DAFI36-2110 — Total Force Assignments

DAFI36-2110 governs total force assignments, including deferments, mandatory PCS actions, and PCS retainability requirements.

Search DAFI36-2110

  • Publication number: DAFI36-2110
  • Title: TOTAL FORCE ASSIGNMENTS
  • Date: 2026-03-05

View DAFI36-2110 on armypubs.army.mil


DAFI36-2110 addresses assignment programs, overseas deferments, tour priorities, and service retainability. Compliance with the publication and its attachments is mandatory, and it requires applicable records to be managed and disposed of under Air Force records requirements.

Applies to: This instruction applies to all Department of the Air Force (DAF) civilian employees and uniformed members of the Regular Air Force (RegAF), United States Space Force (USSF), Air Force Reserve (AFR), and Air National Guard (ANG).

Topics covered

  • self-initiated assignment programs
  • overseas deferments
  • mandatory PCS
  • PCS retainability
  • extended long tour priorities
  • date of availability waivers

Questions and answers

Can a service member assigned overseas apply for self-initiated assignment programs during a deferment?

Service member is not eligible to apply for any self-initiated assignment programs until the deferment has expired. (paragraph 3)

Can an RNLTD be changed so an overseas deferment expires before departure?

An RNLTD cannot be changed for the sole purpose of allowing a service member’s deferment to expire before the departure date/DEROS (Includes when additional retainability is required due to change in PCS, TDY, or training requirement). (paragraph 3)

What happens if an enlisted service member refuses retainability for a directed training PCS?

If the enlisted service member refuses to obtain retainability to fulfill the Controlled Duty Assignment commitment or Active-Duty Service Commitment (ADSC) for directed training with a PCS, then the MPF will reclama the assignment. (paragraph 5)

Can a service member’s DEROS be involuntarily extended?

Do not involuntarily extend service member’s DEROS. (paragraph 51-402)

Who approves waivers of the date of availability for First Sergeants?

AFPC/DPMOS must approve all waivers of the date of availability for First Sergeants. (paragraph 1-2)

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