DA Form 31: Request and Authority for Leave (PDF Download) – DA Form 31 is the official US Army form titled Request and Authority for Leave. It is the primary document used by soldiers to request and obtain approval for leave or passes. The form records soldier information, leave dates, travel details, and serves as official authorization once approved.
Purpose of DA Form 31
The main purpose of DA Form 31 is to:
- Formally request leave or pass from the commander
- Track chargeable and non-chargeable absences
- Maintain soldier accountability with emergency contact and location information
- Ensure compliance with Army Regulation AR 600-8-10 (Leave and Passes)
- Support accurate personnel and pay administration
Who Needs to Use DA Form 31?
All US Army personnel who need time away from duty should use this form, including:
- Active Duty soldiers
- Army Reserve and National Guard members on orders
- Soldiers requesting annual leave, emergency leave, terminal leave, or special passes
Only the soldier requesting leave completes the form. Commanders or designated approvers review and sign it.
Types of Leave and Absences on DA Form 31
DA Form 31 supports various categories:
Chargeable Leave:
- Annual (Ordinary) Leave
- Emergency Leave
- Terminal Leave
- Reenlistment Leave
Non-Chargeable / Special Absences:
- Regular or Special Pass
- Permissive TDY (PTDY)
- Convalescent Leave
- Parental Leave (Primary/Secondary)
- Environmental Morale Leave (EML)
- Graduation Leave
You may combine types and use the remarks section for clarification.
How to Fill Out DA Form 31 Step-by-Step?
Here is a clear guide to completing the form correctly:
- Block 1 – Control Number (assigned by unit S1)
- Part I – Requester Information (name, rank, DOD ID, unit, contact details)
- Leave Address & Phone – Where you can be reached during leave
- Type of Absence – Check appropriate boxes and enter exact dates (YYYYMMDD)
- Number of Days – Total days requested
- Signatures – Soldier signs the request, commander approves with date
Pro Tip: Always use the official fillable PDF and double-check all dates and contact information.
Download Official DA Form 31 PDF
Download the latest DA Form 31 here
This is the direct link to the official fillable version from the Army Publishing Directorate (APD).
Submission and Approval Process
- Submit the completed DA Form 31 through your chain of command
- Commanders evaluate based on mission requirements and leave balance
- For long leaves or certain types, higher-level approval may be needed
- Keep a copy of the approved form with you while on leave
- Return the form promptly upon return to duty for final signature and processing
Many units now coordinate this with the Integrated Personnel and Pay System – Army (IPPS-A).
Important Tips and Best Practices
- Request leave well in advance, especially during holidays
- Provide accurate leave address and emergency contacts
- Verify your current leave balance before submitting
- Carry the approved DA Form 31 during your absence
- Report any changes in plans immediately
- For emergency leave, prepare supporting documents (Red Cross message, etc.)
Common Questions About DA Form 31
Is DA Form 31 still required with IPPS-A?
Yes, the form remains widely used for documentation even as digital systems expand.
Can I fill it out digitally?
Yes, the official PDF is fillable. Complete it electronically and print for signatures when required.
What happens if my leave is denied?
Commanders may disapprove based on operational needs. You can adjust dates and resubmit.