DA Form 5557: Individual Reliability Screening Guide 2026 – If you work with or are applying for roles in the U.S. Army’s Department of the Army Civilian Police (DACP) or Security Guard (DASG) programs, you’ve likely encountered DA Form 5557. This critical document ensures only reliable, trustworthy individuals are assigned to sensitive law enforcement and security positions.
What Is DA Form 5557?
DA Form 5557, officially titled Individual Reliability Screening and Evaluation Record, is a U.S. Army form used to document the screening and evaluation of personnel for positions requiring a high degree of reliability, trustworthiness, physical fitness, and emotional stability.
- Form Date: September 2009 (DA FORM 5557, SEP 2009)
- Proponent Agency: Provost Marshal General (PMG)
- Prescribed By: AR 190-56, The Army Civilian Police and Security Guard Program
The form supports the Individual Reliability Program (IRP), which assesses suitability for employment or retention in civilian police and security guard roles.
Purpose of DA Form 5557
The primary purpose is to evaluate an individual’s suitability for sensitive duties, such as those involving access to weapons, protection of personnel and property, or law enforcement functions on Army installations. It helps commanders determine if a person meets the stringent standards for these high-responsibility positions.
Key uses include:
- Pre-employment screening for DACP and DASG positions.
- Ongoing evaluation and retention assessments.
- Documentation for medical and personnel records.
- Supporting decisions on disqualification or temporary suspension.
Note: While some newer programs use related forms like DA Form 7708 for broader personnel reliability screening (e.g., under AR 190-13 for physical security), DA Form 5557 remains specifically tied to the IRP for civilian police and security guards.
Structure of DA Form 5557
The one-page form is divided into clear sections for comprehensive screening:
Part I – Personnel Records Screening
Reviews personnel and security records, including clearance status (Confidential, Secret, Top Secret) and any potentially disqualifying information.
Part II – Medical Records Screening
Conducted by a physician to assess physical and mental fitness per AR 190-56 standards.
Part III – Certifying Official’s Evaluation
The certifying official reviews all data, conducts an interview if needed, and determines suitability (suitable/unsuitable/temporarily suspended).
Part IV – Briefing Certificate
Confirms the individual has been briefed on reliability standards from AR 190-56.
Part V – Disqualification
Documents reasons for disqualification if the individual is found unsuitable.
Part VI – Records Identification
Explains filing requirements: Original in official personnel folder, copies in certifying official’s files and medical records.
Who Needs to Complete DA Form 5557?
- Department of the Army Civilian Police (DACP) applicants and incumbents.
- Department of the Army Security Guards (DASG).
- Certain contract security personnel involved in safeguarding Army resources.
- Certifying officials, supervisors, personnel specialists, and medical personnel involved in the screening process.
Step-by-Step Process (Overview)
- Personnel Records Review — Check security/suitability records.
- Medical Records Review — Physician evaluates for disqualifying conditions.
- Certifying Official Evaluation — Interview and final determination.
- Briefing — Individual receives reliability standards briefing.
- Filing — Form goes into official records for ongoing monitoring.
Adverse information must be reported promptly to the certifying official or commander.
Why Reliability Screening Matters?
Army installations require personnel in armed or security roles to maintain the highest standards. The IRP under AR 190-56 protects national security, installation safety, and public trust by identifying risks early and ensuring continuous evaluation.
Reliability factors often reference standards similar to those in personnel security programs (e.g., AR 380-67), covering areas like criminal history, financial stability, substance use, and mental health.
Download DA Form 5557 PDF
Official Download Link:
DA Form 5557 PDF – Army Publishing Directorate
Always use the latest version from the official Army Publishing Directorate (armypubs.army.mil) for compliance.
Related Resources
- AR 190-56: The Army Civilian Police and Security Guard Program (primary reference).
- Army physical security and personnel reliability guidance (AR 190-13).
- Local installation Provost Marshal or Civilian Personnel Advisory Center (CPAC) for specific procedures.
Important: Policies and forms can be updated. Always verify the most current requirements through official Army channels or your command.
Need Help with DA Form 5557?
For questions about completing the form, contact your local:
- Installation Provost Marshal Office
- Civilian Personnel Office (CPAC)
- Security Manager
Proper use of DA Form 5557 helps maintain a professional, reliable force dedicated to protecting Army communities across the United States and worldwide.