through the Secretarial Process.

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d. Authorized POV transportation due to his or her ship’s home port change when 31 or

more days are between the ship’s departure from the old home port and its arrival at the new home port.

e. Authorized a POV due to a unit PCS and the unit is deployed 31 days or more en

route.

2. A Service member is eligible for POV storage if a PCS order, a contingency operation’s

TDY order, or the start of an in-place consecutive overseas tour (IPCOT) has an effective date on or after

April 1, 1997.

Note: POV storage when transportation is authorized is not allowed.

B. Allowances. POV storage is instead of POV shipment both to and from the foreign PDS

OCONUS to which POV shipment is prohibited.

1. A Service member who is authorized POV storage:

a. Is not authorized POV shipment from his or her foreign location OCONUS when he or

she performs a subsequent PCS.

b. Can ship the stored POV to a subsequent foreign PDS OCONUS if the Service

member performs a consecutive overseas tour (COT) and POV transportation is permitted to the PDS

OCONUS.

c. Cannot continue to store the POV at Government expense while shipping another

POV to the subsequent PDS OCONUS.

d. Cannot ship a POV that is removed from storage before departing the PDS OCONUS

on a PCS order or beginning an IPCOT.

e. Can be authorized shipment of a POV removed from storage upon a COT or IPCOT

when performing a PCS after the COT or IPCOT is completed.

2. A POV that is eligible for storage must adhere to the maximum size restrictions of the

Surface Deployment and Distribution Command storage contract. A Service member is financially

responsible for all excess storage costs resulting from a vehicle’s excess size. These costs are collected in

accordance with the Service regulations unless one of the criteria below is met:

a. An oversized POV may be authorized or approved through the Secretarial Process if it

is required by the Service member or his or her dependents for medical reasons.

b. If a Service member is married to a Service member and both Service members are

each authorized to store one POV, they may store one oversized vehicle instead of storing two POVs.

The cost for the storage of one oversized POV is limited to what the Government would have paid for the

storage of two standard size POVs.

3. The Services may designate, through the Secretarial Process, POV storage facilities.

a. If Government storage is available, then a Service member may personally arrange

POV storage at either the Service-designated facility or a commercial storage facility other than the

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Service-designated facility. A Service member may be reimbursed for travel to and from a commercial

storage facility, limited to the cost of travel to a Service-designated storage facility. Reimbursement is for

the actual storage cost and limited to what it would have cost the Government to store the POV.

b. Storage in a private residence, garage, or on a private lot does not constitute a

commercial facility. Reimbursement is not authorized for any costs associated with storage in a non-

commercial storage facility, which includes transportation costs to or from the storage facility.

c. The actual cost of storage is reimbursable if Government storage is neither available

nor designated, or if the Transportation Officer instructed the Service member to store the POV at

personal expense.

4. The Service may elect to transport the POV to and from the storage location.

a. If Government-procured transportation is available and the Service member chooses to

personally arrange transportation, then he or she is limited to the Government’s constructed-transportation

cost. The Government’s constructed-transportation cost is compared to the total of the following two

costs:

(1) The Service member’s actual transportation cost to and from the storage facility.

(2) The automobile mileage rate for the official round-trip distance to and from the

storage facility, if the POV is driven.

b. If Government-procured transportation is not available or the Service member is

instructed by the Transportation Officer to personally arrange POV transportation, then he or she is

reimbursed the actual cost of transportation. If the POV is driven, reimbursement is at the automobile

mileage rate for the official round-trip distance to and from the storage facility.

c. If the Service member is traveling to or from OCONUS, and drops off or picks up the

POV at the storage facility en route to his or her destination, then he or she is reimbursed for one-way

transportation at the automobile mileage rate between the designated storage facility and the authorized

location (such as the PDS or VPC or port) limited to the Government’s constructed cost of transporting

the POV.

5. An eligible Service member who delivers his or her POV to the storage facility

concurrently with PCS travel (with no TDY en route) is authorized both of the following PCS allowances:

a. Direct travel from the old PDS to the designated storage facility and from the

designated storage facility to the passenger port of embarkation.

b. Travel for the Service member and his or her dependents from the old PDS to the

passenger port of embarkation to drop off dependents and for his or herself from the passenger port of

embarkation to the designated storage facility. Reimbursement is not authorized for return travel to the

port of embarkation from the designated storage facility.

6. An eligible Service member who picks up his or her POV from the designated storage

facility concurrently with PCS travel (with no TDY en route) is authorized PCS allowances for both his or

herself and dependents for direct travel from the passenger’s point of debarkation to the designated

storage facility and then to the new PDS.

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7. An eligible Service member who delivers his or her POV to the designated storage facility

due to PCS travel to a foreign PDS or non-foreign PDS OCONUS and then performs a TDY en route is

authorized all of the following:

a. A MALT, plus per diem at the Standard CONUS per diem rate, for one authorized

traveler for the official distance from the old PDS to the TDY location or locations en route.

b. MALT for one authorized traveler for the official distance from the TDY location to

the designated storage facility.

c. PCS allowances for direct travel from the designated storage facility to the passenger

port.

8. An eligible Service member who picks up his or her POV from the designated storage

facility to travel on a PCS order and he or she has a TDY en route is authorized all of the following:

a. PCS allowances, including per diem, for direct travel from the passenger port to the

designated storage facility to pick up the POV.

b. MALT plus per diem, at the Standard CONUS per diem rate, for one authorized

passenger for the official distance from the designated storage facility to or from the TDY location.

c. MALT plus per diem, at the Standard CONUS per diem rate, for the official distance

to or from the TDY location to the new PDS.

9. A dependent who travels with the Service member or who delivers the POV to the

designated storage facility is authorized travel and transportation allowances.

a. The allowances are based on the travel actually performed using the MALT and per

diem rates, limited to the greater of the following:

(1) MALT for the official distance between authorized points as if the dependent had

traveled separately, plus a per diem for dependents, at the rate in par. 050303

, for the constructed travel

time between the authorized points.

(2) What it would have cost if Government-procured transportation had been used

for travel between authorized points, plus a per diem in Chapter 2

for the time required for travel between

authorized points.

b. If Government-procured transportation is used, then subtract the cost of Government-

procured transportation from the allowances.

10. A dependent who picks up the POV from the designated storage facility without

traveling with the Service member to the TDY location en route is authorized dependent PCS allowances

from the port of debarkation to the designated storage facility and then to the new PDS.

11. Storage of a POV may continue in the following circumstances:

a. A POV may remain in storage at Government expense for up to 90 days after the

Service member returns from a PDS OCONUS to which the POV could not be shipped or returns after a

TDY order for a contingency operation. All storage charges accrued after 90 days are the Service

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member’s financial responsibility unless additional storage is authorized or approved through the

Secretarial Process.

b. A Service member with an authorized POV in storage under this section who

separates from the Service or is relieved from active duty is authorized continued storage up to 180 days

after the date of the active-duty termination unless specifically prohibited in par. 051002

. All storage

charges accrued 181 days or later are the Service member’s financial responsibility unless additional

storage is authorized or approved through the Secretarial Process.

c. A Service member with an authorized POV in storage who is retired, placed on the

TDRL, discharged with severance or separation pay, involuntarily released from active duty with

readjustment or separation pay, or dead is authorized continued POV storage for up to 1 year from the

date of active-duty termination. All storage charges accrued after 365 days are the Service member’s

financial responsibility unless additional storage is authorized or approved through the Secretarial

Process. An extension may be granted for the circumstances described in par. 051003

d. A Service member is authorized pick up or delivery of his or her POV at Government

expense, regardless of the time in storage, as long as the Service member’s order is valid. This includes a

POV that was stored at Government expense that was converted to storage at the Service member’s

expense.

12. A Service member may be authorized a funds advance of POV storage costs in

accordance with Service regulations.

13. A POV may be stored by the eligible Service member before a PCS or contingency order

is issued when all of the following criteria are met:

a. The AO for the PCS or contingency operation, or his or her designated representative,

provides a supporting statement that he or she advised the Service member ahead of time that the PCS or

contingency order would be issued.

(1) The time between when the Service member is advised that the PCS or

contingency order will be issued and when the actual PCS order is issued must be a relatively short time

period.

(2) General information provided to the Service member, such as the eventual

release from active duty, retirement eligibility, or the expected rotation date from duty OCONUS, does

not constitute advice that a PCS or contingency order will be issued.

b. The Service member agrees in writing to reimburse the Government for the entire cost

of storing the POV if a PCS order or contingency order is not issued or if the PCS order or contingency

order does not authorize storage of a POV once it is issued.

c. The Service member agrees to pay any additional costs for reshipment of the POV to

another storage facility because the PDS named in the issued order is different from the PDS named in the

PCS AO’s supporting statement, or because a return to the current PDS is necessary if the contingency

order is not issued.

14. A POV that is stored after the Service member receives a PCS or contingency operation

order that is later amended, modified, canceled, or revoked may be removed from storage and shipped or

reshipped to the proper destination at Government expense. A POV may not be removed from storage

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and shipped if the Service member has fewer than 12 months remaining on his or her tour OCONUS.

The exceptions for HHG transportation in par. 051305

also apply to this paragraph.

15. A Service member who is authorized POV storage may exercise this authority at any

time as long as the PCS order remains in effect and the POV storage is due to the PCS and not for

personal reasons.

0533 SEPARATE RETURN OF CURRENT OR FORMER

DEPENDENT FROM A PDS OCONUS

053301. POV Transportation for Early Return of Dependents (ERD)

A. Eligibility. A Service member who is authorized an Early Return of Dependents (ERD) due

to official or personal situations (see par. 050804-F) may be authorized POV transportation for his or her

dependents.

B. Allowances. A Service member is authorized transportation at Government expense for his or

her dependents and household goods to a designated place in the CONUS, Alaska, Hawaii, a U.S.

territory, a possession of the United States, or, if the dependents are foreign nationals, to a place in the

country of their origin.

1. A dependent authorized travel from a PDS OCONUS under an Early Return of

Dependents (ERD), in section 0508

, may also be authorized transportation of one POV to the designated

POV unloading port or VPC serving the location where the dependent is authorized to travel.

2. If a POV shipment is en route to the designated OCONUS unloading port or VPC, the

authority exists to change the transporter or place of shipment on the effective date of the dependents

travel.

3. A dependent who travels from the PDS OCONUS to the authorized destination without an

authorized order but under circumstances that permit an order may be authorized or approved

transportation for one POV from the designated POV loading port or VPC OCONUS. If the conditions of

par. 050804

are met, then a travel order is issued authorizing dependent travel and POV transportation

from the designated POV port or VPC serving the location that dependent travel would have been

authorized. This order must be supported by the Service member’s commanding officer’s determination

that:

a. The dependent traveled to an appropriate destination to reside.

b. The dependent meets all of the conditions in par. 050804

, except that a travel order for

transportation was not issued.

c. The status of the dependent as command-sponsored OCONUS remains unchanged.

This does not apply for a Service member’s former dependent whose transportation could have been

authorized under par. 050805

d. A travel order approving the dependent transportation to an appropriate destination

under par. 050804

is in the Government’s best interest.

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4. There is no authority for return transportation of a POV to a location OCONUS even if a

dependent is permitted to return at Government expense.

5. The shipment of a POV under an ERD order, if authorized and approved, exhausts the

Service member’s entitlement to ship a POV from the last or any previous PDS OCONUS to the CONUS.

053302. POV Transportation OCONUS after Divorce or Annulment

A. Eligibility. A Service member stationed OCONUS whose marriage is terminated by divorce

or annulment may be authorized transportation allowances for a POV.

B. Allowances

1. A Service member authorized to transport a POV on a PCS order may have the POV

transported one last time when his or her POV is legally awarded to the spouse through a divorce.

a. The Service member must transport the POV in accordance with the procedures in

section 0530

, and agree in writing to pay any excess costs involved.

b. The POV shipment ends all authority for POV transportation under the Service

member’s PCS order.

2. A Service member stationed OCONUS may be authorized POV transportation for a

former family member who was a command-sponsored dependent and resided with the Service member.

a. The POV must be turned over to the Transportation Officer for shipment within 1 year

after the final decree’s effective date for the divorce or annulment.

b. There is no authority for return transportation of a POV to a location OCONUS even

if a dependent is permitted to return at Government expense.

0534 RENTAL VEHICLE REIMBURSEMENT WHEN A POV

TRANSPORTED AT GOVERNMENT EXPENSE ARRIVES

LATE

A. Eligibility. A Service member or dependent that is authorized POV transportation may be

eligible for reimbursement for a rental vehicle when the POV arrives late. The POV must be transported

at Government expense for the Service member’s or a dependent’s use under any of the following:

1. PCS orders.

2. An unusual or an emergency circumstance.

3. Various other situations that may not be directly related to a PCS.

B. Allowances. A POV has not arrived at the authorized destination if it is not available for

delivery to the Service member on or before the designated delivery date. If the Service member’s POV

does not arrive at the authorized destination by the designated delivery date, then the Service or Agency

must reimburse the Service member for the cost of a rental vehicle for his or her use or a dependent’s use.

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Reimbursement for a rental vehicle, by law, is limited to $30 per day with a maximum reimbursement of

$210. The Service member or dependent may rent a vehicle as early as the day after the POV’s scheduled

delivery date and keep it for up to 7 days, or less if the POV is available for delivery sooner. See

PDT

computation example 14.

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CHAPTER 5: PERMANENT DUTY TRAVEL (PDT)

PART F: PERMANENT CHANGE OF STATION

ALLOWANCES (CIVILIAN EMPLOYEES)

0535 INTRODUCTION

This subchapter specifies relocation information and provides the authority for a civilian employee’s PCS

travel and transportation allowances. This Part implements the Federal Travel Regulations (FTR), and

provides Department of Defense (DoD) administrative requirements for DoD civilian employees. It also

covers the eligibility for the standard PCS allowances: transportation, per diem, miscellaneous

reimbursable expenses, the miscellaneous expense allowance (MEA), temporary quarters subsistence

expenses (TQSE), house-hunting trips (HHT), real estate transactions-including lease breaking expense -

relocation services, Relocation Income Tax (RIT) allowance, privately owned vehicle (POV) shipment,

and household goods (HHG) and mobile home transportation and storage. The standard travel and

transportation allowances in Chapter 2 apply, unless otherwise indicated in Chapter 5

. PCS allowances

are authorized and limited to travel and transportation over a direct, usually traveled route between an old

permanent duty station (PDS) and a new PDS, unless specified otherwise in the JTR.

0536 STANDARD PERMANENT CHANGE OF STATION (PCS)

ALLOWANCES (FTR §302-3

)

Civilian relocation allowances are authorized when the hiring process includes PCS allowances unless

specified otherwise in the JTR. The authorized allowances are transportation for the civilian employee

and dependent, per diem for the civilian employee and dependent, miscellaneous reimbursable expenses,

MEA, real estate, HHG transportation and storage, and the RIT allowance. The Agency may not

negotiate, deny, or reduce these allowances when the civilian employee meets the eligibility requirements.

The HHT, TQSE, property management services, and transportation allowances for POV shipment are

discretionary. The PCS order must indicate the specific allowances authorized for the relocation and

provide instructions about procedures for travel and transportation services. Section 0536

applies when

the hiring process includes PCS allowances. For travel and transportation eligibility and allowance tables,

see

FTR §302-3.

053601. Civilian PCS Transportation Allowance

A civilian employee who relocates and meets the eligibility requirements is authorized civilian

employee and dependent transportation.

A. Transportation Options. A civilian employee or dependent may choose to:

1. Travel by POV.

2. Personally procure transportation.

3. Travel by Government or Government-procured transportation.

B. Using Multiple Options. A civilian employee or dependent may use more than one mode of

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transportation. If a POV and another mode of transportation is used between official locations, this is

mixed-mode travel. Total reimbursement is limited to monetary allowance in lieu of transportation

(MALT) plus per diem for the authorized travel.

C. Mandatory Government Transportation Use. An AO may direct the civilian employee or

dependent to use Government transportation. When the directed mode is available and a civilian

employee or dependent chooses not to use the directed mode, reimbursement for transportation is not

allowed. See

DoDI 4500.57 and DTR 4500.9-R-Part 1, “Passenger Movement,” and par. 020208.

D. Rental Vehicle Use. A rental vehicle may only be authorized in advance for PCS

transportation when other transportation modes are not advantageous to the Government. If not

authorized in advance, and the civilian employee or dependent uses a rental vehicle, it is reimbursed as

though a POV was used.

053602. Civilian PCS Per Diem Allowance

A civilian employee who relocates and meets the eligibility requirements is authorized per diem for

him or herself and any dependent. The reimbursement amount depends on the mode of transportation

authorized and used, the official distance, the number and age of dependents authorized to travel, and

whether a dependent is traveling with the civilian employee. See section 0537 and section 0539

053603. Miscellaneous Reimbursable Expenses

A civilian employee who relocates and meets the eligibility requirements is authorized reimbursable

expenses in Chapter 2. The standard travel and transportation allowances in Chapter 2

apply, unless

otherwise indicated in Chapter 5.

053604. Miscellaneous Expense Allowance (MEA)

The MEA is a separate allowance from the miscellaneous reimbursable expense allowance. It is paid

as a specific set amount or itemized as a reimbursement for the actual expense.

053605. Temporary Quarters Subsistence Expenses (TQSE)

TQSE is a discretionary allowance intended to partially reimburse a civilian employee for temporary

lodging, meals, and incidental expenses incurred when it is necessary for the civilian employee or his or

her dependent to occupy temporary lodging during a PCS move.

053606. House-Hunting Trip (HHT)

An HHT is a discretionary allowance that may be authorized for a civilian employee or spouse to seek

a permanent residence at the new PDS. A domestic partner is not a spouse and cannot be authorized an

HHT.

053607. Real Estate Allowances

A civilian employee who relocates and meets the eligibility requirements is authorized reimbursement

for specific expenses incurred for the sale or purchase of a residence or the settlement of an unexpired

lease for a PCS move. The residence must be located in the continental United States (CONUS) or non-

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foreign area outside the CONUS (OCONUS).

053608. Relocation Services

Relocation services is a discretionary allowance that a DoD Component may offer an eligible civilian

employee.

A. Relocation Services Program. The DoD National Relocation Program offers authorized

transferring DoD civilian employees origin and destination area relocation services, including home

marketing assistance, guaranteed home sale, property management services, home finding assistance, and

mortgage assistance. Relocation services company third-party contractors provide DoD National

Relocation Program (DNRP) relocation services.

B. Component Responsibilities. The DoD Component must determine a civilian employee’s

eligibility and the extent and conditions for relocation services. The DoD Component must provide

counseling about relocation services as soon as possible after selection of a civilian employee and before

a civilian employee transfers within or between DoD Components or to another Agency. The DoD

Component must determine how to monitor and evaluate that counseling.

053609. POV Transportation

Transportation allowances for shipping a POV are discretionary. POV transportation may be

authorized or approved by the commanding officer (CONUS) or the overseas command (OCONUS). A

maximum of two POVs may be shipped at Government expense between CONUS locations. In CONUS,

the AO may determine that it is both advantageous and cost effective to the Government to allow for

shipment of an alternative fuel POV which would be impractical to drive a long distance to the new PDS

due to vehicle range capability and fueling availability limitations. Only one POV may be shipped

between CONUS and OCONUS locations or between OCONUS locations. POV storage is not

authorized in connection with a Civilian employee’s PCS. A civilian employee assigned to a temporary

change of station (TCS) for an operational deployment or contingency operation is eligible for POV

storage in par. 032905

. A civilian employee is eligible for POV storage in connection with an OCONUS

evacuation in par. 060405.

053610. Household Goods (HHG) and Mobile Home Transportation and

Storage

A civilian employee who relocates and meets the eligibility requirements is authorized HHG

shipment, including storage in transit (SIT) and non-temporary storage (NTS) of HHG. However, if a

civilian employee chooses to transport a mobile home instead of HHG and meets the requirements in this

Part, the civilian employee or dependent must use the mobile home as a primary residence at the location

to which it is being moved.

A. HHG. NTS of HHG is not authorized for a transfer from one location in the CONUS to

another location in the CONUS, unless the transfer is to a designated isolated PDS in the CONUS. In the

case of any loss or damage to HHG, the civilian employee must submit claims in accordance with

applicable Service regulations (

FTR §302-7). HHG must be delivered within the time limits in par.

053712.

B. Mobile Home. This Part specifies mobile home transportation allowances for a civilian

employee relocating due to a PCS order. Allowances for transporting a mobile home, including mileage

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when towed by the civilian employee, are in addition to the reimbursement of per diem, MALT, and

transportation expenses for the civilian employee and dependent (FTR §302-10

053611. Relocation Income Tax (RIT) Allowance

A RIT allowance reimburses a civilian employee for the majority of the additional income taxes

incurred from the reimbursement of taxable relocation allowances. A RIT allowance applies to Federal,

state, and local income taxes incurred by the civilian employee or by the civilian employee and spouse,

but not by a domestic partner. A RIT allowance does not reimburse for employment-type taxes, such as

those imposed by 26 U.S.C. §21 (Federal Insurance Contributions Act) or 26 U.S.C. §§3301-3311

(Federal Unemployment Tax Act). A Withholding Tax Allowance acts as an advance on a RIT. See FTR

§302-17 and FTR Bulletin 18-05 (May 14, 2018), 19-02 (November 27, 2018), and 20-04 (January 23,

2020) for details on taxable PCS allowances and computation methods.

0537 ELIGIBILITY

053701. Civilian Employee Eligibility

A civilian employee must sign a service agreement to receive relocation allowances. If a civilian

employee fails to sign a service agreement, the Government is not financially responsible for his or her

relocation expenses for a PCS move. Those expenses become the civilian employee’s financial

responsibility. When a Government-funded PCS is authorized, the AO must issue a written order before a

new appointee or civilian employee reports to the first or new official location. An appointee or civilian

employee should not incur PCS expenses before receiving the written order. Expenses incurred before

receipt of a written or verbal order are not reimbursable unless the DoD Agency has provided a clear

“administrative intent” to transfer the civilian employee when costs are incurred and subsequently issues

orders authorizing reimbursement (CBCA 3294-RELO, May 29, 2013

). PCS authority extends between

Government Agencies. The civilian employee must have no break in Government service when

undertaking a PCS unless he or she separated from Government service due to a reduction in force (RIF)

or transfer of function. Permanent duty changes include the transfer of any of the following:

A. A new appointee from the actual residence to the first PDS to begin work.

B. A civilian employee undergoing PCS travel in the Government’s interest from one PDS to

another without a break in service.

C. A civilian employee on renewal agreement travel (RAT), between serving consecutive tours

of duty without a break in service, from a PDS OCONUS to the actual residence for leave purposes and

return to OCONUS. Return can be to the PDS OCONUS in the RAT agreement or on the PCS order.

D. A civilian employee separating from a PDS OCONUS and returning to the actual residence.

E. A former civilian employee separated due to a RIF or transfer of function who is re-employed

within 1 year of separation under non-temporary appointments at a PDS other than the one at which

separated.

F. A civilian employee who qualifies for travel and transportation allowances to a last move

home upon separation from Government service.

G. A career Senior Executive Service (SES) appointee, including a prior SES appointee who

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chose to retain SES retirement travel and transportation allowances, upon retirement and return to the

appointee’s selected residence.

H. A civilian employee who, without a break in service of more than 3 days, transfers from a

DoD Nonappropriated Funds (NAF) position to an appropriated funds position.

Table 5-66. Dependent Travel and Transportation Allowances for Civilian Employee Transfers

If a civilian employee…

Then…

transfers to or within the CONUS for a PCS,

dependent travel and transportation allowances

may be authorized.

transfers or is reassigned as a current civilian

employee to or between PDSs OCONUS for a PCS,

transfers or is reassigned as a current civilian

employee from a PDS OCONUS to a PDS in the

CONUS for a PCS,

returns from OCONUS for separation after

com

pleting the minimum service period or for other

reasons acceptable to the Government,

is appointed or recruited OCONUS for assignment

locally or to a different geographical location

OCONUS, has a service agreement, and returns for

separation after completing the agreed minimum

service period, or for other reasons acceptable to

the Government,

6 transfers for a first PDS,

dependent transportation allowances, but no per

diem, may be authorized. Travel to a first PDS

is limited to the Government’s transportation

cost from the actual residence at the time of

appointment to the PDS by a usually traveled

route.

divorces a spouse or permanently separates from a

domestic partner and the former spouse or domestic

partner traveled to the civilian employee’s PDS

OCONUS as a dependent at Government expense,*

reimbursement for the former dependent’s return

travel and tr

ansportation allowances to the actual

residence is authorized anywhere in the world.

is serving OCONUS when his or her dependent

turns age 21 and the dependent’s last travel

OCONUS was at Government expense,

the dependent is authorized return travel to the

civilian employee’s actual residence in the

United States.

is eligible for return travel and an individual is no

longer a dependent due to a divorce, annulment, or

committed relationship termination,*

reimbursement for the former dependent’s return

travel and transportation allowances is

authorized to the actual residence.

serving OCONUS is assigned to a PDS within the

CONUS,

a former dependent’s travel from OCONUS is

authorized. Return of a former dependent must

be not later than when the civilian employee is

subsequently eligible for travel or by the end of

the current tour agreement and is contingent on

authorized civilian

employee travel to the United

States except when travel is authorized under

early return provisions in par. 053805.

serving OCONUS travels to the actual residence in

the United States for separation,

serving OCONUS travels to the United States

pursuant to a renewal agreement,

returns to the CONUS and a dependent chooses to

remain in an area OCONUS,

payment of the constructed cost of any unused

allowance must not be authorized.

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I. A U.S. Postal Service civilian employee transferred under 39 U.S.C. §1006

, to a DoD

Component. For a DoD civilian employee transferring to the U.S. Postal Service, see par. 054805-B.

053702. Dependent Eligibility

Dependent travel and transportation allowances are based on the civilian employee’s travel order and

are subject to the requirements and restrictions in this Part. The traveler must be a dependent on the PCS

order’s effective transfer or appointment date for dependent travel and transportation allowances to be

authorized. These allowances are effective when the travel order is signed and authorized for actual

travel performed. Reimbursement is limited to what the cost would be for direct travel between the

official origin and destination by a usually traveled route, unless otherwise authorized in the JTR (see

par.

032602). Table 5-66 specifies the circumstances when dependent travel and transportation allowances are

authorized.

A. Dependent Age. A dependent child’s eligibility for travel allowances depends on the child’s

age (see Table 5-77) on the date the civilian employee reports for duty at the new PDS (B-160928, March

28, 1969, and B-166208, April 1, 1969) even if travel is delayed.

B. Dependent Allowances not Payable. A civilian employee is not authorized dependent travel

and transportation allowances when a dependent travels at personal expense before a PCS order is issued

or before official notice is received that a PCS order is to be issued. Transportation must not be furnished

before a PCS order is issued. If there are any other Government-funded travel and transportation

allowances for this travel, no other allowances are authorized. A civilian employee is not authorized

dependent travel and transportation allowances when a dependent is a civilian employee’s or spouse’s

parent, stepparent, or person in loco parentis (except in connection with an early return of a dependent)

who does not reside in the civilian employee’s household, unless otherwise authorized or approved

through the Secretarial Process.

1. Dependent travel and transportation allowances are not authorized between points

otherwise authorized in this Part to a place at which they do not intend to establish a permanent residence,

including pleasure trips.

2. Dependent travel to an area OCONUS is not authorized unless a minimum of 1 year

remains on the civilian employee’s service agreement as of the dependent’s scheduled arrival date in the

area OCONUS.

053703. Eligible Travel Locations for Dependent

Table 5-66. Dependent Travel and Transportation Allowances for Civilian Employee Transfers

If a civilian employee…

Then…

violates a service agreement, or is not authorized

return travel,

a dependent is also ineligible for Government-

funded travel.

separates from a PDS in the same geographical

location as the actual residence,

dependent travel costs are not reimbursable.

*Travel must begin before the end of the civilian employee’s current tour of duty. If the civilian

employee is serving under a 1-, 2-, or 3-year tour agreement, travel for a former dependent must begin

before the end of the 1-, 2-, or 3-year tour during which the divorce, annulment, or committed

relationship termination became final. If the civilian employee is serving under an administrative tour

extension, travel for a former dependent must begin before the end of the administrative extension in

effect during which the divorce, annulment, or committed relationship termination became final.

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A. Dependent Travel Locations. Table 5-67

specifies the authorized origins and destinations for

dependent travel.

Table 5-67. Dependent Travel Points of Origin and Destination*

A civilian employee…

Origin…

Destination…

transfers to or within the CONUS for a

PCS.

The civilian employee’s

old PDS, or some other

point (multiple

dependents may start at

separate locations).

The new PDS, some

other point selected by

the civilian employee, or

both.

transfers or is reassigned to or between

PDSs OCONUS for a PCS.

The civilian employee’s

PDS, or some other place

(multiple dependents may

start at separate locations).

The PDS OCONUS or

an alternate destination

in the CONUS specified

at the time of transfer.

transfers or is reassigned from a PDS

OCONUS to a PDS in the CONUS.

The PDS in the CONUS

or an alternate

destination in the

CONUS specified at the

time of transfer.

recruited in the CONUS takes an initial

appointment OCONUS.

The actual residence.

The PDS OCONUS or

an alternate destination

in the CONUS specified

at the time of transfer.

recruited OCONUS takes an initial

appointment OCONUS in a locality

different from the actual residence.

is recruited locally OCONUS for an initial

assignment and executes a service

agreement, and the dependent is not

already in the area OCONUS when

employment begins.

executes a renewal service agreement to

serve an additional tour OCONUS, whether

in the same or a different area, and is

transferred or reassigned OCONUS,

provided the dependent did not accompany

the civilian employee to the area OCONUS

on the preceding tour.

The PDS at the time of the

initial transfer or

reassignment OCONUS,

or the actual residence if a

civilian employee is a new

appointee at the time of

the original PCS

OCONUS.

returns from OCONUS for separation after

completing the minimum service period or

for other reasons acceptable to the

Government.

The PDS OCONUS.

The actual residence

established at the time of

appointment or transfer

to the PDS OCONUS or

to an alternate

destination anywhere in

the world.

recruited OCONUS for an assignment at a

PDS OCONUS in a different geographical

location, who separates after completing

the agreed service period or for other

The actual residence or

to an alternate

destination in the

geographical location of

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reasons acceptable to the Government.

the actual residence.

*Travel to any other point may be authorized, but is limited to the cost by the usual transportation

mode by a usually traveled route between the normally authorized points (old PDS to new PDS).

Any excess costs are the civilian employee’s financial responsibility.

B. Dependent Travel-Related Circumstances. Dependent transportation is not payable for any

part of the journey when a U.S. flag air carrier or ship is available and a foreign flag air carrier or ship is

used. However, per diem is still payable for that part of the journey. When a foreign Government

provides dependent transportation (whether it is used or not) at no cost to the United States or the civilian

employee under a contract or agreement with the United States, reimbursement for dependent

transportation allowances is not authorized, but per diem is still payable.

053704. Dependent-Restricted Tour for Civilian Employee

A. Eligibility. A civilian employee may be authorized transportation for a dependent and HHG

at Government expense to an alternate location when, by proper command policy, dependents are not

permitted to accompany a civilian employee to a PDS location because of adverse conditions (5 U.S.C.

§5725). An activity or area commander, in coordination with commanders of other service activities in an

area and upon approval by the jurisdictional Headquarters command, may establish a policy precluding

dependents from accompanying a civilian employee to a PDS OCONUS and restricting HHG movement

to such location because of dangerous or adverse living conditions.

B. Allowances

1. Alternate Destination Point. When a civilian employee’s dependents are not allowed to

accompany him or her to a PDS OCONUS to which the civilian employee is assigned or transferred,

transportation of dependents and HHG may be authorized to an alternate destination designated by the

civilian employee. When it is impracticable to secure the civilian employee’s designation, transportation

of dependents and HHG may be authorized to a destination designated by a dependent.

2. Subsequent Transportation of Dependents and HHG. The dependents and HHG may be

moved later from the alternate point to the civilian employee’s PDS when the restriction is lifted or to an

unrestricted PDS to which the civilian employee is subsequently assigned or transferred.

3. Authorization Restrictions. Except as otherwise provided in JTR, transportation of

dependents and HHG to a PDS OCONUS is not authorized unless both of the following conditions apply:

a. At least 1 year remains in the civilian employee’s tour of duty at that PDS on the date

of scheduled arrival of the dependents at the civilian employee’s PDS.

b. The civilian employee agrees to serve for 1 year after arrival of dependents at the

OCONUS PDS or the transportation is authorized through the Secretarial Process.

053705. Government Interest

A. Determining Factors. PCS travel and transportation allowances must be paid when it is in the

Government’s interest to fill a position by moving a civilian employee from one PDS to another. Case-

by-case factors, such as cost-effectiveness, labor market conditions, and difficulty in filling the vacancy,

form the basis for determining whether to offer PCS allowances. Budget constraints do not justify

denying PCS allowances.

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B. Responsibilities. It is each DoD Component’s responsibility to make decisions that balance a

civilian employee’s rights and the prudent use of appropriated funds. Before a DoD Component

advertises for a vacancy, the appropriate official should determine if it is in the Government’s interest to

pay PCS allowances taking case-by-case factors into consideration. For example, an activity may

determine that well-qualified candidates exist within a particular geographical area and restrict the

recruitment area in the recruitment announcement or indicate that PCS allowances are not offered. This

information should be provided in the position advertisement, but can be decided after the applicants are

referred to the selecting official.

C. Reason for Move. The guidelines for making a move in the Government’s best interest are as

follows:

1. Management-directed Moves in the Government’s interest. A PCS is in the Government’s

best interest when a DoD Component recruits or requests a civilian employee to transfer. This is limited

to relocation for a RIF, a transfer of function, a DoD Component career-development program, a DoD

Component-directed placement, or another reason that the transfer is in the Government’s interest.

2. PCS Moves not in the Government’s Interest. If a civilian employee pursues, solicits, or

requests a position change resulting in a geographic move from one PDS to another, the transfer is for the

civilian employee’s convenience and benefit, not in the Government’s interest. In that case, the gaining

activity must formally advise the civilian employee, at the time it extends an offer, that the transfer is in

the civilian employee’s interest, not in the Government’s interest, and that the Government does not pay

the PCS expenses. A civilian employee responding to a vacancy request is not pursuing, soliciting, or

requesting a position change.

D. Notification. Travel and transportation allowances do not tie automatically to a Merit

Promotion Program vacancy announcement. The appropriate official must document any decision against

paying PCS allowances in writing. The organization must notify in writing all applicants selected for

interview of its decision whether to pay PCS allowances. If the organization does not hold interviews, it

must inform the selected applicant, in writing, whether it will pay PCS allowances.

053706. PCS Limitation Policy

A. Move Frequency. It is neither cost effective nor efficient to provide more than one PCS move

to a DoD civilian employee during any 12-month period. A transfer within the DoD at Government

expense may not be authorized within 12 months of the civilian employee’s most recent PCS unless the

AO certifies that the proposed transfer is in the Government’s interest, an equally qualified civilian

employee is not available within the commuting area of the activity concerned, and the losing activity

agrees to the transfer. This policy does not preclude a civilian employee from accepting a position, but it

may cause the civilian employee to relocate at personal expense. The following moves are exceptions to

the 12-month period limitation:

1. A civilian employee or re-employed former civilian employee affected by a RIF or

transfer of functions (see par. 054805

2. A DoD Component directed placement.

3. From the actual residence to a new PDS, after the civilian employee exercises return

transportation rights from a PDS OCONUS under a tour agreement OCONUS, but only if the civilian

employee did not receive PCS allowances for the return to actual residence. A civilian employee who

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signed a new service agreement for return to actual residence and received TQSE or MEA

reimbursements has received PCS allowances.

B. Successive PCS Moves. When a civilian employee makes successive PCS moves and

dependent or HHG movement is delayed until transfer to the last PDS, movement is allowed by the direct

route between the first and last PDSs, provided the 1-year time limitation under the authority for the first

transfer has not expired. If the 1-year time limitation has expired for transfer from the first PDS, travel

and transportation allowances are limited to those from a subsequent PDS where the 1-year time

limitation has not expired to the last PDS. See

par. 053713 for funding responsibility.

053707. Two or More Family Members Are Civilian Employees (FTR §302-3)

When two or more civilian employees who are members of the same immediate family are transferred

in the Government’s interest, they may either choose to receive the travel and transportation allowances

each separately or one as a civilian employee and the other as a dependent. All affected civilian

employees must sign a written document outlining the choice. If each civilian employee chooses to

receive travel and transportation allowances as a civilian employee, neither is treated as the other’s

dependent. Otherwise, one civilian employee is eligible for travel and transportation allowances on

behalf of the other as a dependent. When a civilian employee chooses separate travel and transportation

allowances, duplicate benefits must not be paid to both civilian employees on behalf of a non-civilian

employee dependent. When a civilian employee chooses separate benefits, the written document must

specify which civilian employee receives the allowances for a non-civilian employee dependent.

053708. Civilian Employee Married to Service Member

A civilian employee is authorized PCS allowances when transferred in the Government’s interest,

even if the civilian employee’s Service member spouse is also transferred at the same time to the same

place. The couple may not each receive PCS travel and transportation allowance payments for the same

purpose or expense. Duplicate payments are not allowed.

053709. Permanent Duty Tour (PDT) Counseling

Each DoD Component must provide counseling on travel, transportation and other relocation

allowances to all civilian employees before PCS. Counseling assists a civilian employee in making more-

informed decisions, allowing him or her to play a more active role in the PCS, and educates a civilian

employee of the options when selling or buying a residence due to the enormous financial implications.

Either the DoD Component or contractors may provide counseling. This counseling should be offered as

early as possible during the PCS process and may be offered to a selected candidate who is contemplating

acceptance of a job that would require relocation.

053710. Reassignment or Transfer Advance Notice

The civilian employee should be given at least 30 days notice before reporting to a new PDS or DoD

Component outside the commuting area to allow him or her adequate time to prepare for the transfer or

reassignment. The notice period should not be less than 30 days except when any of the following occur:

A. The civilian employee and both the losing and gaining Agencies agree on a shorter period.

B. Other statutory authority and implementing regulations stipulate a shorter period (OPM

regulations for specified time frames).

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C. There are emergency circumstances.

053711. Reimbursement and Timing

The reimbursement maximums and limitations that apply to certain allowances are not the same for

every civilian employee, even though claims may be filed within the same period, due to successive

changes to these regulations governing PCS allowances, and the extended period that a civilian employee

retains eligibility for certain allowances (see par. 053712

). The regulations in effect on the appointee’s or

civilian employee’s appointment or transfer effective date apply for payment and reimbursement

purposes.

053712. Time Limits for Using PCS Allowances

All travel between authorized points in the travel order should be accomplished as soon as possible.

All authorized PCS allowances must be used and completed within 1 year from the effective transfer or

appointment date. The civilian employee is financially responsible for PCS travel and transportation

allowances beyond the initial 1 year unless an extension is authorized or approved by the DoD

Component as being in the Government’s interest.

A. Extension. The DoD Component may grant an extension, upon a civilian employee’s request,

only if the 1-year time limit for purchase or sale of a residence or an unexpired lease transaction was

completed under

par. 054501-B. Reasons that do not justify authorizing or approving an extension

include, but are not limited to, delaying a dependent or HHG relocation in anticipation of a future PCS

order not yet issued and residence construction or renovation delays at the new PDS. When an extension

is authorized or approved, PCS allowances must be calculated by using the regulations and rates in effect

on the civilian employee’s transfer effective date.

B. Embargoes or Shipping Restrictions. When a civilian employee is assigned to duty OCONUS

and travel and transportation is not feasible due to shipping restrictions, that time does not count toward

the 1-year time limit. The delay required by travel restriction and administrative embargo that make

dependent travel impossible is excluded from the 1-year period. Lack of family housing in an area

OCONUS that prevents dependent travel is an administrative embargo. When an administrative embargo

is removed, the command OCONUS must notify in writing each affected civilian employee. The

remaining number of days left in the 1-year time limit when travel was impeded are all that remain

allowing execution of travel and transportation allowances on the date when the embargo is removed.

C. Military Duty. For a civilian employee who enters active military duty any time before the 1-

year period ends, the time spent in military service is not included in the period. The 1-year period

excludes furlough time spent by a civilian employee who begins active military service before the

expiration of the 1-year period and who is furloughed for the military assignment duration to the PDS for

which transportation and travel expenses are allowed.

D. Transfers without a Break in Service. When a civilian employee of another Federal

Department or Agency stationed OCONUS is transferred to a position in a DoD activity OCONUS

without a break in service, dependent travel from the old PDS OCONUS to the new PDS OCONUS is

authorized if the move is in the Government’s best interest. If the civilian employee’s dependent has not

joined the civilian employee in the area OCONUS, travel from the last PDS or actual residence may be

authorized subject to the 1-year time limit. This applies whether the actual residence is in the United

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States or another country.

E. Locally Hired Civilian Employee. The time limit applies to dependent travel of any civilian

employee hired locally in a foreign location who executes a service agreement at the time of original

appointment or who enters into a renewal agreement for an additional tour of duty.

F. Dependent Travel Delay and Return for Separation. When a civilian employee returns to the

CONUS from a PDS OCONUS for separation, dependent travel may be delayed if the activity’s

commanding officer OCONUS authorizes or approves the delay. The civilian employee must submit a

written request for delayed travel. Costs for unauthorized delays are the civilian employee’s financial

responsibility.

G. Extension of the 1-year Time Limit Due to Impact from Hurricane Idalia. Respective

effective dates and areas (see FTR Bulletin 23-08) are:

1. Florida: For official relocation travel performed on or after August 27, 2023, based on the

Presidential Disaster Declarations for affected counties in the state of Florida and expires 180 days from

the effective date.

2. South Carolina: For official relocation travel performed on or after August 29, 2023, based

on the Presidential Disaster Declaration for affected counties in the state of South Carolina and expires

180 days from the effective date.

053713. Travel and Transportation Funding (FTR §302-2)

A civilian employee’s pay and leave status during official travel are subject to the separate

Departments’ regulations about hours of duty, pay, and leave. A new appointee is in a duty status while

traveling to the first PDS. For regulations governing excused absence and duty status while preparing for

and completing a PCS move, see DoDI 1400.25, Vol. 630

(civilian employee leave).

A. Movement between Different Departments and Agencies or DoD Components. This applies

to movement between any of the following: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, DoD Components,

and to or from non-DoD Agencies. Except in the case of a RIF, transfer of function, or movement under

the DoD Priority Placement Program (PPP), costs associated with a PCS may be paid by the gaining

Department, Agency, or DoD Component.

1. RIF or Transfer of Function. The losing activity must pay transfer costs between different

DoD activities of a civilian employee identified for separation or demotion caused by RIF or transfer of

function. A losing DoD activity must request that the non-DoD gaining activity pay or share the costs for

transfers that involve a RIF or transfer of function to a Department or Agency outside DoD. If a non-

DoD gaining activity refuses to assume or share the expense, the losing activity must pay the cost.

2. PPP. PCS costs for movement under the PPP to a different DoD Component, due to a RIF

or transfer of function, are funded the same as for any other RIF or transfer of function. When a RIF or

transfer of function is not involved and a civilian employee returns to the United States through the PPP

from a foreign area assignment the gaining activity pays TQSE and MEA. The losing activity pays other

PCS costs.

B. Movement within the Same DoD Component. The gaining activity may pay PCS movement

costs if the move meets the criteria in par. 053701, except in the following cases: RIF or transfer of

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function, base realignment and closure (BRAC), from an activity OCONUS to an activity in the CONUS,

or from an activity OCONUS to an activity of the same DoD Component in Hawaii.

1. RIF or Transfer of Function. The losing activity must pay movement costs.

2. BRAC. Ordinarily the gaining activity pays PCS movement costs. However, the losing

activity may, at its discretion, pay PCS movement costs due to a BRAC action.

3. Transfer from an Activity OCONUS to an Activity in the CONUS. When a civilian

employee transfers from a PDS activity OCONUS to a PDS in the CONUS, the losing activity must pay

travel and transportation allowances for the civilian employee and dependent according to

par. 054804-A.

This includes transportation and per diem for the civilian employee and dependent transportation, HHG,

and POV transportation to the civilian employee’s actual residence or activity in the CONUS, limited to

what it would cost to travel to the civilian employee’s actual residence. If the gaining activity authorizes

PCS allowances, it is responsible for additional civilian employee and dependent transportation and per

diem costs, and transportation of HHG and a POV to the new PDS, plus MEA, RIT and, if the civilian

employee is eligible, real estate allowances. At the gaining activity’s discretion, the activity may pay for

TQSE and an HHT, if the civilian employee is eligible, for any of the following:

a. A civilian employee who completes his or her tour of duty under the current service

agreement.

b. A civilian employee released from the period of service specified in the service

agreement for reasons beyond his or her control that are acceptable to the losing DoD Component.

c. An Army civilian employee moved under the civilian Career Management Program

referral system who completes an initial tour of duty OCONUS and at least half of an additional tour

greater than 12 months or two-thirds of an additional 12-month tour.

d. A civilian employee with or without a service agreement moved under the PPP. If a

RIF or transfer of function is involved, the losing activity must pay movement costs.

4. Transfer from an Activity OCONUS to an Activity of the Same DoD Component in

Hawaii. Funding travel and transportation for a civilian employee who transfers from an activity

OCONUS to a Hawaiian activity of the same DoD Component is the same as any other activity moving

due to a RIF or transfer of function, a BRAC, or from an activity OCONUS to an activity in the CONUS.

5. Directed Transfer due to Failure to Complete Probationary Period. The losing activity

must pay authorized transfer costs when a civilian employee fails to complete a probationary period

satisfactorily.

6. Civilian Employee Returning from Foreign Area through the PPP. The losing activity

must pay travel and transportation costs for a civilian employee returning through the PPP from foreign

area assignment in the same DoD Component when a RIF or transfer of functions is not involved. The

gaining activity must pay TQSE and MEA.

C. Separation from Employment OCONUS

1. Separation after Travel Begins. The losing activity must pay the en route travel and

transportation costs for a civilian employee, eligible for transportation under a service agreement, who

returns to the actual residence or alternate destination. This is limited to the travel and transportation

costs to the actual residence for separation from the losing PDS OCONUS.

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2. Separation before Travel Begins. When a civilian employee, eligible for travel and

transportation to the actual residence, resigns OCONUS before beginning travel from the PDS OCONUS,

the eligibility continues and the losing activity OCONUS must pay the movement expenses to the actual

residence. When a civilian employee under those same conditions expects to continue in Government

service in a different Department or Agency in the actual residence locality, and is not employed by, or

authorized PCS allowances by, the gaining activity before departure from the losing PDS OCONUS, the

losing activity OCONUS must pay the movement expenses to the actual residence.

3. Employment after Separating (without a Break in Service) from the Losing Activity.

When a civilian employee under an agreement returns to the actual residence or allowable alternate

destination in the United States for separation, and, after arrival at the destination, is employed by another

DoD Component without a break in service, the losing activity OCONUS must pay for the allowable

separation limited to travel and transportation costs to the actual residence. For the requirements and

limitations regarding payment by the gaining DoD Component when additional travel and transportation

to the new PDS is necessary and circumstances under which PCS allowances may be authorized and paid,

see

par. 054804-B.

4. Separation Due to Civilian Employee Transfer between Activities OCONUS. When a

civilian employee, under an agreement at an activity OCONUS, is transferred to a different activity

OCONUS at the same or a different PDS, the gaining activity is responsible for the civilian employee’s

separation travel cost if the civilian employee is or becomes eligible for separation travel and

transportation allowances.

053714. Temporary Change of Station (TCS) (FTR §302-3)

A. Eligibility. An AO may authorize a TCS with limited PCS allowances, instead of TDY

allowances, for a civilian employee scheduled for a long-term TDY not less than 6 months or more than

30 months. An AO may authorize a TCS only when it is expected to last 6 months or more. The TCS

location is the civilian employee’s temporary official duty location. If the assignment ends sooner than 6

months, for reasons other than separation from Government service, TCS expenses are paid. If the

assignment is more than 30 months, the civilian employee must be permanently assigned to the temporary

official location or returned to the previous official location. A TCS assignment may be considered only

if the civilian employee is directed to perform a long-term TDY at another duty location outside the local

area as defined in

section 0206. No minimum distance between a PDS and TCS location is required to

qualify for a TCS. A Service agreement is not required for a TCS move.

B. Ineligible Civilian Employees. The following are ineligible for a TCS assignment:

1. A new appointee.

2. An individual employed intermittently in the Government service as a consultant or expert

and paid on a daily “when actually employed” basis.

3. An individual serving without pay or at $1 a year.

4. A civilian employee assigned under the Government Civilian Employees Training Act (

U.S.C. §4109).

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5. A civilian employee assigned to or from a state or local government under the Inter-

Governmental Personnel Act (5 U.S.C. §3372) (see par. 053715

C. AO Considerations. The AO must determine that TCS is more advantageous than a TDY or

PCS, otherwise TDY travel and per diem are payable.

1. Component Cost Considerations.

An AO should consider a TCS when a cost comparison

shows that a TCS is to the Government’s advantage. The AO should compare the costs for a long-term

TDY with per diem and actual expense allowance (AEA) for the entire period of the assignment and the

costs for a TCS, which has substantial relocation allowance payments at the beginning and end of the

assignment and less substantial payments for extended storage and property management services, if

authorized.

2. Civilian Employee Tax Consideration. An AO should consider TCS when a long-term

TDY results in a non-reimbursable income tax liability for a civilian employee. A civilian employee who

performs a TCS is subject to income tax on some of the TCS reimbursements, and receives a RIT

allowance. A civilian employee who performs a TDY for more than 1 year at a single location is subject

to income tax on travel reimbursements. A traveler should contact Federal, state, and local authorities

concerning potential income tax liability.

3. Civilian Employee Concerns. An AO should consider the possible negative effect of a

long-term absence from the PDS and immediate family on the civilian employee’s morale and job

performance, and other civilian employee pay, such as locality pay and non-foreign cost of living

allowances.

4. Equity Concerns. An AO should consider the financial inequity that results when a

civilian employee on a long-term TDY lives in a manner similar to a permanently assigned civilian

employee while receiving TDY allowances.

D. TCS Allowances

Table 5-68. Allowances Authorized and not Authorized

1 Authorized

a. Civilian employee’s travel and transportation expenses (see par. 053901-A for per

diem).

b. Transportation and dependent per diem.

c. POV transportation.

d. MALT, if a POV is used.

e. HHG transportation and SIT.

f. Mobile home transportation instead of HHG transportation.

g. Storage of a POV for support of contingency operations only.

h. MEA.

i. RIT allowance (see par. 053611).

Not

Authorized

a. TDY travel allowances, including TDY per diem.*

b. AEA.

c. TDY transportation allowances.

d. Non-emergency storage of a POV.

*If a TCS is authorized, a civilian employee may not choose payment of per diem expenses instead of a TCS.

1. Discretionary Allowances. A civilian employee may be authorized an HHT, TQSE while

occupying temporary lodging, NTS of HHG when necessary during the assignment, and property

management services at the civilian employee’s old PDS residence for the TCS duration.

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a. HHG. The AO determines the storage location of authorized NTS of HHG, which

may be stored for the TCS duration. Together, the total weight of HHG stored and the weight of HHG

transported must not be greater than the maximum 18,000 pounds. The civilian employee is personally

financially responsible for all excess costs if the total weight of stored and transported HHG is greater

than the maximum allowed.

b. Property Management Services. Property management services may be authorized

only for a residence at the civilian employee’s PDS in the CONUS or a non-foreign PDS OCONUS from

which the civilian employee was assigned to the TCS location.

2. Allowances upon Assignment Completion. When returning to the original PDS, a civilian

employee is authorized all of the allowances in par. 053714-D1 and Table-5-68 except property

management services and an HHT. The civilian employee may not be paid for extended storage or

property management services incurred after the last day of the 30th month or the expiration of the order,

whichever occurs first. He or she must be paid for the expenses of returning the civilian employee,

immediate family, and HHG to the previous official location unless he or she is permanently assigned to

the temporary official location.

E. Temporary Official Station Becomes the PDS. TCS allowances stop on the day the TCS

location becomes the PDS.

Table 5-69. Allowances Payable when the TDY Station becomes the PDS

1 Payable

a. Travel, including per diem for the civilian employee and dependents who relocated

to the TCS location for one round trip between the TCS location and old PDS.

b. Transportation and per diem for one-way travel from the old PDS for those

dependents not previously relocated to the TCS location.

c. Transportation of POVs not previously transported, if authorized, for a TCS being

converted to a PCS between locations in the CONUS.*

d. Real estate expenses.

e. Residence-related relocation service expenses may be authorized.*

f. Property management expenses may be authorized.*

g. Transportation of HHG not previously transported to the TCS location, limited to

maximum weight.

h. Short-distance HHG move if the residence at the new PDS changes.

i. TQSE while occupying temporary lodging may be authorized in extraordinary

circumstances.*

Not

Payable

a. An HHT to the temporary official station.

b. TDY per diem.

c. Transaction expenses for selling a residence or breaking a lease at the TCS location.

*These allowances are discretionary.

F. TCS and Separation from Government Service

1. After TCS Completion. A civilian employee who separates, by either retiring or

resigning, from Government service after TCS completion is authorized the same PCS expenses had the

civilian employee not separated from Government service. If the civilian employee returns to a location

other than the PDS or remains at the TCS location, PCS allowances are authorized, limited to the amount

that would have been paid if the civilian employee had returned to the PDS.

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2. Before TCS Completion. If a civilian employee separates from Government service

before TCS completion for reasons that are both beyond his or her control and acceptable to the Service

or Agency, the civilian employee is authorized the same PCS expenses had he or she not separated.

Otherwise, payments are limited to what would have been payable had the TCS been performed as a

TDY.

053715. Inter-Governmental Personnel Act (IPA) Mobility Program

OPM maintains oversight of the IPA Mobility Program. Assignments solely for training are not made

using this authority. 5 U.S.C. §3371-§3375

(IPA), provide authority for the temporary assignment of a

civilian employee between the Federal Government and state or local government, institutions of higher

education, Indian tribal governments, federally funded research and development centers, or other eligible

organizations. Travel and transportation under the IPA Mobility Program must follow

5 CFR §334.

A. Eligibility. When a civilian employee is assigned between the Federal Government and a

state or local government or institution of higher education authorized by the IPA Mobility Program,

travel expenses or limited relocation expenses may be authorized. The civilian employee must sign a

written service agreement for 1 year or for the length of the assignment, whichever is shorter, to be

eligible for payment of per diem at the assignment location or limited relocation expenses.

B. Allowances. The standard allowances for round-trip travel, transportation, and per diem may

be authorized as specified in Chapter 2 or the AO may authorize the following PCS allowances for

relocation:

1. Civilian employee and dependent travel and transportation expenses to and from the

assignment location.

2. Transportation and SIT expenses of the civilian employee’s HHG and personal items.

3. TQSE when the assignment starts and when it is completed.

4. An MEA.

5. Civilian employee expenses for NTS of HHG and personal items, when the civilian

employee is assigned to an isolated location in par. 054807

C. Time Limitation. An assignment may be up to 2 years long; intermittent, part time, or full

time; extended for up to an additional 2 years when beneficial to both organizations; and terminated at

any time.

0538 CIVILIAN PCS TRANSPORTATION

053801. Airplane, Train, Ship, and Bus Transportation

A civilian employee and any dependents must use an available TMC for PDT.

A. Commercial. Reimbursement of personally procured transportation is limited to the policy-

constructed airfare that the Government would have paid had the civilian employee or dependent

purchased the ticket through the TMC for authorized transportation over a usually traveled direct route

according to a schedule that meets the PCS order’s requirements. When air travel is medically

inadvisable for the civilian employee or an accompanying dependent for transoceanic travel,

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reimbursement is limited to the least costly available first-class passenger accommodations on a

commercial ship.

B. Government. An AO may direct a civilian employee or a dependent to use Government

transportation. A civilian employee or dependent who uses a transportation mode other than the mode

directed is not reimbursed for transportation costs.

C. Air Travel Medically Inadvisable. When air travel is medically inadvisable for transoceanic

travel for a family member, the family should not be separated unless the family agrees to be. A

condition that makes air travel medically inadvisable is not limited to physical disability. If a civilian

employee or dependent is diagnosed with aerophobia that causes severe symptoms, this may be a basis for

the issuance of a medical certificate precluding aircraft travel. A competent medical authority must

certify the condition and the AO must authorize it in advance of travel. The civilian employee and the

AO must each receive a copy of the written medical determination. When air travel is medically

inadvisable, surface transportation provided must be the least costly commercial ship passenger

accommodations. See Chapters 2 and 3 for the required accommodations, use of U.S. flag ships, and

travel by oceangoing car ferry.

053802. Privately Owned Vehicle (POV)

A civilian employee or dependent who uses a POV may be authorized MALT

. MALT is based on the

official distance in par. 020204, when traveling on a PCS order between any of the official points in Table

2-2. A rental car used for PCS travel is considered a POV. Use the actual amount, without rounding,

when computing MALT. The MALT rate in effect on the date PCS travel commences applies even if

travel is completed after the rate changes. See

Chapter 2 for POV use to or from a transportation terminal

or PDS, or miscellaneous reimbursable expenses associated with POV transportation.

A. Automobile Use. Automobile use is to the government’s advantage for first duty station

travel by a newly recruited civilian employee or appointee, PCS travel, or separation travel. Automobile

use by a dependent is to the Government’s advantage for PCS travel, other than transoceanic.

B. Privately Owned Motorcycle. The use of a privately owned motorcycle for first duty-station

travel by a newly recruited civilian employee or appointee, PCS travel, or separation travel, is to the

Government’s advantage when travel costs, including associated per diem, are less than commercial

transportation. Compare travel costs at the applicable MALT rate, plus per diem for the travel period,

limited to the time required to complete the trip at a rate of 350 miles a calendar day.

C. Privately Owned Airplane

1. The use of a privately owned airplane for first duty-station travel by a newly recruited

civilian employee or appointee, PCS travel, or separation travel, is to the Government’s advantage when

travel costs, including associated per diem, are less than commercial transportation. Compare travel costs

at the applicable MALT rate, plus per diem for the travel period, limited to the time required to complete

the trip at a rate of 350 miles a calendar day.

2. Nautical miles must be converted to statute miles. One nautical mile equals 1.15077945

statute miles, so that 250 nautical miles multiplied by 1.15077945 equals 288 statute miles.

3. Reimbursement for travel by privately owned airplane is at the appropriate TDY mileage

rate.

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D. Privately Owned Aircraft Other than Airplane. The actual operation cost is reimbursed

instead of a commuted rate mileage. The following expenses are reimbursable: fuel, oil, and aircraft

parking, landing, and tie-down fees. The following expenses are not reimbursable: charges for repairs,

depreciation, replacements, grease, oil change, antifreeze, towage, and similar expenses.

E. Transoceanic Travel by POV. An AO may authorize a civilian employee or dependent to use

a POV on a route normally involving transoceanic travel if it is more advantageous to the Government.

This provision only applies when the POV is used for the entire distance between duty locations, for the

official distance rather than the actual distance. This applies regardless of whether reimbursement is more

than other transportation modes. A civilian or dependent who travels by privately owned boat may be

reimbursed the actual cost for fuel, oil, and docking fees limited to the policy-constructed airfare.

F. Multiple Travelers. When more than one traveler on official orders uses the same POV, only

one traveler may receive reimbursement for MALT and POV-related reimbursable expenses. All other

travelers in the same vehicle are passengers and receive no transportation reimbursement.

1. A civilian employee authorized travel for a dependent is authorized MALT for two POVs,

if used. MALT payment does not affect dependents who did not travel by POV.

2. Additional POVs used for PDT within the same household may be authorized or approved

through the Secretarial Process.

Table 5-70. Use of More than One POV on a Civilian PCS

If…

Then reimbursement

is authorized…

a civilian employee and dependent relocate on a PCS move, and use two

POVs,

to include car ferry

fees for each POV.

a civilian employee does not use a POV and the dependents use two POVs,

for each vehicle.

more than two POVs are authorized,

the same POV is used to transport the civilian employee or a dependent for

more than one trip between the old PDS and new PDS,

for each official trip.

more than two licensed drivers are in the family, the family has more than

two POVs, and this is the only reason additional POVs are requested,

for only two POVs.

Examples of when more than Two POVs are Routinely Authorized or Approved

a. The number of family members, including their luggage, cannot be transported in two vehicles.

b. A dependent requires special accommodations due to age or physical conditions and two POVs

are required for other family members.

c. A civilian employee must report to the new PDS before the dependents; the delayed travel is for

reasons acceptable to the AO, such as school-term completion or personal business-affairs

settlement; and there are more dependents than can reasonably fit together with luggage in a

single POV.

d. The dependents perform unaccompanied travel between authorized points other than those that

the civilian employee uses, such as travel to a designated place or to the new PDS while the

civilian employee has TDY en route, and there are more dependents than can reasonably fit

together with luggage in a single POV.

e. The dependents perform unaccompanied travel to the new PDS before the civilian employee’s

reporting date for reasons acceptable to the AO, such as to enroll dependents in school at the

beginning of the term, and there are more dependents than can reasonably fit together with

luggage in a single POV.

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053803. Mixed-Mode Travel

A civilian employee may be authorized reimbursement limited to the MALT rate plus per diem for

the authorized travel. When POV use is authorized for all PDT travel, and the civilian employee instead

uses both POV and another mode, he or she is authorized the MALT rate for the distance traveled by

POV, costs incurred for commercial transportation, and per diem for actual travel time.

053804. PCS To, From, or Between Points OCONUS

A. General. A civilian employee traveling on a PCS order to, from, or between points OCONUS

is authorized the applicable allowances in this section for the following:

1. The official distance between the old PDS and the appropriate port of embarkation serving

the old PDS.

2. Transportation by available Government aircraft or ship, or Government-procured

transportation or reimbursement for costs incurred for personally procured transportation for the

transoceanic travel involved plus applicable per diem.

3. The official distance between the appropriate port of debarkation that serves the new PDS

and the new PDS.

4. Travel to and from the vehicle processing centers (VPC), when concurrent with the en

route travel.

B. Transoceanic Travel. When transoceanic travel is involved between to, from, or between

PDSs OCONUS, air transportation is the normally authorized transportation mode for transoceanic travel

for both the civilian employee and any dependents. For POV travel, see

par. 053802-E. A dependent is

required to use Government transportation when it is reasonably available and directed. However, the

dependent must not be required to use other than regularly scheduled transport type aircraft, such as

Patriot Express or Category B AMC transportation, ordinarily used for passenger service. When

appropriate Government air transportation is available and travel by aircraft has not been determined

medically inadvisable but a dependent travels at personal expense no reimbursement is authorized.

C. Concurrent Travel. Concurrent dependent travel from the CONUS is authorized to specific

areas OCONUS (see Table 5-67). For a civilian employee on a PCS order to a dependent-restricted tour,

see par. 053704. When prior command approval OCONUS is necessary, the recruiting office in the

CONUS or other appropriate office must obtain concurrent travel authority from the command OCONUS

and advise the activity responsible for processing the civilian employee. When dependent travel is

authorized concurrently with the civilian employee or within 60 days after the civilian employee’s

reporting date at the Army, Navy, or Air Force transportation terminal in the CONUS, the activity

responsible for processing the civilian employee must take action regarding the dependent’s passport,

visas, immunizations or inoculations, port calls, and transportation. When dependent travel, initially

prohibited, is authorized by the command OCONUS subsequent to the civilian employee’s arrival at the

PDS OCONUS, the civilian employee’s travel order must be amended to note the authority for dependent

travel at that time.

Note: Follow the procedures in AR 55-46

(Travel Overseas) according to the priority system for an

Army civilian employee.

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D. Indirect Travel. When a civilian employee, at personal expense and convenience, performs

PCS travel OCONUS over an indirect route, he or she is authorized reimbursement limited to the amount

authorized for the direct route between the old PDS and new PDS. The civilian employee is authorized

all of the following:

1. Lodging plus per diem for land travel performed from the time the civilian employee

departs the old PDS until the civilian employee reports to the new PDS.

2. Reimbursement for the cost of transoceanic U.S. flag transportation used and per diem.

3. Reimbursement for transoceanic, non-U.S. flag transportation used and per diem limited to

the cost the Government would have incurred for the civilian employee’s transportation on the direct

route if travel by non-U.S. flag carrier. The indirect route is supported by the documentation required in

Chapter 2

stating that a U.S. flag carrier was not available on either the direct route or the indirect route.

053805. Early Return of a Dependent (ERD)

The appropriate command OCONUS may authorize a dependent’s return travel to the United States

before a civilian employee’s return to the actual residence or travel to an alternate destination when in the

Government’s best interest. Early return travel may be authorized when a civilian employee is eligible

for return transportation after completing the PDS service agreement, under exceptions to the PDS service

period agreement, or if the command OCONUS determines that it is in the Government’s interest to

return the dependent for humanitarian or compassionate reasons. Reimbursement is limited to the

Government’s cost for the usual transportation mode and route that the dependent would have used had he

or she traveled back to the PDS OCONUS with the civilian employee. The civilian employee is

financially responsible for costs that are more than the most economical route from the PDS OCONUS to

the civilian employee’s actual residence.

Table 5-71. Rules for an Early Return of a Civilian Employee’s Dependent

If …

Then…

1 Government transportation is available,

the dependent must use Government

transportation for ERD travel.

a civilian employee completes a service

agreement, has received unaccompanied one-

way dependent transportation to the actual

residence, and has RAT at a later date,

ERD transportation expenses to the PDS

OCONUS are reimbursable.

a civilian employee’s dependent returns before

the civilian employee is eligible for return travel

and is not already authorized early return travel,

transportation expenses are the civilian

employee’s financial responsibility

a civilian employee is eligible for return travel

reimbursement,

travel expenses are limited to the cost of the

dependent travel by the most economical route

from the PDS OCONUS to the actual residence

and the amount allowable for the available

transportation mode that would have been used

when the civilian employee was eligible for return

travel. The most economical route includes the

policy-constructed airfare when City Pair

Program airfares are unavailable.

ERD travel was already authorized once during

the period of service OCONUS,

further ERD travel must not be authorized.

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Table 5-71. Rules for an Early Return of a Civilian Employee’s Dependent

If …

Then…

6 ERD is performed at Government expense,

a dependent’s return travel at Government

expense to the PDS OCONUS is not authorized

except when due to RAT.

7 ERD travel is for RAT,

a dependent’s return travel may be authorized at

Government expense to the PDS OCONUS.

an individual is no longer a dependent when the

civilian employee is eligible for return travel

due to divorce, annulment, or termination of a

committed relationship,*

reimbursement for return travel and transportation

allowances to the actual residence is authorized

anywhere in the world for a civilian employee’s

former spouse, domestic partner, or former

dependent who traveled to the civilian employee’s

PDS OCONUS as a dependent at Government

expense.

*Travel must begin before the end of the civilian employee’s current tour of duty and before the end of

the tour during which the divorce, annulment, or committed relationship termination became final, or

before the end of an already approved administrative tour extension.

053806. Dependent Student Travel

DoDI 1400.25, Vol. 1250

(Overseas Allowances and Differentials) authorizes educational travel, as

specified in DSSR Section 280, for a dependent student of a DoD civilian employee assigned in a foreign

area for travel to and from a school offering a full-time course of secondary or post-secondary education.

Travel allowances for the dependent student’s secondary education are instead of an education allowance.

This travel is administered in accordance with DoD and Service regulations. The civilian employee is

authorized up to 350 pounds of unaccompanied baggage or storage not to exceed the cost of transporting

350 pounds of unaccompanied baggage in connection with the trip, subject to the provisions in DSSR

Section 285.1.

053807. Authorized Travel Time

A. Travel Time Rules. A civilian employee or dependent is authorized travel time to complete a

PDT move. There is no mandatory distance that must be driven each day. If necessary, the authorized

travel time may be extended by the commanding officer, or supervisor, when the alternative fuel POV

requires a circuitous route due to vehicle range capability and fueling availability limitations.

1. If ordered to travel 400 or fewer miles between official points using a POV or

Government automobile, then 1 day of travel is authorized for the official distance.

2. If the distance is greater than 400 miles, then divide by 350 to determine the number of

authorized travel days. If the remainder is 51 or more, 1 additional travel day is allowed. The result

determines the maximum number of authorized travel days.

3. If traveling by an alternative fuel POV and authorized or approved circuitous route,

then travel time is calculated based upon the distance traveled necessary to accommodate vehicle range

capability and fueling availability limitations.

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Table 5-72. Authorized Travel Time Rules for Civilian PDT

If a civilian employee…

Then authorized travel time is…

travels by Government or Government-procured

airplane, train, ship, or bus,

the actual time needed to travel over the

direct route, including necessary delays.

uses a POV not authorized by the AO as being to the

Government’s advantage,

limited to that authorized for Government-

procured transportation for the official

ordered travel distance.

travels by a transportation mode other than the one

authorized,

the actual travel time used, limited to the

travel time for the authorized transportation

mode.

spends less time traveling and the authorized travel

time from the departure date through the arrival date,

the actual travel time (called the elapsed

time).

uses an alternative fuel POV and the AO authorizes

or approves circuitous travel to accommodate vehicle

range capability and fueling availability limitations

for travel to the new PDS,

calculated based on the actual distance

traveled or actual travel time used.

B. Mixed-Mode Travel Time. Regardless of the number of transportation modes used,

authorized travel time is limited to that allowed as if a POV were used for the entire travel, unless

additional travel time is authorized.

1. The authorized travel time when transportation is by mixed modes is computed using the

total distance traveled by POV in whole days, limited to the travel time authorized for the official distance

between the origin and destination, plus 1 day for commercial transportation other than transoceanic.

2. Compute authorized mixed-mode travel time in Table 5-73

. The distance traveled to leave

points is considered when computing travel time. When computing the authorized travel time, do not

include travel while at the leave point, old PDS, new PDS, or TDY location, or when traveling from a

leave point and returning to the same leave point.

Table 5-73. Computation for Mixed-Mode Travel

Determine the official distance between the authorized separate legs of the journey in par. 020205.

a. If the distance is 400 or fewer miles, 1 day of travel is allowed.

b. If the distance is greater than 400 miles, then divide by 350 to determine the number of

authorized travel days.

c. If the remainder is 51 or more, 1 additional travel day is authorized. The result determines the

maximum number of authorized travel days.

Determine the actual number of miles a POV was used between the official points (the distance

traveled to a leave point is included).

a. If this is greater than the official distance in Step 1, then the authorized travel is the same as in

Step 1 and no further computation is required.

b. If the distance is less than what was allowed in Step 1, then divide by 350.

c. If the remainder is 51 or more, 1 additional travel day is authorized.

Allow 1 day for travel by air, train, or bus transportation.

Add Step 2 and Step 3 together, to determine the authorized travel time.

C. Transoceanic Travel Time. The actual time required for transoceanic travel by aircraft or ship

over a usually traveled direct route is authorized. The embarkation or debarkation day at the terminal or

port while awaiting transportation is included, regardless of the arrival or departure hour.

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1. When transoceanic travel is by POV for the entire distance between duty locations and is

authorized by the AO as more advantageous to the Government, then travel time is based on travel by

POV.

2. When travel is by privately owned boat, travel time is based on the air travel time.

D. Additional Travel Time. The commanding officer, or supervisor, may authorize or approve

additional travel time for reasons beyond a civilian employee’s control, when an alternative fuel POV

cannot meet the authorized travel time due to vehicle range capability and fueling availability limitations,

or when the alternative fuel POV requires a circuitous route. The additional time may be authorized or

approved for the actual time used or for a shorter period. The commanding officer may require additional

documentation supporting the circumstances.

0539 CIVILIAN PCS PER DIEM

Per diem is payable for any days travel time is authorized. However, it is not payable when the official

travel period is 12 or fewer hours or for a full day of leave. The specified per diem applies for all related

travel unless otherwise stated in the JTR. Per diem is payable for situations such as delays for reasons

beyond the civilian employee’s control as determined by the Component, necessary delays awaiting

further transportation, delays at the point of embarkation or point of debarkation, or a TDY en route.

Calculate en route per diem payment using the lesser of either the authorized travel time or the actual

travel time. See International Date Line computation example 1 and

International Date Line computation

example 2.

053901. PCS Per Diem Allowance

A per diem rate includes a maximum reimbursement amount for lodging expenses and a fixed amount

for M&IE. Reimbursement is limited to the lesser of the actual lodging cost or the applicable maximum

amount. Lodging receipts are required (see Chapter 2

for miscellaneous reimbursable expenses). The

M&IE rate, or portion thereof, is payable to a civilian employee without itemization of expenses or

receipts.

Table 5-74. Per Diem Rates for PDT

The PDT is…

And is for…

Then the…

in the CONUS,

travel to a first duty station for a newly

recruited civilian employee or appointee,

Standard CONUS per

diem rate is used.

travel for a PCS,

travel for RAT,

separation travel,

occupying temporary lodging, except when

TQSE (Lump Sum) is authorized,

HHT (Lodging Plus),

HHT (Lump Sum),

locality per diem rate is

used.

in non-foreign

OCONUS,

HHT (Lodging Plus),

HHT (Lump Sum),

OCONUS,

travel to a first duty station for a newly

recruited civilian employee or appointee,

travel for a PCS,

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Table 5-74. Per Diem Rates for PDT

travel for RAT,

separation travel,

occupying temporary lodging at a location

OCONUS,

A. Lodging Plus Per Diem (Lodging Plus) Computation Method. Compute per diem for all PCS

travel using the Lodging Plus method. Per diem is the actual amount the civilian employee pays for

lodging plus an allowance for M&IE for each travel day. Per diem is limited to the Standard CONUS per

diem rate for locations in the CONUS or the maximum locality per diem rate for locations OCONUS. Per

diem is calculated at 75% of the appropriate locality rate for M&IE for the day of departure or day of

arrival at any of the following:

1. A PDS.

2. A designated place or alternate destination point.

3. A safe haven when PCS travel is from a safe haven location.

4. RAT leave locations when Lodging Plus per diem is paid.

5. Travel that begins and ends on the same day when travel is more than 12 hours.

B. PCS Per Diem when Traveling by Airplane, Train, Ship, or Bus. The per diem rate is

calculated using the new PDS rate for PCS travel when transportation is personally procured, or furnished

as transportation in-kind, for separate legs of travel. If there is an overnight stop or TDY en route, the per

diem rate for the arrival day at the overnight stop or TDY site is calculated using that location’s rate. The

new PDS rate does not override the destination rate logic of the Lodging Plus per diem computation

method. M&IE for the new PDS arrival day is the new PDS rate whether or not there is a stopover. Per

diem is not authorized for a civilian employee or dependent when traveling aboard a commercial ship

when meals are furnished without charge, or are part of the accommodations cost, except on embarkation

and debarkation days.

Table 5-75. PCS Per Diem Computations for Lodging Plus Per Diem

For…

Then per diem is…

the day travel begins (the departure day from

the PDS, home, or other authorized point) and

lodging is required,

the actual lodging cost incurred by the civilian

employee, limited to the applicable lodging rate,

plus 75% of the applicable M&IE rate.

the day travel begins (the departure day from

the PDS, home, or other authorized point) and

lodging is not required,

75% of the applicable M&IE rate (Standard

CONUS or the locality rate for the new PDS

OCONUS) for 1 day.

other full calendar days when lodging is

required and the civilian employee is still en

route,

the maximum rate for a stopover point at which

lodging is obtained, plus the applicable M&IE rate

(Standard CONUS or destination OCONUS).

other full calendar days when lodging is not

required while the civilian employee is still en

route,

The M&IE rate for the next official destination.

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Table 5-75. PCS Per Diem Computations for Lodging Plus Per Diem

For…

Then per diem is…

5 the day travel ends and lodging is required,

the lesser of the actual lodging cost incurred by

the civilian employee or the applicable lodging

rate plus 75% of the applicable M&IE rate

(Standard CONUS or the locality rate for the new

PDS OCONUS).

6 the day travel ends and lodging is not required,

75% of the M&IE rate (Standard CONUS or the

locality rate for the new PDS OCONUS) for that

day.

C. HHT, en Route Travel to the New PDS, RAT, and Separation Travel. The per diem rates for

PDT apply when computing per diem for HHT (Standard CONUS rate for the Lodging Plus method and

locality rate for the lump sum method), en route travel to the new PDS, RAT, and separation. When

computing en route travel per diem to a new PDS, the standard CONUS M&IE rate or M&IE locality rate

OCONUS applies to the arrival day at the new PDS. Use

Table 5-75 when computing per diem for either

of the following:

1. All en route travel to the actual residence for separation. The Standard CONUS M&IE

rate is applicable on the arrival day at the actual residence.

2. En route travel to the new PDS that begins and ends on the same day and is more than 12

hours but less than 24 hours, whether or not for separation.

D. Per Diem for POV Travel Involving a Car Ferry

1. If lodging on the car ferry is not required, then the M&IE while on the ferry is the rate

applicable to traveler’s location at 2400 on the day departing the ferry.

2. If lodging is required, then:

a. Reimbursement for required accommodations is authorized unless included in the

ferry transportation cost.

b. The daily per diem rate for the arrival day on the ferry through the day before the

departure day from the ferry is equal to the highest CONUS M&IE rate.

c. On the departure day from the ferry, the M&IE rate is the rate applicable to the

traveler’s location at 2400 on that day.

053902. PCS Per Diem for Dependents

A civilian employee is authorized per diem for each dependent’s actual travel between the old PDS

and new PDS when the civilian employee is transferred, or for other travel in this Part, limited to the

direct route between authorized points. Travel time for a dependent is determined under par. 053807

the same manner as for the civilian employee, not by the civilian employee’s travel time or the amount of

per diem paid for the civilian employee’s PCS travel. No per diem is payable for travel of 12 or fewer

hours.

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Table 5-76. PCS Per Diem Rules for a Civilian Employee’s Dependent

If…

Then…

the travel origin or destination is other than the

old PDS or the new PDS,

per diem is limited to the amount authorized

between the old PDS and new PDS.

a civilian employee or dependent obtains

lodging from friends or relatives,

the civilian employee may be reimbursed for the

additional lodging costs that the host incurs for

the accommodation if the civilian employee can

substantiate the costs and the AO determines the

costs are reasonable.

meals are furnished without charge, or are part

of the accommodations cost, aboard a

commercial ship,

per diem is not authorized except on embarkation

and debarkation days.

a dependent’s transportation cost is limited to

Government-procured air transportation,

per diem is limited to the amount authorized if the

dependent had used Government-procured air

transportation.

a civilian employee is a new appointee

assigned to a first PDS,

per diem is not authorized for a dependent.

a civilian employee is assigned to a PDS

OCONUS and is returning to the actual

residence for separation,

a civilian employee is assigned OCONUS in

conjunction with RAT,

transportation is authorized instead of per diem

or AEA for a civilian employee while at a

training location,

a dependent travels to, from, or while at an en

route TDY location,

return travel for cases involving RAT is to a

new PDS OCONUS in a different geographic

locality from the old PDS,

dependent per diem (related to the PCS, not the

RAT) must be computed on the basis of

constructed travel time between the old PDS and

new PDS.

a student dependent, in a foreign area, travels

to and from school as specified in par. 053806

per diem is authorized for required travel time by

the authorized transportation mode at the same

rates and percentages as for a civilian employee

on a TDY, and no per diem is paid if travel is 12

or fewer hours.

*A civilian employee’s TDY location is not a delay point for a dependent. No PCS allowances are

authorized.

Table 5-77. Per Diem Rates for Authorized Dependents Traveling on a PCS Order

Traveler

12 Years of Age* and Older

Less Than 12 Years of Age

Dependent Travels with the

Civilian Employee

Per diem is calculated at 75% of

the per diem the civilian

employee receives for direct

travel between the old PDS and

new PDS.

Per diem is calculated at 50% for

direct travel between the old

PDS and new PDS, subject to the

minimum per diem rate.

Dependent Other than Spouse

or Domestic Partner Travels

Separately from the Civilian

Employee Using Different

Routes or at Different Times**

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Table 5-77. Per Diem Rates for Authorized Dependents Traveling on a PCS Order

Traveler

12 Years of Age* and Older

Less Than 12 Years of Age

Spouse or Domestic Partner

Travels Separately from the

Civilian Employee Using

Different Routes or at

Different Times**

100% of what the civilian employee would have received.

*The increase is effective on the 12th birthday.

**When more than one POV is used, and a dependent travels in a POV along the same general route on

the same day as the civilian employee, the dependent is considered to be accompanying the civilian

employee.

Note: Dependents are reimbursed under the lodging plus per diem calculations. See PDT Computation

Example 22 and PDT Computation Example 33 for civilian employees.

0540 HHT

An HHT consists of travel to the new PDS vicinity to locate permanent housing and return to the old PDS

before traveling en route on a PCS order to the new PDS. An HHT is a discretionary allowance

authorized on a case-by-case basis, when a civilian employee has accepted a permanent transfer, and the

circumstances indicate the need. The AO, not the civilian employee, determines if an HHT is necessary.

The HHT trip duration, including travel time, is limited to 10 days. If the HHT is authorized, it should

lower the Government’s relocation costs by reducing the time in temporary lodging. A civilian employee

is in a travel status while performing HHT during the authorized absence period.

054001. Eligibility and Authorization for HHT

Table 5-78. Travelers Eligible for an HHT

1 Authorized

a. A civilian employee.

b. Civilian employee’s spouse.

c. Attendant or escort for civilian employee or spouse.

2 Not Authorized

a. A domestic partner.

b. Civilian employee’s or spouse’s children.

c. New appointee.

d. New appointee’s spouse.

e. Student trainee on first duty station travel.

A. Eligibility. For a civilian employee to be authorized an HHT for PCS, both the old PDS and

new PDS must be located within the CONUS or a non-foreign area OCONUS, and be 75 or more miles

apart by a usually traveled surface route according to the Defense Table of Official Distances (DTOD).

HHT may not be authorized for any of the following reasons:

1. To assist a civilian employee in deciding whether or not to accept a transfer.

2. Government housing, or other prearranged housing, will be assigned at the new PDS.

3. If the civilian employee is at a training location in section 0326

and is authorized

dependent or HHG transportation.

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B. AO Considerations. The AO must determine whether the HHT will be reimbursed using the

Lodging Plus method or a lump sum, the appropriate HHT duration, and the authorized transportation

modes to and from the new PDS location, and for local travel while house hunting. An AO must

minimize HHT allowances or not authorize them when other satisfactory and more economical

alternatives are available. The DoD Component may avoid or shorten the HHT duration by providing

assistance and information to a civilian employee concerning housing conditions and markets at the new

PDS location. The AO must consider the following factors before authorizing HHT:

1. Arranging a Permanent Residence before a Move. If the civilian employee has a large

family and must promptly vacate the residence at the old PDS, it might be less costly to the Government,

as well as more convenient to the civilian employee, to complete arrangements for a new residence before

the move actually takes place.

2. Arranging a Permanent Residence while in Temporary Lodging. If the civilian employee

has no family or a small family, it might be less costly to allow the civilian employee and family to

remain in temporary lodging at the new PDS for a somewhat longer period than might otherwise be

authorized, subject to TQSE limitations, until the civilian employee finds a permanent residence.

3. Avoiding an Advance Trip. If TQSE is authorized, an HHT may possibly be avoided. It

might be more advantageous to the Government and the civilian employee for the civilian employee’s

dependents to remain at the former residence while the civilian employee occupies temporary lodging at

the new PDS. During that time, he or she can select a permanent residence after becoming familiar with

the new PDS area.

4. TDY at the New PDS. When a civilian employee is on a TDY and it is known that the

TDY location will become the new PDS (before the permanent transfer is effective) an HHT should not

be necessary.

054002. Separate Trips by Civilian Employee and Spouse

Separate HHTs by the civilian employee and spouse are allowed; however, the Government’s overall

cost is limited to the cost of one round trip for the civilian employee and spouse traveling together.

Compare the cost of the civilian employee and his or her spouse traveling separately on an HHT to the

cost of a single round-trip HHT that they could make together and reimburse the lesser. The

Government’s overall cost for comparison and computation purposes includes per diem, transportation

costs, and other miscellaneous reimbursable expenses. Separate HHTs do not increase the 10-day

limitation, regardless of the circumstances. AEA is not authorized for HHT. When a civilian employee’s

spouse travels independently on an HHT, the per diem rate for the spouse is computed the same as the

civilian employee’s using par. 020309

054003. Timing and Duration

An HHT may begin after the civilian employee signs a service agreement, the DoD Component

establishes the reporting date to the new PDS, the DoD Component informs the civilian employee of the

reporting date, and the travel order is issued. A civilian employee must complete a round-trip HHT 1 day

before reporting to the new PDS. A spouse must complete a round-trip HHT 1 day before the family

begins relocation to the new PDS, or by the time allowed for completing travel and transportation

allowances runs out (see par. 053712

). A funded HHT, including travel time, is limited to 10 calendar

days.

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054004. Transportation for an HHT

To receive reimbursement for HHT transportation expenses, a civilian employee must itemize the

transportation expenses and have supporting receipts to submit with his or her travel claim.

A. Transportation to and from a New PDS Locality. When authorizing and approving a

transportation mode, the objective is to minimize en route time and maximize new PDS time. POV

transportation is to the Government’s advantage when the distance to the new PDS is less than 250 miles.

However, a traveler cannot be required to use a POV, so the AO may authorize an alternate transportation

mode. When the distance to the new PDS is 250 or more miles, POV use is not to the Government’s

advantage. The AO may authorize or approve POV travel as to the Government’s advantage when, and

only when, a written cost comparison demonstrates a POV is cost-effective. If POV transportation is to

the Government’s advantage, the MALT rate applies. If the civilian employee travels by other than the

authorized transportation mode, reimbursement is for the lesser of the actual transportation expenses or

the authorized transportation cost. The civilian employee is authorized transportation expenses, including

transportation between carrier terminals.

B. Local Transportation. Reasonable expenses for local transportation at the new PDS are

allowed. Local transportation by train, bus, other public transit systems, commercially rented automobile,

or a POV at the MALT rate may be authorized. The local transportation mode must be consistent with

the transportation mode authorized for travel to and from the PDS, for example, a rental car should not be

authorized if POV transportation to the new PDS is authorized. Taxi or TNC fare reimbursement is

limited to transportation between carrier terminals and lodging.

054005. Lodging and Per Diem

When a lump-sum reimbursement is offered to the civilian employee, the civilian employee may

choose between the Lodging Plus method or the Lump Sum method for the HHT subsistence.

A. Lodging Plus. HHT subsistence expenses are ordinarily reimbursed under the Lodging Plus

method. Compute per diem for one round trip for the civilian employee, spouse, or both, in accordance

with

par. 053901. For a HHT in the CONUS, use the Standard CONUS per diem rate. For a HHT in

non-foreign OCONUS, use the locality per diem rate (CBCA 5091-RELO, March 22, 2016). When the

civilian employee and spouse travel together on an HHT, the per diem rate for the spouse is 75% of the

civilian employee’s per diem rate. A civilian employee paid per diem using the Lodging Plus method

must itemize lodging expenses and retain lodging receipts.

B. Lump Sum. A DoD Component may offer to pay a lump sum for subsistence expenses. Once

the civilian employee signs a service agreement and accepts the HHT (Lump Sum) offer, then HHT

(Lump Sum) is irrevocable. A civilian employee paid for an HHT using the lump-sum method does not

require itemization, receipts for payment, or a cost comparison. If the civilian employee and spouse both

travel (together or separately) the lump-sum amount is calculated by multiplying 6.25 by the applicable

locality per diem rate. However, if only one person (either the civilian employee or the spouse) travels,

the lump-sum amount is calculated by multiplying five (5) by the applicable locality per diem rate. The

lump-sum determined calculation applies to the entire trip, regardless of the number of days authorized

for the HHT. Any balance from the HHT lump-sum payment that the civilian employee does not use for

expenses belongs to the civilian employee and is not subject to repayment to the Government. The

following are factors in determining whether to offer lump-sum reimbursement:

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Table 5-79. Lodging and Per Diem Allowance for an HHT

Computation Method

One Civilian Employee or Spouse

Civilian Employee and Spouse

1 Lodging Plus

Compute in accordance with par.

053901. For a HHT in the CONUS,

use the Standard CONUS per diem

rate. For a HHT in non-foreign

OCONUS, use the locality per diem

rate.

The per diem rate for the spouse

is 75% of the civilian employee’s

per diem rate when they travel

together.

2 Lump Sum

Multiply 5 by the applicable locality

per diem rate.

Multiply 6.25 by the applicable

locality per diem rate whether

both travel together or separately.

1. Ease of Administration. Per diem payment under the Lodging Plus method requires

submission of a travel claim to review and validate lodging expenses for accuracy and reasonableness. A

lump-sum reimbursement is easier to administer because an expense review is not required.

2. Cost. The AO must evaluate the cost of the Lump Sum and Lodging Plus options on a

case-by-case basis. A single, universal decision for all PCS moves is not authorized. AEA may not be

authorized or approved for an HHT.

054006. No Return to Old PDS

If an HHT is authorized under the Lodging Plus method, and the civilian employee reports for duty at

the new PDS instead of returning to the old PDS, HHT subsistence for the days spent seeking permanent

housing up to the day before reporting for duty at the new PDS is not payable. TQSE, if authorized, is

payable instead of the HHT subsistence and the period cannot be greater than the number of days

authorized for the HHT. The one-way transportation is PCS travel. Under these circumstances, a civilian

employee is not in a duty status while house hunting.

054007. HHT Advance

An advance for HHT expenses may be paid if an HHT is offered and chosen under the Lodging Plus

method. The advance is limited to the sum of the anticipated transportation costs and the maximum per

diem allowable under the Lodging Plus method for the HHT location and duration. If a lump sum HHT is

offered and chosen, the anticipated transportation costs may be advanced. The subsistence paid under

HHT (lump sum) is a payment, not an advance.

054008. HHT and TQSE

The AO must reduce the total number of days the civilian employee is authorized for TQSE Lodgings

Plus (LP) or TQSE Actual Expense (AE) when a HHT is authorized. The amount of authorized HHT

days reduce the amount of authorized TQSE days from either the 31 to 60 day period or the 61 to 120 day

period. For example, instead of authorizing 60 days of TQSE (LP) or TQSE (AE), the AO authorizes 50

days of TQSE to account for the civilian employee’s 10-day HHT. If 30 or less days of TQSE (LP) or

TQSE (AE) are authorized, then HHT days are not considered and do not reduce the amount of authorized

TQSE days. HHT days are not reduced from the number of days authorized for TQSE Lump Sum (LS).

054009. HHT for Locations Impacted by Hurricane Idalia

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A. Authority. This section applies to employees relocating to locations in Florida and South

Carolina impacted by Hurricane Idalia. FTR Bulletin 23-08 is the authority for this temporary change

and provides effective dates. This authority expires 180 days from the respective effective dates, unless

extended or rescinded by GSA.

B. Allowances. Par. 054005 authorizes HHT using the the lump sum method.

FTR Bulletin 23-

08 expands this methodology to allow the AO to authorize actual expenses for the reimbursement of

subsistence expenses during HHT to impacted areas.

0541 MISCELLANEOUS EXPENSE ALLOWANCE (MEA)

Miscellaneous expenses are the various costs associated with PCS that are not covered by other PCS

allowances in the JTR. An advance of MEA funds is not authorized. To receive MEA reimbursement, a

civilian employee must submit a travel claim, certify that the old PDS residence has been discontinued,

and certify that a new PDS residence has been established. If filing a supplemental claim for the

difference between the “without dependent” MEA rate and “with dependent” MEA rate, the civilian

employee must certify that the dependent has established a residence at the new PDS or other authorized

location.

054101. Eligibility

A. Eligibility. To be eligible for an MEA, a PCS or TCS must be authorized or approved and the

civilian employee must sign an appropriate service agreement. An MEA is payable when a civilian

employee vacates a residence at the old PDS and establishes a new temporary or permanent residence at

the new PDS.

B. Civilian Employees Ineligible for MEA. The following personnel are ineligible to receive an

MEA:

1. A new appointee assigned to the first PDS to any position, including student trainee,

Senior Executive Service (SES) and Presidential appointee.

2. A civilian employee or new appointee on first duty station travel to a foreign area duty

location OCONUS is not authorized an MEA under the JTR, but may be authorized the MEA portion of

the foreign transfer allowance under the DSSR.

3. A civilian employee performing RAT, unless a PCS is authorized or approved in

conjunction with the RAT and the civilian employee has discontinued residence at one location and

established a residence at a new location in connection with the PCS.

4. A civilian employee assigned to a PDS OCONUS returning to the actual residence for

separation.

5. A civilian employee authorized transportation for dependents or HHG to or from a

training location instead of per diem or AEA under par. 032602

054102. Civilian Employee with or without Dependent

A. Flat Payment MEA. The Flat Payment MEA amount, payable without receipts or itemized

statements, depends on whether the civilian employee has a dependent. Both the minimum and maximum

payments are based on the civilian employee’s basic weekly gross pay, including locality pay, and are

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calculated based on the new PDS location.

Table 5-80. Flat Payment MEA Rules

If…

Then…

a civilian employee has no dependent,

pay the lesser of $650 or the equivalent

of 1 week’s basic gross pay.

a civilian employee has a dependent, and the dependent

and HHG are not relocated,

a civilian employee has a dependent, and the dependent

returns early (see par. 053805) without relocating the

household when the civilian employee returns and is

authorized PCS allowances,

a civilian employee has a dependent,

pay the lesser of $1,300 or the

equivalent of 2 weeks’ basic gross pay.

a civilian employee has a dependent and the dependent

moves from the residence at the old PDS to a different

residence than the civilian employee’s residence at the

new PDS,

a civilian employee has a dependent and the dependent

returns early (see par. 053805), and subsequently leaves

a prior residence and establishes a new residence in

connection with the civilian employee’s PCS,

a civilian employee has a dependent, and reports to the

new PDS while the dependent remains at the old PDS,

or other location, without leaving the old residence, and

later relocates the dependent or HHG within 1 year and

establishes a new residence,

the civilian employee is authorized the

difference between the amount initially

received and the amount allowed with a

dependent, limited to the amount for a

civilian employee without a dependent

until they leave the old residence and

establish a new residence.

there are two civilian employees in one household who

discontinue the same residence at the old PDS and

establish one residence at the new PDS*,

only one MEA is paid for two civilian

employees at the “with dependent rate,”

which is the lesser of $1,300 or the

equivalent of 2 weeks’ basic gross pay.

there are two civilian employees in one household and

both incurred separate relocation costs, such as the cost

of identification document changes, that do not include

common expenses, such as the cost of connecting or

disconnecting utilities,

each are authorized an MEA at the

“without dependent rate” (the lesser of

$650 or the equivalent of 1 week’s basic

gross pay).

*Even if each civilian employee, without dependents, has a travel order and is traveling as a “civilian

employee,” as long as no separate relocation expenses are incurred by the civilian employees. Since

an MEA is payable to only one civilian employee, the other civilian employee, for MEA purposes

only, is considered a dependent relocating with the civilian employee.

B. MEA above “Flat Rate”. The AO may authorize or approve an MEA in excess of the flat-rate

amount if the claim is justified by receipts of expenses incurred, and the total amount is limited to the

civilian employee’s basic gross pay, including locality pay, for 1 week, if the civilian employee has no

dependent, or 2 weeks, if the civilian employee has a dependent who was relocated. The allowable

amount is limited to the maximum rate (Step 10) of Grade GS-13, in

5 U.S.C. §5332. An MEA cannot be

used for expenses in excess of the amounts reimbursed by any other allowances in the JTR or additional

costs caused by the civilian employee shipping HHG that are more than the maximum weight allowance

provided by law or the JTR. An MEA is not authorized for costs that are not allowed in the JTR, or costs

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more than the maximum or are reimbursed under other provisions provided by law or in the JTR. In no

case may there be duplicate payments.

Table 5-81. Examples of MEA Reimbursable and Non-Reimbursable Costs

1 Reimbursable

a. Disconnecting or connecting appliances, equipment, and utilities involved in

relocation, and converting appliances for operation on available utilities.

b. Non-refundable utility fees or deposits.

c. Cutting and fitting rugs, draperies, and curtains moved from one residence to

another.

d. Reassembly, set up, and tuning of a piano moved for a relocation.

e. Pet care, child care, or adult care for dependent parents or other adult

dependents incapable of self-care at home while the civilian employee or

spouse are away on an HHT, or are packing or unpacking.

f. Losses on non-transferable or non-refundable contracts for medical, dental,

food lockers, education enrollment, or private institutional care, such as those

provided only for dependents with disabilities.

g. Vehicle registration, driver’s license, and taxes imposed for bringing vehicles

into some jurisdictions, reinstalling a catalytic converter upon vehicle reentry

into the CONUS or non-foreign area OCONUS for civilian employees

participating in the DoD POV Import Control Program, securing a bond

allowing a POV to be admitted into the CONUS or non-foreign area

OCONUS for non-participants in the DoD POV Import Control Program.

h. Rental car fees while awaiting a delayed POV shipment to or from OCONUS.

Reimbursement must not exceed 10 days and does not include the days after

the POV is delivered or when a new POV is purchased at the location.

i. Required removal or installation by host country law of automobile parts.

j. Rental agent fees customarily charged for securing housing in foreign

countries.

k. Miscellaneous expenses connected with cancellation of a contract to purchase

a house due to a transfer in the Government’s interest.

l. A post office box rental fee when rented to provide a constant mailing address

between the time a civilian employee departs the old residence and occupies a

residence at the new PDS.

m. Cat and dog transportation and quarantine charges. See par. 054103

for

additional details concerning pet transportation and quarantine.

n. Immunization and testing.

o. Similar costs.

Not

Reimbursable

a. Purchasing appliances or equipment instead of conversion, the cost for

replacing or repairing worn out or defective appliances or equipment, or

electrical system upgrades to accommodate an appliance or equipment.

b. Costs of purchasing clothing, appliances (including delivery cost) and

equipment due to relocation.

c. Costs due to altering, remodeling, or modernizing any structure to

accommodate POVs, appliances, or equipment.

d. Costs due to structural alteration.

e. Expenses due to circumstances, factors, or actions that were not due to the

move.

f. Judgement, court costs, and similar expenses imposed because of civil action.

g. Losses covered by insurance.

h. Costs incurred for reasons of personal taste or preference and not required due

to the move.

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Table 5-81. Examples of MEA Reimbursable and Non-Reimbursable Costs

i. Costs of newly purchased items, such as rugs or drapes.

j. Damage to or loss of clothing, luggage, or other personal items while traveling

to the new PDS.

k. Additional insurance costs on HHG in transit to the new PDS, or cost of loss

or damage to that property.

l. Medical expenses due to illness or injuries of the civilian employee or a

dependent while en route to the new PDS or while living in temporary

quarters.

m. Fines imposed for traffic infractions while en route to the new PDS or for

other penalties imposed on the civilian employee or a dependent.

n. Accident insurance premiums or liability costs incurred while traveling to the

new PDS, or liability for uninsured damage caused by accidents for which the

civilian employee or a dependent is responsible.

o. Losses due to the sale or disposal of HHG items because they are not

convenient or practicable to move.

p. Losses or costs due to selling or buying homes and personal property.

q. Higher income, real estate, sales, or other taxes due to establishing a residence

in the new locality.

054103. Pet Quarantine and Transportation

This paragraph clarifies pet quarantine reimbursement and transportation for PCS moves by a civilian

employee. A civilian employee transporting an exotic pet is required by law to have a U.S. Fish and

Wildlife Service (FWS) certification before transporting the pet to or from foreign locations, and should

contact the FWS before transporting the pet.

A. Reimbursable Pet Expenses. Cat and dog transportation and quarantine charges are not a

separately reimbursable expense but may be claimed as MEA, only when claiming actual expenses for

MEA.

B. Non-reimbursable Pet Expenses. Non-transportation and handling pet-related expenses are

not reimbursable. See the DTMO website for details on these expenses. When a traveler does not use a

City Pair Program airfare because a pet cannot travel on the same aircraft, the Government is not

financially responsible for costs greater than the most economical travel routing. Transportation of other

animals, such as horses, fish, birds, and various rodents, are excluded due to their size, exotic nature, or

restriction on shipping, host-country restrictions, and special handling difficulties.

0542 TEMPORARY QUARTERS SUBSISTENCE EXPENSES

(TQSE)

A. The General Services Administration (GSA) issued a final rule amending the Federal Travel

Regulation (FTR) with respect to temporary quarters subsistence expenses (TQSE) allowances. Changes

include implementing a third TQSE methodology, redefining the current TQSE methods, lowering the

percentage multipliers for calculating TQSE maximum daily amounts, and prohibiting adjustments to

TQSE percentage multipliers for househunting days. The final rule also exempts temporary quarters (TQ)

located in Presidentially-Declared Disaster areas under the Stafford Act from the ‘‘reasonable proximity’’

requirement and allows agencies to authorize TQSE at the applicable locality per diem allowance or

authorize actual expenses on an individual basis. (See FTR Case 2022-02

). These changes are applicable

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for relocations authorized after June 30, 2024.

B. TQSE is a discretionary, not mandatory, allowance unless a civilian employee returns from a

foreign area through the DoD Priority Placement Program (PPP). The civilian employee may be

authorized TQSE for a TCS. TQSE may be authorized in addition to COLA payable under the DSSR (

U.S.C. §5941) and any BAH, OHA, or Basic Allowance for Subsistence paid to a Uniformed Services

member who is the spouse or domestic partner of a civilian employee authorized PCS expenses and

allowances. TQSE may also be paid in addition to Temporary Lodging Allowance (see DoD Financial

Management Regulation, Vol. 7A), or TLE (see section 0505) as long as payments cover different

expenses. Duplication of allowances is not authorized. TQSE is not paid when the civilian employee is

receiving other subsistence expense allowances (

FTR §302-6.16). Subsistence expenses are the expenses

for lodging, food, and other necessities incurred while occupying temporary lodging for a PCS move.

054201. TQSE Types

The three types of TQSE allowances are Actual Expense Reimbursement (TQSE (AE)), Lump Sum

Payment (TQSE (LS)), and Lodgings Plus (TQSE (LP)). The three types of TQSE are defined in

Table

5-82. If the AO determines that TQSE is necessary, then TQSE (LP) must be offered as the preferred

reimbursement method, however civilian employees may choose to select either TQSE (AE) or TQSE

(LS). The AO determines whether to change the TQSE payment method before any part of the travel

order (including the HHT) has been executed, if requested, by the civilian employee. Once the civilian

employee chooses a TQSE method, the selection may not be changed if the travel order (including the

HHT) has been executed, unless an exception is warranted based on clerical error. An exception is

allowed if all of the facts and circumstances support that a provision was intended and was omitted in

error when preparing the order (

GSBCA 16437-RELO, September 22, 2004). After the AO determines

that TQSE is necessary, TQSE (AE) and TQSE (LS) cannot be denied because the civilian employee does

not want TQSE (LP).

Table 5-82. TQSE Type

Type of Expense

Definition

Actual Expense Reimbursement (TQSE (AE))

Reimbursement based on actual expenses.

2 Lump Sum Payment (TQSE (LS))

Flat amount based on the number of days

authorized.

3 Lodgings Plus (TQSE (LP))

Reimbursement based on actual lodging expenses

up to a maximum by locality area and meals and

incidental expenses (M&IE).

054202. Eligibility

The AO, not the civilian employee, determines if TQSE is necessary. An AO should deny TQSE

when temporary lodging is not justified. When temporary lodging is justified, an AO authorizes only a

necessary TQSE period if the civilian employee or spouse makes an HHT or if a previous assignment at

the new PDS enables the civilian employee to make arrangements for adequate, permanent private-sector

housing. TQSE must be authorized before temporary lodging is occupied and may not be approved after

the fact for any days that have passed before TQSE is initially authorized, but the AO may approve

extensions. TQSE must start no later than 1 year after the civilian employee’s effective date of transfer,

unless that time is extended as in par. 053712

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Table 5-83. Eligibility Criteria for TQSE Authorization

Authorized

Only If…

a. A PCS is authorized to a new PDS located in the CONUS or in a non-foreign

area OCONUS.

b. The old PDS can be anywhere in the world.

c. The old PDS and new PDS are 50 or more miles apart, according to map

distances along a usually traveled surface route.

d. Temporary lodging is occupied for a PCS transfer.

e. The civilian employee signs an appropriate service agreement.

f. The temporary lodging location is within reasonable proximity of the old PDS

or new PDS unless the AO is convinced that the circumstances are unique to

the individual civilian employee or dependent, are reasonably related to the

transfer, have been adequately reviewed, and justify TQSE payment.

Not Authorized

For…

a. Vacation purposes or other reasons unrelated to the PCS.

b. A civilian employee transferred to a foreign PDS.

c. A civilian employee who occupies temporary lodging for an evacuation or

other reason unrelated to a PCS.

d. A new appointee assigned to a first PDS.

e. A civilian employee assigned to a PDS OCONUS returning to the actual

residence for separation.

f. A Senior Executive Service (SES) employee making their last move home for

the purpose of separation.

g. A civilian employee authorized or approved dependent or HHG transportation

to or from a training location instead of per diem or AEA while at the training

location in par. 032602

h. A civilian employee occupying permanent private-sector housing (with rental

furniture) while HHG is en route.

i. A civilian employee performing RAT, except when return is to a different non-

foreign PDS OCONUS.

j. A civilian employee granted a waiver to the 50-mile distance test under

FTR §

302-2.6(b)

k. Employees assigned under the Government Employees Training Act (5 U.S.C.

4109).

054203. Temporary Lodging

Temporary lodging is private-sector lodging occupied temporarily at the old PDS or new PDS after a

PCS is authorized. A permanent residence is considered vacated and temporary for TQSE purposes when

the HHG has been packed for moving and are unavailable to the residents.

A. Permanent Housing Cannot Be Occupied. Lodging occupied temporarily is temporary

lodging when the civilian employee has arranged permanent housing and lodges in temporary quarters

within the allowable time limit because the permanent housing cannot be occupied due to one of the

following reasons.

1. It remains occupied by the present tenant.

2. It requires repairs or alternations that have not been completed.

3. It is under construction and the expected completion date for the construction is within the

TQSE time limit allowed in the travel order.

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Note: TQSE authority for a civilian employee beyond that needed to seek an available private-sector

residence is inappropriate if the civilian employee chooses to have a house built when there is an

existing inventory of affordable housing.

B. Temporary Lodging Becomes Permanent. The AO may determine the lodging that the

civilian employee initially occupied and later became a civilian employee’s permanent housing was

“temporary lodging” for a specific time period. The AO should consider lease duration, HHG movement

into the lodging, lodging type, expressions of intent, attempts to secure permanent private-sector housing,

and how long the civilian employee occupied the lodging.

054204. Civilian Employee Returning from Foreign Area through the DoD

Priority Placement Program (PPP)

The gaining activity pays the TQSE allowance when a civilian employee returning from an

assignment in a foreign area is placed through the PPP. For such moves, the TQSE is a non-discretionary

allowance and the gaining activity must authorize and pay it when the civilian employee meets the

eligibility requirements for a move due to a RIF or transfer of function. TQSE for PPP is authorized

according to the procedures in this paragraph, subject to the following limitations:

A. TQSE (LP) is authorized in accordance with paragraph 054206-A.

B. TQSE (AE). The AO, not the civilian employee, determines if TQSE (AE) is offered in

accordance with paragraph 054207-A.

C. TQSE (LS). The AO, not the civilian employee, determines if TQSE (LS) is offered. If the

AO offers and the civilian employee accepts TQSE (LS), it must be authorized for 30 days. TQSE (LS) is

limited to 30 days, with no extensions under any circumstances.

054205. Temporary Quarters Subsistence Allowance (TQSA)

TQSA assists in covering the cost of temporary lodging, plus reasonable meal and laundry expenses,

incurred at a new foreign PDS OCONUS (see the DSSR).

A. Applicable Payments OCONUS. When TQSA is paid based in a foreign country, TQSE may

not be paid for that location, but may be paid for the new location in the CONUS or non-foreign PDS

OCONUS. TQSA cannot be paid in the CONUS or any non-foreign PDS OCONUS. TQSA and TQSE

cannot be paid for the same period. TQSA paid on behalf of a dependent in a foreign country must not

extend beyond the date preceding the civilian employee’s arrival date at the new PDS in the CONUS or

non-foreign area OCONUS (see

DSSR §124.2) unless a DoD Component determines that compelling

reasons exist that would justify the extension of TQSA beyond the initial termination date.

B. Transferring to the CONUS or Non-foreign Area OCONUS. A civilian employee transferring

from a foreign area PDS to a PDS in the CONUS or non-foreign PDS OCONUS may be authorized

TQSE but not the Home Service Transfer Allowance (see

DSSR Section 252.6).

054206. TQSE (LP) Option

TQSE (LP) is the preferred TQSE reimbursement method for AOs to offer to civilian employees.

TQSE (LP) is based on the locality rate of the old or new PDS, or combination thereof, wherever

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temporary quarters will be occupied. The AO, not the civilian employee, determines if TQSE (LP) is

necessary and the time period authorized on a case-by-case basis. TQSE (LP) reimbursement is the actual

daily temporary lodging cost and a daily M&IE allowance not to exceed the single maximum lodging

amount and the single maximum M&IE amount for the applicable locality per diem rate for the locality at

the old or new official station or combination, wherever temporary lodging will be occupied. TQSE (LP)

must be reasonable and if expenses exceed the maximum allowable amount, the civilian employee will

not be reimbursed for more than the maximum allowable amount. AEA may not be authorized or

approved for TQSE (LP) unless the PDS is located in a Presidentially-Declared Disaster area under the

Stafford Act (see par. 054210). TQSE (LP) reimbursement may extend up to 120 days, taking into

account that the percentage multipliers change after 30 days in temporary lodging.

Table 5-84a. TQSE (LP) Allowable and Non-Allowable Expenses

1 Allowed

a. Fees and tips for meals and lodging.

b. Meals and groceries.

c. Laundry.

d. Cleaning and pressing of clothing.

e. Temporary lodging, including lodging taxes or, if temporary lodging is

located in a foreign area, the cost of a value-added tax (VAT) relief certificate

if the certificate is used to avoid paying the lodging tax.

Note: See 054206-H for reimbursement of lodging taxes.

2 Not Allowed

a. Local transportation expenses.

b. Expenses above the maximum authorized.

A. Time Limitations

1. Initial TQSE (LP) Period. TQSE (LP) may be authorized in increments of 30 days or less,

not to exceed 60 consecutive days, but only for the time that temporary lodging is required.

2. Additional TQSE (LP) Period. If a civilian employee provides acceptable written

justification and documentation, an AO may authorize or approve TQSE (LP) for an additional 60 or

fewer consecutive days to total no more than 120 days, including the initial TQSE (LP). TQSE (LP)-

period extensions are not automatic and must be held to a minimum. The AO may authorize extensions

only if he or she determines there are compelling reasons for the continued temporary lodging occupancy

due to circumstances beyond the civilian employee’s control. The civilian employee’s written

justification describing the circumstances beyond his or her control and the AO’s documentation

supporting the approval or denial of the requested extension must be retained. Acceptable circumstances

include, but not limited to, any of the following:

a. Delayed HHG transportation or delivery to the new permanent private-sector housing

due to extended transit time for ocean transportation, availability of service providers, pandemics, strikes,

customs clearance, hazardous weather, fires, floods, or other Acts of God.

b. Delayed occupancy of new permanent private-sector housing due to unanticipated

problems such as unforeseen delays in permanent-housing settlement or closing, or unforeseen short-term

delays in new-dwelling construction.

c. Inability to locate permanent private-sector housing adequate for family needs due to

housing conditions at the new PDS.

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d. Sudden illness, injury, or death of the civilian employee or of an immediate family

member.

B. Occupancy Time Frames. The occupancy period for temporary lodging runs concurrently for

the civilian employee and all dependents. The civilian employee may occupy temporary lodging at one

location while a dependent occupies temporary lodging at another location. If a civilian employee moves

HHG into temporary lodging occupied initially at a new PDS and continues occupancy indefinitely, the

temporary lodging is considered “permanent private-sector housing” starting on the date the HHG is

delivered. However, the AO may determine it is still “temporary lodging” after considering lease

duration, HHG movement into the lodging, lodging type, expressions of intent, attempts to secure

permanent private-sector housing, and how long the civilian employee occupied the lodging.

1. Starting Occupancy. Temporary lodging occupancy may start as soon as the civilian

employee has signed a service agreement and TQSE allowances have been authorized in a PCS order.

TQSE must begin within 1 year after the civilian employee’s effective date of transfer, unless that time is

extended in

par. 053712.

2. Occupancy Interruptions

a. Once TQSE (LP) begins, the period continuously runs uninterrupted until the civilian

employee or any dependent occupies permanent lodging or the authorized time period ends. Events that

interrupt the TQSE (LP) continuous period are:

(1) Actual travel time for travel between the old PDS and new PDS.

(2) Necessary official duties, such as an intervening TDY or military duty.

(3) Non-official necessary interruptions, such as hospitalization.

(4) Approved sick leave but not annual leave.

b. Other reasons beyond the civilian employee’s control interrupt the continuous period

if acceptable to the AO.

c. When official travel interrupts occupancy of temporary lodging, the actual time en

route, limited to the authorized allowable travel time, is excluded from the eligibility period, which

resumes when temporary lodging is reoccupied. The time period continues to run if a dependent occupies

temporary lodging at the civilian employee’s new PDS, or another location, during the civilian

employee’s TDY or military duty training assignment. When a civilian employee retains temporary

lodging while on a TDY, the cost is reimbursed as part of the TQSE (LP) allowance (in addition to per

diem received for the TDY) if the AO determines that the civilian employee acted reasonably in retaining

the temporary lodging.

d. The absence period is excluded from the number of days authorized for occupying

temporary lodging. The civilian employee is eligible for TQSE (LP) when he or she resumes occupying

temporary lodging at the new PDS. TQSE eligibility continues for the remainder of the authorized time,

if necessary.

3. Ending Occupancy. Temporary lodging occupancy ends when the civilian employee or a

dependent occupies permanent private-sector housing or the authorized time period expires, whichever

occurs first.

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C. Receipts and Supporting Statement. Receipts and a written supporting statement must

accompany a TQSE (LP) claim. Use DD Form 2912, “Claim for Temporary Quarters Subsistence

Expense (TQSE),” to document TQSE expenses for reimbursement.

1. Receipts. Receipts are required for lodging costs paid and must show the location, dates,

and who occupied the lodging. Lodging taxes and other subsistence expenses of $75 or more requires a

receipt. There is no requirement to document M&IE.

2. Supporting Statement. The supporting statement must include:

a. Travel status and temporary lodging occupancy (for subsistence expense purposes)

that occur the same day, the date, and the arrival and departure times at the temporary lodging location.

b. The date that permanent private-sector housing occupancy starts or the date that HHG

is moved into permanent private-sector housing.

c. The amount of lodging paid for each day.

D. Conditions Affecting Reimbursement

1. Partial Days of TQSE (LP). Temporary lodging occupancy for less than a whole calendar

day is the same as 1 full calendar day for TQSE (LP) reimbursement.

2. En Route Travel. Reimbursement may not be paid under both TQSE (LP) and another

subsistence expense allowance within the same calendar day, unless TQSE (LP) is claimed on the same

day that en route travel per diem ends. In this case, compute en route travel per diem under applicable

partial-day rules and claim TQSE (LP) reimbursement for expenses incurred after 1800 (6 p.m.) on that

day.

Par. 054205 explains limitations on duplication of allowances.

3. Temporary Lodging Occupancy in All Other Cases. The TQSE (LP) period starts at 0001

of the calendar day that TQSE (LP) reimbursement is claimed, provided temporary lodging is occupied

during that calendar day.

4. TQSE (LP) Period Termination. The temporary lodging period ends at 2400 on either the

day before the civilian employee or his or her dependents occupies permanent residence quarters, or the

day that authorized TQSE expires, whichever occurs first.

5. Meal Preparation in Temporary Lodging. If the temporary lodging has meal-preparation

facilities available and those facilities are used, the cost for groceries consumed on a daily basis is

allowable.

6. Lodging with a Friend or Relative. When an official traveler lodges with a friend or

relative the official traveler may be reimbursed for the additional lodging costs the host incurs while

accommodating the traveler, if the traveler can substantiate the costs and the AO determines the costs are

reasonable. The traveler may not be reimbursed the cost of comparable conventional lodging in the area

or a lump sum. A traveler who lodges with a friend or relative is authorized the appropriate M&IE rate, if

otherwise eligible.

7. Allowable Expenses when an Apartment, House, Mobile Home or Recreational Vehicle Is

Rented or Used for Lodging

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a. When a civilian employee on PCS at the old or new PDS rents commercial or private

lodging, a furnished or unfurnished apartment, house, mobile home, or recreational vehicle for use as

lodging, TQSE (LP) lodging expenses are computed according to par. 020303

. Any lodging, apartment,

house, or mobile home that is already or will become the PDS permanent residence cannot also be used as

a temporary residence.

b. To calculate the reimbursement amount, determine the daily TQSE (LP) lodging rate

and prorate the total allowable expenses used by the number of TQSE (LP) days used then compare the

actual daily TQSE (LP) lodging cost against the locality’s daily lodging rate and pay the lesser amount.

8. Reimbursement Limitation when Purchasing a Mobile Home. TQSE (LP) expenses are

limited to the temporary expenses listed in par. 020303 when a mobile home is purchased as a temporary

residence and used while seeking a primary residence at the new PDS other than the mobile home being

used as temporary lodging. Real estate expenses, such as mortgage or interest fees, are not authorized. If

the civilian employee’s primary residence is already or will become the home used as a temporary

residence, TQSE is not authorized.

9. HHT and TQSE (LP)

a. When the AO authorizes TQSE (LP), they must also consider if an HHT will be

authorized and reduce the number of authorized TQSE days by the number of authorized HHT days. The

percentage multiplier used for calculating TQSE (LP) cannot be reduced based on the number of days

used for an HHT.

b. To illustrate how AOs should consider HHT and TQSE (LP), an example is provided

below. Additional examples are on the DTMO website

(1) Scenario – TQSE (LP) with HHT Lodging Plus. The AO authorizes 50 days of

TQSE (LP) and authorizes 10 days of HHT.

(2) Computation. To account for a 10-day HHT, the AO reduces the 60-day TQSE

(LP) period by 10 days and authorizes 50 days. The first 30 days of the TQSE (LP) are paid at the higher

percentage rate of the locality per diem rate. The remaining 20 days are paid at the reduced percentage of

the locality per diem rate. A total of 50 days of TQSE (LP) and 10 days of HHT are paid.

10. Per Diem Rates. Lodging rates and M&IE rates remain as separate maximum amounts

for purposes of calculating TQSE (LP). Use the PDS locality per diem rate to calculate TQSE (LP).

Table 5-85a. Per Diem and M&IE Daily Rate for TQSE (LP)

First 30 days

If…

Then the daily rate is limited to…

a civilian employee is authorized TQSE (LP),

the maximum lodging rate and M&IE

rate.

an unaccompanied spouse or unaccompanied domestic

partner occupies temporary lodging in a location separate

from the civilian employee’s location,

a spouse or domestic partner accompanies a civilian

employee in TQSE (LP),

50% of the daily maximum lodging

rate and 50% of the daily maximum

M&IE rate.

a dependent other than a spouse or domestic partner is age

12 or older,

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Table 5-85a. Per Diem and M&IE Daily Rate for TQSE (LP)

5 a dependent is under age 12,

40% of the daily maximum lodging

rate and 40% of the daily maximum

M&IE rate.

Second 30 days

a civilian employee, unaccompanied spouse, or

unaccompanied domestic partner occupies temporary

lodging in a location separate from the civilian employee’s

location,

75% of the daily maximum lodging

rate and 75% of the daily maximum

M&IE rate.

a spouse or domestic partner accompanies a civilian

employee,

45% of the daily maximum lodging

rate and 45% of the daily maximum

M&IE rate.

a dependent, other than a spouse or domestic partner, is age

12 or older,

9 a dependent is under age 12,

35% of the daily maximum lodging

rate and 35% of the daily maximum

M&IE rate.

Beyond First 60 days

a civilian employee, unaccompanied spouse, or

unaccompanied domestic partner occupies temporary

lodging in a location separate from the civilian employee’s

location,

55% of the daily maximum lodging

rate and 55% of the daily maximum

M&IE rate.

a spouse or domestic partner accompanies a civilian

employee in TQSE (LP),

40% of the daily maximum lodging

rate and 40% of the daily maximum

M&IE rate.

a dependent other than a spouse or domestic partner is age

12 or older,

13 a dependent is under age 12,

30% of the daily maximum lodging

rate and 30% of the daily maximum

M&IE rate.

E. TQSE After the First 60 Days. When the AO authorizes a time extension of TQSE (LP) for

temporary lodging occupancy beyond the first 60 days, the additional days must be computed at the

reduced rates as specified in Table 5-85a.

F. Denying Reimbursement. The AO may deny reimbursement of any claimed TQSE lodging

expenses that appear to be unreasonable if the traveler cannot justify the expenses when TQSE (LP) is

being paid. The lack of adequate documentation for the questionable TQSE period does not prohibit

reimbursement for the remaining TQSE days nor does the Tainted Day rule apply. The Tainted Day rule

applies only when there is reasonable suspicion of fraud supported by evidence sufficient to overcome the

usual presumption of honesty and fair dealing by the civilian employee. The Tainted Day rule would void

the TQSE (LP) claim in its entirety when any authorized TQSE day is tainted for fraudulent expenses.

G. TQSE (LP) Advance. A TQSE (LP) advance may be paid to cover the estimated expenses for

up to 30 days. The DoD Component may subsequently pay additional travel advances for periods up to

30 days, limited to the maximum TQSE (LP) period.

H. Miscellaneous Expenses. Temporary lodging taxes are a separately reimbursable TQSE (LP)

miscellaneous expense.

054207. TQSE (AE) Option

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TQSE (AE) is based on the PDS locality per diem rate. AEA may not be authorized or approved for

TQSE (AE) unless the PDS is located in a Presidentially-Declared Disaster area under the Stafford Act

(see par. 054210

). The AO, not the civilian employee, determines if TQSE (AE) is necessary and the

time period authorized on a case-by-case basis. TQSE (AE) reimbursement is for the lesser of the actual

allowable expenses incurred for each day of the authorized period or the maximum allowable amount

payable for that same eligibility period. TQSE (AE) expenses are those directly related to temporary

lodging occupancy within the TQSE eligibility period, and are reasonable and substantiated. The AO

may deny reimbursement of any claimed TQSE expenses that appear to be unreasonable if the traveler

cannot justify the expenses with supporting documentation. Under no circumstances may TQSE (AE) be

paid for more than a total of 120 days.

Table 5-84b. TQSE (AE) Allowable and Non-Allowable Expenses

1 Allowed

a. Fees and tips for meals and lodging.

b. Meals and groceries.

c. Laundry.

d. Cleaning and pressing of clothing.

e. Temporary lodging, including lodging taxes or, if temporary lodging is

located in a foreign area, the cost of a value-added tax (VAT) relief certificate

if the certificate is used to avoid paying the lodging tax.

Note: See 054207-H for reimbursement of lodging taxes.

2 Not Allowed

a. Local transportation expenses.

b. Expenses above the maximum authorized.

A. Time Limitations

1. Initial TQSE (AE) Period. TQSE (AE) may be authorized for 60 or fewer consecutive

days, but only for the time that temporary lodging is required.

2. Additional TQSE (AE) Period. If a civilian employee provides acceptable written

justification and documentation, an AO may authorize or approve TQSE (AE) for an additional 60 or

fewer consecutive days to total no more than 120 days, including the initial TQSE (AE). TQSE (AE)-

period extensions are not automatic and must be held to a minimum. The AO may authorize extensions

only if he or she determines there are compelling reasons for the continued temporary lodging occupancy

due to circumstances beyond the civilian employee’s control. The civilian employee’s written

justification describing the circumstances beyond his or her control and the AO’s documentation

supporting the approval or denial of the requested extension must be retained. Acceptable circumstances

include, but not limited to, any of the following:

a. Delayed HHG transportation or delivery to the new permanent private-sector housing

due to extended transit time for ocean transportation, availability of service providers, pandemics, strikes,

customs clearance, hazardous weather, fires, floods, or other Acts of God.

b. Delayed occupancy of new permanent private-sector housing due to unanticipated

problems such as unforeseen delays in permanent-housing settlement or closing, or unforeseen short-term

delays in new-dwelling construction.

c. Inability to locate permanent private-sector housing adequate for family needs due to

housing conditions at the new PDS.

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