AR 600-8-10 outlines policies for military leave and passes, ensuring fair application across the Army. It covers types of leave, eligibility, and proper administration procedures.
This regulation is essential for understanding leave accrual, usage, and management, ensuring compliance with Army standards and providing clarity for personnel.
Regular updates, such as the 2020 revision, adapt policies to meet evolving needs, maintaining fairness and consistency in leave administration.
1.1 Purpose of the Regulation
AR 600-8-10 establishes standardized policies and procedures for managing military leave and pass programs. Its primary purpose is to ensure fair, consistent, and equitable administration of leave across the Army. The regulation provides clear guidelines on types of leave, eligibility criteria, accrual rates, and proper usage. It applies to all Army components, including Active Duty, National Guard, and Reserve personnel. By standardizing leave policies, AR 600-8-10 supports readiness, morale, and legal compliance while balancing operational requirements with soldier well-being.
1.2 Scope and Applicability
AR 600-8-10 applies to all Army components, including Active Duty, National Guard, and Reserve personnel. It governs the administration of leave and pass programs, ensuring consistent application across the force. The regulation covers all types of leave, including ordinary, advance, and special leave, as well as passes. It applies to soldiers in the United States and overseas, providing clear guidance for both chargeable and non-chargeable absences. This ensures compliance with Department of Defense and Army policies, maintaining operational readiness while supporting soldier well-being;
Types of Leave
AR 600-8-10 outlines various leave types, including Ordinary Leave, Advance Leave, Emergency Leave, Reenlistment Leave, and Terminal Leave, each with specific eligibility and usage guidelines.
2.1 Ordinary Leave
Ordinary Leave is a non-chargeable absence granted for rest and recreation. Soldiers accrue leave monthly, with a maximum carryover limit. It is typically approved based on unit needs and scheduling constraints. Ordinary Leave can be used for personal reasons, such as vacations or family events, and must be requested in advance. Leave balances are managed to ensure readiness while allowing Soldiers to recharge. Proper documentation and approval processes are required to ensure compliance with Army regulations and maintain operational effectiveness.
2.2 Advance Leave
Advance Leave allows Soldiers to take leave before it is accrued, typically for emergencies or significant personal events. Approval is contingent upon unit needs and the Soldier’s leave balance. It is chargeable against future accrued leave and must be repaid if the Soldier separates before earning the advanced time. Commanders may grant Advance Leave under specific circumstances, ensuring minimal impact on mission readiness. Proper documentation and repayment plans are required to maintain accountability and compliance with Army regulations.
2.3 Emergency Leave
Emergency Leave is granted for unforeseen circumstances like family emergencies, serious illness, or death in the family. It is typically non-chargeable and intended for immediate attention to personal matters. Soldiers must provide documentation to justify the emergency and obtain approval from their commander. Emergency Leave ensures Soldiers can address critical personal issues without deducting from their accrued leave balance, maintaining their well-being while preserving unit readiness. Proper justification and commander approval are essential for authorization.
2.4 Reenlistment Leave
Reenlistment Leave is a type of chargeable leave granted to Soldiers during the reenlistment process. It allows time for transition between enlistment periods, supporting the Soldier’s continuity of service. This leave is typically approved by the commander and must be requested in advance. Soldiers must have sufficient accrued leave to cover the period. Reenlistment Leave ensures a smooth transition while maintaining unit operations. Proper documentation and adherence to regulatory guidelines are required for approval, ensuring compliance with Army policies and procedures.
2.5 Terminal Leave
Terminal Leave is a type of chargeable leave granted to Soldiers nearing the end of their service commitment or separation. It allows Soldiers to transition smoothly to civilian life. Commanders approve Terminal Leave based on unit needs and the Soldier’s accrued leave balance. This leave is typically taken at the end of service and requires proper documentation. Soldiers must ensure all duties are fulfilled before commencing Terminal Leave, as it is intended to facilitate a seamless transition out of the Army, ensuring compliance with regulatory guidelines. Proper planning is essential to avoid any issues with leave balances or separation processes.
Special Leave Accrual
Special Leave Accrual allows Soldiers to carry over excess leave under specific conditions, such as deployments. It includes rules for eligibility, approval, and usage limits.
This provision ensures Soldiers retain earned leave without forfeiture, maintaining morale and readiness. Proper documentation and commander approval are required for accrual requests.
3.1 Authorization and Rules
Special Leave Accrual is authorized for Soldiers serving in qualifying periods, such as deployments or hazardous duty. Commanders approve accrual requests based on mission needs and Soldier eligibility.
Rules include limits on accrued leave balances and requirements for proper documentation. Leave must be used within specified timelines to avoid forfeiture, ensuring compliance with Army regulations.
3.2 Processing Special Leave Accrual
Processing Special Leave Accrual involves submitting requests through unit commanders, ensuring adherence to regulatory guidelines. Accrual is granted in increments, with documentation maintained in personnel records. Soldiers must use accrued leave within the designated timeframe to prevent loss. Commands review and approve requests, ensuring compliance with Army policies and proper leave management. This process ensures fairness and consistency in administering special leave benefits across the force.
3.3 One-Time Leave Sell-Back
The One-Time Leave Sell-Back program allows eligible Soldiers to sell back a portion of their accrued leave. This benefit is typically offered when Soldiers cannot use their leave due to military requirements. The program is designed to compensate Soldiers for unused leave, with specific eligibility criteria and limits. Requests must be approved by commanders and documented properly. This option provides financial relief while adhering to regulatory guidelines, ensuring Soldiers are fairly compensated for their service commitments.
Chargeable Leave
Chargeable leave includes absences like annual, advance, and emergency leave, deducted from a Soldier’s leave balance. It is used for personal reasons and governed by strict regulations.
4.1 Annual Leave
Annual leave is a chargeable absence earned by Soldiers, allowing time for rest and personal activities. It is accrued based on service time, with rates increasing for longer tenures.
Procedures for requesting and approving annual leave are detailed in AR 600-8-10, ensuring proper documentation and adherence to military regulations.
Soldiers can carry over unused leave, with limits set to prevent excessive accumulation. Proper management ensures readiness while supporting work-life balance for military personnel.
4.2 Advance Leave
Advance leave allows Soldiers to take leave before it is accrued, based on expected future earnings. It is chargeable and requires approval from the appropriate authority.
This type of leave is typically granted for compelling reasons, such as emergencies or significant personal events. Soldiers must ensure they can earn back the advanced leave to avoid indebtedness to the government.
Proper documentation and adherence to AR 600-8-10 guidelines are essential to prevent financial or administrative issues.
4.3 Emergency Leave
Emergency leave is a type of chargeable leave granted for unforeseen circumstances, such as serious illness, death, or family emergencies.
It is typically approved for immediate family needs and requires proper documentation to justify the request.
Soldiers must obtain approval from their commander before taking emergency leave, ensuring minimal disruption to duty.
The regulation outlines specific procedures for requesting and documenting emergency leave, emphasizing timely submission of supporting evidence.
This leave category ensures Soldiers can address critical personal matters while maintaining accountability and adherence to Army policies.
4.4 Leave in Conjunction with Permanent Change of Station
Leave in conjunction with a permanent change of station (PCS) is addressed in AR 600-8-10 to facilitate smooth transitions for Soldiers.
This leave may be taken before, during, or after a PCS move, subject to mission requirements and commander approval.
It is typically used to allow Soldiers and their families to prepare for relocation or settle into a new duty station.
The regulation specifies that such leave must be requested in advance and may include restrictions to ensure the move is not delayed.
Proper documentation and coordination with the chain of command are essential to ensure compliance with policy.
Non-Chargeable Leaves and Absences
Non-chargeable leaves include absences not deducted from accrued leave, such as convalescent and administrative absences. These are granted for medical recovery or specific personal circumstances, ensuring Soldier well-being without penalizing leave balances.
Such absences require proper documentation and approval, adhering to Army policies outlined in AR 600-8-10.
5.1 Convalescent Leave
Convalescent leave is a non-chargeable absence granted for medical recovery. It allows Soldiers to recuperate from illness or injury without deducting from their accrued leave.
A medical officer’s approval is required, and documentation like DA Form 3349 (Physical Profile) may be necessary. This leave ensures Soldiers can recover fully before returning to duty, maintaining their health and readiness in line with Army regulations.
5.2 Army Military Parental Leave Program
The Army Military Parental Leave Program provides paid leave for Soldiers following childbirth or adoption. Eligible Soldiers can take up to six weeks of leave within a year.
This leave supports military families, aiding in bonding and care during the early stages of a child’s life. The program aligns with Army policies to enhance readiness and Soldier well-being, ensuring a balance between family and service obligations. Updates in AR 600-8-10 have expanded eligibility and clarified guidelines for this program.
It reflects the Army’s commitment to supporting families and maintaining operational effectiveness.
5.3 Administrative Absence and Leave of Absence
Administrative absence and leave of absence are non-chargeable absences authorized for specific purposes, such as resolving personal issues or attending to family matters.
These absences are typically granted in unique circumstances, with approval from the commander or designated authority. The leave of absence may be paid or unpaid, depending on the situation.
AR 600-8-10 outlines the rules and limitations for requesting and approving these absences, ensuring they align with military requirements while addressing Soldier needs. Updates in the regulation clarify proper usage and documentation.
Passes
Passes provide authorized absences for Soldiers, allowing time for rest, personal affairs, or recreational activities. Regular and special passes are granted based on duty status and commander approval.
6.1 Regular Pass
A Regular Pass is a short-term authorized absence granted to Soldiers for personal or recreational purposes. It is typically granted for weekends or days off, allowing Soldiers to rest, attend to personal matters, or engage in leisure activities. Regular Passes are non-chargeable and do not deduct from a Soldier’s leave balance. Commanders may approve these passes based on unit operational needs and the Soldier’s duty status. They are an essential component of work-life balance, ensuring Soldiers can recharge and maintain readiness for duty.
6.2 Special Pass
A Special Pass is granted for exceptional circumstances, such as family emergencies, significant personal events, or other compelling reasons. It is typically approved for a shorter duration than regular passes and may be authorized with or without pay, depending on the situation. Commanders have discretion to approve Special Passes based on the urgency of the request and the impact on unit operations.
Special Passes are non-chargeable to leave, ensuring Soldiers can address personal matters without deducting from their accrued leave. This flexibility supports work-life balance while maintaining military readiness and operational requirements.
6.3 Pass Extensions
Pass extensions are authorized for Soldiers who require additional time beyond their initial pass period; Extensions are granted for compelling reasons, such as ongoing personal emergencies or unforeseen circumstances. Commanders review each request to ensure operational needs are not negatively impacted.
Extensions are typically limited in duration and must be formally approved. They are non-chargeable to leave, allowing Soldiers to address personal matters without depleting accrued leave. Extensions may not exceed specific limits without higher-level approval, ensuring balance between personal needs and unit readiness.
Leave in Conjunction with Permanent Change of Station and Temporary Duty
This section explains the use of leave during Permanent Change of Station (PCS) and Temporary Duty (TDY) assignments, including en route leave and TDY combinations, ensuring proper coordination and non-chargeable leave usage.
7.1 Using Leave with PCS and TDY
AR 600-8-10 details how leave can be used in conjunction with Permanent Change of Station (PCS) and Temporary Duty (TDY). Soldiers may use leave en route to a new duty station or while on TDY, provided it does not interfere with mission requirements. This section outlines the procedures for requesting and approving leave during PCS or TDY, ensuring proper coordination between commanders and personnel. It also clarifies non-chargeable leave usage, such as rest and recuperation, and the documentation required for leave during transitions.
The regulation emphasizes balancing operational needs with soldiers’ personal time, ensuring seamless integration of leave with duty assignments.
7.2 Granting PCS Leave
AR 600-8-10 provides guidelines for granting leave in conjunction with a Permanent Change of Station (PCS). Commanders may authorize leave before or after a PCS, ensuring proper coordination with transportation and housing requirements. The regulation outlines procedures for requesting and approving PCS leave, emphasizing the importance of balancing operational needs with soldiers’ personal time. Soldiers must submit leave requests through their chain of command, with approvals documented in official records. This ensures accountability and adherence to Army policies.
Proper documentation and coordination are critical to avoid delays or disruptions during transitions.
Leave Management
AR 600-8-10 establishes procedures for leave control and reconciliation, ensuring accurate tracking and proper documentation of soldiers’ leave balances to maintain compliance with Army policies.
8.1 Leave Control and Reconciliation
AR 600-8-10 establishes detailed procedures for leave control and reconciliation to ensure accurate tracking of soldiers’ leave balances. This process involves regular audits and documentation to maintain compliance with Army policies. The regulation emphasizes internal control measures to prevent discrepancies and misuse of leave. Soldiers and commanders are required to monitor leave balances and report any irregularities promptly. Proper documentation and adherence to these procedures ensure fair and consistent application of leave policies across the Army. This system also supports efficient leave management during mobilization or emergencies.
Non-Chargeable Rest and Recuperation Leave
AR 600-8-10 introduces Non-Chargeable Rest and Recuperation Leave to support soldiers’ well-being after prolonged or demanding assignments. This leave is not deducted from regular leave balances, ensuring soldiers can rest without penalty. The 2020 revision expanded eligibility and clarified procedures, particularly for those serving consecutive overseas tours. Soldiers requiring medical recovery may combine this leave with convalescent leave, with documentation via DA Form 3349. The policy aims to enhance readiness and morale by providing adequate rest periods, promoting long-term health and performance.
Updates in the 2020 Revision
The 2020 revision of AR 600-8-10 introduced significant updates, including expanded leave carryover for Reserve Component Soldiers, updated travel policies, and enhanced special leave accrual options.
10.1 Key Changes and Additions
The 2020 revision of AR 600-8-10 introduced several key changes, including allowing Reserve Component Soldiers to carry over accumulated leave between active service periods. Additionally, leave and pay policies were updated, along with travel clearance requirements. Special leave accrual rules were revised, and the use of Department of Defense identification numbers replaced social security numbers on leave-related documents. New provisions were added for permanent change of station leave and non-chargeable rest and recuperation leave, enhancing flexibility and support for soldiers. These updates aim to modernize leave management and improve overall efficiency.
Responsibilities and Supplementation
The Deputy Chief of Staff, G1, is the proponent, with authority to approve exceptions. Supplementation requires prior approval to ensure consistency and compliance with Army standards.
11.1 Proponent and Exception Authority
The Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1, serves as the proponent of AR 600-8-10, holding authority to approve exceptions and waivers consistent with law and regulation.
The proponent may delegate this authority to division chiefs or equivalent officials within their agency.
Commands seeking supplementation or waivers must submit requests through higher headquarters for endorsement by senior leaders.
Waivers require justification, including benefits and compliance with internal controls, ensuring adherence to Army standards and policies.
This framework ensures uniform application while allowing flexibility for unique circumstances.
11.2 Suggested Improvements and Feedback
Users are encouraged to submit suggestions for improving AR 600-8-10 using DA Form 2028 to the Deputy Chief of Staff, G-1.
Feedback should be sent to the proponent at usarmy.pentagon.hqda-dcs-g1.mbx.dape-prctravelmail.mil.
Proposed changes are reviewed to enhance clarity, fairness, and effectiveness of leave policies.
This process ensures the regulation remains aligned with soldier needs and evolving Army requirements.
All submissions must be endorsed by the requester’s senior leader or commander to ensure validity and relevance.
Accessing the AR 600-8-10 PDF
The AR 600-8-10 regulation is available in electronic format for easy access. The PDF can be downloaded from official Army portals or through the Department of the Army’s publications website. It is no longer distributed in print, ensuring the most up-to-date version is accessible digitally. The regulation is effective as of 16 August 2020 and supersedes all prior versions. Soldiers and personnel can access it via secure military networks or public platforms hosting official Army documents.
This ensures widespread availability and compliance with the latest policies.