How Long Do You Have to Stay in the Navy if Executing PCS Orders?
Question: If I execute PCS orders, how long do I have to stay in the Navy before I can retire or resign?
Answer: This is something called “retainability” and is detailed in paragraph 9 (on page 6) of OPNAVINST 1300.15B – NAVY MILITARY PERSONNEL ASSIGNMENT POLICY. Here’s the quick and dirty version.
It all depends on where you’re coming from and going to:
- Coming from OCONUS to CONUS = You must wait 1 year before you can get out of the Navy.
- Going to a CONUS operational billet = also 1 year.
- Coming from CONUS to a shore/non-operational billet = 2 years.
- Going OCONUS anywhere = You must serve the full tour length, which depends on your specialty and where you’re going. I could try to explain tour lengths, but it can get complicated. If you’re not sure what your tour length is, ask your Detailer.
September 8, 2019 at 04:25
Thank you for this info, CAPT! Is it possible to extend for 2 years?
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September 8, 2019 at 07:23
It is possible but usually the policy is to do it 1 year at a time, which is consistent with the MILPERSMAN. You’ll have to ask your Detailer. Occasionally if there is good reason they’ll do more than 1 year at a time.
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