BY ORDER OF THE SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE

BY ORDER OF THE

SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE

DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE

INSTRUCTION 36-2903

29 FEBRUARY 2024

Corrective Actions Applied on

13 March 2024

Personnel

DRESS AND PERSONAL APPEARANCE

OF DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR

FORCE PERSONNEL

COMPLIANCE WITH THIS PUBLICATION IS MANDATORY

ACCESSIBILITY: Publications and forms are available on the e-Publishing website at

www.e-Publishing.af.mil for downloading or ordering.

RELEASABILITY: There are no releasability restrictions on this publication.

OPR: AF/A1PA Certified by: SAF/MR

Supersedes: DAFI 36-2903, 7 February 2020 Pages: 150

This instruction implements Department of the Air Force Policy Directive (DAFPD) 36-29,

Military Standards. It provides responsibilities and standards for dress and personal appearance of

all Department of the Air Force personnel and, consistent with Department of Defense Instruction

(DoDI) 1300.17, Religious Liberty in the Military Services, provides guidance for religious

accommodation requests. This publication applies to Department of the Air Force civilian and

contract employees and uniformed members of the United States Space Force (USSF), the Regular

Air Force (RegAF), the Air Force Reserve (ResAF), and the Air National Guard (ANG) and retired

and separated personnel. In collaboration with the Chief of Air Force Reserve (AF/RE), Director

of the Air National Guard (NGB/CF), Deputy Chief of Space Operations for Human Capital

(SF/S1), the Deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower, Personnel, and Services (AF/A1) develops

personnel guidance for dress and personal appearance programs. This instruction applies to USSF

members unless and until separate service guidance is published. In this event, USSF guidance

shall prevail in application to the USSF. Note: All references to United States Air Force (USAF)

terminology, units, grades, and positions will also apply to the equivalent in the USSF, as

appropriate. For example, references to Airmen will also apply to Guardians. (Exception:

Allowance Standard 016, documented amount and type of organizational clothing and equipment

items authorized for an organization by applicable commander). This instruction requires the

collection and or maintenance of information protected by the Privacy Act of 1974 authorized by

Department of Defense Directive (DoDI) 5400.11, DoD Privacy and Civil Liberties Program. The

applicable System of Record Notice (SORN) F036 AF PC C, Military Personnel Records System,

2 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

is available at http://dpclo.defense.gov/Privacy/SORNs.aspx. Vigilance is required to protect

Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) when submitting or sending nominations, applications,

or other documents to DoD agencies through government internet, software applications, systems,

e-mail, postal, faxing or scanning. Ensure all records generated as a result of processes prescribed

in this publication adhere to Air Force Instruction 33-322, Records Management and Information

Governance Program, and are disposed in accordance with the Air Force Records Disposition

Schedule, which is located in the Air Force Records Information Management System. Refer

recommended changes and questions about this publication to the OPR using DAF Form 847,

Recommendation for Change of Publication; route DAF Forms 847 from the field through the

appropriate functional chain of command. This publication may be supplemented at any level, but

all supplements that directly implement this publication must be routed to the Office of Primary

Responsibility (OPR) for coordination, and all MAJCOM-level supplements must be approved by

the Human Resource Management Strategic Board (HSB) prior to certification and approval. The

authorities to waive wing/unit level requirements in this publication are identified with a tier (e.g.,

“T-0, T-1, T-2, T-3”) number following the compliance statement. See DAFMAN 90-161,

Publishing Processes and Procedures, for a description of the authorities associated with the tier

numbers. Submit requests for waivers through the chain of command to the appropriate tier waiver

approval authority, or alternately, to AF/A1 or SF/S1 as appropriate for non-tiered compliance

items. The use of the name or mark of any specific manufacturer, commercial product, commodity,

or service in this publication does not imply endorsement by the Department of the Air Force.

Failure to comply with the publication is punishable as a violation of Article 92 of the Uniform

Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).

SUMMARY OF CORRECTIVE ACTIONS

1.) Corrected figure 4.4., rotated the Capt and Lt ranks 90 degrees and added the general officer

rank spacing markers, 2.) Corrected paragraph 9.2.1, removed AFSCs, 43A, and 4M0 that no

longer exist and changed to reflect “Non-rated and non-Career Enlisted Aviator AFSCs: 13HX

and 1H0X1” due to transition of Aerospace Physiology career fields from the Air Force Medical

Service to the Line of the Air Force.

SUMMARY OF CHANGES

This instruction is substantially revised and must be completely reviewed. Policy language

updated for clarity, simplification and to reduce redundancies. Graphics were updated to improve

visualization and amplify existing policy. It also incorporates policy changes from the 102nd Air

Force Uniform Board and out-of-cycle policy memoranda including updates to tattoo/brands/body

markings, mustache wear, the religious accommodation request process, no-hat, no-salute areas,

specialized nametag, two-piece flight duty uniform, gym bag, backpack, handbag, and flight duty

uniform policy. It authorizes female wear of mess dress trousers or slacks, wear of caps for

baldness or hair loss due to medical conditions, permanent wear of EPME badge, Security Forces

shield on the OCP uniform, beverage consumption while walking in uniform, wear of cold weather

headbands, the purchase of commercial cold weather outerwear, wing commander delegation to

approve religious regalia, organizational emblems on the back of morale shirt and heritage morale

patches on the flight duty uniform. It clarifies sister service and Joint unit patch wear and graduate

patch criteria and added guidance for duty identifiers and tabs process. Removes references to

DAFI36-2903  29 FEBRUARY 2024  3 
Airman Battle Uniforms and authorization for color morale shirts to be worn with the flight duty 
uniform. 
 
Chapter 1—GENERAL INFORMATION    10 
1.1.  Basic Philosophy. .....................................................................................................   10 
1.2.  When to Wear the Air Force Uniform. ....................................................................   10 
1.3.  Optional Wear of the Air Force Uniform.................................................................   11 
1.4.  When NOT to Wear the Air Force Uniform. ...........................................................   12 
1.5.  Acquiring Uniform Items. ........................................................................................   13 
Chapter 2—ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES    14 
2.1.  Chief of Staff of the Air Force (CSAF) (AF/CC). ...................................................   14 
2.2.  Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force (CMSAF) (AF/CCC). ...............................   14 
2.3.  Deputy Chief of Staff of the Air Force for Manpower, Personnel and Services 
(AF/A1). ...................................................................................................................   14 
2.4.  Military Compensation Policy Division, Headquarters Air Force (AF/A1PA). ......   14 
2.5.  Air Force Director of Training and Readiness (AF/A3T). .......................................   14 
2.6.  Air Force Personnel Center Special Programs Branch (AFPC/DP3SA). ................   14 
2.7.  Air Force Materiel Command Logistics, Civil Engineering, and Nuclear 
Integration Directorate (AFMC/A4/10). ..................................................................   14 
2.8.  MAJCOM, CCMD and Theater Commanders. .......................................................   14 
2.9.  Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES). ..................................................   15 
2.10.  Defense Logistics Agency (DLA). ..........................................................................   15 
2.11.  Numbered Air Force (NAF), DRU and FOA Commanders. ...................................   15 
2.12.  Wing Commanders or Equivalent. ...........................................................................   15 
2.13.  Force Support Squadron. .........................................................................................   15 
2.14.  Commander (on G-Series Orders) or Equivalent. ....................................................   15 
2.15.  First Sergeant. ..........................................................................................................   16 
2.16.  Supervisor. ...............................................................................................................   16 
2.17.  Airmen/Individual Responsibilities. ........................................................................   16 
Chapter 3—GROOMING AND APPEARANCE STANDARDS    18 
3.1.  Personal Grooming Standards. .................................................................................   18 
Figure  3.1.  Male – Unauthorized Hair Examples. ......................................................................   19 
Figure  3.2.  Female – Unauthorized Hair Examples. ..................................................................   19 
Figure  3.3.  How to Measure Hair Bulk. .....................................................................................   20 

4  DAFI36-2903  29 FEBRUARY 2024 
Figure  3.4.  Male Hair Standards Examples. ...............................................................................   20 
Figure  3.5.  Cut, Clipped, or Shaved Part....................................................................................   21 
Figure  3.6.  Mustache. .................................................................................................................   21 
Figure  3.7.  Shaving Waiver Example. .......................................................................................   22 
Figure  3.8.  Female Hair Examples. ............................................................................................   23 
Figure  3.9.  Female Hair Accessories..........................................................................................   23 
Figure  3.10.  Authorized Female Hair Styles Examples of Locs, Braids, and Cornrows. ............   24 
Figure  3.11.  Authorized Ponytails/Equivalent and Long braid(s) Hair Styles Examples. ...........   24 
Figure  3.12.  Ponytail/Braid Length. .............................................................................................   24 
Figure  3.13.  Unauthorized Ponytails. ...........................................................................................   25 
Figure  3.14.  Authorized and Unauthorized Nail Polish Colors (Not All-Inclusive). ...................   26 
Figure  3.15.  Authorized and Unauthorized Eyelash Extension Examples. ..................................   27 
3.2.  Tattoos/Brands/Body Markings. ..............................................................................   27 
Figure  3.16.  Neck Tattoo Approved Location. ............................................................................   29 
3.3.  Body Piercing/Ornamentation. ................................................................................   30 
3.4.  Alteration/Modification. ..........................................................................................   30 
Chapter 4—DRESS UNIFORMS    31 
4.1.  Formal and Mess Dress Uniforms. ..........................................................................   31 
4.2.  Formal and Mess Dress Uniform Accoutrements (Male and Female). ...................   33 
4.3.  Semi-Formal Dress Uniform (enlisted Only). .........................................................   33 
4.4.  Semi-Formal Dress Uniform Accoutrements (Male and Female). ..........................   34 
Figure  4.1.  Male and Female Semi-Formal Dress Uniform. ......................................................   35 
Figure  4.2.  Male Mess Dress Uniform. ......................................................................................   35 
Figure  4.3.  Female Mess Dress Uniform. ..................................................................................   36 
4.5.  Service Dress Uniform (Class A and B – Male and Female). .................................   36 
Figure  4.4.  Officer Rank Insignia Placement on Epaulet. ..........................................................   37 
Figure  4.5.  Enlisted Rank Placement. ........................................................................................   37 
Figure  4.6.  Male Service Dress Uniform (Example Configurations). ........................................   38 
Figure  4.7.  Female Service Dress Uniform (Example Configurations) .....................................   39 
4.6.  Male Blue Shirt and Female Blouse (Class A and B). .............................................   39 
4.7.  Male Blue Shirt and Female Blouse Accoutrements. ..............................................   40 
4.8.  Trousers, Slacks, Skirt (Class A and B). ..................................................................   41 
Figure  4.8.  Male Long Sleeve Blue Shirt. ..................................................................................   41 

DAFI36-2903  29 FEBRUARY 2024  5 
Figure  4.9.  Male Short Sleeve Shirt. ..........................................................................................   42 
Figure  4.10.  Female Long Sleeve Blue Blouse. ...........................................................................   42 
Figure  4.11.  Female Short Sleeve Blue Blouse. ...........................................................................   43 
Figure  4.12.  Officer Rank Insignia. ..............................................................................................   43 
Figure  4.13.  Enlisted Rank Insignia. ............................................................................................   43 
Chapter 5—OCP UNIFORMS    44 
5.1.  The Operational Camouflage Pattern (OCP), Male and Female. ............................   44 
Figure  5.1.  Wear of Three Subdued Badges ..............................................................................   45 
Figure  5.2.  Wear of Four Subdued Badges. ...............................................................................   46 
Table  5.1.  Authorized Duty Identifier Patches/Tabs (Left Sleeve). ..........................................   50 
Figure  5.3.  OCP Configuration. .................................................................................................   58 
Chapter 6—MATERNITY UNIFORMS    60 
6.1.  Maternity Mess Dress (Figure 6.1) and Semi-Formal Dress Uniform (Figure 6.2).   60 
6.2.  Maternity Mess Dress and Semi-Formal Dress Accoutrements. .............................   60 
6.3.  Maternity Service Dress Uniform (Class A and Class B). .......................................   60 
6.4.  Maternity Service Dress Uniform (Class A and Class B) Accoutrements. ..............   61 
Figure  6.1.  Maternity Mess Dress Uniform. ..............................................................................   62 
Figure  6.2.  Maternity Semi-Formal Dress Uniform. ..................................................................   62 
Figure  6.3.  Maternity Service Dress Uniform (Jumper) Class A (long sleeve) and Class B 
(short sleeve with jumper). ......................................................................................   63 
Figure  6.4.  Maternity Service Dress Uniform (without Jumper) Class B. .................................   63 
6.5.  Maternity OCP Uniforms. ........................................................................................   63 
Figure  6.5.  Maternity Operational Camouflage Pattern Uniform. .............................................   64 
6.6.  Physical Training Gear. ...........................................................................................   65 
Chapter 7—OUTER GARMENTS, HEADGEAR, RANK INSIGNIA AND ACCESSORIES   66 
7.1.  Outer Garments. .......................................................................................................   66 
Figure  7.1.  Pullover Sweater. .....................................................................................................   66 
Figure  7.2.  Cardigan (blue) Sweater. .........................................................................................   67 
Figure  7.3.  Lightweight Blue Jacket (Male and Female). ..........................................................   68 
Figure  7.4.  Gen III, Level VI OCP Jacket and Level VII Parka. ...............................................   69 
Figure  7.5.  Coyote Brown Fleece Jacket. ...................................................................................   70 
Figure  7.6.  N3B Cold Weather Parka.........................................................................................   71 
Figure  7.7.  Gen III, Level VII Parka. .........................................................................................   71 

6  DAFI36-2903  29 FEBRUARY 2024 
7.2.  Headgear. .................................................................................................................   72 
Figure  7.8.  Service Cap and Insignia. ........................................................................................   73 
Figure  7.9.  Service Cap Visor Insignia. .....................................................................................   73 
Figure  7.10.  Rank Placement Example Men and Women Flight Caps. .......................................   74 
Figure  7.11.  Rank Placement on OCP Cap. .................................................................................   75 
7.3.  Jewelry, Eyewear, Electronic Devices, Bags, Backpacks, Cold Weather and 
Other Accessories. ...................................................................................................   75 
7.4.  Footwear. .................................................................................................................   79 
7.5.  Undergarments (Mandatory). ...................................................................................   80 
Chapter 8—PHYSICAL TRAINING GEAR    81 
8.1.  Physical Training Gear (PTG). ................................................................................   81 
Figure  8.1.  Physical Training Gear (PTG) and PTG Running Suit. ...........................................   81 
Figure  8.2.  PTG Optional Items (Long Sleeve T-Shirt and Long Sleeve Sweatshirt). ..............   83 
Chapter 9—FLIGHT DUTY UNIFORM    87 
9.1.  Flight Duty Uniform (FDU) and Desert Flight Duty Uniform (DFDU) Wear 
Guidance. .................................................................................................................   87 
Figure  9.1.  Flight Duty and Desert Flight Duty Uniforms. ........................................................   87 
9.2.  Authorized FDU/DFDU Wear. ................................................................................   88 
9.3.  Restrictions. .............................................................................................................   88 
9.4.  Flight Clothing Accoutrements. ...............................................................................   89 
Figure  9.2.  Flight Duty Uniform with Accoutrements. ..............................................................   90 
9.5.  Over Garments. ........................................................................................................   91 
Figure  9.3.  Flight Jacket. ............................................................................................................   92 
Figure  9.4.  Leather A-2 Flying Jacket. .......................................................................................   93 
9.6.  Headgear. .................................................................................................................   94 
9.7.  Undergarments. ........................................................................................................   94 
9.8.  Socks. .......................................................................................................................   94 
9.9.  Footwear (Male and Female Flight Boots). .............................................................   94 
9.10.  Gloves. .....................................................................................................................   94 
9.11.  Cell phone, Pager, and Personal Digital Assistant. ..................................................   94 
9.12.  Two Piece Flight Duty Uniform (2PFDU). .............................................................   95 
Figure  9.5.  2PFDU with Accouterments. ...................................................................................   95 

DAFI36-2903  29 FEBRUARY 2024  7 
Chapter 10—DISTINCTIVE UNIFORMS, ITEMS AND EQUIPMENT    102 
10.1.  Organizational Clothing and Equipment. ................................................................   102 
10.2.  Informal Uniform. ....................................................................................................   102 
Figure  10.1.  Informal Uniform. ....................................................................................................   103 
10.3.  Security Forces. .......................................................................................................   103 
10.4.  Flight Attendant Uniforms. ......................................................................................   105 
10.5.  Medical Scrubs. .......................................................................................................   107 
10.6.  Equestrian Competition Service Dress Configuration. ............................................   107 
10.7.  Miscellaneous Uniforms. .........................................................................................   108 
Chapter 11—RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION    112 
11.1.  See DAFI 52-201, Religious Freedom In The Department of The Air Forcefor 
guidance on how to make a religious accommodation request from Grooming 
and Personal Appearance standards. ........................................................................   112 
11.2.  Dress and Appearance Waivers. ..............................................................................   112 
11.3.  Airman and Guardian’s home station wing or garrison commanders or 
headquarters Air Force (HAF), MAJCOM, Field Command, Numbered Air Force 
(NAF), Field Operating Agency (FOA) and Direct Reporting Unit (DRU) 
Directors (O-6/GS-15 and above) are the approval authority for only the 
following dress and appearance religious accommodation requests: ......................   112 
11.4.  All approved religious accommodations should be worn in a neat and 
conservative manner (defined as, discreet, tidy, and not dissonant or showy in 
style, size, design, brightness, or color). ..................................................................   112 
Figure  11.1.  Hijab. .......................................................................................................................   113 
Figure  11.2.  Beard. .......................................................................................................................   114 
Figure  11.3.  Turban/Under Turban. .............................................................................................   115 
Chapter 12—BADGES AND SPECIALTY INSIGNIAS    116 
12.1.  Badges. .....................................................................................................................   116 
12.2.  Placement of Badges. ...............................................................................................   116 
12.3.  Placement of Duty and Miscellaneous Badges. .......................................................   117 
Figure  12.1.  Male Service Dress Duty Badge Configuration Examples ......................................   120 
Figure  12.2.  Female Service Dress Duty Badge Configuration Examples ..................................   121 
12.4.  Duty Badges and Special Insignias. .........................................................................   123 
Figure  12.3.  Gold Star Lapel Button and Next of Kin Lapel Button. ..........................................   127 
Figure  12.4.  Gold Star Lapel Button on Service and Mess Dress Coat Lapel. ............................   127 
12.5.  Occupational, Qualification or Skill Badges............................................................   127 

8  DAFI36-2903  29 FEBRUARY 2024 
12.6.  Additional Badge Information. ................................................................................   127 
12.7.  Establishing a New Occupational Badge, Patch or Tab. ..........................................   128 
12.8.  Duty Identifier Patches/Tabs....................................................................................   129 
Chapter 13—AWARDS AND DECORATIONS    130 
13.1.  Wear Instructions. ....................................................................................................   130 
13.2.  Foreign Decorations. ................................................................................................   130 
13.3.  Non-Air Force Service Awards. ..............................................................................   130 
13.4.  Wear of Awards and Decorations by Retirees and Honorably Discharged 
Veterans. ..................................................................................................................   131 
Figure  13.1.  Ribbon Arrangement of Ribbons (Other arrangements authorized as needed). ......   131 
13.5.  Description of Medals and Ribbons. ........................................................................   131 
13.6.  Devices on Medals and Ribbons. .............................................................................   131 
Figure  13.2.  Example of “V”, “C” and “R” Devices Color and Wreath Design Denotes 
Multiple Occurrences of Award. ..............................................................................   132 
Figure  13.3.  Placement of Devices on Medals and Ribbons. .......................................................   133 
13.7.  Placement of Medals on Civilian Dress Coat or Jacket. ..........................................   133 
Chapter 14—RESERVE, AIR NATIONAL GUARD, RETIRED AND SEPARATED 
PERSONNEL    134 
14.1.  Reserve Personnel. ...................................................................................................   134 
14.2.  Air National Guard (ANG) Personnel. ....................................................................   134 
14.3.  Retired Personnel. ....................................................................................................   135 
14.4.  Medal of Honor Recipients. .....................................................................................   135 
14.5.  Separated Personnel. ................................................................................................   136 
Chapter 15—UNIFORM POLICY CHANGES    137 
15.1.  Supplements. ............................................................................................................   137 
15.2.  Air Force Uniform Board (AFUB). .........................................................................   137 
15.3.  Out-of-Cycle Request. .............................................................................................   138 
15.4.  Functional Clothing Items........................................................................................   138 
15.5.  Exception to Policy. .................................................................................................   138 
15.6.  Air Force Academy Uniform Board. .......................................................................   139 
15.7.  Test Uniforms. .........................................................................................................   140 
Attachment 1—GLOSSARY OF REFERENCES AND SUPPORTING INFORMATION    141 

DAFI36-2903  29 FEBRUARY 2024  9 
Attachment 2—SAMPLE EXCEPTION TO POLICY REQUEST MEMORANDUM FOR 
ROUTING TO IMMEDIATE COMMANDER    148 
Attachment 3—PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE PHASEOUT DATES FOR UNIFORM 
ITEMS    149 
 

10 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Chapter 1

GENERAL INFORMATION

1.1. Basic Philosophy.

1.1.1. The Air Force philosophy is that the uniform will be plain, distinctive, and standardized.

This standardization includes a minimum and maximum number of authorized badges,

insignia, and devices. Dress and personal appearance standards that are not listed as authorized

in the publication are unauthorized.

1.1.2. Pride in an Airman’s personal appearance and uniform wear greatly enhances the esprit-

de-corps essential to an effective military force. Therefore, Airmen must maintain a high

standard of dress and personal appearance through adherence to the five elements of this

standard: neatness, cleanliness, safety, uniformity, and military image. The first four are

absolute, objective criteria needed for the efficiency and well-being of the Air Force; the fifth,

military image, is subjective, but still necessary. Appearance in uniform exemplifies one’s

military image. The American public and its elected representatives draw certain conclusions

on military effectiveness based on the image Airmen present. The image of a disciplined and

committed Airman instills public confidence that Airmen live by a common standard and

respond to military order and discipline. Every Airman has a responsibility to maintain a

professional military image as identified in this DAFI, as well as the right, within limits, to

express individuality through his or her appearance without lessening the standards.

1.1.3. Members have a responsibility to keep their uniform clean, pressed (see instructions for

Operational Camouflage Pattern (OCP) Uniforms) and in good repair. Members are

responsible for knowing authorized uniform combinations and correct placement of ribbons,

insignia, badges, and other uniform items.

1.1.4. Commanders do not have the authority to waive grooming and appearance standards

except as identified within this instruction.

1.1.5. It is every Airman’s responsibility, regardless of position or rank, to respectfully enforce

the standards prescribed in this instruction.

1.2. When to Wear the Air Force Uniform.

1.2.1. Except when authorized to wear civilian clothes, Airmen will wear the appropriate Air

Force uniform while performing military duties. Name tapes/tags will reflect the member’s

legal last name as spelled on the military identification card and may include diacritical accents

and hyphens. If a diacritical accent is used, all letters should be the same height (e.g., PEÑA

SANCHEZ, LEWIS-MILES, or MÜLLER).

1.2.2. Airmen assigned to non-Air Force organizations will wear the Air Force equivalent of

the order of dress prescribed. For example, if the non-Air Force organization prescribes a

utility uniform as the uniform of the day, assigned Airmen will wear the OCP uniform.

1.2.3. Airmen attending a military event, either social or official, must wear the appropriate

uniform or civilian attire as requested by the host/hostess or directed by the commander.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 11

1.2.4. Commanders will not direct the wear of optional items unless they are provided at no

cost to Airmen. Commanders will not prohibit the wear of optional items, except when

uniformity is required as identified in paragraph 2.14.5 of this instruction.

1.2.5. While portraying a member of the Air Force, an actor in a theatrical or motion-picture

production may wear the uniform of the Air Force if the portrayal does not tend to discredit

the Armed Forces. Refer to Title 10 USC Section 772, When wearing by persons not on active

duty authorized.

1.2.6. While attending a course of military instruction conducted by the Army, Navy, Air

Force, Space Force, or Marine Corps, a civilian, in accordance with Title 10 USC Section 772

(h), may wear the Air Force uniform equivalent to the uniform prescribed by that armed force

if the wear of such uniform is authorized by the Air Education and Training Command

Commander or sister service equivalent. If worn, civilians will conform to the same standards

of appearance, practices, and conduct in uniform prescribed for active members.

1.2.7. An instructor or member of the organized cadet corps of a university or college, a public

high school, or an educational institution having a regular course of military instruction in

military science and tactics from a member of the Air Force may prescribe wear of an Air

Force uniform if it includes distinctive insignia prescribed by the Secretary of the Air Force

(SecAF) to distinguish it from the uniform worn by Regular Air Force (RegAF), Air National

Guard (ANG), and Air Force Reserve (AFR) Airmen. The uniform prescribed will not include

insignia of rank the same as, or similar to, those prescribed for officers in the Army, Navy, Air

Force, or Marine Corps.

1.2.8. Frocking. Officers may wear the rank insignia of the next higher rank if frocked to that

rank. Refer to Title 10 United States Code Section 777 for details on being frocked to the next

higher rank. For ANG State Adjutant Generals, see paragraph 14.2.5. Chief Master Sergeant

selects may wear rank insignia of the higher grade if frocked” to that rank. Refer to DAFI 36-

2502, Enlisted Airman Promotion and Demotion Programs for details on frocking Chief

Master Sergeants. All other Airmen in a “Title 10” status will wear their federally recognized

rank at all times.

1.2.9. Authorized headgear will be worn while outdoors unless in an area designated as a “no

hat” area by the Installation Commander. Headgear should also be worn indoors by armed

Security Forces personnel or others bearing arms while performing duties. Note: All DAF

Child and Youth Program facilities to include Child Development Centers, School Age Care

facilities and Youth Development Center areas are designated as “no-hat, no-salute” areas.

Reference AFI 34-1201, Protocol regarding customs and courtesies, when a salute is or is not

required.

1.3. Optional Wear of the Air Force Uniform.

1.3.1. During Travel. When traveling in an official or unofficial capacity on commercial air,

in Continental United States (to include Alaska and Hawaii), the service dress uniform (Class

A), blues uniform (Class B), and OCP uniform may be worn, as appropriate. Wear of the flight

duty uniform is not authorized.

1.3.1.1. When traveling in an official capacity on commercial air overseas, Airmen should

first consult the Department of Defense Foreign Clearance Guide before traveling in

uniform.

12 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

1.3.1.2. If departing from and arriving at a military airfield via government aircraft or

contracted United States government commercial flights, any authorized combination of

the uniform is appropriate.

1.3.1.3. Those choosing to wear civilian clothing in lieu of a uniform during official travel

will ensure it is neat, clean, and appropriate for the mode of travel and destination.

Examples of inappropriate clothing include ripped, torn, frayed, or patched clothing, tank

tops, extremely short shorts/skirts, undergarments worn as outer garments, bathing suits,

and any garments which are revealing or contain obscene, profane, or lewd words or

drawings.

1.3.2. Any uniform is authorized while attending off duty education conducted off a military

installation.

1.4. When NOT to Wear the Air Force Uniform.

1.4.1. At a meeting of, or sponsored by, an organization, association, movement, or group that:

1.4.1.1. The Attorney General of the United States has named as totalitarian, fascist,

communist or subversive.

1.4.1.2. Advocates for or approves acts of force or violence to deny others their rights

under the Constitution of the United States.

1.4.1.3. Seeks to change the United States Government by unconstitutional means.

1.4.2. Except when authorized by the AF/A1, when participating in activities such as

unofficial public speeches, interviews, picket lines, marches, rallies, or any public

demonstration which may imply Air Force sanction of the cause for which the demonstration

or activity is conducted.

1.4.3. At any public meeting, demonstration, march, rally, or interview if the purpose may be

to advocate, express or approve opposition to the Armed Forces of the United States.

1.4.4. When it would discredit the Armed Forces.

1.4.5. When discharged for bad conduct, undesirability, unsuitability, inaptitude, or other than

honorably, Airmen will not wear the Air Force uniform upon discharge.

1.4.6. While furthering political activities, private employment, or commercial interest.

1.4.7. While working in an off-duty, civilian capacity.

1.4.8. While participating in civilian court proceedings when the conviction would bring

discredit to the Air Force.

1.4.9. While in civilian attire. Unless prescribed in this instruction, do not combine civilian

and military clothing or unique uniform items e.g., rank insignia, cap devices, badges, and

other United States or Air Force insignia, devices, buttons, etc. Exception: Tie tacks and lapel

pins are authorized when wearing business attire.

1.4.10. When wearing combinations of uniform items not specifically prescribed in this

Department of the Air Force instruction.

1.4.11. When uniform items do not meet Department of the Air Force (DAF) specifications.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 13

1.4.12. Do not wear the OCP or the Flight Duty Uniform when eating at off base eating where

most diners wear business attire or at establishments that operate primarily to serve alcohol.

1.4.13. DAF personnel may not wear their military uniforms when using frequent flyer miles

to upgrade to business or first class, even when an upgrade is legitimate.

1.5. Acquiring Uniform Items. Purchase clothing items from the Army and Air Force Exchange

Service (AAFES) Military Clothing Sales Stores (MCSS) and/or AAFES online. Items may also

be issued through Individual Equipment Elements or contract equivalent as applicable. No other

suppliers are approved for organizational/unit purchases unless otherwise authorized by this

instruction. For optional items such as backpacks, briefcases, pumps, purses, etc., commercial

vendors may be used.

1.5.1. Officer Personnel. Procure and maintain all items necessary to meet standards of dress

for assigned duties and mission requirements.

1.5.2. Enlisted Personnel. Procure and maintain all mandatory clothing items listed in DAFI

36-3012, Military Entitlements.

1.5.3. Officer and Enlisted Personnel. Request a civilian clothing allowance as outlined in

DAFI 36-3012, when required by competent authority to wear civilian clothes (for reasons

such as safety or security) while performing assigned duties.

14 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Chapter 2

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

2.1. Chief of Staff of the Air Force (CSAF) (AF/CC). The final approval authority for new Air

Force uniform designs, major changes to current Air Force uniforms and Air Force Uniform Board

(AFUB) recommendations.

2.2. Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force (CMSAF) (AF/CCC). The Senior Enlisted

Advisor to the CSAF for dress and personal appearance matters affecting enlisted Airmen; Serves

as Vice Chairman of the AFUB.

2.3. Deputy Chief of Staff of the Air Force for Manpower, Personnel and Services

(AF/A1). Establishes dress and personal appearance policy; serves as Chairman of the AFUB or

appoints a designee; decision authority on all dress and appearance religious accommodation

requests as outlined DAFI 52-201 and Chapter 11 of this instruction, non-tiered requirements and

exception to policy or waiver requests for this instruction. (Note: DAFI 90-160, commander’s

approval of non-tiered requirements does not apply to this DAFI.)

2.4. Military Compensation Policy Division, Headquarters Air Force (AF/A1PA). Office of

Primary Responsibility (OPR) for applicable exceptions to policy, waivers, religious

accommodation requests, and policy change requests; OPR for the AFUB and clothing allowances

for Air Force Personnel.

2.5. Air Force Director of Training and Readiness (AF/A3T). Serves as the OPR for flight

duty uniforms dress and appearance policies and acts as exception policy decision authority for all

flight duty uniforms.

2.6. Air Force Personnel Center Special Programs Branch (AFPC/DP3SA). Provides dress

and personal appearance guidance to Major Commands (MAJCOM), Combatant Commands

(CCMD), Headquarters Air Force (HAF), Direct Reporting Units (DRU) and Field Operating

Agency (FOA) Directors of Personnel and Airmen. Responsible for administrative change (via

DAF Form 847) requests to this instruction.

2.7. Air Force Materiel Command Logistics, Civil Engineering, and Nuclear Integration

Directorate (AFMC/A4/10). Acquires new uniform items for the inventory, monitors the supply

and provides a HQ AFMC focal point to manage the acquisition process of new and altered

uniform items.

2.8. MAJCOM, CCMD and Theater Commanders. May supplement this instruction with

dress and personal appearance guidance specific to the command (supplements must be approved

by AF/A1PA prior to being published). Note: For the purpose of this DAFI the National Guard

Bureau and Air Force District of Washington are considered MAJCOMs.

2.8.1. Theater commander prescribes the dress and personal appearance standards in the

theater of operations.

2.8.2. Authorizes wear of functional clothing with service uniforms (Class B).

2.8.3. Authorizes wear of civilian clothing on-duty and standardizes clothing by activity.

2.8.4. Prescribes wear of rank insignia, unit emblems, etc. on organizational or functional

clothing.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 15

2.8.5. Determines acceptable off-base wear for all uniforms.

2.8.6. Provides at no cost to members, optional and/or Allowance Standard 016 organizational

clothing and equipment items directed to wear.

2.8.7. Specifies motorcycle and bicycle patrol uniforms for security forces personnel.

2.9. Army and Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES). Distributes uniform clothing apparel

and accessories through local Military Clothing Sales Stores. AAFES and AF/A4L will establish

a memorandum of understanding to document uniform clothing procurement and sales policies.

2.10. Defense Logistics Agency (DLA). Troop Support, as part of the Defense Logistics Agency,

procures, stores, and supplies wholesale stocks of clothing and textile materials.

2.11. Numbered Air Force (NAF), DRU and FOA Commanders. May supplement the

MAJCOM, CCMD, or if appropriate, this DAFI (e.g., Air Force Office of Special Investigations),

with guidance specific to the NAF, DRU, or FOA.

2.12. Wing Commanders or Equivalent. May supplement the NAF dress and personal

appearance instruction with guidance specific to the installation. If a NAF instruction does not

exist, the wing commander or equivalent may supplement the MAJCOM instruction. Supplements

must be approved by the NAF, or if appropriate, the MAJCOM. Consults with servicing legal

office prior to implementing such policy.

2.12.1. Further authorizes specific guidance on wear of functional clothing with service

uniforms (Class B) that have previously been approved by the NAF or MAJCOM commander.

2.12.2. Coordinates guidance with tenant wings or units.

2.12.3. Prohibits offensive civilian clothes and offensive personal grooming based on legal,

safety, or sanitary grounds.

2.12.4. Requires protective or reflective items when appropriate due to safety considerations.

2.12.5. Authorizes wear of standard organizational clothing approved for Operational Safety,

Suitability and Effectiveness by Air Force Material Command.

2.12.6. Provides required organizational or functional items directed for wear at no cost to

enlisted members.

2.12.7. Processes requests for authorized allowance organizational or functional clothing

items according to AFI 23-101, Material Management Policy. Provides optional items

directed for wear at no cost to officers.

2.12.8. Prescribes wear of uniform during sporting events.

2.12.9. Serves as delegated approval authority for dress and appearance religious

accommodation requests as outlined in paragraph 11.3 of this instruction.

2.13. Force Support Squadron. Base-level OPR for this instruction and all applicable

supplements. Assists commanders or designated representatives in interpreting this instruction

and all applicable supplements. Assists members with exception to policy requests.

2.14. Commander (on G-Series Orders) or Equivalent. All references to commander

authority, throughout this instruction, includes civilian leaders as authorized by public law and the

Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ).

16 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

2.14.1. Enforces dress and personal appearance standards in accordance with Department of

Defense and Air Force instruction for wear of military uniforms or civilian clothes when

authorized to be worn on-duty. Commander’s discretion will be used to determine if

individuals are within standards of this instruction and provide guidance when standards are

reasonably unclear. Commanders are responsible for setting the dress and appearance

standards not outlined in this instruction without lessening established standards.

2.14.2. Ensures uniform items are consistent and standardized throughout the organization.

To maintain uniformity and good order, commanders determine their members’ compliance

and understanding of this instruction.

2.14.3. May authorize wear of civilian clothing on-duty per DAFI 36-3012.

2.14.4. Prohibits wear of offensive civilian clothing on a military installation or while the

member is off the installation and is representing the DAF or the Department of Defense in an

official capacity; may be more restrictive for tattoos, body ornaments and/or personal

grooming based on legal, safety, sanitary, and/or host nation agreements. Consults with the

serving legal office prior to implementing such policy.

2.14.5. May prohibit wear of optional items during formations, ceremonies, or other events

when uniformity is required.

2.14.6. May mandate wear of optional clothing if provided at no cost to the member.

2.14.7. Will not waive personal grooming standards.

2.14.7.1. Will ensure Airmen who receive a Duty Limiting Condition (AF Form 422 or

469) are counseled and/or provided written instructions on duties and responsibilities as

outlined in AFI 48-133, Duty Limiting Conditions.

2.14.7.2. For AF Form 469 actions which do not limit mobility, the commander is not

required to sign the form and may delegate these requirements to the unit first sergeant.

2.14.7.3. For AF Form 469 actions which limit mobility, the commander must sign the AF

Form 469 prior to release to the Airman.

2.15. First Sergeant. Will be knowledgeable on all dress and personal appearance standards

outlined in this publication and all applicable supplements. Advises commanders and supervisors

to ensure all Airmen comply. Sets the example and enforces dress and appearance standards.

2.16. Supervisor. Will set the example of acceptable standards and be knowledgeable of uniform

and personal grooming and appearance standards. Supervisors may perform random uniform

inspections to ensure subordinate Airmen comply with this instruction and all applicable

supplements. Supervisors at all levels must ensure subordinate Airmen comply with this

instruction and take appropriate corrective action when they do not meet standards.

2.17. Airmen/Individual Responsibilities. It is each Airman’s individual duty and personal

obligation to maintain a neat, clean appearance and professional military image while wearing the

uniform.

2.17.1. Procures and maintains all mandatory clothing items per DAFI 36-3012.

2.17.2. Must always adhere to this instruction and supplement(s), unless authorized an

approved waiver, exception to policy, or accommodation. While assigned to another military

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 17

service’s installation and when standards are more restrictive than DAF, Airmen will comply

with local order of dress. Temporary duty personnel will comply with local policies established

at each temporary duty location, within DAF standards.

2.17.3. Ensures uniform items and civilian clothing (in official capacity) are maintained,

clean, and in serviceable condition (that is, not frayed, worn out, torn, faded, patched, etc.),

correct in design and specifications, and fit properly. Zip, snap, or button all uniform items

unless otherwise defined in this instruction. Airmen may alter uniform clothing to improve fit.

2.17.4. Complies with personal grooming standards while in uniform and when authorized

and/or directed to wear civilian clothing in an official capacity in lieu of uniform.

2.17.5. Addresses violations of uniform and appearance standards by other DAF members in

a professional manner.

2.17.6. When in uniform or civilian clothes (in an official capacity), Airmen will not engage

in public displays of affection including, but not limited to, holding hands (except when

holding a young child’s hand), walking arm-in-arm, embracing, caressing, and kissing. Public

displays of affection are inappropriate as they violate a long-standing custom of the service

and may be service discrediting since indiscriminate displays of affection detract from the

professional military image the DAF intends to project to the public. Brief displays of

affection, such as a modest kiss or embrace, may be permitted in situations where physical

contact is commonly accepted etiquette such as weddings, graduations, promotions, or

retirement ceremonies; and upon departure for or return from deployments.

2.17.7. When in uniform or civilian clothes (in an official capacity) the following actions are

prohibited while walking or in a formation, including organized or unit physical training.

Note: Members should also consult AFI 34-1201, Protocol, for protocol, customs, and

courtesies.

2.17.7.1. Will not smoke or use smokeless products in other than designated smoking

areas.

2.17.7.2. Will not consume food while walking in uniform. Beverage consumption is

authorized. Commanders may authorize food consumption while walking in uniform

during special functions. Military customs and courtesies take precedence.

18 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Chapter 3

GROOMING AND APPEARANCE STANDARDS

3.1. Personal Grooming Standards. This chapter outlines personal grooming standards while

wearing any Air Force uniform or civilian clothing in an official capacity. Commander’s

discretion will be used to determine if individual’s personal grooming is within standards of this

instruction. The personal grooming standards listed are minimum standards that represent

common appearance issues and are not all-inclusive. Although Airmen have the right, within

established limits, to express their individuality through their appearance, the Air Force defines

what is and what is not an acceptable, professional military image for Airmen. Except for minor

variations based on gender differences, all Air Force personnel must comply with the same

personal grooming standards. Supervisors have the responsibility to determine compliance with

this DAFI and to correct the obvious violations regardless of whether the situation identified is

clearly written in this DAFI.

3.1.1. Hair (General). Will be conservative, clean, well-groomed, present a professional

appearance. Regardless of hairstyle, hair must not exceed length and bulk standard, and ensure

proper wear of headgear, helmet, or chemical mask to conform to safety requirements. Will

not contain excessive amounts of grooming aids (e.g., gel, mousse, pomade, or moisturizer),

appear lopsided, touch either eyebrow (Exception: female bangs), or end below an imaginary

line across the forehead at the top of the eyebrows that is parallel to the ground. If applied,

dyes, tints, bleaches, and frostings must result in natural hair colors, present a natural

appearance and be complementary to facial hair e.g., eyebrows, lashes, beards (if authorized

for medical or religious reasons), etc. Examples of natural hair colors are brown, blonde,

brunette, natural red, gray, or black. All Airmen are authorized to wear natural color hair

regardless of their natural born hair color, but when highlighted or frosted, the colors must

blend as to naturally. Example: Hair colors may be displayed as a “salt-and-pepper” look as

this presents a naturally blended hair color and is, therefore, authorized.

3.1.1.1. Wigs/Hairpieces/Extensions. Are authorized and will meet the same standards

required for natural hair, be of good quality, fit properly, and comply with safety,

functionality, and professional military standards. If synthetic hair or extensions are added

to hair, they will be natural hair colors, and must blend with Airmen’s hair, as to not create

an unnatural appearance (Note: Extensions are prohibited for males).

Wigs/Hairpieces/Extensions will not be used to cover unauthorized hair styles. Synthetic

hair or other materials are not authorized when prohibited by safety and mission

requirements. Commanders may authorize Airmen to wear plain (single color, without

additional ornamentation, frills/ruffles, excess fabric that extends down the back) caps

(black, navy, or tan) while indoors due to a medical condition (e.g., Alopecia, radiation

and/or chemotherapy). Airmen are still required to wear appropriate headgear while

outdoors. Note: Head scarves are not authorized.

3.1.1.2. Hairnets. Worn as required for health or safety reasons. Made of natural or a

synthetic material; must be conservative (plain and moderate, being within reasonable

limits; not excessive or extreme), solid color similar to the member's hair color, also strong

enough to support and control hair and contain no metal fasteners. Hairnets are only

authorized when performing related duties as determined by applicable commander.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 19

3.1.1.3. Unauthorized Hair Colors. Hair will not be burgundy, purple, orange, fluorescent,

or neon (not all inclusive). Ombre (a gradual lightening or darkening along the lengths of

the hair) or black hair with blonde highlights and blonde hair with black are unnatural in

appearance and not authorized for wear. Other unauthorized examples include instances

where hair and facial hair drastically contrast.

3.1.1.4. Unauthorized Styles: Mohawk, mullet, or etched design. Other cultural or societal

trends that reasonably appear unnatural or that display vastly different shades of natural

colors, regardless of the universally applied name. Males only: dreadlocks, coils, braids,

twists, designs, and/or hair extensions are not authorized; see Figure 3.1 for examples.

Females only: Partially shaved sides and/or back of the head with long hair on the top

(requiring the wear of a ponytail, bun, or braid) is prohibited. See Figure 3.2 for examples

of unauthorized hairstyles.

Figure 3.1. Male – Unauthorized Hair Examples.

Figure 3.2. Female – Unauthorized Hair Examples.

20 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

3.1.2. Hair (Male). Tapered appearance on both sides and the back of the head, both with and

without headgear so that when viewed from any angle the member's hair conforms to the shape

of the head, curving inward to the natural termination point without eccentric directional flow,

twists, or spiking. A block-cut is permitted with tapered appearance. Hair will not exceed 2 ½

inches in bulk, regardless of length and 1/4-inch at natural termination point; allowing only

closely cut or shaved hair on the back of the neck to touch the collar (see Figure 3.3.). Hair

will not protrude under the front band of headgear. Cleanly shaven heads, military high-and-

tight or flattop cuts are authorized. Airmen may have one (cut, clipped, or shaved) front to

back, straight-line part, not slanted or curved, on either side of their head, above the temple.

Part will not exceed 4-inches length or 1/4-inch width (See Figure 3.5.). See Figure 3.4 for

examples of appropriate sideburns, mustache, and male hair standards.

Figure 3.3. How to Measure Hair Bulk.

Figure 3.4. Male Hair Standards Examples.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 21

Figure 3.5. Cut, Clipped, or Shaved Part.

3.1.2.1. Sideburns. If worn, sideburns will be straight and even width (not flared) and will

not extend below the bottom of the orifice of the ear opening. Sideburns will end in a

clean-shaven horizontal line. See Figure 3.4.

3.1.2.2. Mustaches. Male members may have mustaches; No portion of the mustache will

extend below the lip line of the upper lip. The mustache will not go beyond a horizontal

line extending across the corners of the mouth and no more than 1/4-inch beyond a vertical

line drawn from the corner of the mouth (Figure 3.4 and 3.6.). Mustaches must present a

natural appearance to the Airman’s hair color of the head. Mustache handlebars, twist,

curls, and goatee are prohibited.

Figure 3.6. Mustache.

3.1.2.3. Beards. Beards are not authorized unless for medical reasons, when authorized

by a medical official, or as authorized pursuant to a request for a religious accommodation.

When authorized for medical reasons, members will keep all facial hair trimmed to the

same length and it may not to exceed 1/4-inch in length. Individuals granted a shaving

profile may shave or trim their facial hair to present a neat, clean, professional military

image (Figure 3.7.). Members may not overly shave, shape, or taper beard to achieve

22 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

different styles of beard (e.g., goatees, faded beards, etc. are not authorized). Beards must

present a natural appearance to the Airman’s hair color of the head. Beards are not

authorized to be bleached or dyed. Beard wear authorized for religious reasons are

governed by Chapter 11 of this instruction.

Figure 3.7. Shaving Waiver Example.

3.1.3. Hair (Female and Male with approved unshorn hair religious accommodations).

No minimum hair length, to a maximum bulk of 4-inches from scalp and allows proper wear

of headgear. Minimum hair standards must present a symmetric (around the axis of the head)

or tapered appearance when viewed from all angles. Hair will end above the bottom edge of

collar and will not extend below an invisible line drawn parallel to the ground, both front to

back and side to side unless pulled back and secured or worn in an authorized ponytail or

equivalent or long braid(s). When hair is pulled back and secured behind the head (will not be

gathered at the crown or worn on the top of the head), radius will not exceed 6-inches to the

left or right from the point where the hair is gathered for a total of 12-inches in width, 6-inches

in bulk and must allow for proper wear of headgear. One or two braids or a single ponytail or

equivalent may be worn down the member’s back with length not extending below a horizontal

line running between the top of each sleeve inseam at the under arm through the shoulder

blades. The braid(s), ponytail or equivalent shall extend down the member’s back and cannot

be worn over the shoulder or pulled in front of the body. Bangs, or side-swiped hair, may

touch eyebrows but will not touch or cover eyes. When in doubt, assess the correct length of

hair with the Airman standing in the position of attention. See Figure 3.8., Figure 3.10, and

Figure 3.11 for examples of female hair standards. Exception: While wearing the Physical

Training Gear (PTG), long hair will be secured but may have loose ends and may extend below

a horizontal line running between the top of each sleeve inseam at the under arm through the

shoulder blades.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 23

Figure 3.8. Female Hair Examples.

3.1.3.1. Pinned-up hair should be styled in a manner that prevents loose ends from

extending upward on the head and may not start at the crown of the head or be worn on the

top of the head. When hair is in a bun, the bun must be a single bun; all loose ends must

be tucked in and secured. Hair must allow for proper wear of headgear.

3.1.3.2. Hair accessories. If worn, hair accessories (e.g., fabric scrunches, hairpins, combs,

clips, headbands, elastic bands, barrettes, etc.) must be black or match hair color. Invisible

hairnets and hairnets that match hair color are authorized. Headbands or fabric scrunches

will not exceed 2-inches in width. Ornaments are not authorized (i.e., ribbons, beads,

jeweled pins). See Figure 3.9.

Figure 3.9. Female Hair Accessories.

3.1.3.3. Locs, braids, twists, micro-braids, french braids, dutch braids, and cornrows are

authorized. A braid or twist is two or more portions of interwoven hair. If adding

additional hair, it must be a natural-looking color, matching the individual's hair color.

Multiple locs, braids, twists or cornrows may come together down the back in one or two

braids, or a single ponytail as described in paragraph 3.1.3. All locs, braids and twists,

when worn will be of uniform dimension, no wider than one-inch, with natural spacing

between the locs, braids, and twists and must be tightly interwoven to present a neat,

professional, and well-groomed appearance. When worn, multiple locs, braids, or twists

shall be of uniform dimension, no larger than a 1/4 in diameter, show no more than 1/4-

inch of scalp between the locs, braids, or twists and must be tightly interwoven to present

a neat appearance.

3.1.3.4. A braid/twist must continue to the end of the hair without design and following

the contour of the head and may be worn loose or in a secured style within hair standards

24 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

in paragraph 3.1.3 above. Exception: Micro-braids or twists are not required to continue

to the end of the hair. See Figure 3.10 for examples of braids, twists, micro-braids.

Figure 3.10. Authorized Female Hair Styles Examples of Locs, Braids, and Cornrows.

Figure 3.11. Authorized Ponytails/Equivalent and Long braid(s) Hair Styles Examples.

Figure 3.12. Ponytail/Braid Length.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 25

Figure 3.13. Unauthorized Ponytails.

3.1.4. Fingernails. Fingernails must not exceed 1/4-inch in length beyond the tip of the finger

and must be clean and well groomed. Fingernails must not interfere with the performance of

assigned duties or hinder proper fit of prescribed safety equipment or uniform items. Male

Airmen are not authorized to wear nail polish. If worn by females, nail polish will be a single

conservative color that does not detract from the uniform. Do not apply designs to nails or

apply two-tone or multi-tone colors; Exception: white-tip French manicures are authorized.

See Figure 3.14 for examples of authorized and unauthorized nail colors.

26 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Figure 3.14. Authorized and Unauthorized Nail Polish Colors (Not All-Inclusive).

3.1.5. Cosmetics. Male Airmen are not authorized to wear cosmetics. Female Airmen may

wear conservatively styled cosmetics. Eyelash extensions, if worn, will be female Airman’s

natural eyelash color, will not exceed 14 millimeters in total length or touch the member’s

eyebrow, and must present a natural appearance. Eyelash extensions will not hinder wear of

protective eye wear or any type of headgear. Lipstick, if worn by female Airmen, will be a

conservative shade that does not detract from the uniform. Eyeliner, if worn by female Airmen,

cannot extend past the corners of eye opening (i.e., winged liner not authorized). Cosmetics

will not be worn during field conditions.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 27

Figure 3.15. Authorized and Unauthorized Eyelash Extension Examples.

3.2. Tattoos/Brands/Body Markings. For purposes of this instruction, a tattoo is defined as a

picture, design, or marking made on the skin or other areas of the body by staining it with an

indelible dye, or by any other method, including pictures, designs, or markings only detectible or

visible under certain conditions (such as ultraviolet or invisible ink tattoos). A brand is defined as

a picture, design, or other marking that is burned into the skin or other areas of the body. Body

markings are pictures, designs, or other markings as a result of using means other than burning to

permanently scar or mark the skin. Failure to obey the mandatory provisions in paragraphs 3.2.1,

3.2.1.1, and 3.2.2 constitutes a violation of Article 92(1), UCMJ—failure to obey lawful general

order or regulation. Article 92(1) of the UCMJ does not apply to members while in Title 32 status

(that is, activated for state duty under state command), but ANG members may be subject to an

equivalent article under a state military justice code. Violations may also result in administrative

disciplinary action without regard to otherwise applicable criminal or civil sanctions for violations

of related laws.

3.2.1. Unauthorized content/locations. Tattoos/brands/body markings will not be on the head,

face, tongue, lips, eyes, and scalp. Tattoos/brands/body markings anywhere on the body that

are obscene, commonly associated with gangs, extremist, and/or supremacist organizations, or

that advocate sexual, racial, ethnic, or religious discrimination are prohibited in and out of

uniform. Indecent tattoos/brands/body markings are grossly offensive to modesty, decency, or

propriety, or shocks the moral sense, because of its vulgar, filthy, or disgusting nature, or its

tendency to incite lustful thought. It is indecent if it tends reasonably to corrupt morals or incite

libidinous thoughts. It must not violate community standards. Commanders should contact

their servicing Air Force Office of Special Investigations (AFOSI) unit for additional

information on potential identification of gang/hate group, tattoos/brands/body markings.

28 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Extremist tattoos/brands/body markings are those affiliated with, depicting, or symbolizing

extremist philosophies, organizations, or activities. Sexually discriminative

tattoos/brands/body markings are those that advocate a philosophy that degrades or demeans a

person based on gender. Racially discriminative tattoos/brands/body markings are those that

advocate a philosophy that degrades or demeans a person based on race, ethnicity, or national

origin. Religiously discriminative tattoos/brands/body markings are those that advocate a

philosophy that degrades or demeans a person based on religion. Tattoos/brands/body

markings with unauthorized content that are prejudicial to good order and discipline, or the

content is of a nature that tends to bring discredit upon the DAF are prohibited both in and out

of uniform. Airmen and Guardians may not cover up tattoos, brands, and/or body markings

with bandages or make-up in order to comply with unauthorized content tattoo policy.

3.2.1.1. Members who have or receive unauthorized content tattoos/brands/body markings

are required to initiate tattoo/brand/body marking removal/alteration. At the commander’s

discretion, members may be seen, on a space and resource available basis, in a Department

of Defense (DoD) medical treatment facility for voluntary tattoo/brand/body marking

removal. When DoD resources are not available, members may have the tattoo/brand

removed/altered at their own expense outside of DoD medical treatment facilities.

Permissive Temporary Duty is not authorized for this purpose.

3.2.2. Authorized content/locations. Tattoos are authorized on the chest and back (below the

open collar uniform), arms, legs, feet, hands, and neck. One tattoo on the neck is authorized

and will not exceed 1-inch in measurement in any direction. The neck tattoo will only be placed

behind a vertical line at the opening of the ear orifice around the back to a vertical line at the

opening of the other ear orifice and includes behind the ear (See Figure 3.16.). Ring tattoos

are limited to a single band on one finger of each hand, no more than 3/8-inch in width below

the knuckle and above the finger joint (portion closest to the palm). In addition to the ring

tattoo, a single tattoo is authorized on each hand; the tattoo will not exceed the size of 1-inch

measured in any direction. Hand, arm, leg, neck, and ring tattoos can be exposed and visible

while wearing any uniform combination(s). Chest and back tattoos will not be visible through

any uniform combination(s) or visible while wearing an open collar uniform. Members may

request an exception to policy (ETP) for location or size of tattoos in accordance with

paragraph 15.5 prior to receiving applicable tattoo. Approved tattoo ETPs will be

documented on the DAF Form 4428, Tattoo/Brand/Body Marking Screening/Verification. An

ETP request for tattoos with unauthorized content will not be considered.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 29

Figure 3.16. Neck Tattoo Approved Location.

3.2.3. Cosmetic tattooing. Tattooing for cosmetic purposes is authorized when directed by

licensed, qualified medical personnel to correct a medical condition, illness, or injury for both

men and women. When not medically directed, cosmetic tattooing is permitted for women if

done to apply permanent facial makeup (i.e., eyebrows, eyeliner) and for men if for permanent

cosmetics for scalp only (micropigmentation) to create a natural hair appearance. The cosmetic

tattooing must have a natural and conservative appearance.

3.2.4. Individuals who are initially accessed must disclose any tattoos or brands not meeting

the above criteria and receive appropriate Air Force Component Recruiting Service review

(AFRS, AFRCRS, ANG) to determine eligibility when questionable for enlistment or

appointment. Complete removal or alteration of unauthorized content and/or excessive

tattoos/brands/body markings is otherwise required prior to being accepted in the Air Force.

3.2.4.1. Each component’s senior waiver authority as defined by the Air Force Accessions

and Training Division (AF/A1PT), per paragraph 3.2.4, may allow for individual

exceptions to policy to potential Air Force applicants with hand tattoos (anywhere on the

hand) that are no more than 25% of the hand. The hand is defined as the end part of a

person’s arm beyond the wrist, including the palm, fingers, and thumb. All content tattoo

restrictions still apply. This authority may be further delegated at the discretion of the

Senior Waiver Authority but no lower than Recruiting Squadron Commanders (RCS/CCs)

(RegAF/Reserve) and Recruiting & Retention Chiefs (ANG). This authority will only be

used for exceptionally qualified applicants as determined by the Waiver Authority and is

limited to undermanned critical career fields/specialties unable to fill shortages with

applicants unless an ETP is granted to the applicant. Exceptionally qualified applicants

include those with critical skill sets, degrees, certifications, or experience directly related

to the specialty for which they are being considered.

3.2.4.2. Approved hand tattoo ETPs will be documented on the DAF Form 4428,

Tattoo/Brand/Body Marking Screening/Verification.

3.2.5. Commanders will use these provisions in determining the acceptability of tattoos,

brands, and body markings displayed by members in uniform.

30 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

3.2.6. Per paragraph 2.14.4, commanders will retain the authority to be more restrictive for

covering tattoos, body ornaments and personal grooming based on legal, safety, sanitary,

and/or host nation agreements.

3.3. Body Piercing/Ornamentation.

3.3.1. In civilian attire on official duty and in uniform on or off a military installation: With

the exception of earrings as listed in paragraph 7.3.1.1, all members are prohibited from

attaching, affixing, or displaying objects, articles, jewelry, or ornamentation to or through the

ear, nose, tongue, eyebrows, lips, or any exposed body part (includes visible through the

uniform).

3.3.2. Dental ornamentation: Teeth, whether natural, capped, or veneered, will not be

ornamented with designs, jewels, initials, etc. The use of yellow gold, white gold, or platinum

caps (permanent or temporary) merely to add ornamentation to the teeth and not required by

dental/medical necessity is prohibited. Waivers are not required for Air Force members or

recruits with permanent yellow gold, white gold or platinum caps that were applied as a result

of dental/medical necessity. Members with official documentation that they received

permanent yellow gold, white gold, or platinum caps which were not applied as a result of

dental/medical necessity, prior to 13 June 2011, are exempted. No other dental ornamentation

is exempted.

3.4. Alteration/Modification. Intentional alterations and/or modifications to a member’s body

that result in a visible, physical effect that disfigures, deforms, or otherwise detracts from a

professional military image are prohibited. Examples of prohibited conduct include (but are not

limited to) tongue splitting or forking, tooth filing, acquiring visible, disfiguring skin implants, and

gauging (piercing holes large enough to permit light to shine through). Members who intentionally

alter and/or modify any part of their bodies in order to achieve a visible, physical effect that

disfigures, deforms, or otherwise detracts from a professional military image may be subject to

disciplinary action or involuntary separation, as determined appropriate by the member’s

commander. Failure by RegAF members, AFR members on active duty or inactive duty for

training, and ANG members in Title 10 status to obey the mandatory provisions in this paragraph

constitutes a violation of Article 92 (1), UCMJ – failure to obey lawful order or regulation. ANG

members in Title 32 status performing full-time National Guard duty or inactive duty for training,

who violate the mandatory provisions of this instruction, may be held accountable through similar

provisions of their respective state military codes.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 31

Chapter 4

DRESS UNIFORMS

4.1. Formal and Mess Dress Uniforms. The formal and mess dress uniforms are worn for

official formal evening functions and state occasions where a white and black-tie tuxedo or evening

gown is the civilian equivalent. A name tag is not worn on the formal or mess dress uniforms.

Note: The formal dress uniform is worn by officers only. The mess dress uniform is mandatory

for officers and optional for enlisted. Enlisted may wear the semi-formal service dress uniform if

they do not have a mess dress. Saluting is not required when wearing the formal or mess dress

uniforms.

4.1.1. Male Formal and Mess Dress Uniforms (Figure 4.2.).

4.1.1.1. Coat. Officers will wear the mess dress coat. The coat will be blue, single-

breasted, with a straight back and three “wing and star” buttons on each side of the front

of the coat. The coat will have a satin shawl collar and lapels. With arms hanging naturally,

semi-fitted sleeves will end 1/4 to 1/2-inch below the wrist. The center of the back of the

coat will extend 3 1/2 to 4-inches below the natural waistline. Officers will wear the formal

dress coat without silver chain fasteners.

4.1.1.2. Shoulder Boards. Officers will wear shoulder board rank as close to the shoulder

seam as possible. General officers will wear a 3/4-inch wide silver sleeve braid, 3-inches

from the end of the sleeve. All other officers will wear a 1/2-inch silver sleeve braid, 3-

inches from the end of the sleeve.

4.1.1.3. Rank (Mess Dress only). Enlisted will wear either 3 1/2 or 4-inch, white chevron

rank centered on the outer arm halfway between the shoulder seam and elbow when bent

at a 90-degree angle.

4.1.1.4. Shirt. The shirt will be a commercial design, plain, white, and long-sleeved. The

shirt will not have military creases. A white V-neck or tank top undershirt will be worn

under the shirt. Both shirts will be tucked into the trousers. The Formal Dress shirt will

have a wing collar. The Mess Dress shirt will have turn down collar, pleats, and French

cuffs.

4.1.1.5. Bow Tie. The bow tie is mandatory and will be white with square ends for Formal

Dress Uniform and blue-satin for Mess Dress Uniform.

4.1.1.6. Vest/Cummerbund. The vest is worn with the Formal Dress Uniform in place of

the cummerbund; it will be white, single-breasted, low-cut, rolled collar vest with pointed

collar. The vest will not be visible below the mess dress coat. The cummerbund is worn

with the Mess Dress Uniform and will be plain blue-satin, worn half-way between the shirt

and trousers, with the open edge of the pleats facing upward.

4.1.1.7. Suspenders (Mess Dress). Suspenders will be either solid white, dark blue or

black and will be attached to the trousers and will not be visible.

4.1.1.8. Trousers (Formal and Mess Dress). Trousers will be blue, without pleats and

cuffs. They will have a high-rise with side pockets and ⅞-inch blue striping down pant

legs with no bunching at the waist or bagging at the seat.

32 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

4.1.1.9. Footwear. For wear and description see paragraph 7.4.

4.1.2. Female Formal and Mess Dress Uniforms (Figure 4.3.).

4.1.2.1. Coat. Officers will wear the mess dress coat. The mess dress coat will be blue,

single-breasted, loose fitting at the waist with three “wing and star” buttons on each side

of the front of the coat. The coat will have a satin shawl collar and lapels. With arms

hanging naturally, semi-fitted sleeves will end 1/4 to 1/2-inch below the wrist. The center

of the back of the coat will extend 2 1/2 to 3-inches below the natural waistline. The front

opening will gap approximately 2 to 3-inches at bottom.

4.1.2.2. Shoulder Boards. Officers will wear shoulder board rank as close to the shoulder

seam as possible. General officers will wear a 3/4-inch wide silver sleeve braid, 2 1/2-

inches from the end of the sleeve. All other officers will wear a ½-inch silver sleeve braid,

2 1/2-inches from the end of the sleeve.

4.1.2.3. Rank (Mess Dress only). Enlisted will wear either 3 1/2 or 4-inch, white chevron

rank centered on the outer arm halfway between the shoulder seam and elbow when bent

at a 90-degree angle.

4.1.2.4. Blouse. The mess dress blouse will be worn with the female formal dress uniform.

The blouse will not have military creases. White undershirts may be worn in the V-neck,

tank top or crew-neck and if worn, must be tucked into the skirt.

4.1.2.5. Tie Tab. The tie tab is mandatory and will be a 1-inch crescent-shaped silver

metallic cloth, lamé tie tab for Formal Dress Uniform and a blue satin inverted-V tie tab

with self-fastening tails for Mess Dress Uniform.

4.1.2.6. Cummerbund. The cummerbund for Formal Dress Uniform will be plain silver

satin, cummerbund for the Mess Dress Uniform will be plain blue satin. Cummerbunds

will be worn halfway between the shirt and skirt with open edge of pleat facing upward.

4.1.2.7. Skirt. The mess dress skirt will be used for the female formal dress uniform. There

are two types of blue mess dress skirts authorized. The primary mess dress skirt is the A-

line style without the split. The optional straight hanging skirt with the side-split to the top

of the knee is available through AAFES or MCSS as a special order. Both will be ankle

length (no higher than ankle, no longer than the bottom of the heel).

4.1.2.8. Trousers/slacks. Mess dress trouser or slacks will be blue, without pleats and

cuffs. They will have a high-rise with side pockets and inch blue striping down pant legs.

Trousers/slacks will fit naturally over the hips with no bunching at the waist or bagging at

the seat. The bottom front of the pant legs will rest on the front of the shoe or on top of the

foot if wearing pumps, with a slight break in the crease. The back of the pant legs will be

approximately 7/8-inch longer than the front. The trousers/slacks will be tailored, straight

hanging, with no flare at the bottom or additional alterations to further taper the leg. The

trouser material will match the mess dress coat fabric and shade. Suspenders are optional

for women and will be either solid white, dark blue or black and will be attached to the

trousers and will not be visible if worn.

4.1.2.9. Footwear. For wear and description see the applicable paragraphs 7.4.1.1, 7.4.1.2,

7.4.1.5, 7.4.1.6.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 33

4.2. Formal and Mess Dress Uniform Accoutrements (Male and Female).

4.2.1. Medals. Wear all medals, in miniature, on the formal and mess dress uniform.

Anodized medals are authorized. Miniature medals will be centered on the wearer’s left

between the lapel and arm seam and midway between the top shoulder seam and top button of

the coat. Wear of foreign badges and decorations or medals on the mess dress uniform is

authorized, however, members must request and receive permission to wear foreign

decorations they accept (refer to DAFMAN 36-2806, Military Awards: Criteria and

Procedures regarding acceptance). Wear criteria depends on the type of device the decoration

represents. When wearing more than one foreign decoration (miniature medal), wear them in

the order earned.

4.2.2. Duty Badges and Command Insignia Pin. For wear and description see applicable

paragraphs 12.2 and 12.4.

4.2.3. Cuff Links (Optional for females and mandatory for males). They will either be silver,

satin finish or highly polished with the "wing and star" design; silver, highly polished with the

AF symbol; or plain silver, highly polished, commercial design with dimensions and shape

similar to the “wing and star” cuff links. When worn, must be worn as a set.

4.2.4. Studs (Optional for females and mandatory for males). Studs can be either pearl

centered, silver rimmed, highly polished or satin finished or plain silver, highly polished,

commercial design with dimensions and shape similar to the pearl centered studs. The finish

must match cuff links. When worn, must be worn as a set.

4.2.5. Headgear. The only authorized headgear is the blue winter cap. The blue winter cap

will only be worn with a full-length outer garment. For wear and description see applicable

paragraph 7.2.6.

4.2.6. Outer Garments. For wear and description see applicable paragraph 7.1.5.

4.2.7. Accessories. Garment accessories will be conservative and plain without design or

ornamentation. For wear and description see applicable paragraph 7.3.

4.2.8. Footwear. For wear and description see the applicable paragraphs 7.4.

4.3. Semi-Formal Dress Uniform (enlisted Only). The male and female semi-formal dress

uniform is worn for social functions of a semi-formal and/or official nature as prescribed by the

commander or equivalent. The enlisted semi-formal dress uniform coat is the service dress

uniform coat without a name tag. Semi-formal is the same term used when describing the civilian

equivalent. When in semi-formal dress, saluting is not required. See Figure 4.1.

4.3.1. Male Semi-Formal Dress Uniform.

4.3.1.1. White Long-Sleeve Shirt. The white long-sleeve shirt will be plain, knit, or

woven, commercial type with a short or medium point collar, with button or French cuffs.

Military creases are not authorized. A white V-neck or athletic style tank top undershirt

will be worn under the shirt. Both shirts will be tucked into the trousers.

4.3.1.2. Ties are mandatory wear in accordance with paragraph 4.6.1.2.

4.3.1.3. Trousers. The enlisted semi-formal dress uniform trousers are the same as the

service dress uniform trousers.

34 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

4.3.2. Female Semi-Formal Dress Uniform.

4.3.2.1. Blouse. The semi-form fitting white blouse will be polyester or cotton, princess

line, button front, with small-pointed collar. Military creases are not authorized. A white

V-neck or, tank top undershirt may be worn under the shirt. If either style of undershirt is

worn, the undershirt will be tucked into the skirt.

4.3.2.2. Tie Tab. The blue satin inverted-V tie tab with self-fastening tails is mandatory.

4.3.2.3. Skirt or Slacks. The enlisted semi-formal dress uniform skirt or slacks are the

same as the service dress uniform skirt or slacks.

4.4. Semi-Formal Dress Uniform Accoutrements (Male and Female).

4.4.1. Ribbons. For wear description see paragraph 4.5.2.

4.4.2. Duty Badges. For wear and description see applicable paragraphs 12.3.4 through

12.3.6, and 12.4.

4.4.3. Cuff Links. Cuff links are optional with the semi-formal dress uniform. They will

either be silver, satin finish or highly polished with the "wing and star" design; silver, highly

polished with the AF symbol; or plain silver, highly polished, commercial design with

dimensions and shape similar to the “wing and star” cuff links. When worn, must be worn as

a set.

4.4.4. Belt and Buckle. The enlisted semi-formal dress uniform belt and buckle are the same

as the service dress belt and buckle.

4.4.5. Headgear. The only authorized headgear is the blue winter cap. The blue winter cap

will only be worn with a full-length outer garment. For wear and description see applicable

paragraph 7.2.6.

4.4.6. Outer Garments. For wear and description see applicable paragraph 7.1.5.

4.4.7. Accessories. Garment accessories will be conservative and plain without design or

ornamentation. For wear and description see applicable paragraph 7.3.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 35

Figure 4.1. Male and Female Semi-Formal Dress Uniform.

Figure 4.2. Male Mess Dress Uniform.

36 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Figure 4.3. Female Mess Dress Uniform.

4.5. Service Dress Uniform (Class A and B – Male and Female).

4.5.1. The service dress uniform is worn as Class A and the service blue uniform as Class B.

The Class A uniform is worn with the service dress coat. The Class B uniform is worn without

the service dress coat.

4.5.1.1. Coat (Class A). The service dress coat will be polyester and wool-blend, serge

weave; semi-drape, single-breasted with three buttons and will have one welt pocket on the

upper left side and two lower pocket flaps. Officer coats will have epaulets; enlisted coats

will not. General officers will wear a 1 1/2-inch-wide blue sleeve braid, 3-inches from the

end of the sleeve. All other officers will wear a 1/2-inch wide blue sleeve braid 3-inches

from the end of the sleeve. With arms hanging naturally, sleeves will end 1/4 to 1/2-inch

below the wrist. The bottom of the coat will extend 3 to 3 1/2-inches below the top of the

thigh. The sleeves and lapel will be roll-pressed.

4.5.1.1.1. Officer Rank Insignia. Officers will center regular size rank insignia 5/8-

inch from end of the epaulet and parallel with the sleeve seam, when applicable. See

Figure 4.4.

4.5.1.1.2. General officers will wear 1-inch stars point-to-center; 3/4-inch stars are

optional, if unable to wear the 1-inch stars.

4.5.1.1.2.1. Generals will evenly space all four stars between the button securing

the epaulet and the sleeve seam.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 37

4.5.1.1.2.2. Lieutenant Generals will place one star on the center point of the

epaulet and center the two remaining stars between the first star and the button

securing the epaulet and the sleeve seam.

4.5.1.1.2.3. Major Generals will evenly space their stars between the center point

of the epaulet and the button securing the epaulet and the sleeve seam.

4.5.1.1.2.4. Brigadier Generals will center their star between the button securing

the epaulet and the sleeve seam.

4.5.1.1.3. Colonel rank insignia is worn with the eagle’s beak facing forward.

4.5.1.1.4. The stem on the Lieutenant Colonel and Major rank insignia will point away

from the collar.

Figure 4.4. Officer Rank Insignia Placement on Epaulet.

4.5.1.1.5. Enlisted Insignia. Enlisted will wear 3 1/2 or 4-inch, chevron rank centered

on the outer arm halfway between the shoulder seam and elbow when bent at a 90-

degree angle. See Figure 4.5.

Figure 4.5. Enlisted Rank Placement.

38 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

4.5.2. Service Dress Coat Accoutrements (Class A) (See Figure 4.6 and Figure 4.7.).

4.5.2.1. US Lapel Insignia. The US lapel insignia is placed halfway up the seam, resting

on but not over it. The “US” letters in the insignia are parallel with the ground. “US”

insignias for officers do not have circles. Circles are worn around the US insignias for

enlisted personnel only.

4.5.2.2. Nametag. The name tag is metal engraved, brushed satin silver finish with the last

name engraved in blue lettering. The name tag will be centered on the wearer’s right

between the sleeve seam and top of the lapel. The bottom of name tag will be parallel with

bottom of ribbons.

4.5.2.3. Ribbons. All or some ribbons and devices will be worn on the service dress coat.

Wear ribbons centered, resting on (but not over) the edge of the pleated pocket on the

wearers left. Wear of foreign badges and decorations/medals on the service dress uniform

is authorized; however, members must request/receive permission to wear foreign

decorations they accept (refer to DAFMAN 36-2806, Military Awards: Criteria and

Procedures regarding acceptance). Wear foreign medals and ribbons on service dress

uniform when they are the same size as Air Force medals and ribbons. Wear criteria

depends on the type of device the decoration represents.

4.5.2.4. Duty Badges and Command Insignia Pin. For wear and description see applicable

paragraphs 12.2.4, and 12.3.7 through 12.3.9.

Figure 4.6. Male Service Dress Uniform (Example Configurations).

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 39

Figure 4.7. Female Service Dress Uniform (Example Configurations)

4.6. Male Blue Shirt and Female Blouse (Class A and B).

4.6.1. Long-Sleeve/Short-Sleeve Blue Shirt (Male). The long-sleeve and short-sleeve blue

shirt will be light blue in color with two pleated pockets, convertible cuffs (long-sleeve only),

and epaulets. The collar of the shirt will be visible 1/4 to 1/2-inch above the service dress coat

collar. With arms hanging naturally, sleeves will end 1/4 to 1/2-inch below the wrist, but not

be visible below the sleeves of the service coat. The blue shirt will be neatly tucked into the

trousers. The shirt may be altered for a tapered fit. A white V-neck or tank top, or crew neck

(long sleeve blue shirt only) undershirt will be worn under the shirt.

4.6.1.1. Nametag. The name tag will be blue plastic with the last name engraved in white

lettering. The name tag will be centered, resting on, but not over the edge of the pleated

pocket on the wearer’s right.

4.6.1.2. Tie. A tie will be worn with the service dress uniform and/or service blue uniform,

long-sleeve blue shirt. The tie will be either blue polyester or silk, herringbone twill. The

tip of the tie must cover a portion of the belt buckle but cannot extend below the bottom of

the belt buckle. A tie tack or clasp may be worn with the tie. If worn, the tie tack or clasp

will be the “wing and star” design, Air Force symbol, or rank insignia. The tie tack or clasp

will be centered between the bottom edge of the knot and bottom tip of the tie. A tie is

required to be worn with the long-sleeve blue shirt however, it is optional with the short-

sleeve blue shirt unless worn with service dress.

40 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

4.6.2. Blouse (Long and Short-sleeved) (Female). The pointed-end collar of the shirt must

show 1/4 to 1/2-inch above the service dress coat collar with arms hanging naturally. It will

not have military creases and will have epaulets. With arms hanging naturally, long-sleeves

will end 1/4 to 1/2-inch below the wrist, but not be visible below the sleeves of the service

coat. The long-sleeved blouse will have rounded cuffs with buttonhole closures on each cuff.

The blouse may be modified at the Airman’s expense to accommodate cuff links. White, V-

neck, tank top or crew neck (long sleeve blouse only) undershirts are optional. If worn, they

will be tucked into the skirt or slacks.

4.6.2.1. Tuck-in Style Blouse (Long or Short-Sleeved). The blue blouse will have a

tapered fit and will be tucked into the slacks or skirt.

4.6.2.2. Semi-Form Fitting Blouse (Long or Short-Sleeved). The blue blouse will be a

semi-form fitting princess line.

4.6.2.3. Nametag. The name tag will be blue plastic with the last name engraved in white

lettering. The name tag will be centered, even within 1 1/2-inches higher or lower than the

first exposed button on the wearer’s right.

4.6.2.4. Tie Tab. An inverted-V tie tab will be worn with the service dress uniform and/or

long-sleeve blue shirt. The tie tab will be blue polyester herringbone with self-fastening

tails when worn with the tuck-in style blouse and with or without self-fasteners with the

semi-form fitting blouse. A tie tab is required to be worn with long-sleeved blouse

however, it is optional with the short-sleeved blouse unless worn with service dress.

4.7. Male Blue Shirt and Female Blouse Accoutrements.

4.7.1. Officer Rank Insignia. Officers wear shoulder mark insignia.

4.7.2. Enlisted Insignia. Enlisted will wear 3 1/2 or 4-inch chevron rank centered on the outer

arm halfway between the shoulder seam and elbow when bent at a 90-degree angle (long

sleeved-shirt) or bottom edge of the sleeve (short sleeved-shirt).

4.7.3. Ribbons. Wear all, some, or no ribbons and devices. If worn, center ribbons on wearer’s

left, parallel with ground. Align bottom of the ribbons with the bottom of the name tag.

4.7.4. Cuff Links. Cuff links are optional with the service dress uniform. They will either be

silver, satin finish or highly polished with the "wing and star" design; silver, highly polished

with the AF symbol; or plain silver, highly polished, commercial design with dimensions and

shape similar to the “wing and star” cuff links.

4.7.5. Belt and Buckle. The belt will be blue, cotton web or elastic, solid or woven. The belt

will have a silver (chrome finish) tip and a buckle. The silver tip of the belt will extend beyond

the buckle facing the wearer’s left for men and wearer’s right for women; however, no blue

fabric will be visible between the silver tip and silver buckle. General officers may wear the

“wing and star” design, silver belt buckle.

4.7.6. Footwear. For wear and description see applicable paragraph 7.4.

4.7.7. Headgear. For wear and description see applicable paragraphs 7.2 through 7.2.7.

4.7.8. Outer Garments. For wear and description see applicable paragraphs 7.1 through 7.1.5.

4.7.9. Accessories. For wear and description see applicable paragraph 7.3.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 41

4.8. Trousers, Slacks, Skirt (Class A and B).

4.8.1. Trousers (Male). Trousers will be blue and trim-fitted with no bunching at the waist or

bagging at the seat. The trousers will be full cut, straight hanging and without cuffs or

additional alterations to further taper the leg. The front of the trouser legs will rest on the front

of the shoe or boot with a slight break in the crease. The back of the trouser legs will be ⅞-

inch longer than the front. The trouser material will match the service dress coat in both fabric

and shade.

4.8.2. Slacks (Female). Slacks will be blue and fit naturally over the hips with no bunching

at the waist or bagging at the seat. The bottom front of the slack legs will rest on the front of

the shoe, boot or on top of the foot if wearing pumps, with a slight break in the crease. The

back of the slack legs will be approximately ⅞-inch longer than the front. The slacks will be

tailored, straight hanging, with no flare at the bottom or additional alterations to further taper

the leg. They will have a center fly-front opening and front and back waist darts, two 1/4 top

side pockets, and a waistband with five belt loops. The slacks material will match the service

dress coat in both fabric and shade.

4.8.3. Skirt (Female). The skirt will be polyester or poly-wool, blue and hang naturally over

the hips with a slight flare. The skirt will be no shorter than the top of the kneecap and no

longer than the bottom of the kneecap when standing at attention. The skirt will be straight

style with belt loops, a kick pleat in the back, two pockets, and a darted front. Skirts will have

a back zipper and lining attached to the waist. Skirt material will match the service dress coat

in both fabric and shade.

Figure 4.8. Male Long Sleeve Blue Shirt.

42 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Figure 4.9. Male Short Sleeve Shirt.

Figure 4.10. Female Long Sleeve Blue Blouse.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 43

Figure 4.11. Female Short Sleeve Blue Blouse.

Figure 4.12. Officer Rank Insignia.

Figure 4.13. Enlisted Rank Insignia.

44 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Chapter 5

OCP UNIFORMS

5.1. The Operational Camouflage Pattern (OCP), Male and Female. The OCP may be worn

off base for short convenience stops and when eating at restaurants where people wear comparable

civilian attire. Do not wear OCPs off base to eat in restaurants where most diners wear business

attire or at establishments that operate primarily to serve alcohol. Do not starch or hot press the

OCP; Light ironing is authorized; however, repeated hot pressing or heavy ironing will accelerate

the overall wear of the fabric. OCPs purchased by Air Force personnel through the Army Air Force

Exchange Service (AAFES) Military Clothing Sales Stores (MCSS), or issued through Individual

Equipment Elements or contract equivalent, are certified as fully compliant with all specifications.

No other suppliers are approved for organizational/unit purchases, or any appropriated, or overseas

contingency operation funds expenditures. If personnel choose to use personal funds to purchase

from non-AAFES suppliers, the Air Force is not responsible if the uniform is not fully compliant.

The non-fire-retardant and improved hot weather combat OCP uniforms are the only OCP

uniforms authorized to be worn by all Airmen. (Exception: Airmen in jobs that have occupational

safety and health administration (OSHA) requirements for wear of the 100% cotton fire-retardant

OCP (e.g., deployed members operating in outside the wire mission sets) will be authorized to

wear this distinctive uniform/equipment item.) Additionally, firefighters and explosive ordnance

disposal (EOD) personnel are authorized to wear the two-piece flight duty uniform and their

uniform will be worn in the same configuration and manner as instructed in paragraph 9.12 within

this instruction. (Exception: The firefighter badge will be worn in-lieu of the higher headquarters

patch on the left sleeve.)

5.1.1. OCP Coat (Shirt). The coat is worn outside the trousers. Note: Commanders may

authorize the coat to be tucked in for duty (e.g., Security Forces Airmen) if necessary. The coat

will not extend below the top of the cargo pocket on the trousers and will not be higher than

the bottom of the opening of the side (hip) pocket on the trousers. Airmen may roll up sleeves

on the OCP coat; however, the cuffs will remain visible, and the sleeve will rest at, or within

1-inch of, the forearm when the arm is bent at a 90-degree angle. When sleeves are not rolled

up, cuffs may remain visible or be folded inward twice. Commanders may prohibit rolling of

sleeves and folding of cuffs. Patches or badges will not be affixed to the front pockets.

Alterations that affect the functionality of the uniform are not authorized, (e.g., sewing down

collars, or pockets). The OCP coat may be removed in the immediate work area as determined

appropriate by local leadership, however, the OCP coat will be worn while interacting with

customers or clients.

5.1.2. Accoutrements. Airmen will wear a basic configuration consisting of name and USAF

tapes, subdued U.S. Flag, and subdued rank. The Institute of Heraldry will develop or convert

only organizational emblems to the spice brown color criteria. When authorized by Higher

Headquarters (HHQ), Commanders and non-unit organizational entities as defined in AFI 38-

101, Manpower and Organization, such as Directorates, Air Force Elements, Detachments,

Commanders Support Staff) will develop or convert patches using the spice brown color

criteria. Airmen may sew-on or use Velcro® backing for nametape, USAF tape, and rank.

Tapes and rank must be either all sewn-on or all Velcro®; Airmen are not authorized to mix

sewn-on and Velcro® tapes or rank. Note: Occupational badges may be either sewn-on or

Velcro® (metal pin on type badges not authorized on OCP), if more than one is worn you must

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 45

sew or Velcro® all badges. Only Velcro® patches are authorized on the left and right sleeves

of the OCP coat. An OCP Velcro® sleeve pen/pencil holder may be worn on either sleeve but

will not impede the proper wear of required patches and/or duty badges.

5.1.3. Spice brown rank insignia is mandatory for all personnel. (Exceptions: No rank

required for airmen basic rank). First lieutenant and lieutenant colonel rank insignia will be

black. (Note: GOs wear 3/4-inch diameter stars.

5.1.4. Name and USAF tapes are mandatory for all Air Force personnel and will be spice

brown block lettering embroidery on the OCP background.

5.1.5. Badges and Commander’s Insignia Pin.

5.1.5.1. A maximum of four occupational, qualification and/or skill badges may be worn

centered above the USAF tape using spice brown embroidery on the OCP background. If

earned and authorized, sister services’ badges will maintain their subdued color(s) when

worn as not to lose their distinction as being awarded from a sister service. Wear of current

Air Force occupational badge(s) are mandatory if sister services’ badges are worn.

5.1.5.1.1. When one badge is worn, it is centered 1/2-inch above the U.S. Air Force

Tape.

5.1.5.1.2. When two badges are worn, the first is centered 1/2-inch above the U.S. Air

Force tape, the second badge will be centered 1/2-inch above the first badge.

5.1.5.1.3. When three badges are worn, they are centered 1/8-inch above the U.S. Air

Force tape either in a single vertical column with 1/4-inch between badges; or two

badges are worn side by side, 1/8-inch above and centered on the U.S. Air Force tape

with 1/2-inch between badges horizontally, and the third badge is centered on the U.S.

Air Force tape 1/4-inch above the lower two badges (see Figure 5.1.).

Figure 5.1. Wear of Three Subdued Badges

46 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

5.1.5.1.4. When four badges are worn, they are centered 1/8-inch above the U.S. Air

Force tape and worn either vertically and side by side in stacks of two with 1/4-inch

between the badges vertically and 1/2-inch between the badges horizontally; or two

badges are worn side by side, 1/8-inch above and centered on the U.S. Air Force tape

with 1/2-inch between badges horizontally, and the remaining two badges are centered

on the U.S. Air Force tape and stacked vertically 1/4-inch above the lower two badges

with 1/4-inch between badges. Badges stacked one on top of the other are centered on

each other with the smaller badge centered above or below (according to precedence)

the larger badge. Vertical spacing is measured between the larger badges (see Figure

5.2.).

Figure 5.2. Wear of Four Subdued Badges.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 47

5.1.5.1.5. Occupational, qualification or skill badge order of precedence:

5.1.5.1.5.1. Group 1 (mandatory badges). Chaplain, aeronautical, space,

cyberspace, multi-domain warfare and missile operations badges. When more than

one aeronautical, space, cyberspace, multi-domain warfare or missile operations

badge is authorized, the badge representing the current position will be worn and

the second and subsequent aeronautical, space, cyberspace, multi-domain warfare

or missile operations badges become optional.

5.1.5.1.5.2. Group 2 (optional badges). Parachutist wings, all other Air Force

occupational and qualification badges, sister services’ qualification badges, or skill

badges. Wear sister service badges according to the applicable Service order of

precedence however, all Air Force badges take precedence over sister service

badges and should be in the wearer’s highest position, from the viewer’s left to

right.

5.1.5.1.5.3. Foreign badges. Aviation, medical insignia, and parachutist badges

are the only foreign badges authorized to be worn on Air Force uniforms, CONUS

or OCONUS. Do not wear foreign aviation badges unless wearing an aeronautical

badge.

5.1.5.2. Airmen may wear the large or small version of the missile badge. When worn,

the top of the missile badge must not exceed the OCP coat shoulder seam.

5.1.5.3. Commander’s insignia patch may be worn for officers in the rank of Colonel (O-

6) and below when currently in command. The patch will be centered 1/2-inch above the

name tape, on 1-inch x 1-inch subdued cloth patch using the spice brown color criteria on

the OCP pattern background. Graduated Commander's pin may be worn on a small

Velcro® patch on top of the left sleeve either centered horizontally and vertically on the

flag-sized pocket flap, or (if no pocket flap) centered horizontally and 1/2-inch from the

top of the Velcro® area, depending on uniform configuration. The second authorized left-

sleeve patch (e.g., HHQ) will be centered vertically and horizontally in any remaining

Velcro® area to present a balanced appearance.

48 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

5.1.5.4. The Inter-American Air Forces Academy (IAAFA) badge may be worn by

members who receive Special Experience Identifier (SEI) HJ (officer) or 450 (enlisted) as

applicable during and after assignment to IAAFA. The badge will be centered 1/2-inch

above the nametape, subdued cloth patch using the spice brown color criteria on OCP

background.

5.1.6. Patches. Patches will not extend past the boundary of the Velcro®. Airmen will comply

with the shoulder patch placement configuration found in paragraphs 5.1.6.1.1 through

5.1.6.1.2 and paragraphs 5.1.6.2 through 5.1.6.2.4 of this instruction. Airmen assigned,

attached, detailed, or activated in support of sister service units or joint organizations may wear

the sister service’s or joint organization’s organizational badges/patches in accordance with

their respective wear instructions. Sister service and joint organization badges/patches can be

worn in their current color configuration and will not be converted to the spice brown color

criteria. Additionally, Airmen assigned to Department of Air Force organizations that support

both Air and Space Force are permitted to wear both Air Force spice brown and Space Force

full color organization patches. Award criteria for other Services’ qualification badges will be

in accordance with awarding Service’s directives. Temporary qualification badges are not

authorized for wear on the uniform. Note: The Airborne tab is a temporary tab and is only

authorized to be worn while assigned to an organization that prescribes wear as part of the

organizations shoulder sleeve insignia. This instruction will take precedence if joint or sister

service wear instructions will cause a conflict in Air Force patch configuration guidance (i.e.,

changes the location of the U.S. flag or Duty Identifier patch, switches a patch designated as a

“left sleeve” patch to the right sleeve, etc.).

5.1.6.1. Right Sleeve. A maximum of two patches may be worn.

5.1.6.1.1. The U.S. flag patch is mandatory and will be subdued using the spice brown

color criteria (cloth) centered at the top of Velcro® and worn while in–garrison and

deployed. Infra-red U.S. flags are not authorized.

5.1.6.1.2. Organizational unit of assignment subdued spice brown color criteria

patches are mandatory upon availability (non-unit entities such as Directorates, AF

Elements are optional) and will be centered in the middle of the Velcro® area under

the U.S. Flag. (Exception: For accessions and while in initial training (e.g., USAFA,

ROTC, OTS, BMT) the unit patch may be worn as directed by applicable

commanders.) Current subdued version of unit patch or no patch may be worn until

the patch color conversion has been completed by the Institute of Heraldry. Note:

Airmen performing duties in control Air Force Specialty Codes 31PX or 3P0XX are

authorized permanent wear of the Security Force shield on the OCP uniform in-lieu of

the organizational unit of assignment patch worn on the right sleeve. Airmen

performing duties in control Air Force Specialty Codes 3P0XXA (Military Working

Dog Handler) or 3P0XXB (Combat Arms Instructor) are authorized permanent wear

of the K-9 Guardians of the Night (GOTN) Patch or DAF Combat Arms Instructor

Patch on the OCP uniform in-lieu of the organizational unit of assignment patch worn

on the right sleeve. Commanders retain the authority to direct standardized wear of

either the unit of assignment patch or the shield, the K-9 GOTN patch, or DAF Combat

Arms patch, but not all. Wing commanders may authorize the wear of morale patches

in the subdued spice brown color scheme on Fridays or during special events. AFR and

ANG commanders may authorize wear during weekend drills on Friday, Saturday, or

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 49

Sunday or during special events. Wing commanders will maintain a list of approved

morale patches authorized to be worn within their wing.

5.1.6.2. Left Sleeve. A maximum of two patches may be worn. Exception: Awarded

joint qualification tabs (subdued) may be worn above the HHQ patch as a third patch (e.g.,

Army Ranger, Sapper, Special Forces, Air Advisor, etc.). The graduated commander’s

insignia does not count as one of two patches (i.e., it may be worn in addition to two

patches.)

5.1.6.2.1. The HHQ patch in the subdued spice brown color scheme is mandatory

except as provided in paragraph 5.1.6.2.4 and worn centered in the middle of the

Velcro® area. Higher Headquarters include but are not limited to the following

organizations: Headquarters Air Force, Direct Reporting Units, Field Operating

Agencies and MAJCOMs. Members of the ANG may wear the approved ANG patch,

or the approved gaining MAJCOM patch as authorized by their respective Adjutant

General.

5.1.6.2.2. Spice brown duty shields such as Inspector General and Security Forces (see

note in paragraph 5.1.6.1.2 regarding Security Forces shield) are authorized on the

left sleeve and will be centered at the top of the Velcro® area. The HHQ patch will be

centered in the remaining Velcro® area. Air Force duty arches such as Survival,

Evasion, Resistance and Escape (SERE) will also be centered at the top of the Velcro®

area on left sleeve and utilize the spice brown color scheme.

5.1.6.2.3. Career Field Identifier Patch. While performing their duties certain Air

Force Specialty Codes, as determined by career field managers, and authorized by

AF/A1, may wear a spice brown subdued cloth patch centered at the top of the Velcro®

area. Identifier patches will be a max of five letters e.g., Joint Air Component

Coordination Element (JACCE), and maintain standard spice brown subdued color

scheme. Additionally, height will not exceed the size of the U.S. tactical flag patch, 3-

1/4” W x 1-13/16”H. Air Force Specialty Codes (AFSCs) identified in Table 5.1 are

authorized wear of applicable duty identifier. Patches with black borders differentiate

first responders or career fields who require quick identification. General officers may

wear the duty identifier that is representative of the organization’s mission they are

leading. (Note: The “FIRE” duty identifier (with black border) will only be worn on

the two-piece flight duty uniform. Wear of a duty identifier on the OCP uniform is not

authorized.)

50 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Table 5.1. Authorized Duty Identifier Patches/Tabs (Left Sleeve).

CURRENT DUTY

APPROVED

PATCH/TAB

Structural

3E3

Multi-Domain Command and Control

13O

First Sergeant

1SGT

Missile & Space System Elect Maintenance, Missile & Space

Systems Maintenance, Missile & Space Facilities

2M0

Air Battle Manager

ABM

Airman Dorm Leader

ADL

Administration (Military Postal Service (MPS) only for personnel

performing any part of postal or official mail)

ADMIN or MPS

Aircrew Flight Equipment

AFE

Airfield Management

AFLD

Aerospace Ground Equipment

AGE

Air Advisor (Note: With documented classification identifier

(SEI/SDI), authorized for permanent wear (POC AF/A3TM))

Air Advisor or Advanced

Air Advisor (tab)

Avionics Test Station and Components

AIS

Airborne Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance

(Airborne Cryptologic Language Analyst, Airborne ISR Operator)

A-ISR

Air Launched Cruise Missile Maintenance

ALCM

Special Warfare Tactical Call Sign

Alpha-numeric call sign,

e.g., A01 or HR44

Air Mobility Liaison Officer

AMLO

Munitions Systems

AMMO

Tactical Aircraft Maintenance, Airlift/Special Mission Aircraft

Maintenance, Refuel/Bomber Aircraft Maintenance

APG

Arctic Domain and Security (Note: Completion of Arctic

Defense Security Orientation and awarded applicable SEI)

ARCTIC (tab)

Aircraft Structural Maintenance

ASM

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 51

Air Traffic Control

ATC

Avionics ( SOF/PR Integrated Comm/Nav/Mission System,

SOF/PR Integrated Instrument & Flight Control System,

SOF/PR Integrated Electronic Warfare System, Fighter Aircraft

Integrated Avionics, Mobility Air Forces Integrated

Comm/Nav/Mission System, Mobility Air Forces Integrated

Instrument & Flt Control System, Bomber/Special Integrated

Comm/Nav/Mission System, Bomber/Special Integrated

Instrument & Flight Control System, Bomber/Special Electronic

Warfare & Radar Surveillance Integrated Avionics)

AVI

Aviation Resource Management (Aviation Management)

AVMGT

Base Defense Group

BDG

USAF Installation Honor Guard (Base Honor Guard)

BASE HONOR GUARD

(tab)

Command and Control Battle Management Operations

C2BMO

Command and Control Operations

C2OPS

Career Assistance Advisor

Combat Aviation Advisor (SOF) (Note: With documented

classification identifier (SEI/SDI), authorized for permanent wear

(POC AF/A3TM)

CAA

Emergency Management (Chemical, Biological, Radiological,

Nuclear)

CBRN

Contingency Contracting Officer

CCO

Combat Controller

CCT

Civil Engineer

Career Enlisted Aviator (In-flight Refueling, Flight Engineer,

Aircraft Loadmaster, Airborne Mission Systems, Flight

Attendant, Special Missions Aviation, Remotely Piloted Aircraft

Sensor Operator, Enlisted Remotely Piloted Aircraft Pilot)

CEA

Courier

COURIER (tab)

Contingency Response

Combat Rescue Officer

CRO

52 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Mobility Combat Systems Officer,

CSO

Cyber Space Warfare, Cyber Warfare Operations, Knowledge

Management, Cyber Systems Operations, Cyber Transport

Systems, Cyber Surety, Computer Systems Programming, Client

Systems, RF Transmission Systems, Spectrum Operations, Cable

and Antenna Systems, Software Development Specialist (Note:

Performing and qualified in Expeditionary Warfighting

Communications through award of an approved Special

Experience Identifier, or Combat Mission Ready Qualification)

CYBER or XCOMM

(w/Black Border see note.)

Development and Training

D&T

Deployable Aircraft Ground Response Element

DAGRE

Pavement & Construction Equipment

DIRT

Aircraft Electric & Environmental Systems

EE

Expeditionary Air Ground Liaison Element

EAGLE

Aircrew Egress Systems

EJECT

Electrical Systems

ELEC

Developmental Engineering Utilization Field

Aerospace Propulsion

ENGS

Engineering

ENGR

Pest Management

ENTO

Equal Opportunity

Explosive Ordnance Disposal

EOD

Emergency Preparedness Liaison Officer

EPLO

Enlisted Professional Military Education (Instructor)

United States Air Force

Professional Military

Education

Evaluator

EVALUATOR (tab)

Recce/Surv/Electronic Warfare Officer,

EWO

Director/Commander/Command Chief Executive Assistants

EXEC

Foreign Area Officer

FAO

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 53

Forward Area Refueling Point

FARP

Financial Management & Comptroller

Force Protection (approved for OCN escorts)

Aircraft Fuel Systems

FUELS

Contracting (SOCOM GHOST Intern Program Completion)

GHOST

Ground Transportation

Chaplains, Religious Affairs

High-Frequency Global Communications System

HFGCS

Heating, Ventilation, Air-condition & Refrigeration

HVACR

Aircraft Hydraulic Systems

HYDRO

Nuclear and Missile Operations, Intercontinental Ballistic Missile

Maintenance

ICBM

Independent Duty Medical Technician (4N0X1C)

IDMT

International Enlisted Engagements Manager

IEEM

Instructor

INSTRUCTOR (tab)

Intelligence Surveillance Reconnaissance (All Source Intelligence

Analyst, Geospatial Analysis, Signals Intelligence, Cryptologic

Language Analyst, Cyber, Intelligence Analysis, Cryptologic

Analysis and Reporting, Human Intelligence Specialist, Targeting

Analyst, Scientific Applications Specialist, Intelligence)

ISR

Joint Air Component Coordination Element

JACCE

Judge Advocate General Corps

JAGC

Liquid Fuels Maintenance

LFM

Low Observable Aircraft Structural Maintenance

Logistics Readiness

LRO

Master Instructor

MASTER INSTRUCTOR

(tab)

Multicapable Airman

MCA

54 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Tactical Aircraft Maintenance (5th Generation)

Helicopter/Tiltrotor Aircraft Maintenance, Remotely Piloted

Aircraft Maintenance

MECH

Any provider, provider extender, nurse, or 4NXXX. In addition,

any other medical AFSCs certified in NAEMT-Medical Personnel

or DHA TCCC tier II or higher

MED (w/Black Border)

Missile Alert Facility Manager

MAFM

Manpower

MNPWR

Master Resilience Trainers (Note: Resilience Trainers are

authorized continuous wear with concurrence/approval of the

local program manager.)

MRT

Aircraft Metals Technology

MTECH

Munitions and Missile Maintenance

MUNS

Aircraft Maintenance

Maintenance Management Analysis, Maintenance Management

Production

MXMGR

Navigator

NAV

Nondestructive Inspection

NDI

Nuclear Weapons

NUKES, NUCMX or

2W2X1

Operations Management

OPSMG

Operation Research Analyst

Office of Special Investigations

OSI

Public Affairs (Public Affairs and Combat Camera)

PA or CTCS (Combat

Camera)

Aerospace Physiology Enterprise (13HX and 1H0X1)

PHYS

Recce/Surv/Electronic Warfare Pilot, Mobility Pilot

PILOT

Pararescue

Contracting Utilization Field

Logistics Plans

PLNR

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 55

Senior Material-Upper Echelon, Acquisition Utilization Field

Precision Measurement Equipment Laboratory

PMEL

Backshop Avionics PODs

PODS

Fuel (Petroleum)

POL

Air Transportation

PORT

Electric Power Production

POWER

Personnel (Home-station and/or deployed and not performing as

PERSCO), Personnel Support for Contingency Operations

(Deployed in a PERSCO capacity)

PRSNL or PRSCO

Information Operations, (Psychological Operations, coincide with

award of the 9Q SEI for Military Information Support Operations

(MISO) Capability Specialist)

PSYOP

Quality Assurance

Raven

RAVEN (tab)

Radar, Airfield, Weather Systems (Airfield and Radar Systems,

Radar Systems, Airfield Systems)

RAWS

Recruiter

RECRUITER (tab)

Services (Readiness In Base Services) (Note To be worn at home

station when working in the Readiness office or R-coded and all

deployed Services member may wear.)

RIBS

Airmen and Family Readiness Center/Readiness NCO

RNCO

Resilience Training Assistants (Note Resilience Trainers are

authorized continuous wear with concurrence/approval of the

local program manager.)

RTA

Sexual Assault Response Coordinator

SARC

Scientific Utilization Field

SCI

Senior Contracting Official

SCO

Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape

SERE (tab)

Security Forces

SF (w/ Black Border)

Safety

SFTY

56 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Space Launch Maintenance/Mission Assurance Oversight

SPACE

Special Reconnaissance

Special Tactics Officer

STO

Materiel Management

SUP

Services (Note Home Station or Deployed)

SVS

Air Force Special Warfare Mission Support

SWMS

Staff Weather Officer

SWO

Tactical Air Control Party

TACP

Advanced Fighter Aircraft Integrated Avionics

TECH

Test and Evaluation

TEST

Traffic Management

TMO

Education and Training

TRNG

Unit Deployment Manager

UDM

Unlimited Warrant Contracting Officer

UNLTD

USAF Honor Guard

USAF HONOR GUARD

(tab)

Verification and Checkout Equipment Maintenance

VACE

Vehicle Management (Mission Generation Vehicular Equipment

Maintenance, Fleet Management and Analysis)

Weather and Environmental Sciences Officer

WESO

Water & Fuel Systems Maintenance

WFSM

Aircraft Armament Systems

WPNS

Weapons System Evaluation Program

WSEP

Weather

5.1.6.2.4. USAF Graduate Patches. USAF Weapons School Graduate Patch (graduate

or instructor), USAF (or joint/international equivalent) Test Pilot School graduate

patches, service level advanced studies groups patches (e.g., School of Advanced Air

and Space Studies (SAASS), School of Advanced Military Studies (SAMS), Maritime

Advanced Warfighting School (MAWS), School of Advanced Warfighting (SAW),

etc.), and Critical Care Air Transport Team patch are authorized on the left sleeve using

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 57

subdued spice brown color criteria. Additional patches may be authorized as outlined

by criteria in paragraph 5.1.6.2.4.1. Patches may be worn in-lieu of the HHQ patch.

If both HHQ and graduate patches are worn (fit on Velcro® without hanging off the

edges) the graduate patch will be worn in the top position.

5.1.6.2.4.1. Additional graduate patches may be authorized for courses if they meet

at least one of the following: 1) functionally aligned graduate-level courses

identified in the career field’s continuum of learning or career field education and

training plans, 2) are development team competitively-boarded courses, or 3)

otherwise identified by career field as a critical developmental education milestone

in the Airmen’s career progression resulting in a subject matter expertise that

distinguishes them from their peers. Request for new patches should follow

guidance outlined in paragraph 12.7. Do not request graduate patches for initial

and intermediate skills training courses, skill-level upgrade courses, or other

mandatory functional courses.

5.1.7. T-Shirt. T-Shirt will be Coyote Brown (Tan 499) and tucked into OCP trousers.

Additionally, wing or squadron commanders may approve display of organizational emblems,

as officially and currently approved, not to exceed 5-inches in diameter, in cloth or silk screen

on morale undershirts. If displayed, organizational emblems will be worn on the left side of

chest of the Coyote Brown (Tan 499) Friday morale undershirts. The morale undershirts may

also display the organizational emblem on the back of the undershirt in a larger diameter as

authorized by commanders.

5.1.8. OCP Trouser. The trouser waistband will rest on the Airman’s waist. Secure pockets

so that items stowed in pockets are not visible. Exception: OCP patrol cap or beret may extend

outside when placed in the OCP trouser cargo pocket. Airmen may wear the trousers tucked

into the top of the boots, bloused using the draw strings at the bottom of the trousers or

commercial blousing devices. Airmen will not wrap the trouser leg around the leg tightly

enough to present a pegged appearance or insert any items inside the trouser leg to create a

round appearance at the bottom of the trouser leg. When bloused, the trousers will not extend

below the third eyelet from the top of the boot.

5.1.9. Belt. Wear a one-piece Tan 499 rigger style, nylon, web belt with OCP trousers.

Exception: Maternity trousers. Belt may extend past buckle.

5.1.10. Tactical and Patrol OCP Caps. A cap will be worn outdoors at all times, unless in a

designated “no hat” area. Airmen will wear a cap straight on the head so that the cap band

creates a straight line around the head, parallel to the ground. Cap will fit snugly and

comfortably around the largest part of the head without bulging or distortion from the intended

shape of the headgear and without excessive gaps. No hair will be visible on the forehead

beneath the cap. Airmen are authorized to block the patrol cap. The Velcro® or sew-on spice

brown nametape will be worn centered on the back of the cap. Tactical caps may be solid OCP

material or OCP with coyote brown mesh back. No other colors or combinations are

authorized. Berets, when authorized, will be worn by designated personnel, see paragraph

7.2.5. Note: Females are authorized to pull their bun or ponytail/equivalent through the back

of the tactical cap. Upon acquisition of an Air Force tactical cap all other tactical caps will be

unauthorized.

58 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

5.1.10.1. Officers will wear either pinned, sewn or Velcro® spice brown rank insignia

centered 1/2-inch on front of caps (Exception: First Lieutenants and Lieutenant Colonels

will wear black rank on OCP background). Velcro® on hat should not exceed size of

insignia. The General Officer rank will be positioned horizontally with a point of each star

pointing upward. General officers will wear 1-inch stars. General officers unable to wear

1-inch stars will wear 3/4-inch stars. The Colonel rank insignia is worn with the eagle’s

beak pointed towards the wearer’s right shoulder (indicates the eagle is facing forward)

and will be centered horizontally. The stem of the Major and Lieutenant Colonel rank will

point toward the ground. The long end of the Lieutenant and Captain bars will be

positioned vertically. Chaplains may wear the chaplain occupational badge sewn-on and

centered 1/2-inch above the visor.

5.1.10.2. Enlisted members will not wear rank insignia or a subdued flag on the patrol or

tactical cap. The front of the cap must not have any Velcro® or other items.

Figure 5.3. OCP Configuration.

5.1.11. Socks. Colors will be DLA-issued Green or Coyote Brown.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 59

5.1.12. Cold Weather Accessories. Cold weather accessories may be worn without wearing

authorized outer garments. Except for functional items, cold weather accessories are only worn

while outdoors. Authorized cold weather accessories for the OCP are:

5.1.12.1. Coyote Brown or black scarves, earmuffs, cold weather headbands, watch caps

and sage green, black or coyote brown gloves.

5.1.12.2. Coyote Brown fleece may be worn, see paragraph 7.1.7, for additional

guidance.

5.1.12.3. Sleep Shirt. The sleep shirt may be worn under the OCP coat. The sleep shirt

will not be worn as an outer garment. The sleep shirt will not be visible under the OCP coat

except at the neck. The sleep shirt will be coyote brown/tan 499 in color.

5.1.12.4. Thermal Underwear. Coyote brown/tan 499 thermal underwear may be worn

under the OCP. Thermal underwear will not be worn as an outer garment. Thermal

underwear will not be visible under the OCP trouser and coat except at the neck.

5.1.12.5. The Extended Cold Weather Clothing System (ECWCS) jackets (fleece, wind,

soft shell, wet weather, or extreme cold weather) may be worn without the pants; however,

the pants must not be worn without the jacket. The Level 7 (Parka Jacket) of the ECWCS

can be worn with OCP utility uniform, wear OCP nametapes/insignia.

5.1.13. Non-Permethrin treated OCPs. Available for special ordering through MCSS.

60  DAFI36-2903  29 FEBRUARY 2024 
Chapter 6 
MATERNITY UNIFORMS 
6.1.  Maternity Mess Dress (Figure 6.1) and Semi-Formal Dress Uniform (Figure 6.2).  The 
maternity mess dress uniform is worn for social functions of a formal and/or official nature (e.g., 
black tie affairs).  The evening gown is the civilian equivalent.  The maternity semi-formal dress 
uniform is worn for social functions of a semi-formal and/or official nature as prescribed by the 
commander  or  equivalent.    Semi-formal  is  the  same  term  used  when  describing  the  civilian 
equivalent.  Enlisted may wear the semi-formal service dress uniform if they do not have a mess 
dress.  Saluting is not required when wearing the mess dress and semi-formal dress uniforms. 
6.1.1.  The mess dress jumper is the dark blue jumper, and the semi-formal  jumper is the 
service dress uniform jumper.  The mess dress and semi-formal dress jumper is worn over the 
white maternity blouse.  Military creases are not authorized.  The maternity jumper will be no 
shorter than the top of the kneecap or longer than the bottom of the kneecap. 
6.1.2.  Officers will wear shoulder mark insignia as close to the shoulder seam as possible and 
button blouse epaulets over jumper. 
6.1.3.  Enlisted Airmen will wear 3 1/2-inch, or 4-inch chevrons centered halfway between 
shoulder seam and elbow bent at 90-degree angle. 
6.2.  Maternity Mess Dress and Semi-Formal Dress Accoutrements. 
6.2.1.  Name Tag.  Do not wear a name tag on the maternity mess dress or semi-formal dress 
uniform. 
6.2.2.  Medals (Mess Dress).  For wear description see paragraph 4.2.1. 
6.2.3.  Ribbons (Semi-Formal Dress).  For wear description see paragraph 6.4.3. 
6.2.4.  Duty Badges, and Command Insignia Pin.  For wear and description see applicable 
paragraphs 12.3.3 and 12.3.6. 
6.2.5.  Tie Tab.  For wear and description see applicable paragraph 4.1.2.5. 
6.2.6.  Studs.  For wear and description see applicable paragraph 4.2.4. 
6.2.7.  Cuff Links.  For wear and description see applicable paragraph 4.2.3. 
6.2.8.  Headgear.  For wear and description see applicable paragraph 7.2.6.  
6.2.9.  Outer garments.  The only authorized headgear is the blue winter cap.  The blue winter 
cap will only be worn with a full-length outer garment. For wear and description see applicable 
paragraph 7.1.5. 
6.2.10.  Accessories.  Garment accessories will be conservative and plain without design or 
ornamentation.  For wear and description see applicable paragraph 7.3. 
6.2.11.  Footwear.  For wear and description see paragraphs 7.4.1.2, 7.4.1.4 through 7.4.1.7. 
6.3.  Maternity Service Dress Uniform (Class A and Class B).  The Class A maternity service 
dress uniform will be worn with the blue long sleeved maternity blouse (military creases not 
authorized). The  maternity  jumper can  be  worn  as the  Class  B uniform  (Figure 6.3.).  If  the 
maternity service dress jumper is worn as the Class B uniform, it will be worn with the blue short 

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 61

sleeved maternity blouse. The maternity jumper is configured the same as the maternity service

dress uniform jumper. The blue maternity service dress jumper will be no shorter than the top of

the kneecap or longer than the bottom of the kneecap.

6.3.1. Maternity Slacks (Class B). Slacks will be dark blue with expansion panel.

6.3.2. Maternity Skirt (Class B). Dark blue (polyester serge) skirt with expansion panel.

6.3.3. Footwear. For wear and description see applicable paragraphs 7.4.1.2, 7.4.1.4 through

7.4.1.7.

6.4. Maternity Service Dress Uniform (Class A and Class B) Accoutrements.

6.4.1. Nametag. The Class A name tag is metal engraved, brushed satin silver finish with the

last name engraved in blue lettering. The Class B name tag will be blue plastic with the last

name engraved in white lettering. The name tag will be centered on the wearer’s right even

within 1 ½-inches higher or lower than the bottom of the V-neck of the jumper. If ribbons are

worn, the bottom of name tag will be parallel with bottom of ribbons. If ribbons are not worn,

the name tag will be centered on the wearer’s right within 1 1/2inches above or below the first

exposed button. An optional epoxy blue name tag may be worn with the Class B service dress

uniform.

6.4.2. Duty Badges and Command Insignia Pin. For wear and description see applicable

12.3.9.

6.4.3. Ribbons. Airmen may wear all, some, or no ribbons and devices. If worn, center

ribbons on the wearer’s left, parallel with the ground. Align bottom of ribbons with the bottom

of the name tag. Foreign badges and decorations or medals on the maternity service dress

uniform are authorized, however, members must request/receive permission to wear foreign

decorations they accept (refer to DAFMAN 36-2806, Military Awards: Criteria and

Procedures, regarding acceptance). Wear criteria depends on the type of device the decoration

represents. Foreign ribbons may be worn on the service (Class B) uniform if they are the same

size as Air Force ribbons.

6.4.4. Tie Tab. The blue satin inverted-V tie tab with self-fastening tails is mandatory.

6.4.5. Cuff Links. Cuff links are optional with the maternity service dress uniform. If worn,

they will either be silver, satin finish or highly polished with the "wing and star" design; silver,

highly polished with the AF symbol; or plain silver, highly polished, commercial design with

dimensions and shape similar to the “wing and star” cuff links.

6.4.6. Officer Rank Insignia. Officers wear shoulder mark insignia. Place shoulder mark

insignia as close as possible to shoulder seam. Button blouse epaulets over jumper.

6.4.7. Enlisted Insignia. Enlisted will wear either 3 1/2-inch or 4-inch chevron rank centered

on the outer arm halfway between the shoulder seam and elbow when bent at a 90-degree angle

(long sleeved-shirt) or bottom edge of the sleeve (short sleeved-shirt).

6.4.8. Headgear. The only authorized headgear is the blue winter cap. The blue winter cap

will only be worn with a full-length outer garment. For wear and description see applicable

paragraph 7.2.6.

6.4.9. Outer Garments. For wear and description see applicable paragraph 7.1.5.

62 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

6.4.10. Accessories. Garment accessories will be conservative and plain without design or

ornamentation. For wear and description see applicable paragraph 7.3.

6.4.11. Footwear. For wear and description see paragraphs 7.4.1.2, 7.4.1.4 through 7.4.1.7.

Figure 6.1. Maternity Mess Dress Uniform.

Figure 6.2. Maternity Semi-Formal Dress Uniform.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 63

Figure 6.3. Maternity Service Dress Uniform (Jumper) Class A (long sleeve) and Class B

(short sleeve with jumper).

Figure 6.4. Maternity Service Dress Uniform (without Jumper) Class B.

6.5. Maternity OCP Uniforms.

6.5.1. For general OCP wear, care and procurement guidance see paragraph 5.1.

6.5.2. Coat. Maternity Coats will be 50% nylon and 50% cotton. The coat is worn outside

the trousers. The coat will not extend below the top of the cargo pocket on the trousers and

will not be higher than the bottom of the opening of the side pocket on the trousers.

64 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Commanders may prohibit or authorize rolling sleeves or folding cuffs on the OCP coat. If

rolled up, the cuffs will remain visible, and the sleeve will rest at, or within 1-inch of the

forearm when the arm is bent at a 90-degree angle. When sleeves are not rolled up, cuffs will

remain visible or be folded inward twice. Do not affix patches or badges to the front pockets.

Alterations that affect the functionality of the uniform are not authorized, e.g., sewing down

collars or pockets. The OCP coat may be removed in the immediate work area as determined

appropriate by local leadership, however, the OCP coat will be worn while interacting with

customers/clients.

6.5.3. T-shirt. Airmen may purchase and wear a long or short sleeve breastfeeding T-shirt

with their utility uniform. The T-shirt will be Coyote Brown (Tan 499) in color when worn

with the OCP. The breastfeeding T-shirt will be tucked in unless worn with the maternity

uniform. (Note: during flight operations t-shirts must be cotton or fire-retardant material due

to added protection. T-shirts made of 100% nylon or polyester are not authorized during flight.)

6.5.4. Accoutrements. For wear description for the OCP refer to paragraphs 5.1.2 through

5.1.6.2.4.

6.5.5. Trousers. Trousers will be 50% nylon and 50% cotton. Maternity trousers will have a

front stretch panel, covered by the OCP coat, and an elastic waistband. Maternity trousers are

not required to be bloused during advanced stages of pregnancy. If not bloused, the draw string

will be removed and trousers will be ankle length and hang naturally, barely resting on the boot

without a break in the crease. Pockets will be secured, and items stowed in pockets will not

be visible except pens stowed in the pen pocket. Exception: OCP patrol cap or beret may

extend outside when placed in the OCP trouser cargo pocket.

6.5.6. All authorized maternity uniform combinations may be worn for up to six months after

delivery

Figure 6.5. Maternity Operational Camouflage Pattern Uniform.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 65

6.6. Physical Training Gear. DAF does not mandate maternity PTG. Pregnant members

participating in unit PT may wear civilian clothing in the colors of blue, black, white, or grey.

Commanders determine the required PTG configuration during organized PT events.

66 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Chapter 7

OUTER GARMENTS, HEADGEAR, RANK INSIGNIA AND ACCESSORIES

7.1. Outer Garments. All outer garments (except Leather A-2 Flying Jacket) without name,

insignia, AF symbol, accoutrements etc. may be worn with civilian attire.

7.1.1. 50/50 Acrylic Wool Pullover Sweater. Can only be worn with the Class B uniform. It

can be worn under the lightweight blue jacket, the topcoat, and the all-weather coat. The dark

blue, V-neck, with cuffed sleeves, 50% wool and 50% acrylic blend sweater is authorized as

an indoor or outdoor garment. Tie/tab is optional. Member may wear collar of shirt inside or

outside sweater. Do not expose the sweater when wearing another outer garment. Do not push

up sleeves . Do not wear a name tag on the light weight, flat knit, pullover sweater. Note:

Wing Commanders may require the wear of a tie/tab with all uniform combinations based on

specific circumstances.

7.1.1.1. Officer Rank Insignia. Officers will wear shoulder mark rank insignia on the

epaulets.

7.1.1.2. Enlisted Rank Insignia. Enlisted Airmen will wear metal rank insignia 5/8-inch

from the shoulder/sleeve seam of the epaulet. The bottom of the rank insignia will face the

sleeve seam with the metal rank positioned parallel to the edges of the epaulet. SNCOs

may wear shoulder mark insignia.

Figure 7.1. Pullover Sweater.

7.1.2. Cardigan Sweater (blue). Can only be worn with the Class B uniform. It can be worn

under the lightweight blue jacket, the topcoat, and the all-weather coat. The cardigan sweater

will be 50% acrylic and 50% non-irritation wool blend. It can be worn with sleeves cuffed or

uncuffed and is authorized as an indoor or outdoor garment. The sweater will be buttoned

while outdoors and may be unbuttoned while indoors. Exception: Members may wear

unbuttoned outdoors when worn with maternity uniforms. When buttoned, the sweater will be

completely buttoned. The collar of the shirt may be worn inside or outside of the sweater.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 67

Tie/tab is optional. Do not wear sleeves pushed up. Do not expose the sweater when wearing

another outer garment. Do not wear a name tag on the cardigan sweater. Hospital personnel

do not wear with white uniforms.

7.1.2.1. Officer Rank Insignia. Officers will wear shoulder mark rank insignia on the

epaulets.

7.1.2.2. Enlisted Rank Insignia. Enlisted Airmen will wear metal rank insignia 5/8-inch

from the shoulder/sleeve seam of the epaulet. The bottom of the rank insignia will face the

sleeve seam with the metal rank positioned parallel to the edges of the epaulet. SNCOs

may wear shoulder mark insignia.

Figure 7.2. Cardigan (blue) Sweater.

7.1.3. Lightweight Blue Jacket. Can only be worn with the Class B uniform and can be worn

over the pullover or cardigan sweater. Females may wear the male version of the lightweight

blue jacket. Blouses, if not tucked in, cannot be visible around the bottom of the lightweight

blue jacket. It will be partially lined, water repellant and is authorized for wear inside and

outside. It has a zipper front, two slanted pockets, knitted cuffs, and waistband. The jacket

will be waist length with the zipper worn no lower than halfway between the collar and the

waistband. The Air Force symbol may be embroidered on the jacket at the Airman’s expense

(http://www.trademark.af.mil/symbol/embroidery/index.asp). The jacket may be worn

with or without an insulated liner. If worn, the liner will not be visible.

7.1.3.1. Officer Rank Insignia. Officers will center regular size rank insignia 5/8-inch

from end of the epaulet and parallel with the sleeve seam, when applicable.

7.1.3.1.1. Colonel rank insignia is worn with the eagle’s beak facing forward.

7.1.3.1.2. The stem on the Lieutenant Colonel and Major rank insignia will point away

from the collar.

68 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

7.1.3.2. Enlisted Insignia. Enlisted Airmen may wear either 3 1/2-inch or 4-inch chevron

rank centered on the outer arm halfway between the shoulder seam and elbow when bent

at a 90-degree angle.

Figure 7.3. Lightweight Blue Jacket (Male and Female).

7.1.4. General Officer Lightweight Blue Jacket. The General Officer lightweight blue jacket

mirrors the Air Force lightweight jacket in design with the following Exceptions: an

elasticized crew-style collar, slash-style pockets with a snap down flap, and a tab with snap at

the elasticized waistband. It may be worn inside or outside .

7.1.4.1. General officers will wear 1-inch stars point-to-center; 3/4-inch stars are optional,

if unable to wear the 1-inch stars.

7.1.4.2. Generals will evenly space all four stars between the button securing the epaulet

and the sleeve seam.

7.1.4.3. Lieutenant Generals will place one star on the center point of the epaulet and

center the two remaining stars between the first star and the button securing the epaulet and

the sleeve seam.

7.1.4.4. Major Generals will evenly space their stars between the center point of the

epaulet and the button securing the epaulet and the sleeve seam.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 69

7.1.4.5. Brigadier Generals will center their star between the button securing the epaulet

and the sleeve seam.

7.1.5. Topcoat and the All-Weather Coat. The topcoat and all-weather coats will be blue. The

length of the topcoat and all-weather coat will end between the bottom of the kneecap and the

mid-calf. Can only be worn with the formal dress, mess dress, Class A, semi-formal dress, and

Class B uniforms. Also, can be worn over the pullover and cardigan sweaters. Coats may be

modified from double-breasted to single-breasted when wearing the maternity uniforms;

remove all buttons from the front of the garment and instead attach 3 buttons to the left side

front as follows: position the buttons approximately 1 1/2inches from the left edge of the coat;

align the top button with the first buttonhole and sew the other two buttons to align vertically

with the top button; belt the coat in the back. Return buttons to original positions following

pregnancy. For outdoor use only.

7.1.5.1. Officer Rank Insignia. Officers wear shoulder mark insignia. Center 1-inch metal

rank insignia 5/8-inch from end of epaulet. All Generals wear 1-inch stars. 3/4-inch stars

are optional if unable to wear the 1-inch stars.

7.1.5.2. Enlisted Insignia. Metal rank insignia is worn centered 1-inch up from the bottom

of the collar and parallel to the outer edge of the collar. Alternatively, enlisted Airmen may

wear 3 ½ or 4-inch chevrons centered on the outer arm halfway between the shoulder seam

and elbow when bent at a 90-degree angle.

7.1.6. Gen III, level VI OCP Jacket. The OCP jacket may only be worn with the OCP uniform

and flight duty uniforms (see Chapter 9 for flight duty uniform guidance). For outdoor use

only. The OCP jacket will have a spice brown slip-on rank worn on the rank tab. Jacket will

be always zipped no lower than mid-point on the rank tab when worn. Exception: When worn

with OCP maternity uniform, members may wear jacket unzipped. A coyote brown fleece liner

may be worn under the OCP jacket; however, the fleece liner will not be visible. Note:

Nametapes cannot be placed on the OCP jacket without affecting the jacket’s performance or

protection level. It is the only OCP jacket without nametapes.

Figure 7.4. Gen III, Level VI OCP Jacket and Level VII Parka.

70 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

7.1.7. Coyote Brown Fleece (OCP). May be worn indoors or outdoors. The coyote brown

fleece is authorized for wear as an outer garment with the OCP only and over the OCP coat. It

will have a Velcro® OCP nametape with spice brown lettering centered between the zipper

and sleeve seam on the wearer’s right chest. It will also have a 2-inch squared Velcro® subdued

cloth rank with OCP background flushed and centered above the nametape on the wearer’s

right chest. Exception: Lieutenant General and General rank will be a 3 1/4-inch by 2-inch

Velcro® subdued cloth rank. A Velcro® OCP U.S. Air Force tape with spice brown, block

lettering will be even with the nametape and centered between the zipper and sleeve seam on

the wearer’s left chest. Note: Airmen may sew-on or use Velcro® backing for nametape,

USAF tape, and rank but will not mix sewn-on and Velcro® tapes or rank. Security Forces

personnel and Fire Protection personnel (officer & enlisted) may wear the applicable Security

Forces or Fire Protection shield (must be OCP cloth shields; metal shields are not authorized)

on the left side of the fleece, centered below and flushed up to the USAF tape . The shield may

be sewn-on or attached with Velcro®. The fleece will be zipped no lower than the top of the

nametape. The collar will be folded over and resting on the shoulder, chest, and back when the

zipper is not completely zipped. Exception: When worn with OCP maternity uniform,

members may wear the fleece unzipped. The bottom length of the fleece will match as closely

as possible to the bottom length of the OCP coat. Do not roll or push up the sleeves.

Figure 7.5. Coyote Brown Fleece Jacket.

7.1.8. N3B Cold-Weather Parka. Can be worn with all uniform combinations. For outdoor

use only. The cold weather parka will be green with a fur-edged hood. When worn, the parka

will be zipped at all times, rest the hood neatly on the upper back when not in use. Do not

wear rank insignia on the cold-weather parka.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 71

Figure 7.6. N3B Cold Weather Parka

7.1.9. Gen III, Level VII. Provides protection similar to the N3B cold-weather parka with the

fur lined hood and may be worn with all uniform combinations. For outdoor use only.

MAJCOM and wing commanders that issue the cold-weather climate gear will determine Gen

III, Level VII wear policy for their MAJCOM or installations and should mirror the N3B cold-

weather parka wear policy. Wear OCP nametapes on the Gen III, Level VII coat.

Figure 7.7. Gen III, Level VII Parka.

7.1.10. Commercial Cold-Weather Outerwear. Commercial cold-weather OCP outerwear may

be worn with the OCP uniform, for outdoor use only. If worn, commercial outerwear must be

OCP pattern or coyote brown. Wear nametape, USAF tape, rank, and patches in the same

configuration as the OCP uniform. Exception: Commercially procured maternity cold-

weather outerwear may be worn without nametapes, USAF tape, rank, and patches if outerwear

does not have Velcro spots for those items to be worn. Maternity cold-weather outerwear

should be either OCP-patterned or solid black, dark blue, dark green, dark brown, or coyote

brown in color (Note: Solid black and dark blue are the only colors that may be worn with

service dress options).

72 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

7.2. Headgear.

7.2.1. The Male Service Cap (Wheel Cap). Will only be worn with the service dress (Class

A) and service uniforms (Class B). For placement of appropriate clouds, darts, and cap

insignia, see Figures 7.7 and 7.8. The visor-type service cap is banded with dark blue 1 3/4-

inch braid and has a front black chin strap. An optional version has a braid of an open mesh

construction and an optional black leather back strap. The cap sits squarely on the head with

no hair protruding in front of the cap. Officers wear the service cap insignia without a circle

and with the appropriate clouds and darts (based on rank) centered on the front of the cap.

Enlisted wear the service cap insignia with a circle, centered on the front of the cap. Service

cap is mandatory for Majors and above to maintain and optional for all others.

7.2.2. The Female Service Cap (Bucket Cap). Will only be worn with the Class A and B

service dress uniforms. Women are authorized to wear the male service cap. For placement

of appropriate clouds, darts, and cap insignia, see Figures 7.7 and 7.8. Rounded design, sides

form a front brim, with a solid blue hat cover. The cap sits squarely on the head. Clear plastic

rain scarf or white net wind scarf is optional. Scarf will have a helmet-type designed to cover

headgear and tie under chin. Officers wear the service cap insignia without a circle and with

the appropriate rank-based clouds and darts centered on the front of the cap. Enlisted wear the

service cap insignia with a circle, centered on the front of the cap. Service cap is mandatory

for Majors and above to maintain and optional for all others.

7.2.3. Service Cap Rank Indicators and Insignia.

7.2.3.1. General Officer Service Cap. The visor will have three clouds and darts on each

side and the insignia will not have a circle.

7.2.3.2. Field Grade Officer Service Cap. The visor will have two clouds and darts on

each side and the insignia will not have a circle.

7.2.3.3. Company Grade Officer Service Cap. The visor will be plain black (female

service cap visor will be blue) and the insignia will not have a circle.

7.2.3.4. Enlisted Service Cap. The visor will be plain black (female service cap visor will

be blue) and the insignia will have a circle.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 73

Figure 7.8. Service Cap and Insignia.

Figure 7.9. Service Cap Visor Insignia.

7.2.4. Flight Cap. Will only be worn with the service dress, service, Air Force food services,

and flight duty uniforms. All shades and material are authorized with service dress, service,

and flight duty uniforms. Do not tuck cap under epaulets. Women may wear the men’s flight

cap. For placement of appropriate rank insignia, see Figure 7.10.

7.2.4.1. Male and Female. The flight cap will be worn slightly to the wearer's right with

vertical creases of the cap in line with the center of the forehead and in a straight line with

the nose. The cap extends approximately 1-inch from the eyebrows in the front and the

opening of cap is to the rear. If not worn, tuck under the belt on wearer’s left side, between

the first and second belt loops; cap will not fold over belt or be visible below service coat.

74 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

7.2.4.2. General Officer Flight Cap. The flight cap will be blue with a solid silver braid

along the overlapping edge of the flight cap. Rank insignia will be worn on the wearer’s

left with the first star 1 1/2-inches from the front edge of the flight cap. The bottom two

points of the stars will be parallel with the bottom of the flight cap. Stars will be lined up

one immediately after the other. General officers will wear 1-inch stars or 3/4-inch stars if

unable to wear the 1-inch stars.

7.2.4.3. Field Grade and Company Grade Officer Flight Cap. The flight cap will be blue

with a silver and blue braid along the overlapping edge of the flight cap. Regular sized

rank insignia will be worn on the wearer’s left side, 1 1/2-inch from the front edge flight

cap. Colonel rank insignia is worn with the eagle’s beak pointed forward. The stem of the

Major and Lieutenant Colonel oak leaf will point toward the ground.

7.2.4.4. Enlisted Flight Cap. The enlisted flight cap will be plain blue.

Figure 7.10. Rank Placement Example Men and Women Flight Caps.

7.2.5. Beret. Worn only by designated Airmen and will only be worn with the Class A and B

service dress, OCP and flight duty uniforms. Position headband straight across the forehead,

1-inch above the eyebrows. Drape the top over the right ear and the stiffener. Align cloth

flash above the left eye. Adjust ribbon for comfort, tie in a knot, and tuck inside or cut-off.

The cloth flash will be sewn to the center of the stiffener, with hook and loop backing for ease

of change out for cleanliness of the flash, 1/4-inch above and parallel to the headband.

7.2.6. Blue Winter Cap. Cap will only be worn with a full-length outer garment, while wearing

the formal dress, mess dress, semi-formal, Class A and B uniforms. It should not be worn with

light-weight blue jacket, pullover sweater or blue cardigan sweaters. The blue winter cap will

be commercial design with ear and neck flaps, ribbon tie or strap with a covered metal snap

fastener. The blue winter cap will be wool and polyester serge mouton and have a snap fastener

cover. Rank insignia will not be worn on the winter cap.

7.2.7. Watch Cap. Watch cap may be worn when approved by the Installation Commander.

When worn, the watch cap will be pulled down snugly on the head; the bottom edge (all) of

the cap may be folded to allow proper fit, but not rolled. The back of the cap should run across

the nape of the neck and the front of cap should not be touching eyebrows nor higher than

center of forehead; hair will not protrude from front of cap. No bunching or sagging. It will

be commercially designed, plain, solid black, sage green, or coyote brown knit or

fleece/microfiber material. Do not wear rank insignia.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 75

7.2.7.1. Black Watch Cap. When permitted, may be worn with Class A and B uniforms,

OCP or PTG.

7.2.7.2. Sage Green Watch Cap. When permitted, may be worn with the PTG.

7.2.7.3. Coyote Brown Watch Cap. When permitted, may be worn with the OCP uniform

or PTG.

7.2.8. Organizational Cap. May be worn with the OCP by the following personnel/units. For

placement of appropriate rank insignia, see Figure 7.11.

7.2.8.1. Red Horse Squadrons may wear a red baseball cap with the RED HORSE emblem

centered on the cap front. The unit numerical designation will be printed on the dozer

blade in black print. Officers will center subdued metal rank on the front of the cap. For

placement of appropriate rank insignia, see paragraph 5.1.10.1. Red Horse squadron caps

will not be worn with the all-weather coat.

7.2.8.2. Combat Arms Training and Maintenance (CATM) personnel are authorized to

wear a red baseball type cap with the letters CATM embossed with 1-inch black letters

while performing duties on the range complex. Previous issued COMBAT ARMS caps

remain authorized until replaced through attrition. The combat arms or CATMs cap is only

to be worn while performing duties on the range complex and will not be worn outside the

range complex.

7.2.8.3. The Air Force Honor Guard may wear a black ball cap with 5/8-inch tall USAF

HONOR GUARD silver letters centered on the front of the cap. Ball cap may only be

worn with the OCP utility uniform.

Figure 7.11. Rank Placement on OCP Cap.

7.3. Jewelry, Eyewear, Electronic Devices, Bags, Backpacks, Cold Weather and Other

Accessories. Personal accessories not listed in this instruction are not authorized for wear.

7.3.1. Jewelry. Jewelry will be plain and conservative (moderate, being within reasonable

limits; not excessive or extreme) as determined by the local commander.

76 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

7.3.1.1. Earrings. Male Airmen are not authorized to wear earrings while in uniform or in

civilian attire for official duty but are authorized to wear earrings in civilian attire while

off duty on a military installation. Female Airmen may wear small (not exceeding six mm

in diameter) conservative round or square white diamond, gold, white pearl, or silver

earrings as a set with any uniform combination. If member has multiple earring holes, only

one set of earrings is authorized for wear in uniform and will be worn in the lower earlobes.

Earrings will match and fit tightly without extending below the earlobe unless the piece

extending is the connecting band on clip earrings. When not wearing earrings, male and

female Airmen are authorized to wear transparent piercing spacer(s) in lower earlobes

while in uniform. Transparent spacers are not allowed in ear holes outside of the lower

earlobes or any other piercing holes visible in uniform (nose, lip, eyebrow, etc.). Piercing

holes will not be large enough to permit light to shine through.

7.3.1.2. Bracelets. Airmen may wear one bracelet around their wrist. If worn, the bracelet

will be conservative in design, no wider than ½-inch, black, gold or silver in color, and will

not contain inappropriate pictures or writing. Medical alert/identification bracelets are

authorized; if worn, medical alert/identification bracelets will be conservative and

moderate. Gemstones/tennis bracelets may only be worn with the mess dress uniform.

Bracelets espousing support for cause, philosophy, individual or group are not authorized.

Exception: Traditional metal POW/MIA/KIA bracelets, which come in colors besides

silver, bronze, or gold, remain authorized. Ankle bracelets are not authorized.

7.3.1.3. Watches/Smart watches. Must be conservative and only one can be worn around

the wrist while in uniform, PTG, or civilian attire in an official capacity. Conservative

examples, not all inclusive, are solid color black, brown, silver or gold. Prohibited

examples include diamond-covered, neon, bright colors, and bands that exceed 1-inch

width. Exception: For smart watches or fitness trackers - color and band width (may be up

to 1 1/2-inch width in physical training gear) restrictions do not apply when worn with

physical training gear.

7.3.1.4. Rings. Service members may wear a total of no more than three rings; wedding

sets count as one ring when worn as a set. Rings will be worn at the base of the finger and

may be worn on the thumb.

7.3.1.5. Necklaces. Will not be visible at any time. If worn, will be concealed under a

collar or undershirt.

7.3.2. Eyeglasses/Sunglasses. Eyeglasses and sunglasses will not be worn around the neck or

on top/back of head or exposed hanging on the uniform. Eyeglasses and sunglasses may have

conservative ornamentation on non-prescription sunglasses or eyeglasses, frames will be a

conservative color: black, brown, white, dark blue, gray, or transparent material, or gold or

silver wire. Brand name glasses may be worn with small logo on frames or lenses. Logo may

contrast with frame color or lenses in conservative colors such as black, brown, matte

silver/gold). Conservative wrap-around sunglasses may be worn. Conservative, clear, slightly

tinted, mirrored, or photosensitive lenses are authorized. Sunglasses, to include darkened

photosensitive lenses, are not authorized in formation. Exception: Sunglasses are authorized

for medical reasons such as PRK/Lasik surgery and when authorized by a commander or

commandant on the advice of a medical official.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 77

7.3.3. Contact Lenses. Contact lenses will be natural looking in shape and design. They will

be clear in color and not change the color of the member’s natural eye color.

7.3.4. Electronic Devices. Electronic devices are small electronic equipment such as personal

or official cellular phones, hands-free devices, Fitbits™ and other small, conservative size

fitness trackers. One handheld electronic device may be attached to a belt/waistband on either

side or clipped to a purse. Handheld electronic devices, if worn on the belt/waistband or clipped

to a purse, will be plain black, silver, dark blue, or gray. Holster and other storage devices used

to attach handheld electronic devices to the uniform or purse will be plain black, silver, dark

blue, or gray. Handheld electronic devices not worn on the belt/waistband or clipped to a purse

can be any color. Pedometers are allowed to be worn on boots or shoes while in uniform but

must be dark blue or black in color and attach without interfering with the work area or causing

a safety hazard.

7.3.4.1. Wear and use of an earpiece, any Bluetooth® wireless technology, or headphones,

while in uniform, indoors or outdoors, is authorized for official duties or as determined by

Installation Commanders, delegable no lower than squadron commanders. Exception:

Headphones and earphones are authorized during travel on public transportation (i.e., bus,

train, or air travel) and/or while wearing the Physical Training Gear (PTG) during

individual or personal PT in the fitness center or on designated running areas unless

prohibited by the Installation Commander. Use of a hands-free device is authorized while

in uniform operating a motor vehicle if local policy permits.

7.3.4.2. Use of personal electronic media devices, including cellular phones, earpieces,

speaker phones or text messaging while walking in uniform is authorized. Military customs

and courtesies take precedence. Note: Authorized colors of earpieces worn while in

uniform are white, black, brown, dark blue or gray.

7.3.5. Attaché Cases/Gym/Messenger/Computer/Lunch Bags/Back Packs/Handbags/Clutch-

Style Purses/Wallets, etc.

7.3.5.1. Attaché Cases/Messenger/Computer/Lunch Bags. Items will be solid black,

brown, gray, or dark blue in color and carried in the left hand or shoulder if using a shoulder

strap. Bags will be without design. Small logos are authorized.

7.3.5.2. Gym Bags. Gym bags will be solid black, brown, gray, dark blue, olive drab

green, tan, sage green, or OCP-patterned with matching stitching and carried in the left

hand. Bags will be without design unless OCP patterned. Use of a shoulder strap is

authorized on either shoulder, or the strap may cross the body so long as it does not interfere

with rendering the proper salute. Logos of any size are authorized on the bag.

7.3.5.3. Backpacks. Solid black, brown, gray, or dark blue back packs may be worn with

any uniform combination. Backpacks will be a single color, without design unless OCP

patterned. Olive drab green, tan, sage green, or OCP-patterned back packs may be worn

with the OCP. Small logos are authorized. Airmen may wear either a sling style backpack

or two-strap backpacks. Sling backpacks will be worn across the chest, if carried on

shoulder wear on the left shoulder. Two-strap backpacks will be worn on the left shoulder

or both shoulders as long as it does not interfere with rendering the proper salute.

Backpacks will not have ornamentation, high-gloss, designs, or hanging/dangling objects.

Small gold or silver clasp authorized but chains are not authorized.

78 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

7.3.5.4. Handbags. Handbags for all uniform combinations will be solid black, brown,

gray, dark blue leather, or vinyl. Bag will be without design and without ornamentation

however, a single small logo not to exceed 1-inch in diameter is authorized. Bag may be

with or without plain fold-over flap, with or without single-placed silver or gold-colored

clasp. Stitching will be black, white, or the same color as handbag. Handbags may have

up to two adjustable shoulder straps with or without buckles on the straps.

7.3.5.5. Clutch-Style Purses/Wallets. Hand carried clutch-style purses/wallets for all

uniform combinations will be solid black, brown, gray, or dark blue smooth or scotch-grain

leather, patent leather, high-gloss, or manmade material without design and without

ornamentation. Stitching will be black or white or the same color as purse/wallet. Fabric,

suede, and patent leather may be carried with the mess dress, formal dress, and ceremonial

dress uniforms. Hand carried clutch-style purses/wallets will be no larger than 6½ (H) x

11(W)-inches or no smaller than 5(H) x 9(W)-inches. Hand carried clutch-style

purses/wallets will have a concealed closure and may have a wrist strap.

7.3.6. Lanyards/Access Passes/Identification Badges/Common Access Cards. Lanyards will

be conservative in nature, dark colors, silver small conservative chains, or clear plastic. Access

passes, identification badges, and common access cards are only authorized for wear when

required within the confines of the location for which they were issued. When worn, they will

be worn on the front of the body above the waist and below the neck and must not present a

safety hazard.

7.3.7. Umbrella. Umbrellas will be plain, solid black, gray, brown or dark blue and carried in

the left hand.

7.3.8. Cold Weather Accessories. Cold weather accessories may be worn without wearing

authorized outer garments. Except for functional items, cold weather accessories are only worn

while outdoors.

7.3.8.1. Gloves. Gloves may be worn with all uniforms or authorized outer garments and

must be one solid color. They will be leather, knitted, tricot or suede, or a combination of

leather, knitted, tricot, and suede. Coyote brown or black gloves may be worn with OCP

uniform. Black or sage green gloves may be worn with the Flight Duty Uniform (FDU) or

all authorized outer garments to the FDU. Only black gloves may be worn with the service

dress uniform and all approved outer garments worn with the dress uniforms.

7.3.8.2. Scarf. A black scarf may be worn with all uniforms and authorized outer

garments. A black or coyote brown scarf may be worn with OCP uniform. The scarf must

be tucked in when worn with outer garments. The scarf will not exceed 10-inches in width

and can be knit, all wool or cotton simplex, with or without a napped surface.

7.3.8.3. Earmuffs and Cold Weather Headbands. Black earmuffs or headbands may be

worn with all uniform combinations and all authorized outer garments. Earmuffs may wrap

around either the top or rear of the head.

7.3.8.4. Neckgaiter. A black neckgaiter may be worn with all uniforms or authorized outer

garments. A black or coyote brown scarf may be worn with OCP uniform. It may be worn

as a neck warmer or balaclava (may cover the nose).

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 79

7.4. Footwear.

7.4.1. Footwear (Males/Females). Footwear is required when wearing all uniforms. Athletic

shoes will only be worn with the physical training gear unless medically necessary as

determined by appropriate medical authorities and approved by the commander.

7.4.1.1. Black Socks (Male/Females). Socks will be plain without design, clean, and

serviceable. Wear with low quarters, dress boots and black jungle/combat boots.

Additional socks may be worn under the black socks as long as they are not visible. See

paragraph 5.1.11 for OCP guidance.

7.4.1.2. Low Quarters (Males/Females). Wear black low-quarters with the formal dress,

mess dress (optional for females - trousers and slacks only), semi-formal , service dress

(Class A) and service uniforms (Class B) (authorized with all maternity Class A & Class

B uniforms). Black combat boots and dress boots are also an option with the Class A &

Class B uniforms. Shoes will be low quarter, oxford-style, lace-up with a plain rounded

toe or a plain rounded-capped toe. Soles will not exceed 1/2-inch in thickness and the heel

will not exceed 1-inch in height (measured from the inside front of the heel); however, the

sole may have a low wedge heel. Airmen may wear taps on their shoes to preserve the

heels as long as the taps do not change the intended appearance of the shoes. They will be

plain, clean, and serviceable, and without ornamentation such as buckles, bows, or straps.

Shoes will be smooth or scotch-grained leather or manmade material. Shoes will be shined;

high gloss or patent finish is optional.

7.4.1.3. Dress Boot (Males). May wear with the Class A and Class B uniforms. If worn,

the dress boot sole will be black plain rounded toe or rounded capped toe. A zipper or

elastic inserts may be worn; however, if worn they will be without design. The sole will

not exceed 1/2-inch in thickness and heel will not exceed 1-inch in height (measured from

the inside front of the heel). High-gloss or patent finish is optional.

7.4.1.4. Dress Boots (Females). May wear with the Class A, Class B, and all blue

maternity uniforms. During inclement weather, boots may be worn with skirt or slacks;

however, if worn with skirt, remove boots while in the workplace and wear pumps, slip-on

shoes, or low quarters. Heels will be no higher than 2½-inches measured from the inside

sole of the boot to the end of the heel lift. The tip of the heel must exceed 1/2-inch in

diameter or larger than the body of the boot. Pointed or squared toes and extreme heel

shapes are not authorized. They will be plain, clean, and serviceable, without

ornamentation such as buckles, bows, or straps. The material will be smooth, scotch-

grained leather or a manmade material. They may be high-gloss or patent finish.

7.4.1.5. Hosiery (Female). Hosiery may be worn with the formal dress, mess dress, semi-

formal dress, and service dress uniform (skirt). If worn, hosiery will be plain, sheer, or

nylon in neutral, dark brown, black, or dark blue shades. Do not wear patterned hosiery

with any uniform. If not wearing hosiery with slacks, plain (not patterned) black socks

may be worn.

7.4.1.6. Pumps (Females). Will be worn with the formal dress. Optional with the mess

dress, service dress Class A, Class B, semi-formal uniforms, and all blue maternity

uniforms. Black pumps will be low cut and rounded throat (the top opening) with a raised

heel no higher than 3-inches measured from the inside sole of the shoe to the end of the

80 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

heel lift. The tip of the heel must exceed 1/2-inch in diameter or larger than the body of

the shoe. Pointed or squared toes and extreme heel shapes are not authorized. They will

be plain, clean, and serviceable without ornamentation such as buckles, bows, or straps.

The material will be smooth, scotch-grained leather or a manmade material. They may be

high-gloss or patent finish.

7.4.1.7. Slip-on Shoes (Females). Can be worn (optional) with the Class A, Class B, and

all blue maternity uniforms. Commercially designed step-in shoes where the top of the

shoe goes over the top of the foot, with rounded toe or plain rounded capped toe and must

have a back. Pointed or squared toes and extreme heel shapes are not authorized. They

will be plain, clean, and serviceable without ornamentation such as buckles, bows, or

straps. The material will be smooth, scotch-grained leather or a manmade material. They

may be high-gloss or patent finish.

7.4.2. Footwear Combat Boots (Males/Females).

7.4.2.1. Coyote Brown Combat Boots. Wear Coyote Brown combat boots only with the

OCP. Athletic shoes may be worn if medically necessary, as determined by competent

medical authorities at a civilian or military treatment facility and approved by the

commander. Exception: Commanders may authorize wear of black combat boots in some

situations. See paragraph 7.4.2.3. The soling material will not exceed 2-inches in height.

Airmen may wear taps on their boots to preserve the heels as long as the taps do not change

the intended appearance of the boots. Boots will be laced up with plain rounded toe or

rounded capped toe with or without a perforated seam. Laces will either be tied and tucked

in the boot or tied and wrapped around the boot. A zipper or elastic inserts may be worn;

however, if worn, they will be without design. Boots can be either with or without a safety

toe. Logos will be the same color as the boot. Designs are not authorized.

7.4.2.2. Black Combat Boots. Airmen may wear with the Class A and B uniforms.

Exception: Not authorized when wearing the skirt or maternity jumper. When worn, laces will

either be tied and tucked in the boot or tied and wrapped around the boot. Logos will be the

same color as the boot. Designs are not authorized. Note: Blousing is authorized for the

following: Pararescue, Combat Rescue Officers, Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape

Specialists, Combat Control, Special Tactics Officers, Air-Weather Service Parachutists, Tactical

Air Control Party Officers, and Tactical Air Control Party.

7.4.2.3. Installation Commanders may authorize the wear of black combat boots with the

utility uniform on their installation where they deem necessary. This exception is not

specifically restricted to flightline activities; it may be applied where industrial products or

processes cause irreparable damage to the coyote brown combat boots. Coyote brown

uniform boots must be worn when departing the installation and other areas not designated

for wear by the Installation Commander.

7.5. Undergarments (Mandatory). Appropriate undergarments are required to be worn with all

uniform combinations. Males will wear undershirt and underpants with all uniforms. Females will

wear bra and underpants with all uniforms. If worn, undershirts will not have pockets.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 81

Chapter 8

PHYSICAL TRAINING GEAR

8.1. Physical Training Gear (PTG). PTG is authorized for wear by Air Force military personnel

(including retired personnel) and the Secretary and Under Secretary of the Air Force.

Figure 8.1. Physical Training Gear (PTG) and PTG Running Suit.

8.1.1. Installation commanders may temporarily adjust wear policy to address immediate

safety or mission/operation concerns and may be more restrictive with wear policy (e.g., no

hats or sunglasses during organized fitness events, no head or earphones due to safety concerns,

etc.) to support unit cohesion and present a standardized image.

8.1.2. Airmen must wear the PTG during physical fitness assessments and while participating

in organized PT events as designated by the commander. (T-2) Squadron Commanders may

authorize the wear of the morale undershirt with all PTG on Fridays. The AFR and ANG

commanders may authorize morale undershirt wear with all PTG during weekend drills on

Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays. In addition, if PTG items are worn during individual or

personal PT, the following guidelines apply (exceptions noted):

82 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

8.1.3. PTG Jacket. If worn, the jacket will be zipped at least halfway between the waistband

and collar. Sleeves will end within 1-inch of the wrist.

8.1.4. T-shirt.

8.1.4.1. Short-sleeved PTG shirt. Wear the short-sleeve shirt tucked or untucked into

shorts or running pants. If untucked, shirt must extend to the bottom of the side pocket on

the shorts and pants but will not cover the shorts reflective material. Do not remove or cut

sleeves. Short and long-sleeved white, black, or light gray form fitting undershirts, (i.e.,

spandex, Lycra® or elastic material) to include those with a mock neck may be worn and

visible under the short-sleeved PTG shirt. Undershirt must not extend lower or be longer

than untucked PTG shirt. Commanders may standardize whether shirts will be worn tucked

or untucked in formations or organized unit physical training.

8.1.4.2. Optional long-sleeved PTG shirt. Wear the long-sleeve shirt tucked or untucked

into shorts or running pants; if untucked, shirt must extend to the bottom of the side pocket

on the shorts and pants but will not cover the shorts reflective material. Do not push up,

remove, or cut sleeves. Short and long sleeved form fitting undershirts, (i.e., spandex,

Lycra® or elastic material) to include those with a mock neck may be worn and visible (at

neck only) under the long-sleeved PTG shirt. Undershirt must not extend lower or be longer

than untucked long-sleeved PTG shirt. There is no color restriction on the form fitting

undershirt unless visible; if visible, form fitting undershirts will be white, black, or light

grey. Undershirt may have a visible small trademark logo. Commanders may standardize

whether shirts will be worn tucked or untucked in formations or organized unit physical

training.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 83

Figure 8.2. PTG Optional Items (Long Sleeve T-Shirt and Long Sleeve Sweatshirt).

84 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

8.1.4.3. Optional PTG sweatshirt. The sweatshirt will extend no lower than six inches

below the natural waistline. Do not push up, remove, or cut sleeves. Short and long sleeved

form fitting undershirts, (i.e., spandex, Lycra® or elastic material) to include those with a

mock neck may be worn and visible (at neck only) under the PTG sweatshirt. Undershirt

must be tucked in. There is no color restriction on the form fitting undershirt; if visible,

form fitting undershirts will be white, black, or light grey; undershirt may have visible

small trademark logo.

8.1.5. Shorts/Running Pants.

8.1.5.1. PTG running pants. The waistband will rest at or within 2-inches of the natural

waistline. Both pant legs will extend below the ankles and will be zipped to within 1-inch

of the bottom.

8.1.5.2. PTG shorts (with reflective material) and optional PTG running shorts (without

reflective material). The PTG shorts waistband will rest at or within 2-inches of the natural

waistline. The lining in the PTG shorts may be removed. Short, mid, and full-length solid

black, white, or dark blue form fitting sportswear (i.e., spandex, Lycra, or elastic) may be

worn and visible under both the PTG and optional PTG running shorts.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 85

8.1.6. Footwear.

8.1.6.1. Socks. Socks are mandatory. Socks will be a solid color black, white, dark blue,

gray, desert sand, tan, DLA‐issued green, or coyote brown) color and may have small

trademark logos. Local commanders may implement policies for standardization within

units.

8.1.6.2. Athletic style shoes. Athletic style shoes are mandatory. There are no restrictions

on the color of the athletic shoes.

8.1.7. Headgear.

8.1.7.1. Installation commanders may authorize wear of an optional solid black, white, or

dark blue baseball/sport cap and/or sweatband with the Air Force symbol or U.S. Air Force

printed/embroidered on the front during organized PT. This is also authorized during

individual PT. If authorized, wear caps outdoors only.

8.1.7.2. Commanders may authorize wear of an embroidered” solid black, white, or dark

blue baseball/sports cap for PT excellence. If worn, the baseball/sport cap will have the

words “Excellence for PT”, “Excellence in PT” or a combination of the two, in small,

embroidered letters, no more than 1/2-inch in height. Patches, large logos, and multi-

patterned caps are not authorized. Other unit or organizational issued hats are not

authorized with the PTG. Headgear may be worn during individual PT, outdoors only.

8.1.7.3. Do not wear bandanas and other similar headscarves or headgear. Exception:

Airmen with an approved medical waiver.

8.1.8. Undergarments. Appropriate undergarments are required to be worn with all PTG

combinations.

8.1.9. Cold Weather Accessories. Cold weather accessories may be worn outdoors only.

8.1.9.1. Watch Cap. If worn, will be plain, solid black, dark blue, sage green, or coyote

brown without logos.

8.1.9.2. Gloves. Gloves will be black or dark blue, small logos are authorized not to

exceed 1 square inch.

8.1.9.3. Scarf. The scarf will be black or dark blue, all wool or cotton simplex, with or

without napped surface, and less than 10-inches in width.

8.1.9.4. Balaclava. A solid black balaclava made of any material may be worn with PTG

while performing physical fitness activities outdoors. Tuck excess neck material into the

PTG shirt.

8.1.9.5. Earmuffs and Cold Weather Headbands. Solid black or dark blue earmuffs or

headbands made of any material may be worn with PTG outdoors. They may wrap around

either the top or rear of the head.

8.1.9.6. Do not wear fleece outerwear with the PTG.

8.1.10. Airmen may wear PTG items with conservative civilian or personal attire during

individual or personal PT or while off-duty (e.g., PT shirt with personal shorts/pants, PT jacket

with personal shirt/pants/shorts, etc.). Do not wear PTG with civilian or personal items that

contain offensive wording, graphics, or photos.

86 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

8.1.11. Headphones and earphones are authorized while in the fitness center or on designated

running areas unless prohibited by the Installation Commander.

8.1.12. Long hair must be secured and may extend below the shoulder blades.

8.1.13. Proper military customs and courtesies honoring the flag during reveille/retreat will

apply. Saluting due to rank recognition is not required when wearing the PTG.

8.1.14. For accessions, Professional Military Education (PME) and academic training

environments such as the United States Air Force Academy, Squadron Officer School, or Basic

Military Training, commanders, or equivalent, will determine which PT events are organized.

In these environments, students and staff may wear unit-specific PT gear to meet necessary

training requirements to include staff and student distinction or student squadron affiliation.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 87

Chapter 9

FLIGHT DUTY UNIFORM

9.1. Flight Duty Uniform (FDU) and Desert Flight Duty Uniform (DFDU) Wear

Guidance. The FDU and DFDU meet unique organizational and functional work requirements

and are comprised of both distinctive and functional clothing items. Members will sew Velcro®

on FDU/DFDU and equipment so they can remove any patches/accoutrements during

contingencies. (T-1)

Figure 9.1. Flight Duty and Desert Flight Duty Uniforms.

9.1.1. Distinctive clothing. For guidance on those items that are unique to the uniform and

are worn only when performing the duties for which they are issued see Chapter 10.

9.1.2. Functional clothing items such as parkas, protective footwear, and specialized winter

flight clothing will be issued as required. MAJCOM or Installation Commanders will prescribe

wear instructions in supplements to this instruction.

9.1.3. Exceptions. Organizations requiring exception to FDU/DFDU wear policy should

submit an Exception to Policy request through their MAJCOM/A3 or equivalent channels to

HAF Total Force Aircrew Management (AF/A3T).

9.1.4. Maintain the FDU/DFDU and Flight Jacket in accordance with Technical Order (T.O.)

14P3-1- 112, Maintenance Instructions Nomex Flight Gear, Coveralls, Gloves, Jacket.

88 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

9.2. Authorized FDU/DFDU Wear. Personnel authorized wear of the FDU/DFDU will comply

with this instruction, as well as applicable MAJCOM supplements, regardless of AFSC or unit of

assignment.

9.2.1. The FDU/DFDU is authorized for wear for ground and flight duties by individuals who

perform flying, parachutist, space, and missile crew duties: flight duty includes preparation,

preflight, in-flight, post-flight, and other flight related duties associated with aircraft

operations. It is authorized for wear by personnel with an Aircrew Position Identifier 1 thru 9

and A thru G (Rated Officers, Career Enlisted Aviators 1AXXX, and 1UXXX). Additionally,

guidance for Rated Officers assigned to an Aircrew Position Identifier-0 and Career Enlisted

Aviators assigned to Aircrew Position Identifier-Z positions that are on active aeronautical

orders, or personnel identified as Operations Support/Non-interference flyers currently on

active aeronautical orders authorized to perform in-flight aircrew or parachutist duties is

outlined in DAFMAN 11-401, Aviation Management, Attachment 3. Finally, guidance on the

FDU/DFDU wear authorization by personnel in Space/Missile Crew AFSCs: 13N, 13SXA,

13SXB, 13SXC, 13SXD, 13SXE, and 1C6XX; Non-rated and non-Career Enlisted Aviator

AFSCs: 13HX and 1H0X1; Aeromedical Evacuation Corps AFSCs: 46F and X4N0; Flying

Crew Chiefs is provided in DAFI 21-101, Aircraft and Equipment Maintenance Management,

and Security Forces Ravens provided in DAFI 31-101, Integrated Defense (ID). Airmen

authorized special articles of clothing under an allowance standard will wear the uniform

prescribed by the local unit commander and recommended for the type of mission performed.

Space and missile crew duties will be defined by MAJCOM supplement to this instruction.

9.2.2. Operations Support/Non-interference flyers. Flight clothing worn by Operations

Support/Non-interference flyers is only worn on days when actual flying is planned or

anticipated. (The member must be assigned to an aircrew-prefixed manpower position on the

Unit Manning Document).

9.2.3. Personnel not on active aeronautical orders are restricted to flight-related and space and

missile crew duties only. Exception: Space and missile crew FDU/DFDU wear guidance will

be outlined in MAJCOM supplements to this instruction.

9.3. Restrictions.

9.3.1. Staff Personnel. For HAF/MAJCOM/NAF/Direct Reporting Unit (DRU)/FOA staff

personnel authorized and identified in paragraph 9.2.1, may wear their previously issued FDU

when it remains serviceable. HAF/MAJCOM/NAF/DRU/FOA funds will not be expended to

issue or replace functional flight clothing. Exception: Authorized aircrew members assigned

to a flying staff position are exempt from this restriction. HAF staff personnel may wear the

FDU/DFDU configured as directed by the Deputy Chief of Staff (DCS) or equivalent. If there

is no DCS or equivalent guidance, personnel will follow this instruction.

HAF/MAJCOM/NAF/DRU/FOA funds may be used to purchase nametags for the

FDU/DFDU.

9.3.2. Off-Base Wear. The FDU/DFDU off-base wear will be in accordance with paragraph

5.1., OCP guidelines for off-base wear.

9.3.3. The DFDU will not be worn as a day-to-day uniform. MAJCOM commander or

Commander Air Force Forces may authorize DFDU to be worn during contingencies,

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 89

exercises, deployments, and tactical training operations as appropriate for environmental

conditions.

9.3.4. Special Articles of Clothing. Airmen authorized special articles of clothing under an

allowance standard will wear the clothing prescribed by the local unit commander and

recommended for the type of mission to be performed. (T-3)

9.3.5. Limited Wear. Wing commanders or equivalent may prescribe further limits on the

wear of FDUs based on mission requirements and in the interest of health and welfare of their

personnel.

9.3.6. Sleeves. The FDU/DFDU will have sleeves worn down, cuffed, or tucked under at the

wrist when performing aircrew duties in-flight. Sleeves may be rolled under or pulled up if

not performing in-flight duties; if rolled under or pulled up (using Velcro® to hold in place),

the sleeves will end at, or within 1-inch of, the natural bend in the elbow, when the wearer’s

arms are hanging naturally at their side.

9.3.7. Zippers. The centerline zipper of the FDU/DFDU will be closed no lower than even

with the middle of the nametag. A single knife with clip may be secured inside a leg pocket

with the clip exposed provided no more than the clip is exposed and the knife is subdued or

matte color. All other zippers will be completely closed. The flight cap may be stored in either

lower leg pocket without that pocket being fully zipped. A small portion of the cap may be

exposed while in the pocket. However, when the cap is removed, the pocket must be fully

zipped.

9.3.8. Pen and Pencil Pocket. The pen and pencil pocket cover located on the left sleeve may

be removed unless prohibited by MAJCOM supplement or restricted due to safety of flight

concerns.

9.3.9. Spice brown color criteria patches for the OCP are not authorized for wear with the

FDU. Airmen are only authorized to wear traditional color unit emblem patches with the FDU.

Airmen are authorized to wear spice brown color criteria unit patches on the DFDU. Patches

worn on flight jackets will be consistent with the color configuration worn on the FDU/DFDU.

9.3.10. Morale Patches and Tabs. Wing commanders may authorize the wear of morale

patches on the shoulder of the FDU on Fridays or during special events. AFR and ANG

commanders may authorize wear during weekend drills on Friday, Saturday, or Sundays or

during special events. Wing commanders will maintain a list of approved morale patches

authorized to be worn within their wing.

9.4. Flight Clothing Accoutrements.

9.4.1. Enlisted rank is included on the nametag of the FDU/DFDU, and flight jackets identified

in paragraph 9.4.3.

9.4.2. Both officer and enlisted rank insignia on the Leather A-2 Flying Jacket is on the name

tag only (see paragraph 9.5.2.2.).

9.4.3. Nametags. Cloth nametags for FDU/DFDU and flight jackets will be 2 x 4-inches in

size and worn over the left breast pocket. At a minimum, the Aeronautical badge, Space,

Cyberspace. Multi-Domain Warfare or missile operations badges (if awarded) are mandatory,

and nametags will contain individual’s first and last name. Rank is mandatory for enlisted

personnel and optional for officers. Embroidered nametags will be consistent in color with

90 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

MAJCOM approved nametag colors. Nametags for Leather A-2 Flying Jacket will be 2 x 4-

inches and made of Brown on Black leather or simulated leather. Emboss with silver wings or

badges, first and last name, rank, and USAF.

9.4.3.1. Command Insignia. Commanders authorized to wear the Command Insignia pin

will wear the insignia on the left side of the nametag. The insignia will be worn only while

performing commander duties.

9.4.3.2. Commanders may authorize the wear of morale nametags on Fridays or during

special events. AFR and ANG commanders may authorize wear during weekend drills on

Friday, Saturday, or Sundays or during special events. Commanders will determine if, and

ensure that, name tags are in good taste and reflect proper military order, discipline, morale,

and image. When worn, patches must be consistent in color to patch configuration worn.

Enlisted personnel will include, at a minimum, rank, and last name on morale nametags

(Example: ‘MSgt “Bat” Masterson’).

Figure 9.2. Flight Duty Uniform with Accoutrements.

9.4.3.3. Right Breast Pocket. MAJCOM or equivalent emblem (ANG emblem may be

worn as a MAJCOM equivalent emblem) will be centered above the right breast pocket.

MAJCOM or equivalent emblem for the right breast area of the Leather A-2 Flying Jacket

will have Brown on Black leather or simulated leather using color palette patch. Spice

brown color criteria patches are not authorized for wear on the FDU. Airmen may wear

spice brown color criteria unit emblem patches on the DFDU.

9.4.3.4. Left Sleeve. Normally, wear the US flag, emblem, or appropriate wing, group, or

center, positioned no lower than 1-inch from shoulder seam in accordance with MAJCOM

supplements to this instruction. If wearing spice brown palette patches, the US flag will

also be spice brown palette. The spice brown palette flag will be worn with the DFDU. In

lieu of the US Flag, members may wear the USAF Weapons School Graduate Patch

(graduate or instructor), USAF (or joint/international) Test Pilot School (TPS) patch

(graduate or instructor), School of Advanced Air and Space Studies (SAASS) patch,

Critical Care Air Transport Team patch, and other completed equivalent school patches.

9.4.3.5. Right Sleeve. The unit emblem (squadron patch) will be worn as authorized

through MAJCOM supplement to this instruction. Organizations are required to contact

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 91

their Wing Historian for assistance on development or reconfiguration of organizational

emblems. When authorized to fly with another unit, individuals may wear the emblem of

the unit they are attached to for flight duties.

9.4.3.6. Add-On Patches. MAJCOMs will publish guidance on wear of add-on patches

(i.e., flying hour milestone, instructor, flight examiner scroll, etc.). Campaign or exercise

patches are not authorized. MAJCOM commanders must approve all emblems/patches not

specifically addressed in this instruction.

9.4.3.7. Neckwear. The wear of scarves will be addressed by MAJCOM supplements.

When authorized, scarves will be worn around the neck and tucked in.

9.4.4. General Officer Rank Insignia. General Officer (GO) stars on the FDU/DFDU and

flight jackets will be centered on the shoulder halfway between the neck and shoulder seam.

Generals wear 1-inch stars on flight duty uniforms; 3/4-inch stars may be used if there is

insufficient room for the 1-inch stars. GO rank insignia will be on base cloth identified in

paragraph 9.4.5., GO stars will be Flag Blue cable #67124 and displayed point-to-center.

9.4.5. Rank Insignia (O-1 through O-6). Wear subdued cloth rank insignia on each shoulder

of the FDU/DFDU and flight jackets (plastic covered rank insignia is not authorized). Rank

will be sewn-on 5/8-inches from the shoulder seam, centered on the shoulder. Officer rank

insignia cloth and cable (thread) standards: FDU base cloth is OG 107, Flag Blue cable #67124

except Second Lieutenant and Major which are Brown cable #67136; DFDU base cloth is

Khaki 2120, Black cable #67138 except Second Lieutenant and Major which are Brown Cable

#67136.

9.5. Over Garments.

9.5.1. Flight Jacket (Flyers, Jacket CWU-36/P & CWU-45/P). The green Flight Jacket may

be worn with the FDU. The green or desert Flight Jacket may be worn with the DFDU. Flight

Jackets are required to be zipped at least halfway. Note: Flight Jackets will not be worn with

service uniforms (Class B) or OCPs.

92 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Figure 9.3. Flight Jacket.

9.5.1.1. Configure Velcro® on the Flight Jacket like the FDU/DFDU.

9.5.1.2. Accoutrements on the Flight Jacket include the nametag, MAJCOM, US flag or

emblem, unit patch, and rank (officers) and will follow the same guidance as the

FDU/DFDU and be consistent in patch color scheme to the FDU/DFDU.

9.5.2. Leather A-2 Flying Jacket. The Leather A-2 Flying Jacket is authorized for ground

wear only unless prohibited by MAJCOM supplement. Authorized individuals are listed in

paragraph 9.5.2.3 and paragraph 10.7.6. The Leather A-2 Flying Jacket may be worn with

service uniform (Class B), flight duty uniform (FDU), two-piece flight duty uniform (2PFDU)

or Desert FDU (DFDU) (not service dress uniform). Note: With the exception of the

Secretary, and the Under Secretary of the Air Force, it is not to be worn with civilian clothes.

9.5.2.1. Configure Leather A-2 Flying Jacket Velcro® with MAJCOM patch and nametag

IAW paragraph 9.5.2.2.

9.5.2.2. Leather A-2 Flying Jacket Accoutrements. The nametag is 2 x 4-inches, brown

or black leather, simulated leather. Emboss with wings or qualifying badge, first and last

name, rank, and USAF. Members may add an inside pocket, at their expense, when it does

not detract from the external appearance. The wing and star patch maybe worn by

individuals not assigned to a MAJCOM. Gloves if worn will be black leather, knitted,

tricot or suede, or a combination of leather, knitted, tricot, and suede. Note: Generals (4

Star), regardless of their Air Force Specialty Code are authorized to wear the Leather A-2

Flying Jacket.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 93

Figure 9.4. Leather A-2 Flying Jacket.

9.5.2.3. Authorized Leather A-2 Flying Jacket wear. AFMAN 11-402, Aviation and

Parachutist Service, outlines wear authorization of the Leather A-2 Flying Jacket. The

Secretary, and the Under Secretary of the Air Force, rated officers, Career Enlisted

Aviators, and Non-rated Aircrew members who have been permanently awarded an

aeronautical badge may wear the Leather A-2 Flying Jacket. The aeronautical order

permanently awarding the aeronautical badge constitutes authority to wear the Leather A-

2 Flying Jacket. Space and Missile qualified 13SX officers are authorized wear upon

completion of qualification training in one of the following AFSC’s 13SXA, 13SXB,

13SXC, 13SXD, 13SXE. Space Systems Operations personnel must complete

qualification training and be certified as a mission ready crewmember in the 1C6XX

AFSC. (T-1) The CSAF is the approval/waiver authority for issue of the Leather A-2

Flying Jacket to all other individuals.

9.5.3. All Purpose Environmental Clothing System (APECS), Improved Rain Suit (IRS), and

OCP Extended Cold Weather Clothing System (ECWCS) Parka and Pants, or OCP Gortex

Jacket and pants may be worn with the FDU and DFDU during non-flying duties. Jacket may

be worn without the pants; however, the pants will not be worn without the jacket.

9.5.4. Coyote Brown Fleece Jacket. The Coyote Brown Fleece Jacket may be worn as an over

garment with the FDU and DFDU. Fleece Jacket may be worn indoors or outdoors but will

not be worn while onboard the aircraft with engines running while occupying a primary crew

position. At Remote Pilot Aircraft designated units, commanders may authorize the wear of

the fleece jackets inside the ground shelters.

9.5.5. Airmen issued Sage Green commercial Safe-to-Fly outerwear (e.g., Massif or other

Cold Weather Aviation System (CWAS) outerwear) may wear these items with the FDU

without restriction. Airmen issued OCP commercial Safe-to-Fly outerwear (e.g., Massif or

94  DAFI36-2903  29 FEBRUARY 2024 
CWAS) may wear these items with the FDU or DFDU without restriction.  Jacket may be worn 
without the pants; however, the pants will not be worn without the jacket. 
9.6.  Headgear.  The flight cap, OCP patrol cap or tactical cap may be worn with the FDU as 
described in paragraphs 5.1.10 and 7.2.4 of this instruction regardless of patch configuration.  
Applicable cap may be stowed in the left or right lower leg pockets or right upper leg pocket in a 
zipped or unzipped configuration.  A small portion of the cap may be exposed when in the pocket. 
However, when the cap is removed the pocket must be zipped.  The OCP patrol cap or tactical 
OCP cap will be worn with the DFDU.  Deployed Airmen, or Airmen as authorized by MAJCOM, 
may wear the OCP boonie. 
9.6.1.  Berets.   Individuals  authorized to  wear  berets in  paragraphs 10.3.1,  10.7.2  through 
10.7.2.3.6 may wear their berets with the FDU/DFDU IAW paragraph 7.2.5. 
9.6.2.  Watch Cap.  Authorized for wear by aircrew personnel subject to prolonged exposure 
to adverse weather only.  Color is restricted to solid black, dark blue, or sage green. 
9.6.3.  Organizational Caps.  Organizational caps (i.e., Baseball style) are not authorized for 
wear  with  the  FDU/DFDU.    Exception:    When  approved  by  MAJCOM/CC,  aerial 
demonstration teams, and competitive teams may wear organizational caps while engaged in 
demonstration and competitions see paragraph 7.2.8 for wear guidance. 
9.7.  Undergarments.  Undergarments  are  required  with  the  FDU  and  DFDU.  During  flight 
operations all undergarments, to include cold weather undergarments, must  be  cotton  or  fire-
retardant material and must be on the safe to fly list.  Undershirts will be Coyote Brown (Tan 499).  
Additionally,  wing  or  squadron  commanders  may  allow  for  display  on  morale  undershirts 
organizational emblems, as officially and currently approved, not to exceed 5-inches in diameter, 
in cloth or silk screen.  If displayed, organizational emblems will be worn on the left side of chest 
of the Coyote Brown (Tan 499) Friday morale undershirts.  The morale undershirts may also 
display the organizational emblem on the back of the undershirt in a larger diameter as authorized 
by commanders. Thermal undergarments (i.e., dickies, turtlenecks, or mock necks) will be White, 
Black, Cream, or Coyote Brown-colored and are authorized with the FDU/DFDU as weather 
conditions  warrant.    Note:    Only  items  approved  as  Safe-to-Fly  will  be  worn  during  flying 
operations. 
9.8.  Socks.  Socks should be made of cotton or wool.  Coyote Brown, or DLA-issued Green socks 
will be worn with the FDU.  Additional socks may be worn underneath colored socks provided 
they are not showing. 
9.9.  Footwear (Male and Female Flight Boots).  Coyote Brown combat boots will be worn with 
the FDU and DFDU.  Zipper inserts may be worn; however, they will be without design.  Note: 
Only items approved as Safe-to-Fly will be worn during flying operations. 
9.10.  Gloves.  In-garrison glove wear is in accordance with paragraph 7.3.8.1. Gloves may be 
worn with FDU/DFDU without outer garments. Guidance on the wear of flight gloves is provided 
in AFMAN 11-202V3, Flight Operations. Note: Flight gloves are a functional wear item and not 
authorized for wear beyond functional area. 
9.11.  Cell phone, Pager, and Personal Digital Assistant.  These devices will be worn IAW 
paragraphs 7.3.4, 7.3.4.1, and 7.3.4.2. Handheld Electronic Devices. 

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 95

9.12. Two Piece Flight Duty Uniform (2PFDU). Aircrew are authorized wear of the 2PFDU for

ground and flight duties. For flight, use of the 2PFDU is authorized for specific MDSs IAW T.O.

14-1-1 and is used IAW 14P3-1-112 and this publication.

Figure 9.5. 2PFDU with Accouterments.

9.12.1. The 2PFDU consists of coat and trousers. The 2PFDU is considered organizational

clothing and meets unique functional work requirements and include both distinctive and

functional clothing items. The 2PFDU is intended to be the aviator’s direct alternative to the

FDU and OCP uniform.

9.12.1.1. The 2PFDU is authorized for wear for ground and flight duties by individuals

who perform flying, parachutist, space, and missile crew duties: flight duty includes

preparation, preflight, in-flight, post-flight, hypobaric operations, and other flight related

duties associated with aircraft operations. It is authorized for wear by personnel with an

Aircrew Position Identifier (API) 1 thru 9 and A thru G (Rated Officers, Career Enlisted

Aviators 1AXXX, and 1UXXX). Additionally, Rated officers assigned to an Aircrew

Position Identifier-0 and Career Enlisted Aviators assigned to Aircrew Position Identifier-

Z positions that are on active aeronautical orders, or personnel identified as Operations

Support/Non-interference flyers currently on active aeronautical orders authorized to

perform in-flight aircrew or parachutist duties IAW DAFMAN 11-401, Attachment 3, are

authorized wear of the 2PFDU. Finally, guidance on the 2PFDU wear authorization for

wear by personnel in Space/Missile Crew AFSCs: 13N, 13SXA, 13SXB, 13SXC, 13SXD,

13SXE, and 1C6XX; Non-rated and non-Career Enlisted Aviator AFSCs: 13HX and

1H0X1; and Aeromedical Evacuation Corps AFSCs: 46F and X4N0, Flying Crew Chiefs

is provided in DAFI 21-101 and Security Forces Ravens provided in DAFI 31-101. Airmen

authorized special articles of clothing under an allowance standard will wear the uniform

96 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

prescribed by the local unit commander and recommended for the type of mission

performed. Space and missile crew duties will be defined by MAJCOM supplement to this

instruction.

9.12.1.2. Operations Support/Non-interference flyers. Flight clothing worn by Operations

Support/Non-interference flyers is only worn on days when actual flying is planned or

anticipated.

9.12.1.3. Personnel not on active aeronautical orders are restricted to wear the 2PFDU

during flight-related, space and missile crew duties only. Personnel previously issued the

2PFDU may continue wear during performance of duties. (Exception: Space and missile

crew 2PFDU wear guidance will be outlined in MAJCOM supplements to this instruction.)

9.12.1.4. 2PFDUs will be issued through Individual Equipment Elements or contract

equivalent and must be certified as fully compliant with all specifications to include Safe-

to-Fly. (Note: Other suppliers are approved for organizational/unit purchases, or any

appropriated funds expenditures, only when special mission requirements exist, are cleared

on the Safe-to-Fly listing and approved by squadron commander or equivalent). (Example:

2PFDUs that have accommodations for external knee or elbow pads to protect airmen in

unique mission areas.) If units choose to use funds to purchase from non-Individual

Equipment Elements, the Air Force is not responsible if the uniform is not fully compliant,

and these items will only be worn when directly performing flight related duties.

9.12.1.5. Staff Personnel. HAF/MAJCOM/NAF/DRU/FOA funds will not be spent to

issue or replace functional flight clothing. Personnel previously issued the 2PFDU are

authorized for wear during performance of staff duties. Exception: Authorized aircrew

members assigned to a flying staff position are exempt from this restriction.

9.12.2. 2PFDU Wear Guidance:

9.12.2.1. Operational Camouflage Pattern (OCP) is the only color/pattern authorized.

9.12.2.2. No repairs to the 2PFDU are authorized.

9.12.2.3. Nothing will be sewn to the 2PFDU. Exception: Additional Velcro® may be

added above the existing Velcro®, centered 1/2-inch above the “U.S. Air Force” tape to

accommodate the wear of Air Force Aeronautical, Missile, Space, Multi-Domain Warfare,

Cyberspace, and EOD badge and/or centered 1/2-inch above the “last name” tape to

accommodate the wear of the Commander’s insignia.

9.12.2.4. Alterations or modifications to the 2PFDU are by exception only (OPR

HAF/A3T).

9.12.2.5. Users will not press or starch the 2PFDU.

9.12.2.6. The user’s “last name” will be stitched in spice brown block lettering, centered

on an OCP background tape, and affixed over the right chest pocket with Velcro® fastener.

9.12.2.7. “U.S. Air Force” will be stitched in spice brown block lettering, centered on an

OCP background tape, and affixed over the left chest pocket with Velcro® fastener. (Note:

civilian or contract personnel authorized to wear this uniform for flight duties, may also

wear “Civilian” or “Contractor” if desired.)

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 97

9.12.2.8. The user’s grade insignia will be spice brown palette sewn grade insignia on an

OCP background, approximately 2” tall by 1 3/4” wide and affixed to the center chest

Velcro® fastener.

9.12.2.8.1. Officer rank will be spice brown; 1Lt and Lt Col will be Black.

9.12.2.8.2. Enlisted rank will be spice brown. (Note: Civilian personnel authorized to

wear this uniform for flight duties, may wear spice brown civilian insignia.)

9.12.2.9. Organizational and Unit Patches. Patches will be attached to shoulders using

Velcro® fastener. Airmen may wear only nametape, USAF tape, rank, and flag until

organizational and unit patches are designed and fielded. Organizations are required to

contact Wing Historian for assistance on development or reconfiguration of organizational

emblems. No badges or other accoutrements will be affixed to shirt pockets.

9.12.2.9.1. Right Sleeve. A maximum of two patches may be worn. The cloth U.S.

flag patch is mandatory and will use the spice brown color criteria centered at the top

of Velcro® (or placed on flag-sized upper pocket flap, if equipped) and worn while in–

garrison and deployed. Organizational unit of assignment spice brown color criteria

patches are mandatory (non-unit entities such as Directorates, AF Elements are

optional) and will be centered vertically and horizontally in the remaining Velcro®

area under the U.S. flag patch. Note: Current subdued version of unit patch or no

patch may be worn until the patch color conversion has been completed by the Institute

of Heraldry. Wing Commanders may authorize the wear of morale patches on Fridays

or during special events. Wing Commanders will maintain a list of approved morale

patches authorized to be worn within their wing. Morale patches must adhere to current

subdued spice brown color scheme.

9.12.2.9.2. Left Sleeve. A maximum of two patches may be worn.

9.12.2.9.2.1. While performing their duties, certain AFSCs may wear spice brown

cloth, or subdued infra-red (IR) Duty Identifier patches centered at the top of the

Velcro® area. Authorized Duty Identifier Patches are listed in Table 5.1 (Note:

Only patches listed in Table 5.1 are authorized. The Tactical Call Sign Duty

Identifier patch should only be worn for tactical (radio) call signs assigned/ordered

by the unit commander. When not required for operations or training, the Tactical

Call Sign Duty Identified patch should not be worn; however, it may be replaced

by another authorized duty ID patch.)

9.12.2.9.2.2. The HHQ patch is mandatory and will use the spice brown color

criteria (cloth) centered under the functional badges or Duty Identifier Tabs if worn,

or under the top of Velcro® area reserved for functional badges or duty identifier

tabs. Higher Headquarters include, but are not limited to, the following

organizations: HAF, DRUs, FOAs, and MAJCOMs. Note: Current subdued

version of HHQ patch or no patch may be worn until the patch color conversion

has been completed by the Institute of Heraldry.

9.12.2.9.2.3. Members may wear the USAF Weapons School Graduate Patch

(graduate or instructor), USAF (or joint/international) Test Pilot School (TPS)

patch (graduate or instructor), School of Advanced Air and Space Studies (SAASS)

patch, Critical Care Air Transport Team patch, or other approved graduate school

98 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

patches (as outlined in paragraph 5.1.6.2.4 through 5.1.6.2.4.1) in lieu of the HHQ

patch.

9.12.2.9.2.4. An OCP Velcro® sleeve pen/pencil holder may be worn on either

sleeve but will not impede the proper wear of required patches and/or duty badges.

9.12.2.10. Commander’s Insignia. Commander’s Insignia may be worn for officers in the

rank of Colonel (O-6) and below when currently in command, as authorized by AFMAN

36-2100, Military Utilization and Classification. The insignia will be spice brown and

centered 1/2-inch above the name tape, on 1-inch x 1-inch OCP pattern cloth affixed using

Velcro® fastener. Graduated Commander’s badge may be worn on a small Velcro® patch

on top of the left sleeve either centered horizontally and vertically on the flag-sized pocket

flap, or (if no pocket flap) centered horizontally and 1/2-inch from the top of the Velcro®

area, depending on uniform configuration. The second authorized left-sleeve patch (e.g.,

HHQ) will be centered vertically and horizontally in any remaining Velcro® area to present

a balanced appearance.

9.12.2.11. Airmen performing flight duties in a deployed environment may remove all or

some patches in accordance with mission directives.

9.12.2.11.1. Installed gated light intensifier (GLINT) tape will be covered utilizing

attached Velcro® covers unless mission or theater directives direct otherwise.

9.12.2.11.2. GLINT US Flags, duty identifier patches and Special Warfare Airman

Tactical Call Sign patches may be worn in place of cloth patches in the deployed

environment in accordance with mission or theater directives.

9.12.2.12. Footwear. Coyote Brown combat boots are the only authorized colors to be

worn with the 2PFDU. Zipper inserts may be worn; however, they will be without design.

(Note: Only items approved as Safe-to-Fly will be worn during flying operations.)

9.12.2.13. Headgear. Headgear will be worn outdoors at all times unless in a designated

“no hat” area. Airmen will wear the OCP patrol cap or tactical OCP cap straight on the

head so that the cap band creates a straight line around the head, parallel to the ground.

The patrol cap or tactical OCP cap will fit snugly and comfortably around the largest part

of the head without bulging or distortion from the intended shape of the headgear and

without excessive gaps. Airmen are authorized to block the patrol cap. The cap is worn so

that no hair is visible on the forehead beneath the cap. The Velcro® nametape will be worn

centered on the back of the patrol cap and tactical OCP cap. Officers will wear rank affixed

with sew-on grade insignia centered on the front of the caps. Deployed Airmen, or Airmen

as authorized by MAJCOM, may wear the OCP boonie (campaign/floppy) hat when theater

conditions dictate. Berets, when authorized, will be worn by designated personnel, see

paragraph 10.31, 10.7.2 through 10.7.2.3.6. Headgear may be stowed in any leg pocket,

zipped closed, or underneath the trouser belt in the small of the back. Ball caps are not

authorized. Note: Civilian or contract personnel authorized to wear this uniform for flight

duties are not required to wear headgear.

9.12.2.14. Cold Weather Accessories. With the exception of functional items, cold

weather accessories are only worn while outdoors. Authorized cold weather accessories

for the 2PFDU are:

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 99

9.12.2.14.1. Coyote Brown or Black scarves, earmuffs, cold weather headbands, watch

caps, and gloves.

9.12.2.14.2. Coyote Brown fleece may be worn indoors or outdoors. This item may

not be worn while onboard the aircraft with engines on the aircraft running while

occupying a primary crew position. At Remote Pilot Aircraft designated units,

commanders may authorize the wear of the fleece jackets inside the ground shelters.

9.12.2.14.3. The ECWCS jackets (fleece, wind, soft shell, wet weather, or extreme

cold weather) may be worn without the pants; however, the pants will not be worn

without the jacket. APECS, IRS may not be worn for flying duties. These items will

only be worn with the 2PFDU in OCP pattern. (Note: Only items approved as Safe-

to-Fly will be worn during flying operations.)

9.12.2.14.4. Approved commercial CWAS outerwear may be worn. For flight, use

these items in accordance with T.O 14P3-1-112 and Safe-To-Fly list. Jacket may be

worn without the pants; however, the pants will not be worn without the jacket. (Note:

Only items approved as Safe-to-Fly will be worn during flying operations.)

9.12.2.14.4.1. For sage green CWAS outerwear configured for aircrew-style

Velcro®/patches, members will wear patches IAW paragraph 9.12.2.9, except

nametags will contain individual’s rank (officers and enlisted), first and last name

(e.g., LT COL JAMES BOND or SMSGT JOHN WICK). Rank will not be sewn

onto the shoulders for officers. For OCP-colored CWAS outerwear configured for

aircrew style Velcro®/patches, members will wear a spice brown MAJCOM (or

equivalent emblem) patch on the right breast, and organizational and unit patches

and U.S. flag IAW paragraph 9.12.2.9. Cloth name tags will be 2 x 4-inches in

size and worn over the left breast. At a minimum, the Aeronautical badge, Space,

Cyberspace, or missile operations badges (if awarded) are mandatory, and

nametags will contain individual’s rank (officers and enlisted), first and last name.

Badges, lettering, command insignia (when applicable), and border will be stitched

in spice brown on an OCP camouflage background. For OCP-colored CWAS

outerwear configured for OCP-style Velcro®/patches, members will configure

patches IAW paragraphs 9.12.2.6 through 9.12.2.9, except rank will be worn over

the right breast name tape.

9.12.2.14.4.2. Command Insignia. On CWAS outerwear configured for aircrew-

style Velcro®/patches, commanders authorized to wear the Command Insignia pin

will wear the insignia on the left side of the nametag. The insignia will be worn

only while performing commander duties. On CWAS outerwear configured for

OCP-style Velcro®/patches, the insignia will be worn IAW paragraph 9.12.2.10.

9.12.2.14.5. The Leather A-2 Flying Jacket is authorized for wear with the 2PFDU

(ground wear only) unless prohibited by MAJCOM supplement. Authorized

individuals are listed in paragraph 9.5.2.3 and paragraph 10.7.6. MAJCOM patches

will have Brown or Black leather (or simulated leather) background, in the spice brown

color configuration, and blouse will be tucked in when worn with the 2PFDU.

9.12.2.15. Off-Base wear. 2PFDU off-base wear will be IAW paragraph 5.1., OCP

guidelines for off-base wear.

100 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

9.12.2.16. Sleeves will be worn down, cuffed, or tucked under at the wrist when

performing aircrew duties in-flight. Sleeves may be rolled under or pulled up if not

performing in-flight duties; if rolled under or pulled up (using Velcro®to hold in place),

the sleeves will end at, or within 1-inch, of the natural bend in the elbow, when the wearer’s

arms are hanging naturally at their side.

9.12.2.17. Belt. A one-piece Coyote Brown web belt will be worn with 2PFDU trousers.

Rigger style is also authorized. Belt may extend past buckle.

9.12.2.18. T-Shirt. T-Shirt will be Coyote Brown (Tan 499). Additionally, wing or

squadron commanders may allow for display on morale undershirts organizational

emblems, as officially and currently approved, not to exceed 5-inches in diameter, in cloth

or silk screen. If displayed, organizational emblems will be worn on the left side of chest

of the Coyote Brown (Tan 499) Friday morale undershirts. The morale undershirts may

also display the organizational emblem on the back of the undershirt in a larger diameter

as authorized by commanders. (Note: Only items approved as Safe-to-Fly will be worn

during flying operations.)

9.12.2.19. Socks. Socks should be made of cotton or wool. Coyote Brown or DLA-issued

Green socks will be worn with the 2PFDU. Additional socks may be worn underneath the

socks provided they are not showing.

9.12.2.20. The coat should not extend below the top of the cargo pocket on the pants, and

it should not extend higher than the bottom of the side (hip) pocket on the pants.

9.12.2.21. Users are not authorized to blouse the trousers unless mission conditions dictate

(i.e., chemical environment).

9.12.2.22. Thermal Undergarments. Thermal undergarments (i.e., dickies, turtlenecks, or

mock necks) will be Coyote Brown-colored and are authorized with the 2PFDU as weather

conditions warrant. (Note: Only items approved as Safe-to-Fly will be worn during flying

operations.)

9.12.3. When worn in the performance of flight crew duties, aircrew must adhere to the

following guidelines to ensure the full protective properties of the uniform are maintained:

9.12.3.1. The 2PFDU will be worn with an undershirt (a cotton undershirt or shirt that is

listed on the approved list of undergarments) tucked into the trousers during flight except

when mission conditions dictate otherwise. Approved No Melt, No Drip, Next-to-Skin

undershirts, and undergarments can be found on the Air Force Uniform Office Portal page.

9.12.3.2. A survival vest, body armor, or restraint harness may be worn over the 2PFDU

coat during all flight operations with the coat worn outside the trousers (untucked). If none

of these are worn over the coat, the coat will be tucked into the trousers except when theater

or mission directives dictate otherwise.

9.12.3.2.1. Combat shirts may be worn when directly performing flight duties. For

wear in-flight, a survival vest or body armor must be worn over the combat shirt unless

the coat is worn. (Note: Only items approved as Safe-to-Fly will be worn during flying

operations.)

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 101

9.12.3.2.2. Follow paragraph 9.12.2.6 through 9.12.2.8.2 for wear of patches with the

combat shirt. (Note: Name, rank and badges are not required on the combat shirt if

specific Velcro® accommodations do not exist.)

9.12.3.3. The sleeves of the combat shirt will be worn IAW paragraph 9.12.2.9.

9.12.3.4. Zippers. The centerline zipper of the 2PFDU will be closed no lower than even

with the middle of the nametape. A single knife with clip may be secured inside a trouser

pocket with the clip exposed provided no more than the clip is exposed and the knife is a

subdued or matte color. All other zippers will be completely closed.

9.12.3.5. The coat will not extend below the top of the cargo pocket on the pants, and it

will not extend higher than the bottom of the side pocket on the pants.

9.12.3.6. Users are not authorized to blouse the trousers inside the boots during the

execution of flight crew duties.

102 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Chapter 10

DISTINCTIVE UNIFORMS, ITEMS AND EQUIPMENT

10.1. Organizational Clothing and Equipment. Organizations issue items listed in Allowance

Standard (AS) 016. The clothing remains the property of the organization. It meets unique

functional or work requirements and includes both distinctive and functional clothing items.

Members may sew reflective tape on organizational clothing and equipment or use Velcro® on

jackets so they can remove it during contingencies. Functional clothing items such as parkas,

protective footwear, specialized winter flight clothing will be issued as required. MAJCOM or

Installation Commanders will prescribe wear instructions in supplements to this directive.

10.2. Informal Uniform. Members of the Air Force Honor Guard, Base Honor Guard, Air Force

Band and the Regional Band, Air Force Recruiters, Air Force Chaplains and Religious Affairs

Airmen, Fitness Center Staff, World Class Athletes, and enlisted Aides are authorized to wear an

informal uniform if approved by applicable unit commander. Personal grooming and accessory

standards apply while wearing an informal uniform.

10.2.1. Shirts. Shirts will be short or long-sleeve, dark blue polo-style, with the officially

recognized “US AIR FORCE” contemporary symbol on front upper-left chest. White

undershirts will be worn and must be a V-neck or athletic style tank top. With the exception

of enlisted aides, functional identification will be monogrammed in white (all capital letters)

on the left sleeve, above the elbow, of both the short and long sleeved shirts. The following

functional identifications will be used:

a. "USAF HONOR GUARD” or “BASE HONOR GUARD”

b. "USAFA BAND" or "REGIONAL BAND"

c. "USAF RECRUITER"

d. "USAF CHAPLAIN" or "USAF RELIGIOUS AFFAIRS"

e. "FITNESS CENTER STAFF" or "WORLD-CLASS ATHLETE"

10.2.2. Nametag. Nametags will be brushed silver with rank and last name.

10.2.3. Occupational Badges. Occupational badges are optional for wear. If worn, they will

be centered 1/2-inch above the nametag.

10.2.4. Trousers. Trousers will be with or without cuffs and pleats and khaki in color (shorts

are not authorized).

10.2.5. Belt. Belt will be black with black or silver buckle.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 103

Figure 10.1. Informal Uniform.

10.2.6. Footwear. Wear solid black socks with plain black business casual low quarters or

plain black athletic style shoes.

10.2.7. Headgear. A dark blue watch or baseball cap with "USAF" logo may be worn when

outdoors.

10.2.8. Outer Garments. Airmen may wear a dark blue jacket with a removable fleece liner

and a small "USAF" logo on the wearer's upper left chest.

10.2.9. Cold Weather Accessories. Cold weather accessories may be worn without wearing

authorized outer garments when outdoors.

10.2.9.1. Gloves. If worn, gloves will be black. They will be leather, knitted, tricot or

suede, or a combination of leather, knitted, tricot, and suede.

10.2.9.2. Scarf. A black knit scarf may be worn with uniform or outer garments and must

be tucked in when worn with outer garments.

10.2.9.3. Earmuffs and Cold Weather headbands. Black earmuffs or headbands may be

worn with the uniform and all authorized outer garments. Earmuffs may wrap around either

the top or rear of the head.

10.3. Security Forces.

10.3.1. Blue Beret. Defenders must wear the beret when posted at Installation access control

points, as a Law Enforcement patrol, or when performing squadron or higher staff functions.

Commanders may designate wear of the Blue Beret at all times when in garrison with all

authorized uniforms. During inclement or extreme weather, commanders should authorize the

104 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

wear of the appropriate head gear based on the current weather conditions (e.g., when

temperatures are below 32℉, the coyote brown watch cap is authorized). Position headband

straight across the forehead, 1-inch above the eyebrows. Drape the top toward the right ear and

the stiffener. Align cloth flash above the left eye. Adjust ribbon for comfort, tie in a knot, and

tuck inside or cut-off. The SF full cloth flash will be sewn to the center of the stiffener, 1/4-

inch above and parallel to the headband. enlisted personnel wear the SF flash with SF insignia.

Officers wear the plain (no insignia) SF flash and affix regular-size bright metal rank insignia

centered on the flash. SF berets are worn while performing duties in control AFSC 31PX or

3P0XX billets. Airmen who permanently cross train out of the AFSC 31PX or 3P0XX will not

wear the SF shield and beret. Exception: Continue to wear SF shield and beret together while

attending professional military education and assigned to joint positions, instructor, and

recruiting duties, or as approved by the HAF Security Forces Directorate (AF/A4S). Airmen

may continue to wear their beret while performing special duty assignments and developmental

special duty assignments (DSDs) outside of their primary AFSC. This includes Professional

Military Education (PME), joint positions, instructors, recruiters, HAF, MAJCOM, NAF,

DRU & FOA staff positions, and command positions (e.g., command chief, wing, group and

squadron commanders, superintendents/senior enlisted leaders & First Sergeants).

10.3.1.1. OCP Ball Caps or Patrol Caps. Security Forces commanders may designate the

wear of OCP ball cap or Patrol Cap for all other base defense posts not already listed in

paragraph 10.3.1, during SF training events, when a subdued appearance is required (e.g.,

while in the field or deployed, or in extreme hot weather climates where the wear of the

beret may result in a heat related injury.)

10.3.1.2. Berets, OCPs ball caps, or Patrol Cap (when authorized) will be worn while

posted outdoors unless in an area designated as a “no hat” area. When responding to indoor

situations, armed Security Forces (SF) personnel should wear the appropriate headgear

based on the overall situation (e.g., Tactical Helmet for hostile situations, and either the

Beret or OCP ball cap for situations where hostilities are not expected.)

10.3.2. Daily Uniform. Defenders posted at the Installation access control points wear the

uniform of the day; however, during special events or when directed by the Security Forces

commander, Defenders posted at the Installation access control points and MAJCOM elite

guards may wear the following uniforms and associated items:

10.3.2.1. Dress Uniform. Beret with SF flash, bloused boots with white laces or low

quarters, plain white ascot (with or without MAJCOM crest) and the issued nylon web gear

or nylon duty belt.

10.3.2.2. OCP. Beret with SF flash, white or OCP patterned ascot (with or without

MAJCOM crest) and the standard duty belt or plate carrier.

10.3.2.3. Brassard. When authorized, the following colors will be utilized: blue with gray

lettering, black with white lettering, tan with black lettering, or as deemed appropriate for

the specific area of responsibility. May be worn by augmentees performing security forces

duties when authorized by the Defense Force Commander.

10.3.2.4. Lightweight Blue Jacket. When authorized, defenders may wear the Aircrew

Style Name Patch (YACC-89-3) on the left side of the jacket. Officers wear the bright

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 105

metal rank insignia on the epaulets of the jacket. Do not wear with service dress, maternity

smock, and coat or OCP uniforms.

10.3.2.5. Raincoat, Cap Cover, Rubber Boots. Wear in inclement weather only. Must

wear yellow outer garments or reflective safety vest, black boots when performing traffic

or pedestrian control.

10.3.2.6. White Gloves. Worn when Security Forces commander authorizes.

10.3.3. Shield. Security Forces shield is worn while performing duties in control AFSC 31PX

or 3P0XX billets only. Wear of the shield with the Mess Dress Uniform is optional.

Exception: Continue to wear SF shield and beret together while attending professional military

education and assigned to joint positions, instructor and recruiting duties, or if otherwise

approved by AF/A4S.

10.4. Flight Attendant Uniforms. The flight attendant uniform is a conservative, civilian style,

dark blue or black suit or dress. All uniform items will have a tailored fit, not exceedingly loose

or tight. Uniform fit, to include length, will be in accordance with requirements of similar service

uniform (Class B) items contained in this instruction. Uniform items will be worn with like colors

only.

10.4.1. Shirt/Blouse. Solid white conservative commercial style, button-down, collared shirt.

May wear long or short sleeves. Sleeves may be rolled up only while working in the galley or

cargo compartment.

10.4.2. Dress. Dark blue or black commercial style, double or single-breasted coatdress,

polyester wool blend. Wear nametag on the wearer’s left side.

10.4.3. Skirt. Dark blue or black commercial straight style, polyester, or poly-wool blend. If

made with belt loops, belt must be worn.

10.4.4. Slacks/trousers. Dark Blue or black commercial style, polyester, poly-wool blend, full

cut, and straight hanging that matches the fabric and shade of the blazer. Trousers will be with

a trim-fit, that do not bunch at the waist or bag in the seat. The front of the trouser legs will

rest on the front of the shoe or boot with a slight break in the crease. The back of the trouser

legs will be ⅞-inch longer than the front.

10.4.5. Cardigan Sweater. Dark blue or black conservative commercial style. Embroider name

on wearer’s left side or wear nametag . Do not wear as an outer garment away from the airplane.

May be worn under the blazer; during flight, wear the blazer, vest or cardigan with slacks or

skirt in the passenger cabin.

10.4.6. Blazer. Dark blue or black commercial style double or single-breasted, polyester wool

blend. Wear nametag on the wearer’s left side. Wear the blazer with slacks or skirt during

passengers’ arrival and departure; during flight, wear the blazer, vest, or cardigan in the

passenger cabin. Blazer may be worn as an outer garment when away from the aircraft.

10.4.7. Vest. Dark blue or black conservative commercial style. Wear nametag on the

wearer’s left side. Do not wear as an outer garment away from the airplane. May be worn

under the blazer; during flight, wear the blazer, vest or cardigan with slacks or skirt in the

passenger cabin.

106 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

10.4.8. Nametag. 3-inches long and 5/8-inches wide with 1/4-inch lettering. Shiny or brushed

brass-colored finish. Worn on the wearer’s left side of the blazer, vest, apron, and dress. Will

contain the Air Force Logo and individual’s first name.

10.4.9. Ties. Must be conservative, plain moderate commercial style; predominate tie color

will be red, blue, or gray, but may be conservatively patterned. Purchase through authorized

uniform vendors. Males must wear with the collared shirt. Females must wear a tie, scarf, or

pearls. Examples of unauthorized patterns include characters, emblems, and holiday themed.

10.4.10. Tie Clasp/Tie Tack (Optional). Must be conservative in style and in good taste.

10.4.11. Shoes/Belt. Will be black, conservative and comply with military dress requirements

in this instruction.

10.4.12. Overcoat. Dark blue or black commercial style similar to the topcoat/all-weather coat

in paragraph 7.1.5. May be worn anytime required by the climate. Remove rank insignia

when wearing the military overcoat with the Flight Attendant uniform.

10.4.13. Utility Shirt (Optional). Dark blue or black polo-styled shirts may be short or long-

sleeve. If worn, wear with a white V-neck or an athletic style tank top undershirt. May wear

during airplane up/download; make every effort to change prior to passenger arrival. May also

wear with khakis as a casual uniform on certain support missions.

10.4.14. Apron (Commercial style). Wear a dark blue or black commercial style bib or tie

closure commercial style apron. Airmen may embroider first name on left side (see Chef’s

Coat paragraph 10.4.15.). For galley wear on single flight attendant crewed airplanes only,

may be worn in the cabin during meal service; if worn in cabin, must wear a nametag or

embroidered name.

10.4.15. Chef’s Coat (Optional). Solid white commercial style double-breasted chef’s coat

(Long sleeved French cuff or 3/4 sleeve), free of design or colored trim with straight neck

collar (mandarin/banded/straight stand-up style). Embroider coat with first name over

wearer’s left breast pocket in 1/2-inch high, cursive style, dark blue lettering. Only wear in

the galley.

10.4.16. 89th Special Airlift Mission. Authorized to wear a distinctive lightweight blue jacket

with the words SPECIAL AIR MISSIONS embroidered in white on the wearer’s right side

arched over the top of a red SAM Fox embroidered insignia. Officers will place rank insignia

on epaulet, 5/8-inch from shoulder seam. Enlisted will sew on rank as outlined in paragraph

7.1.3.2. Embroider the first and last name in white on the left side even with the SAM Fox

insignia.

10.4.17. Scarves: Scarf color will be uniform for each day of the mission and purchased

through authorized uniform vendors. Must be conservative commercial style (20”x20” or

56”x13” size). Predominant colors will be red, blue, or gray, but may be patterned in

accordance with tie guidance. Females must wear a tie, scarf, or pearls. Size will be 7mm,

16”-18” long and knotted in between each pearl.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 107

10.5. Medical Scrubs. Surgical Scrubs will not be worn outside except during emergency

situations such as fires or evacuations. Exception: Ambulance crews when authorized by the

Medical Treatment Facility Commander. Surgical Scrubs worn in the surgical theater will meet

established infection control procedures. Remove shoe covers, caps and masks when leaving areas

where they are required to be worn. Scrubs are a utility uniform, but do not wear to and from

work. Members will change out of their duty uniform into scrubs at the start of their duty day and

back into their duty uniform at the end of their duty day.

10.5.1. Shirt. Military Treatment Facility Commander authorizes and procures solid

conservative color surgical scrub shirts that match the color of the surgical scrub pants. Do

not wear the shirt in combination with any military uniform item or with civilian clothing. The

shirt may have a left breast pocket. The shirt can be worn tucked in or left out.

10.5.1.1. Rank. Center metal rank insignia 1/2-inch above the nametag.

10.5.1.2. Nametag. Center blue nametag be centered on the right side of the shirt with the

bottom edge parallel to the top of the left breast pocket or in the same relative position if

no pocket.

10.5.1.3. Hospital/Organizational ID. Display the hospital ID on the upper left pocket or

clipped to the shirt.

10.5.2. Pants. Military Treatment Facility Commander authorizes and procures solid

conservative color surgical scrub pants that match the color of the surgical scrub shirt. Do not

wear the pants in combination with any uniform item or with civilian clothing. The pants may

have a drawstring or elastic waist.

10.5.3. Undergarments. Men must wear underpants; women must wear bra and underpants.

May be commercially procured. Undershirts will be tucked in, and sleeves will not extend past

the scrub shirt.

10.5.4. Footwear. White or Black. Socks must be same color as footwear.

10.5.5. Outer Garments. Airman may wear a lab coat or smock as designated by the Medical

Treatment Facility Commander.

10.6. Equestrian Competition Service Dress Configuration. Wear the Equestrian Competition

Service Dress configuration during competitions to include Dressage and Jump. The uniform is

only authorized for formal competitions where the governing organization specifically authorizes

military uniform wear, such as those sponsored within the governance of the United States

Equestrian Federation.

10.6.1. Coat. The Service Dress coat is used in full configuration as outlined in Chapter 4,

with no changes. For wear and description see applicable paragraphs 4.5.1.1 through 4.5.2.

All accessories and medals should be like-new and clean. Any awards presented (medals or

ribbons of any kind) may be worn for the duration of the award ceremony and during the time

of the competition.

10.6.2. Pants. Wear white riding breeches without design or ornamentation. Jodhpurs are not

authorized with uniform configuration.

108 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

10.6.3. Belt. The belt must not show under Service Dress.

10.6.4. Footwear. Boots are tall, over the calf riding black leather boots with minimal visible

stitching and no metal or decorative ornamentation. Low heel, not to exceed 2-inches. Spurs

should be silver and non-ornamental.

10.6.5. Headgear. Wear a plain black or dark blue safety helmet while competing.

10.6.6. Gloves. Black or dark blue, solid color gloves made of any material are authorized.

10.7. Miscellaneous Uniforms.

10.7.1. Campaign hats.

10.7.1.1. Special Operations Units. Campaign (Air Commando) hat, with one edge rolled,

may only be worn while at heritage events with a specified time and place designated by

the commander. The Air Commando hat may be worn with the OCP, FDU and 2PFDU.

10.7.1.2. Basic Military Training Instructor. Campaign (bush) hat worn with service dress

(Class A), service uniform (Class B), and OCP.

10.7.1.3. Defense Language Institute English Language Center Instructors. Maroon

campaign hat.

10.7.2. Berets.

10.7.2.1. Airmen authorized to wear a beret will affix an applicable flash devise, blouse

trousers and combat boots with all Class A (blues) uniform combinations except semi-

formal and mess dress uniforms. Officers will also wear the metal style, miniature military

rank centered and immediately below flash device on beret. The lower most edge of the

rank will be level with and immediately next to the top edge of the black border trim. The

flash device will be positioned centered and no more than 1/8-inches above metal rank.

When positioned, flash device will not cover rank and rank will not cover black border

trim.

10.7.2.2. Airmen may continue to wear their beret while performing special duty

assignments and DSD assignments outside of their primary AFSC. This includes PME,

joint positions, instructors, recruiters, HAF, MAJCOM, NAF, DRU & FOA staff positions,

and command positions (e.g., command chief, wing, group and squadron commanders,

superintendents/senior enlisted leaders & First Sergeants).

10.7.2.3. Beret Colors.

10.7.2.3.1. Pararescue Personnel and Combat Rescue Officers (CRO) wear a maroon

beret.

10.7.2.3.2. Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) Specialists wear a

pewter green beret.

10.7.2.3.3. Combat Control Team (CCT) Personnel and Special Tactics Officers

(STO) wear a scarlet beret.

10.7.2.3.4. Weather Parachutist and Special Reconnaissance wear a pewter gray beret.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 109

10.7.2.3.5. Tactical Air Control Party (TACP) wear a black beret with TACP cloth

flash, TACP crest, and bloused trousers with combat boots. TACP Officers with a core

AFSC of 19ZXB will wear the Black beret with TACP crest and metal style, miniature

military rank insignia which will be worn on the black beret centered and immediately

below TACP crest on cloth flash. The lower most edge of the rank will be level with

the red boarder of the cloth flash. The TACP crest will be positioned centered in the

upper 2/3 portion of the cloth flash above metal rank insignia. When positioned, TACP

crest will not cover rank and rank will not cover red border trim of cloth flash. Do not

wear beret or bloused trousers with combat boots with semi-formal or mess dress

uniforms. If the TACP Officer Career Field Manager grants written approval, rated

officers serving in a Unit Type Code and assigned to an Air Support Operations

Squadron or Air Support Operations Group may wear the black beret with cloth flash

and rank.

10.7.2.3.6. Security Forces wear a blue beret. Please reference paragraph 10.3.1 for

wear instructions.

10.7.3. 89th Special Airlift Mission. Authorized to wear a distinctive lightweight blue jacket

with the words SPECIAL AIR MISSIONS embroidered in white on the wearer’s right side

arched over the top of a red SAM Fox embroidered insignia. Rank insignia for officers will

be placed on epaulet, 5/8-inch from shoulder seam. Sew enlisted rank on the sleeves.

Embroider the first and last name in white on the left side even with the SAM Fox insignia.

10.7.4. Presidential Airlift Group. Authorized to wear a distinctive lightweight blue jacket.

Rank insignia for officers and enlisted will be placed on epaulet, 5/8-inch from edge. Place

the presidential patch on front right side of jacket. Embroider “Air Force One” in white above

the patch and the first and last name in white on the left side even with the patch.

10.7.5. Presidential Logistics Squadron (PLS). Authorized to wear a navy-blue utility

uniform. name and USAF tapes will be navy blue with white embroidered letters.

Occupational badges will be navy blue with white embroidering. Center USAF tape

immediately above left breast pocket. Center name tape immediately above right breast

pocket. Place the presidential patch on right side, 1/2-inch above nametape. The distinctive

lightweight blue jacket is authorized for wear with the utility uniform and all service uniform

(Class B) combinations. Note: A blue Gore-Tex jacket with the presidential patch on the right

side shall be worn with the utility uniform only. Wear a blue-cloth, white embroidered rank

insignia the front tab of the Gore-Tex jacket. The PLS will wear a navy-blue crew-neck

undershirt with the Presidential Logistics logo on the left side of chest.

10.7.6. Leather A-2 Flying Jacket. Wear Leather A-2 flying jacket with Class B service

uniform (not Class A service dress uniform), hospital whites, or flight duty uniforms. Do not

wear with civilian clothes. Exception: The Secretary and Under Secretary of the Air Force

wear the leather A-2 flying jacket with civilian clothes. Attach MAJCOM patch and nametag

with Velcro. Name tape is 2 x 4-inches, brown or black leather or simulated leather. Emboss

with wings or qualifying badge, first and last name, rank, and USAF. Members may add an

inside pocket, at their expense, when it does not detract from the external appearance. The

wing and star patch may be worn by individuals not assigned to a MAJCOM. Note: 4-Star

Generals, regardless of their Air Force Specialty Code, may wear the leather A-2 flying jacket.

For wear and description see applicable paragraph 9.5.2 through 9.5.2.3.

110 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

10.7.7. Aiguillettes. Aiguillettes distinguish officer aides and attachés. The aide to the

President and Vice President of the US, White House social aides, aides to the Secretary and

Deputy Secretary of Defense and aides to foreign heads of state, wear aiguillette on the right;

other aides and attachés on the left.

10.7.7.1. Aiguillette for General Officer Aides. Ceremonial, silver, single loop, chrome tip

with raised “wing and star” emblem. Wear the open-end loop aiguillette under the epaulet,

grounded to the left shoulder seam when wearing service dress uniforms. For mess dress:

silver, double loop, two chrome tips with raised “wing and star” emblem. Wear the open-

end loop aiguillette under the epaulet, grounded to the left shoulder seam. Pin the closed

loop under the left lapel even with the second stud on the shirt so that the chrome tips hang

naturally along the lapel.

10.7.7.2. Aiguillette for Enlisted Aides. Ceremonial, silver, single loop, chrome tip with

raised “wing and star” emblem. Wear closed end loop aiguillette on top of epaulet,

grounded to left shoulder seam when wearing service uniform (Class A) and grounded to

shoulder seam when wearing service dress, semi-formal or mess dress uniforms.

10.7.8. Chaplains. Chaplains may wear religious regalia, traditional garments, or civilian

attire to conduct chapel-led functions and worship services. The senior Wing/Delta/DRU

Chaplain may authorize appropriate civilian attire for Religious Affairs Airmen supporting

chapel-led functions and worship services.

10.7.9. AFOSI Agents. SPECIAL AGENT tape is worn on the OCP above name in lieu of

rank. AFOSI Agents do not wear rank except as directed by AFOSI/CC.

10.7.10. Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force (CMSAF). Authorized to wear tie tack or

clasp with CMSAF grade insignia, tie tack or cuff links with an “eagle and wreath” design.

CMSAF will wear “eagle and wreath” design emblem on service cap and “wreath” encircled

US insignia on service coat.

10.7.11. The immediate staff of the Secretary of the Air Force, Air Force Chief of Staff, Chief

Master Sergeant of the Air Force, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (CJCS), Vice Chairman

of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (VCJCS), and Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman (SEAC) are

authorized to wear specialized nametags containing their respective flag on their blues shirts.

10.7.12. 2X-Series AFSCs Shorts. Commanders of Airmen in these AFSCs may authorize

wear of dark blue shorts in lieu of the Operational Camouflage Pattern (OCP) trousers in

industrial areas, such as the flight line, hangars, warehouses, or dock areas outside of climate-

controlled environments and when the ambient high temperature is forecast to meet or exceed

80 degrees Fahrenheit. Note: The dark blue shorts will not be worn anywhere outside the

prescribed duty location to include during transit to and from the duty location; however, short-

duration trips into flight line adjacent work centers with the intent of returning to the defined

industrial areas is acceptable.

10.7.12.1. The only dark blue shorts authorized for wear will be purchased/issued through

the Defense Logistics Agency’s Tailored Logistics Support Program at

https://www.dla.mil/TroopSupport/ConstructionandEquipment/Spec-Ops-marine-

lifesaving/. They are certified as fully compliant with all specifications. No other suppliers

are approved for organizational/unit purchases.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 111

10.7.12.2. Shorts will only be worn with coyote brown or Tan 499 T-shirt tucked in. Do

not mix with other OCP clothing articles. Wear DLA-issued green socks or coyote brown

socks; socks will extend slightly above the boot top.

10.7.12.3. Process additional AFSC’s exception to this wear policy requests policy

through the applicable HAF career field manger to the AF/A1PA Workflow Box

[email protected] for processing.

10.7.13. Maintenance Duty Uniform (MDU). Commanders of Airmen in these AFSCs 1D,

2A, 2F, 2G, 2M, 2P, 2S, 2T, 2W, 3E, and 1P may authorize Airmen to wear the sage MDU.

The sage color MDU will be unit funded as organizational clothing and equipment. MDU will

be worn with name tape, service tape and rank along with the higher headquarters patch on the

left sleeve and a subdued U.S. flag and organizational patch on the right sleeve. Note: Duty

identifiers, as applicable may be worn on the left sleeve. The coyote brown t-shirt, OCP patrol

or tactical cap, coyote brown or green socks, and coyote brown combat boots, are worn with

the uniform. The MDU will not be utilized for office work environments, non-industrial or

non-labor taskings. The MDU is authorized for wear when transiting from home to duty

location, off base short convenience stops, eating at restaurants where people wear comparable

civilian attire and all locations on installations. It must be worn in serviceable condition. Do

not wear off base to eat in restaurants where most diners wear business attire or at

establishments that operate primarily to serve alcohol. Local coverall variants are still

authorized but only in work centers and on the flight line.

112 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Chapter 11

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

11.1. See DAFI 52-201,Religious Freedom In The Department of The Air Forcefor guidance on

how to make a religious accommodation request from Grooming and Personal Appearance

standards.

11.2. Dress and Appearance Waivers. Only AF/A1, AF/RE, NGB/CF or USSF/S1 as

applicable may grant exception to policy of dress and personal appearance standards for religious

accommodation not otherwise delegated to lower commanders. The approval memorandum will

outline any conditions or limitations. Religious accommodation and appearance exception to

policy waivers extend to temporary duty and subsequent permanent duty assignment locations.

11.3. Airman and Guardian’s home station wing or garrison commanders or headquarters

Air Force (HAF), MAJCOM, Field Command, Numbered Air Force (NAF), Field Operating

Agency (FOA) and Direct Reporting Unit (DRU) Directors (O-6/GS-15 and above) are the

approval authority for only the following dress and appearance religious accommodation

requests: 1) hijab; 2) beard; 3) indoor/outdoor head coverings; 4) turban or underturban/patka

worn with unshorn beard and with unshorn hair and 5) the wear of religious regalia wear for

honoree during military ceremonies (e.g. retirements, promotions, re-enlistments) or during

community outreach events. All other requests require AF/A1, SF/S1, AF/RE or NGB/CF

decision as applicable.

11.4. All approved religious accommodations should be worn in a neat and conservative

manner (defined as, discreet, tidy, and not dissonant or showy in style, size, design,

brightness, or color). Airmen and Guardians with an accommodation permitting the following

faith practices must adhere to the following standards:

11.4.1. Hijab (Head Scarf). An accommodated Airman may wear a hijab (head scarf) made

of a subdued material in a color that closely resembles the assigned uniform (generally black,

brown, green, tan, or navy blue as appropriate). The material will be free of designs or

markings, except that an Airmen wearing the OCP may wear a hijab in a camouflage pattern

matching the uniform. When directed by a commander, the Airman may be required to wear

a hijab made of fire-resistant material. The hijab will be worn in a neat and conservative

manner that presents a professional military image and well-groomed appearance. The hijab

must be closely fitted to the contours of the head and neck and may not cover the eyebrows,

eyes, cheeks, nose, mouth, or chin. The bottom edges of the hijab will be tucked under the

Airman’s uniform top and all required headgear will still be worn. Hair underneath the hijab

must be worn in a hairstyle authorized for the Airman according to paragraph 3.1.3. The bulk

of the Airman’s hair and hijab may not impair the ability to wear protective equipment; impede

the ability to operate an assigned weapon, military equipment, or machinery; or interfere with

the ability to perform the assigned military duties.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 113

Figure 11.1. Hijab.

11.4.2. Beards. An accommodated Airmen or Guardian’s beard (which include facial and

neck hair) must be maintained to a bulk not to exceed 2-inches when measured from any point

on the neck, chin, or cheeks. Beard hair exceeding 2-inches in bulk, when measured from the

bottom of the chin, must be rolled and/or tied to achieve the required 2-inch bulk. Beards

should follow the natural contours of the face and be groomed in a neat and conservative

manner that presents a professional military image and well-groomed appearance (e.g., reduce

fly-aways, hairs smoothed in a downward direction). Airmen and Guardians may use styling

products to groom or hold the beard in place and may use accessories such as a clear plastic

band, hair tie, or bobby pin to roll or tie the beard in place. If used, hair accessories should be

clear or match the wearer’s beard color, should not be visible when rolled or tied, and present

no safety concerns (e.g., Scrunchies are not authorized). Do not use petroleum-based products

if wearing a protective mask. The bulk of an Airman or Guardian’s beard may not impair the

ability to operate an assigned weapon, military equipment, or machinery. A mustache worn

with a beard may extend sideways beyond the corners of the mouth to connect with the beard

but must be trimmed or groomed to not cover the upper lip.

114 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Figure 11.2. Beard.

11.4.3. Turban and Under-Turban. An accommodated Airman may wear a turban (or under-

turban or patka, as appropriate) made of a subdued material in a color that closely resembles

the headgear for an assigned uniform. Wing commanders may designate conditions where the

under-turban will be worn instead of the turban. The turban or under-turban will be worn in a

neat and conservative manner that presents a professional military image and well-groomed

appearance. The material will be free of designs or markings. Exception: Airmen and

Guardians wearing an OCP uniform are authorized to wear a turban or under-turban in a

camouflage pattern matching the uniform. When directed by a commander, the Airman may

be required to wear an under-turban made of fire-resistant material. Unless duties, position, or

assignment require an Airman to wear protective headgear, Airmen granted this

accommodation are not required to wear military headgear in addition to the turban or under-

turban. For officers only, pin-on rank will be displayed on the turban or under-turban when

worn in circumstances where military headgear is customarily worn and removed in

circumstances where military headgear is not customarily worn, such as indoors or in no-

hat/no-salute designated areas. Hair worn under the turban or under-turban is not subject to

paragraph 3.1.2 standards but may not fall over the ears or eyebrows or touch the collar while

in uniform. When Airmen wear protective headgear with the under-turban, reposition the bulk

of the hair to ensure proper fit.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 115

Figure 11.3. Turban/Under Turban.

11.4.4. Regalia. May be worn in uniform by honoree during military ceremonies, including

but not limited to re-enlistments, retirements, special award ceremonies, promotions, and for

attendees during community outreach events. If the event is outdoors, accommodated Airmen

wearing regalia headgear (e.g., beaded medicine wheel with Eagle Plum, beaded headband,

etc.) are not required to wear military headgear if it interferes with the wearing of the regalia.

116 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Chapter 12

BADGES AND SPECIALTY INSIGNIAS

12.1. Badges. The total number of occupational, qualification or skill badges worn will not

exceed four in any uniform combination. The commander's pin insignia does not count as one of

the four badges. If earned, wear only one foreign badge (see paragraph 5.1.5.1.3 for additional

information). No more than a combined total of two chaplain, aeronautical, space, cyberspace,

missile operations, multi-domain warfare or occupational badges will be worn on the wearer’s left.

12.1.1. Badges for service dress uniforms will be shiny, metallic except the heritage

aeronautical wings which may have an oxidized satin finish. OCP badges will be embroidered.

Members are highly encouraged to wear their current occupational badge. When awarded,

chaplain, aeronautical, space, cyberspace, multi-domain warfare and missile operations badges

are mandatory and will always be worn in the highest position. When more than one

aeronautical, space, cyberspace, multi-domain warfare or missile operations badge is

authorized, wear the badge that reflects the current job or billet in the highest position and the

second and subsequent aeronautical, space, multi-domain warfare or cyberspace badges

become optional. If the chaplain badge is worn in conjunction with aeronautical, space, multi-

domain warfare or cyberspace badge, then the chaplain’s badge will be in the higher position.

12.1.2. Aeronautical, space, cyberspace, multi-domain warfare and missile operations badges

are equal in precedence. Parachutist wings are optional; however, when worn will be placed

above an occupational badge or below a chaplain, aeronautical, space, multi-domain warfare

or cyberspace badge. All other occupational badges are optional.

12.1.3. All occupational badges worn will be the same size; miniature, or regular Exception:

Aeronautical, space, cyberspace, multi-domain warfare and Explosive Ordnance Disposal

(EOD) badges may be a different size than an occupational badge; however, multiple

aeronautical, space, cyberspace, multi-domain warfare, and EOD badges will be the same size.

Additionally, miniature wings may be worn with a regular size occupational badge, or regular

size medical badge.

12.2. Placement of Badges.

12.2.1. OCP uniform. A maximum of four occupational, qualification, or skill badges are

worn on the left side of the uniform front above the U.S. Air Force tape located above the left

breast pocket. Wear authorized embroidered cloth badges on the OCP. Wear of current Air

Force occupational badge(s) are mandatory if sister services badges are worn. Do not wear

metal pin-on qualification badges of sister services on the OCP uniform.

12.2.2. Formal and Mess Dress uniform (males and females). Center occupational,

qualification, or skill badge 1/2-inch above top row of medals or when not authorized medals,

midway between shoulder and top button. Wear second badge centered 1/2-inch above first

badge, when authorized.

12.2.3. Semi-Formal Dress uniform (males and females). Wear all or some ribbons and

devices. The first occupational, qualification, or skill badge will be centered on the wearer’s

left 1/2-inch above the top row of ribbons. Center additional badge 1/2-inch above the first

one.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 117

12.2.4. Service Dress uniform (Class A) (males and females). Wear all or some ribbons and

devices. The first occupational, qualification, or skill badge will be centered on the wearer’s

left 1/2-inch above the top row of ribbons. Center additional badge 1/2-inch above the first

one. When not authorized ribbons for wear, center badge parallel to the name tag. Center

additional badge 1/2-inch above the first one.

12.2.5. Service uniform (Class B) (males and females). Ribbons are optional; wear all, some

or no ribbons and devices. The first occupational, qualification, or skill badge will be centered

on the wearer’s left 1/2-inch above the top row of ribbons. If no ribbons are worn, females

will center badge parallel to the name tag; males will center badge 1/2-inch above the left

pocket. Center additional badge 1/2-inch above the first

12.3. Placement of Duty and Miscellaneous Badges. The wear of these badges is optional.

Note: No more than four total badges will be worn at one time. This does not include the

command insignia pin.

12.3.1. Formal and Mess Dress uniform (males). Miniature duty badges will be worn. The

first duty badge will be centered on the wearer’s left 1/2-inch below the bottom row of medals.

The second badge will be worn on the wearer’s right in the same relative position as the badge

worn on the wearer’s left. The third badge will be worn centered on the wearer’s right, adjacent

to the bottom row of medals. The missile or excellence-in-competition badges are worn on the

wearer’s left, 1/2-inch below the bottom row of medals. Move any duty badge(s) to the

wearer’s right side, in the same relative position as the badge worn on the wearer’s left. Current

commanders wear the command insignia pin on the wearer’s right side, centered, adjacent to

top of medals. Graduated commanders position insignia on the wearer’s right side, adjacent

to bottom row of medals. If three duty badges are worn with command insignia pin, place

command insignia pin 1/2-inch above third duty badge (current commander) or 1/2-inch below

third duty badge (graduated commander). The command insignia pin is mandatory for current

commanders and may be worn by all eligible commissioned officers in the rank of Colonel (O-

6) and below.

12.3.2. Formal and Mess Dress uniform (females; including maternity). Miniature duty

badges will be worn. The first duty badge will be centered on the wearer’s right, adjacent to

the member’s medals on the wearer’s left. The second badge will be worn on the wearer’s

right, adjacent to the medals to the left side, centered and spaced 1/2-inch apart from the first

badge. The third duty badge will be worn on the wearer’s right, 1/2-inch above and centered

on the first two duty badges. The missile or excellence-in-competition badges are worn on the

wearer’s right, in the same relative position as the member’s medals on the wearer’s lefts. If a

duty badge is being worn on the wearer’s right, move the missile or excellence-in-competition

badges to the wearer’s left, 1/2-inch below the bottom row of medals. Current commanders

center command insignia pin on wearer’s right side, adjacent to occupational badges worn on

wearer’s left. Graduated commander’s center commander insignia pin on wearer’s right, in a

relative position, adjacent to medals worn to the wearer’s left. If duty badges are worn, current

commanders center command insignia pin 1/2-inch above a single duty badge. If worn with

two duty badges, position command insignia pin 1/2-inch above and centered on the two duty

badges, with both duty badges evenly spaced 1/2-inch apart. If worn with three duty badges,

position command insignia pin 1/2-inch above and centered on the third duty badge. If member

is a graduated commander, center command insignia pin 1/2-inch below a single duty badge

or centered 1/2-inch below duty badges, if wearing two or three duty badges. The command

118 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

insignia pin is mandatory for current commanders and may be worn by all eligible

commissioned officers in the rank of Colonel (O-6) and below.

12.3.3. Semi-Formal uniform (enlisted males). Regular duty badges will be worn. The first

duty badge will be on the wearer’s left 1 1/2-inch below top of welt pocket and centered. The

second badge will be worn on the wearer’s right in the same relative position as the badge worn

on the wearer’s left. The third duty badge will be worn on the wearer’s right centered between

the arm seam and lapel. The bottom of the third duty badge will be parallel with the bottom

row of ribbons. The missile and or excellence-in-competition badges are only worn 1 1/2-inch

below top of welt pocket and centered. Move duty badge to wearer’s right if authorized to

wear a duty badge and the missile and/or excellence-in-competition badge(s).

12.3.4. Semi-Formal uniform (enlisted females). Large duty badges will be worn. The first

duty badge will be on the wearer’s right, centered between arm seam and lapel, with bottom

edge of badge parallel with top of welt pocket. The second badge will be worn on the wearer’s

right in the same relative position as the member’s ribbons on the wearer’s left side and

centered and spaced 1/2-inch apart from the first badge. The third badge will be worn on the

wearer’s right, placed 1/2-inch above and centered on first two duty badges. The missile or

excellence-in-competition badge(s) are worn on the wearer’s right, centered between arm seam

and lapel, in the same relative position as the member’s ribbons on the wearer’s left. If a duty

badge is being worn on the wearer’s right, move the missile or excellence-in-competition

badge to the wearer’s left, 1 1/2-inch below top of welt pocket and centered.

12.3.5. Semi-Formal uniform (enlisted maternity). Large duty badges will be worn. The first

duty badge will be worn on the wearer’s right in the same relative position as the member’s

ribbons on the wearer’s left side. The second badge will be worn on the wearer’s right in the

same relative position as the member’s ribbons on the wearer’s left side, centered and spaced

1/2-inch apart from the first badge. The third badge will be worn on the wearer’s right, placed

1/2-inch above and centered on first two duty badges The missile or excellence-in-competition

badge(s) are worn on the wearer’s right, centered between arm seam and lapel, in the same

relative position as the member’s ribbons on the wearer’s left. If a duty badge is worn on the

wearer’s right, move the missile or excellence-in-competition badge to the wearer’s left,

centered 1 1/2-inch below ribbons.

12.3.6. Service Dress uniform (males). Large duty badges will be worn. The first duty badge

will be centered on the wearer’s left 1 1/2-inch below top of welt pocket and centered. The

second badge will be worn on the wearer’s right 1 1/2-inch below the name tag. If authorized,

center a third badge 1/2-inch above the name tag. The missile badge is only worn 1 1/2-inch

below top of welt pocket and centered. Move duty badge to wearer’s right if authorized to

wear a duty badge and the missile badge. The excellence-in-competition badge is only worn

centered on the left welt pocket. Command insignia pin is worn on the wearer’s right side,

centered 1/2-inch above the name tag for current commanders, centered 1/2-inch below name

tag for graduated commanders. If duty badge is worn on the wearer’s right side with command

insignia pin, center duty badge 1/2-inch above command insignia pin (current commander) or

center duty badge 1/2-inch below command insignia pin for graduated commander. The

command insignia pin is mandatory for current commanders on all blue uniforms and may be

worn by all eligible commissioned officers in the rank of Colonel (O-6) and below. See Figure

12.1.

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 119

12.3.7. Service Dress uniform (females). Large duty badges will be worn. The first duty

badge will be centered on the wearer’s right, 1/2-inch above the name tag and centered. The

second badge will be worn 1/2-inch above the name tag and centered and spaced 1/2-inch apart

from the first badge. The third duty badge will be centered and spaced 1/2-inch above the first

2 duty badges. If duty badge(s) are worn, the missile or excellence-in-competition badge(s)

will only be worn on the wearer’s left, 1 1/2-inches below the top of the welt pocket. If no

duty badge(s) are worn, the missile badge and/or excellence-in-competition badge is worn on

the wearer’s right, 1/2-inch above name tag. Command insignia pin is worn on the wearer’s

right side, centered 1/2-inch above the name tag for current commanders or centered 1/2-inch

below name tag for graduated commanders. If wearing one duty badge with command insignia

pin, (current commanders) center duty badge 1/2-inch above command insignia pin. If two

duty badges and the (current) command insignia pin are worn together, place command

insignia pin 1/2-inch above name tag and place both duty badges 1/2-inch above command

insignia pin, centered and spaced 1/2-inch apart. If wearing three duty badges with command

insignia pin (current commanders), add the third badge 1/2-inch above and centered on the first

two duty badges. The command insignia pin is mandatory for current commanders and maybe

worn by all eligible commissioned officers in the rank of Colonel (O-6) and below. See Figure

12.2.

120 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

Figure 12.1. Male Service Dress Duty Badge Configuration Examples

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 121

Figure 12.2. Female Service Dress Duty Badge Configuration Examples

122 DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024

12.3.8. Service Dress uniform (maternity). Large duty badges will be worn. The first duty

badge will be centered on the wearer’s right, 1/2-inch above the name tag and centered. The

second badge will be worn 1/2-inch above the name tag and centered and spaced 1/2-inch apart

from the first badge. The third duty badge will be placed 1/2-inch above and centered on the

first two duty badges. If duty badge(s) are worn, the missile or excellence-in-competition

badge(s) will only be worn on the wearer’s left, 1 1/2-inches below the bottom row of ribbons.

If no duty badge(s) are worn, the missile badge and/or excellence-in-competition badge is worn

on the wearer’s right, 1/2-inch above name tag. Command insignia pin is worn on the wearer’s

right side, centered 1/2-inch above the name tag for current commanders or centered 1/2-inch

below name tag for graduated commanders. If wearing one duty badge with command insignia

pin, (current commanders) center duty badge 1/2-inch above command insignia pin. If two

duty badges and the (current) command insignia pin are worn together, place command

insignia pin 1/2-inch above name tag and place both duty badges 1/2-inch above command

insignia pin, centered and spaced 1/2-inch apart. If wearing three duty badges with command

insignia pin (current commanders), add the third badge 1/2-inch above and centered on the first

two duty badges. The command insignia pin is mandatory for current commanders on all blue

uniforms and may be worn by all eligible commissioned officers in the rank of Colonel (O-6)

and below.

12.3.9. Service uniform (Class B) (males). If worn, duty badges will be miniature in size. The

first duty badge will be centered on the lower portion of the wearer’s left pocket, between the

left and right edges and bottom flap and pocket. The second badge will be worn on the wearer’s

right in the same relative position as the badge worn on the wearer’s left, between the left and

right edges and bottom flap and pocket. If authorized, center a third badge 1/2-inch above the

name tag. If worn, the missile badge will only be worn on the wearer’s left, left pocket,

between the left and right edges and bottom flap and pocket. Excellence-in-competition badge

is worn centered on top edge of left pocket flap. Command insignia pin is worn on the wearer’s

right side, centered 1/2-inch above the name tag for current commanders, centered below the

name tag between the name tag and the button of the right pocket flap for graduated

commanders. If duty badge is worn on the wearer’s right side with command insignia pin,

center duty badge 1/2-inch above command insignia pin (current commander) or center duty

badge 1/2-inch below command insignia pin between the left and right edges and the bottom

flap and pocket, for graduated commander. The command insignia pin is mandatory for

current commanders on all blue uniforms and may be worn by all eligible commissioned

officers in the rank of Colonel (O-6) and below.

12.3.10. Service uniform (Class B) (females). If worn, duty badges will be miniature in size.

The first duty badge will be centered on the wearer’s right 1/2-inch above the name tag. The

second badge will be worn 1/2-inch above the name tag and centered and spaced 1/2-inch apart

from the first badge. The third duty badge will be 1/2-inch above and centered on the first two

duty badges. If duty badge(s) are worn, the missile or excellence-in-competition badge(s) will

only be worn on the wearer’s left, 1 1/2-inches below the bottom of ribbons (if worn) and

centered. If no duty badge(s) are worn, the missile badge and/or excellence-in-competition

badge is worn on the wearer’s right, 1/2-inch above name tag. Command insignia pin is worn

on the wearer’s right side, centered 1/2-inch above the name tag for current commanders or

centered 1/2-inch below name tag for graduated commanders. If wearing one duty badge with

command insignia pin, (current commanders) center duty badge 1/2-inch above command

DAFI36-2903 29 FEBRUARY 2024 123

insignia pin. If two duty badges and the (current) command insignia pin are worn together,

place command insignia pin 1/2-inch above name tag and place both duty badges 1/2-inch

above command insignia pin, centered and spaced 1/2-inch apart. If wearing three duty badges

with command insignia pin (current commanders), add the third badge 1/2-inch above and

centered on the first two duty badges., The command insignia pin is mandatory for current

commanders and may be worn by all eligible commissioned officers in the rank of Colonel (O-

6) and below.

12.3.11. Service uniform (Class B) (maternity). If worn, duty badges will be miniature in size.