Changing your Army Career Path

Army Branch Transfer Regulations Overview
As it explained in AR 614-100 a branch transfer permanently, voluntarily or involuntarily changes an officer's branch. The majority of transfers processed through HRC are voluntary transfers requested from the individual officers through their chain of command. It is the decision process behind the voluntary requests that many officers do not understand, and they are often caught by surprise when their requests are disapproved.

The regulation states that Regular Army officers applying for a branch transfer must have completed three years of active federal commissioned service and USAR officers must be accepted for conditional voluntary indefinite status. It is always possible to request an exception to policy when the basic eligibility requirements have not been met, however, requests may be returned without action if they lack justification.

The Deciding Factors
A variety of factors considered when reviewing branch transfer requests. The factors, outlined in paragraph 4-2 of the AR 614-100, include branch alignment, civilian and military education, special qualifications and needs of the Army. Each case is reviewed to determine if it meets the basic eligibility requirements before any other factors are considered.

KeyFactors
The Key factors in determining whether or not a branch transfer request is approved are as follows:

• Branch alignment by year group in both the officer's current and requested branch.
• Civilian and military education.
• Overall manner of performance and career potential within requested branch. (4) Special qualifications as appropriate.
• Demonstrated aptitude for branch specific training and assignments.
• Needs of the Army

It is HRC's policy not to support transfers between shortage branches or into overage branches. Both the gaining and losing branches "vote" the file to determine if a branch transfer is in the best interests of the Army. If both branches vote "yes," the branch transfer is approved. If the gaining or losing branch votes "no," the director of Officer Personnel Management Directorate makes the final decision.

All aspects of the requester's career are considered when assessing the request for transfer, including the officer's overall performance and career potential within the requested branch. It is important to understand that although the needs of the officer are carefully considered, it is the needs of the Army, readiness and health of each branch that are paramount.

Requesting a Branch Transfer
Officers must request a branch transfer on a DA Form 4187 with an attached memorandum that justifies the transfer. Commanders are responsible to review each request to ensure it meets the basic eligibility requirements or has a strong justification for an exception.