The Army Defense Travel System (DTS) is a crucial, web-based platform designed to streamline and manage official travel for Department of Defense (DoD) personnel. Within this system, users can efficiently handle a wide array of travel-related tasks, from booking flights, hotels, and rental cars to calculating per diem rates and preparing essential travel documentation for themselves and, with appropriate permissions, for others within their command. DTS empowers travelers to maintain their personal profiles and travel preferences, create local travel vouchers, digitally record and sign trip details, and track the status of authorizations and vouchers at any stage of the process.
Functionally, the Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO) takes the lead in overseeing DTS operations. Complementing this, the Defense Manpower Data Center (DMDC) Program Management Office DTS (PMO-DTS) provides essential program oversight, managing aspects such as system acquisition, technical maintenance, and operational efficiency. You can find more detailed information regarding system upkeep in the DTS & EWTS Maintenance Schedule document [PDF, 2 pages].
Policy Framework for DTS Usage
The mandatory utilization of DTS for Temporary Duty Travel (TDY) is mandated by DoD Instruction 5154.31, Volume 3 [PDF, 8 pages]. This policy document establishes the authoritative guidelines for official travel procedures within the DoD. Furthermore, the comprehensive DTS Regulations document elaborates on critical aspects such as user responsibilities, the various types of official travel documents generated within DTS, financial protocols, and the necessary training requirements tailored to each user role within the system. Understanding these regulations is paramount for all personnel utilizing the army defense travel system to ensure compliance and efficient travel management.
Accessing and Utilizing DTS Effectively
While DTS is a cornerstone for managing DoD travel, its accessibility is defined by specific travel types and circumstances [PDF, 5 pages]. Primarily, Service Members and DoD civilian employees, along with their eligible dependents and invitational travelers, are authorized to use DTS for both local travel and TDY assignments, including government-funded leave. It’s important to note that DTS is generally not designed to accommodate Permanent Duty Travel (PDT). Significantly, most government contractors and employees of nonappropriated funds are typically not permitted to access the Defense Travel System.
Getting Started with DTS: First-Time User Guide
For individuals accessing DTS for the first time, several preliminary steps are essential to ensure a smooth onboarding process. Initially, verifying that your web browser is fully compatible with DTS is crucial; detailed compatibility information can be found here. Following browser verification, obtaining a digital Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) certificate is necessary for secure system access. Finally, new users are required to contact their designated Defense Travel Administrator (DTA) to initiate account setup. Local Level Travel Assistance, including DTA contact information, can be accessed through this resource. These initial steps are vital for gaining access to and effectively utilizing the army defense travel system for all official travel needs.
Understanding DTS Profile Types and User Roles
Within the Defense Travel System, users are assigned a specific profile type – either a “user profile” or a “user/traveler profile” – based on their role and requirement to conduct official DoD travel. Complementing this profile assignment, each user is associated with a particular user role within DTS. These roles dictate the level of system access and the specific responsibilities a user holds. For a comprehensive understanding of the various user roles and their associated responsibilities, Chapter 3 of the Defense Travel Administrator Manual [PDF, 11 pages] provides detailed guidance. This manual serves as an invaluable resource for navigating the complexities of user roles and ensuring effective utilization of the army defense travel system.
