DD Form 370 Request for Reference: Guide & Download – The DD Form 370, officially titled Request for Reference, is a vital Department of Defense (DoD) form used during the U.S. military enlistment process. It helps recruiters gather character references for applicants, particularly those needing moral or civil waivers. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about the form, including its purpose, completion instructions, and official download.
What Is DD Form 370?
DD Form 370 is a standardized form prescribed by DoDI 1304.02 for collecting reference information on individuals applying for enlistment in the Armed Forces of the United States. The current edition is dated April 2021 (with updates), and OMB approval expires September 30, 2026. It is used primarily to evaluate an applicant’s character, work habits, attitudes, and suitability for military service.
The form consists of three main sections: Recruiting Representative Identification, Instructions, and the Reference section to be completed by the referee (employer, school official, or other).
Purpose of DD Form 370 in Military Enlistment
The primary purpose of the DD Form 370 is to obtain personal reference data for applicants who have disclosed civil or criminal offenses that would otherwise disqualify them from service. This information supports waiver requests by providing insights into the applicant’s moral character, reliability, and overall fitness.
References help determine if the applicant meets the high moral standards required for military service. Information is held in strict confidence and assists in minimizing discharges due to poor adjustment.
Who Uses DD Form 370?
DD Form 370 is initiated by military recruiters for applicants seeking enlistment in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard. It is typically requested from:
- Employers (especially for waiver packages)
- School officials
- Community leaders or other non-relatives with knowledge of the applicant
Relatives are generally not accepted as references. The form is not given to the applicant to complete themselves.
How to Fill Out DD Form 370: Step-by-Step Instructions?
Section I – Recruiting Representative Identification: Completed by the recruiter with name, unit, address, signature, date, email, and phone.
Section II – Instructions: Provides guidance to the reference provider. It explains the importance of honest feedback for national defense and the applicant’s future.
Section III – Reference (Completed by Referee):
- Applicant details and relationship to referee
- Duration and nature of acquaintance
- Ratings on trustworthiness, adaptability, leadership, etc.
- Questions about alcohol/drugs or reasons not to recommend
- Personal narrative evaluation
- Referee’s contact and signature information
Completed forms should be returned directly to the recruiting representative. Average completion time is about 10 minutes.
Official DD Form 370 Download
Download the latest official DD Form 370 directly from the DoD Executive Services Directorate:
Download DD Form 370 PDF (Official)
This is the authoritative source. Always use the most current version to ensure compliance.
DD Form 370 for Waivers and Suitability
For applicants with disqualifying history, strong positive references on the DD Form 370 can support waiver approval. Recruiters may request multiple references, particularly employer ones for the past few years. The form plays a key role in pre-enlistment screening across services.
Tips for Providing a Strong Reference on DD Form 370
If asked to complete this form:
- Be honest and specific in your narrative.
- Address all rating categories and any “Yes” answers in detail.
- Focus on maturity, dependability, leadership, and work ethic.
- Return promptly to the recruiter.
Your input helps the Armed Forces select qualified individuals while giving deserving applicants a fair chance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is DD Form 370 required for all enlistees?
No. It is primarily used for applicants requiring moral character waivers.
Can I fill out the form for a family member?
References from relatives are typically not accepted. Use employers, teachers, or community leaders.
Where can I find more information on military enlistment forms?
Visit official DoD forms pages or contact a local recruiter for guidance on DD Form 370 and related documents like DD Form 369 (Police Record Check).