DA Form 2818: Firearms Authorization Guide (US Army) – DA Form 2818, officially titled Firearms Authorization, is a key Department of the Army form used to authorize specific military and civilian personnel to carry firearms while performing official duties. Prescribed by AR 190-14 (Carrying of Firearms and Use of Force for Law Enforcement and Security Duties), it helps ensure controlled, qualified, and documented arming for law enforcement, security, and protective services roles.
This article explains the form’s purpose, eligibility, process, and requirements for US Army soldiers, Department of the Army (DA) civilians, and related personnel.
What Is DA Form 2818 Firearms Authorization?
DA Form 2818 is an official document that grants authorization to carry government-issued firearms. First issued on September 1, 1966, and still active, it serves as proof of approval for personnel engaged in law enforcement, security, or protective duties.
It is part of the Army’s system to limit and control firearm carrying, implementing Department of Defense policies. The form typically includes details such as the individual’s name, rank/position, authorized weapon(s), purpose, expiration date, and signatures from authorizing officials.
Note: This is distinct from SF 2818 (FEGLI life insurance form). Always reference the correct DA Form for firearms matters.
Purpose of DA Form 2818 in the US Army
The primary purpose is to formally document and restrict firearm issuance and carrying to qualified individuals only. It supports:
- Law enforcement and military police (MP) duties.
- Security guard operations at installations.
- Protective services for high-risk personnel or dignitaries.
- Contingency operations where armed personnel are needed.
Authorization ensures compliance with use-of-force rules, training standards, and safety protocols while maintaining accountability. Personnel must carry the form (or equivalent documentation like a memorandum) when armed.
Who Needs DA Form 2818? Eligibility and Requirements
DA Form 2818 is required for military law enforcement officers, DA civilian police/guards, and other designated personnel regularly assigned to armed duties.
Typical recipients include:
- Military Police (MP).
- Installation security personnel.
- Protective services detail members (e.g., USACIDC agents or MPs).
- Certain contingency contracting or support personnel in high-risk environments.
Key eligibility requirements (per AR 190-14):
- Successful completion of required firearms training and qualification (often semiannual).
- No disqualifying factors (e.g., medications impairing judgment, recent alcohol use within prohibited periods, or unreliability determinations).
- Approval by designated authorizing officials in the chain of command.
Personnel must meet physical, mental, and reliability standards. Non-government-owned weapons are generally prohibited.
How to Obtain and Fill Out DA Form 2818?
- Verify Eligibility — Confirm you meet AR 190-14 criteria and have completed training/qualification.
- Complete the Form — Provide personal details, duty position, weapon type, and authorization period. Accuracy is critical.
- Submit for Approval — Route through your chain of command or Provost Marshal’s Office (PMO) for signature by the authorizing official.
- Receive and Carry — Once approved, keep the form accessible while performing armed duties. Digital or memorandum equivalents may be authorized in some cases.
Where to get the form: Official sources include Army Publishing Directorate (armypubs.army.mil) or your unit’s forms manager. Fillable versions are available through authorized military channels.
Renewals or updates are required periodically or when conditions change (e.g., new duty assignment or expiration).
Training and Qualification Standards
Authorization is tied to rigorous training. Personnel must qualify with assigned weapons semiannually and demonstrate proficiency in safety, use of force, and scenario-based situations. Night firing, protective mask use, and familiarization with additional weapons (e.g., shotguns, rifles) may also be required.
Commanders and PMOs oversee training programs, often aligned with US Army Military Police School (USAMPS) standards.
Key Restrictions and Responsibilities
- Carry Limitations — Firearms are for official duties only. Off-duty or personal carry follows separate rules (e.g., for privately owned weapons).
- Prohibitions — No carrying under influence of alcohol (within 8 hours), impairing medications, or without valid authorization.
- Use of Force — Governed strictly by AR 190-14 and rules for the use of force (RUF). Deadly force is a last resort.
- Accountability — Lost or expired authorizations must be reported. Records are retained per Army policy (typically until expiration + limited period).
Violations can result in revocation of authorization, disciplinary action, or legal consequences.
Common Scenarios Requiring DA Form 2818
- Daily law enforcement patrols on installations.
- Protective services for visiting dignitaries.
- Security at high-threat events or contingency operations.
- National Guard domestic operations support (when applicable).
In protective services, MPs or agents must have the form while carrying concealed or visible weapons.
Best Practices for Compliance
- Maintain current qualification records.
- Store the form securely and present it when required.
- Stay updated on AR 190-14 and local supplements.
- Consult your Provost Marshal, security manager, or legal advisor for specific guidance.
- Renew proactively before expiration.
For the most current official guidance, visit armypubs.army.mil or contact your local PMO. Regulations can be updated, so always reference the latest version of AR 190-14.
Understanding and properly using DA Form 2818 ensures mission readiness, legal compliance, and safety for all involved in armed Army duties. If you are a service member or DA civilian needing this authorization, start by discussing requirements with your chain of command or unit armorer/PMO.