For those in the United States Uniformed Services or Department of Defense (DoD) civilians undertaking travel funded by the DoD, understanding the Joint Travel Regulation (JTR) is essential. This comprehensive guide clarifies the JTR, ensuring you navigate travel policies effectively and compliantly.
What is the Joint Travel Regulation (JTR)?
The Joint Travel Regulation, often abbreviated as JTR, serves as the definitive rulebook for travel entitlements for both Uniformed Service members and DoD civilian employees, as well as other civilians traveling on DoD funding. It meticulously outlines regulations concerning various allowances, including per diem, travel and transportation, relocation, and other specific circumstances.
Prior to October 1, 2014, two separate regulations existed: the Joint Federal Travel Regulation (JFTR) and the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR). Recognizing the need for clarity and efficiency, these were consolidated into a single, unified Joint Travel Regulation. This merger streamlined parallel regulations, eliminated redundancies, and updated outdated terminology to create a more user-friendly document.
This consolidation effort significantly improved accessibility and comprehension for travelers. By merging the regulations, the JTR provides aligned language, clearly highlighting any differences in allowances between uniformed members and civilians. This unification also led to a substantial reduction in the overall document length, making it more manageable and efficient to use.
Key Resources for Understanding Travel Regulations
To delve deeper into the specifics of travel regulations and the JTR, several key resources are available:
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Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO) Website: For the most up-to-date information and comprehensive overview of all travel regulations, the Defense Travel Management Office website is your primary source.
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Joint Travel Regulations (JTR) Document: The complete, official JTR document is accessible for direct review. You can find the latest version at https://www.defensetravel.dod.mil/Docs/perdiem/JTR.pdf. This link provides direct access to the full regulation for detailed inquiries.
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Department of Defense Financial Management Regulation (DoD FMR), Volume 9: Complementing the JTR, the DoD Financial Management Regulation, Volume 9: Travel Policy and Procedures offers supplementary guidance on the payment processes for allowances authorized by the JTR. It is crucial for understanding the financial aspects of DoD travel. This regulation applies broadly to personnel under DoD-funded travel orders, encompassing military members, reserve components, civilian employees, dependents on official orders, and invitational travelers.
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Travel Technical Messages: For the most recent updates and policy changes, regularly consult the Travel Technical Messages. These messages provide timely information on evolving travel policies and procedures.
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Government Sponsored Travel Card: For information regarding the appropriate use of the government travel card exclusively for official travel purposes, please refer to the Government Sponsored Travel Card resource.
By utilizing these resources and understanding the core principles of the Joint Travel Regulation, travelers can ensure compliance, optimize their travel arrangements, and access the allowances they are entitled to while serving the Uniformed Services or the Department of Defense. Staying informed is key to efficient and regulation-abiding travel.
