DODI1400.25V336_DAFI36-146 — Civilian Firefighters And Law Enforcement Officers

DODI1400.25V336_DAFI36-146 governs civilian firefighter and law enforcement officer employment, entry-age waivers, and mandatory separation.

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  • Publication number: DODI1400.25V336_DAFI36-146
  • Title: CIVILIAN FIREFIGHTERS AND LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS
  • Date: 2026-04-23

View DODI1400.25V336_DAFI36-146 on armypubs.army.mil


The publication establishes maximum entry ages for selected positions and procedures for entry-age waiver requests, including preference eligible applicants. It defines mandatory separation procedures and exceptions for covered Civil Service Retirement System and Federal Employees Retirement System employees.

Topics covered

  • Civilian firefighter employment
  • Law enforcement officer employment
  • Maximum entry age
  • Entry-age waivers
  • Preference eligible applicants
  • Mandatory separation
  • Mandatory separation exceptions

Questions and answers

What is the mandatory separation deadline when notification is late?

An employee who does not receive a timely, written notification of mandatory separation cannot be mandatorily separated until the last day of the month, which is 60 days after receiving the notification, even if that date is past the MRD reflected in the employee’s record. (paragraph 4)

Can a firefighter or law enforcement officer receive an exception to automatic separation at age 57?

The DoD Component head may exempt a firefighter or law enforcement officer from automatic separation until the employee becomes 60 years of age if, in the judgment of the DoD Component head, the public interest so requires. (paragraph 4)

What must support a mandatory separation waiver request?

A mandatory separation waiver request should be based on mission requirements, not solely on an individual’s desire to continue working. (paragraph 4)

Who initiates a mandatory separation waiver request and when?

A mandatory separation waiver request is initiated by the organization, not the incumbent, at least 6 months ahead of the anticipated separation date, to allow sufficient time for staffing and coordination on the request. (paragraph 4)

Can an employee remain in an SRC position while awaiting a waiver decision?

An employee may not remain in an SRC position past the MRD for the purpose of awaiting the determination on a separation waiver request or to await placement in a non-SRC position. (paragraph 4)

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