DTS Guide 2: Authorizations April 03, 2024
Defense Travel Management Office 4 travel.dod.mil
Chapter 1: Authorizations Introduction
A DTS authorization captures specific data regarding an upcoming Temporary Duty (TDY) travel (dates, locations,
reservations, should-cost estimates and more). Essentially, the authorization is a means of informing everyone
who needs to know when you* will be gone, where you will be working, and how much you expect your trip to
cost.
To build an authorization in DTS, the system accesses database information from your DTS personal profile (e.g.,
residence and duty data, GTCC and EFT information), your organization (i.e., routing lists, LOAs, and budgets),
and DoD travel regulations to help streamline the process.
*In this guide, “you” are the traveler, unless stated otherwise.
When you have official TDY travel, remember:
• Gather your essential travel information before starting the authorization.
• Review the JTR if you have any questions on transportation (e.g., air, rail, bus, POV), rental car, lodging,
per diem, and allowable travel expenses.
• Consult with your Authorizing Official (AO) about the transportation requirements for your trip.
o Per the JTR, par. 020203-2. “When Government transportation is not directed, commercial
travel by airplane, rail, bus, or ship is generally the most advantageous method of
transportation and should be selected when reasonably available. Of these types the most
preferable is travel by airplane if the distance is greater than 250 miles. If the distance is 250
miles or less, then travel by rail is preferred if available; if not available, then travel by rental
vehicle is preferable.” Your AO will use several factors to determine which type of
transportation is most advantageous to the Government for TDY travel.
o Under the JTR, par. 020206-O. “Sustainable Travel Modes. To promote sustainable
transportation, the traveler should consider using ZEVs over other automobiles; rail over air
travel if the distance is less than 250 miles or long-distance automobile travel; and public transit
over automobiles.”
o Be aware you must provide a Constructed Travel Worksheet (CTW) anytime you use your POV
as the preferred transportation mode to and from the TDY location. In the JTR, par. 0202
Transportation, it states, “If the traveler selects an alternate mode than as specified in par.
020203, then they must demonstrate to the AO’s satisfaction that the selected mode of travel
was the most efficient or economical option reasonably available.”
• Review your DTS personal profile and update (GTCC, EFT, and email if needed) before creating the
authorization.
• If you require reservations, ensure your Government Travel Charge Card (GTCC) IBA is active or if using
the Organization’s Centrally Billed Account (CBA) contact the Agency Program Coordinator (APC) for
assistance.
• Allow ample time for your authorization to process through reservations, approval, and ticketing.
o For CONUS travel, recommend starting at least 2 to 3 weeks out, but refer to your local
business rules on advance trip planning.