Canadian Armed Forces Military Personnel Instructions 01/26 – Annexes – Promotion and other rank changes

Annex A – Conditions and standards for promotion

Promotion conditions

1.1 A promotion condition is a situation, circumstance, factor, or state that must exist or be present before a member can progress to the next higher rank. In accordance with QR&O 11.02(1), the conditions for promotion are:

1. there must be a vacancy at the next rank in the CAF member’s component;
2. a CAF member must be recommended for promotion by the appropriate authority in accordance with QR&O 11.02(1)(b) and 26.09, Recommendation for Promotion. The recommendation for promotion results from the national selection board process for the Regular Force or other objective comparative selection process for the Reserve Force. See Annex B for details;
3. selection for competitive promotions is based on merit; and
4. any other conditions that the Chief of the Defence Staff may prescribe.

1.2 Conditions apply uniformly to CAF members for all promotions and the appointment of MCpl/MS. Conditions for promotion established by the CDS can be modified by the CDS and that modification applies to all CAF members that are subject to that condition.

Amplification of CDS conditions for promotion

1.3 The following table amplifies the conditions for promotion:

Note – In cases where promotion is not competitive, a CAF member must still be recommended for promotion by a CO or higher commander.

Promotion standards

1.4 A promotion standard is an established and pre-determined benchmark level of achievement and/or personal accomplishment such as training, qualification and/or experience criteria, time in rank (TIR) to EPZ, and occupational specifications required for promotion to the next higher rank. Pursuant to QR&O 11.02(1)(c), Conditions Governing Promotion the CDS may prescribe standards that an individual CAF member must meet to be promoted. The CDS may direct that a standard(s) in any given case be waived should circumstances warrant such a waiver. The standards for promotion that a CAF member must meet are:

1. have entered the promotion zone (EPZ) to be eligible to be considered for promotion to the next rank by completing a specified TIR in the CAF member’s current rank and occupation;
2. achieve the common leadership requirements and environmental requirements for the next rank;
3. possess a current valid FORCE evaluation or Common Military Tasks Fitness Evaluation (CMTFE) in accordance with DAOD 5023-2, Common Military Tasks Fitness Evaluation or a military occupation related fitness evaluation such as the Fire Fighter Physical Fitness Maintenance Program in accordance with DAOD 4007-4, Fire Fighter Physical Fitness Maintenance Program (FF PFMP);
4. achieve any Military Employment Structure (MES) Occupational and Environmental Rank Qualification (RQ) requirements; and
5. achieve any Official Language Proficiency requirements for the next rank.

Note 1 – Regular Force officers enrolled under CEOTP and Primary Reserve officers must obtain a baccalaureate degree to be promoted to substantive Maj/LCdr. Acting lacking Maj/LCdr rank may be granted by DGMC for Regular Force or an OCC for Primary Reserve officers for special circumstances where a suitable degreed officer is not available to fill a Maj/LCdr position on the CAF establishment. Officers commissioned through the Commissioning from the Ranks Plan (CFRP) or the Special Requirements Commissioning Plan (SRCP) are exempt the degree requirement.

Note 2 – Acting lacking (AL) rank may be used in cases where a medical limitation prevents a CAF member from achieving a promotion standard. See paragraph 1.7 below and Annex F, Acting Rank.

Amplification of CDS standards for promotion

1.5 The following table amplifies the CDS standards for promotion:

Note 1 – Promotion conditions set by the CDS pursuant to QR&O 11.02(1)(c), Conditions Governing Promotion, can be modified by the CDS. Promotion standards can be waived for CAF members on a case-by case basis, whereas the modification of a condition applies to all CAF members who are subject to that condition. A request for the waiver of a promotion standard for a CAF member must be initiated at unit level and staffed through DGMC for the Regular Force and a Formation Commander for the Reserve Force to the CDS for approval.

Summary of TIR and common qualifications standards for promotion

1.6 The following tables summarizes the TIR and considerations or qualifications required for promotion.

Note 1 – Applicable Developmental Period (DP) and/or occupational specific qualification as set out in respective occupation specifications must be completed.

Note 2 – See Appendix 1 to Annex C for details on officer commissioning and promotion.

Note 3 – Some Specialist officer occupations have different promotion patterns detailed at Appendix 1 to Annex C.

Medical category, MELs and Periodic Health Assessment (PHA) – General

1.7 A CAF member’s medical category and PHA status are not criteria for promotion. However, if a CAF member who has been selected and approved for promotion has MELs, the following will apply:

1. a CAF member who has MELs, be they temporary or permanent can be promoted to substantive rank as merited notwithstanding their MELs subject to the needs of the service, if all other promotion criteria are met;
2. a CAF member with MELs that preclude them from meeting or achieving a promotion standard may be granted acting lacking (AL) rank;
3. a CAF member will retain the AL rank until all criteria for promotion to substantive rank can be met and the member promoted to substantive rank; and
4. a CAF member granted AL rank must become substantive at that rank before they can be promoted to the next higher rank.

Conditions preventing promotion

1.8 A CAF member cannot be promoted if:

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Annex B – Promotion process

Promotion process – General

1.1 The promotion process detailed below applies to CAF members of the Regular Force and Primary Reserve sub-component. There are some process differences for CAF members of the Cadet Organizations Administration and Training Service (COATS), Canadian Rangers (CR) and the Supplementary Reserve, as noted in DAOD 2020-0, Reserve Force.

1.2 The alternative processes that exist for Governor-in-Council (GIC) appointments such as the CDS, JAG, DMP, DDCS, SurgGen and ChapGen as examples, where promotion occurs as a function of the appointment, are not discussed within this instruction.

Promotion process – Steps

1.3 The steps involved for promotion to substantive rank are as follows:

1. assessment, which occurs through the annual performance appraisal cycle and through selection boards when held, or other objective comparative selection process;
2. verification of the need to fill a vacancy at the next rank;
3. a recommendation for promotion based on an approved selection board list or in the case of the Reserve Force, the submission of a promotion recommendation to the promotion authority;
4. approval by the appropriate promotion authority; and
5. completion of promotion screening and due diligence.

1.4 These steps may be modified or shortened for other rank changes but must always include a recommendation and approval by the appropriate authority.

Assessment

1.5 A CAF member’s performance must be appraised annually in accordance with DAOD 5059-0, Performance Appraisal of Canadian Forces Members.

1.6 Assessment for promotion begins with the submission of an annual Performance Appraisal Report (PAR) for each CAF member using the Performance and Competency Evaluation (PaCE) system. PARs form the basis of a Regular Force member’s file used at the annual promotion national selection boards which produce lists, by military occupation, of those who merit promotion during in the next promotion year. For Reserve Force members, PARs are used to substantiate the member’s performance and potential for the next rank in the CO’s recommendation for promotion letter or form.

Selection boards and selection lists

1.7 Selection boards:

1. Regular Force. Are held annually under the authority of DGMC and must assess a Regular Force CAF member for promotion by using the scoring criteria which are submitted by Branches/Corps through the Occupational Authority and approved by DGMC for use. Selection Boards are required to produce a list based on numerical scores in descending order of CAF members who merit promotion during the promotion year. These lists will form the basis for selection for promotion to fill vacancies in the establishment for each military occupation and rank, as applicable. The Selection Board Guidance Manual provides additional details on the conduct of selection boards; and
2. Reserve Force. An Officer Commanding a Command (OCC) or an officer exercising the powers of an OCC may be convene selection boards for the Reserve Force for specific ranks that must assess a Reserve Force CAF member for promotion in accordance with direction issued by the relevant Reserve Force promotion authority. They are required to produce a list based on numerical scores in descending order of CAF members who merit promotion during the promotion year. These lists will form the basis for selection for promotion to fill vacancies in the establishment for each military occupation and rank, as applicable. The Selection Board Guidance Manual provides additional details on the conduct of selection boards.

Note 1 – Promotion selection lists expire on 31 December of the year for which they apply to.

Note 2 – Annual selection boards are not conducted for promotion to the ranks of Cpl/S1 and below for NCMs and Capt/Lt(N) and below for officers.

Verification of vacancy

1.8 Career Managers (CMs) and/or the chain of command, as applicable based on the military occupation and component are responsible to ensure that there is an approved established vacant position at the next higher rank in the applicable military occupation in which to promote a CAF member.

1.9 The issuing of a rank change instruction for a Regular Force member or the approving authority’s signature on a promotion recommendation document for a Reserve Force member verifies that there is a vacancy in the establishment of the CAF member’s component or sub-component at the next higher rank and military occupation.

Recommendation for promotion

1.10 The results of a promotion selection board or other comparative objective process lists all CAF members who are recommended for promotion for that year. Once the appropriate promotion authority approves this list, CAF members can be selected for promotion from this list to fill vacancies.

Selection for promotion/Grant of Acting Lacking (AL) rank

1.11 A rank change instruction or some other such notification document is used to initiate a promotion or grant of AL rank. This message confirms that:

1. there is a vacancy at the next rank and a service need for that position to be filled by promotion;
2. a CAF member who has merited for promotion has been recommended, selected and approved for that promotion; and
3. the CAF member must now be screened for the promotion or grant of AL rank to ensure due diligence.

AWSE rank

1.12 A rank change instruction is also used to grant AWSE rank or appointment to MCpl/MS for a CAF member. This instruction confirms that there is a requirement for the CAF member to fill a position established at the next higher rank or appointment from their substantive rank and assume the full duties and responsibilities of that position for at least 90 consecutive days.

Promotion/appointment verification screening and due diligence

1.13 The promotion screening process confirms that there have not been any changes in the CAF member’s circumstances from the time that a CAF member is recommended, selected and approved for promotion and the promotion being actioned. The screening process is initiated by the CAF member’s unit using form DND 4100, Promotion / Appointment Verification Screening upon receipt of a Rank Change Instruction. It involves the unit conducting due diligence, the CAF member’s self-certification (as applicable for higher ranks and appointments) and the CO providing concurrence or non-concurrence of the intended promotion. Cases of non-concurrence are referred to the promotion authority for decision as detailed at paragraph 1.16.

1.14 DGMC is the delegated approval authority for all Regular Force promotions to LCol and below, following the conduct of selection boards, and the authority under which Rank Change Instructions are issued. Units are required to complete a screening for promotion to confirm that the promotion can be actioned. Likewise, for the Reserve Force, any notification of an approved promotion document issued by the appropriate authority listed in paragraph 1.15 below will be followed by the CAF member’s unit screening process to confirm that the promotion can be actioned.

Approval of promotion – Authorities

1.15. The following table outlines the promotion approval authorities:

Action on non-concurrence by Unit CO

1.16 Should the CO or higher commander be inclined to not concur with the promotion or command/command team appointment, the CO or higher commander is to afford the CAF member procedural fairness and follow the minimum steps as detailed in DAOD 5019-2, Administrative Review before deciding to not concur. After having conducted their due diligence and having afforded the CAF member procedural fairness, the CO or higher commander must inform the promotion authority that issued the Rank Change Instruction of the non-concurrence and provide the reasons why the CAF member should not or cannot be promoted as intended at this time. The promotion authority will review the file, provide procedural fairness to the CAF member, and decide whether the promotion is upheld, deferred, delayed, or cancelled based on the information provided by the CO or higher commander and the CAF member.

1.17 All applicable steps in the DND 4100 form must be completed depending on which category the screening is for. This is explained on the form.

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Annex C – Seniority, Time in Rank (TIR) and Enter Promotion Zone (EPZ) date

Seniority – Definition and use

1.1 Regulations prescribing the seniority in rank of CAF members are set out in QR&O 3.09, Order of Seniority, QR&O 3.10, Seniority Between Types of Rank, and QR&O 3.11, Seniority from Same Date. Seniority applies to Cpl/S1 and higher ranks and, subject to QR&O 3.09, means the accumulated time in a CAF member’s substantive or temporary rank from the date of enrolment in, or promotion to that rank. This time can be amended as described below.

1.2 Seniority is used in the CAF:

1. to determine who is senior to whom based on the accumulated time in one’s substantive or temporary rank pursuant to the hierarchy of ranks of officers and NCMs as set out in the table to QR&O 3.01, Ranks and Designation of Ranks;
2. to assist in determining who among members of equal rank, will exercise command; and
3. as the start date for applicable ranks from which to measure TIR to determine the EPZ date for eligibility for consideration for promotion to the next higher substantive rank.

1.3 Seniority for command purposes is detailed in the QR&O 3.09 to 3.11 and 3.20. Seniority is only referred to in this annex as it applies to TIR and EPZ.

Note – QR&O 3.08(3), Master Corporal Appointment provides that MCpls/MS have seniority among themselves in their order of seniority as Cpls/S1s, however, QR&O 3.08(4) provides that MCpl/MS have authority and powers of command over all other Cpls/S1s.

Time in Rank (TIR)

1.4 TIR is a promotion standard. A CAF member must have a specified minimum period of TIR in their current rank and military occupation to be eligible for consideration for promotion. This time is considered necessary for the CAF member to gain sufficient experience to perform the duties of the next rank or appointment and have their development and potential assessed. The start date for counting the specified period of TIR is based on the CAF member’s seniority date which can be the same as or earlier than the effective date of promotion to that rank. TIR in other than the CAF member’s current military occupation may also be counted in some circumstances and can be adjusted by extending it or reducing it for the following reasons:

1. on enrolment;
2. for training failure;
3. on military occupation transfer; or
4. component and sub-component transfer.

EPZ date

1.5 Promotion zones are established for the ranks of Cpl/S1 to LCol/Cdr for promotion to the next higher rank. Except where accelerated promotion is approved or a member is granted AWSE rank, CAF members enter the promotion zone upon completion of a specified minimum TIR in their current rank and current military occupation. The TIR can include time served in a different occupation prior to an occupation transfer or in the same occupation prior to a component transfer (CT). The date on which this minimum TIR is completed is the EPZ date. The EPZ date can change if TIR is adjusted.

1.6 CAF members remain in the promotion zone until they:

1. are promoted;
2. commence retirement leave (for Regular Force members);
3. commence an extension of service in accordance with QR&O article 15.17(5) for officers and QR&O article 15.31(7) for NCMs; or
4. transfer between components or accept a military occupation transfer.

1.7 CAF members do not have to be in the promotion zone for an accelerated promotion or to be granted an AWSE rank.

Relationship between seniority, TIR and EPZ date

1.8 A CAF member reaches their EPZ date on the day they complete a specified TIR in their current rank and military occupation. The start or base date for counting TIR is based on the seniority date, which can be the same as or earlier than the effective date of promotion in their current rank. The effective date of promotion is detailed in Annex D. As seniority can be adjusted pursuant to QR&O 3.09(3), TIR can be subject to amendments which can either reduce or lengthen it which then affects the EPZ date.

Base TIR date

1.9 The start or base date for counting TIR to EPZ is the seniority date. For Regular Force members the seniority date is either 01 January of the year of promotion or the effective date of promotion depending on the rank. For Reserve Force members the seniority date is the effective date of promotion. The table at paragraph 1.50 below describes how Base TIR dates are calculated using the seniority date for various scenarios.

Amendments to TIR

1.10 Additional TIR can be granted to allow a CAF member to reach the EPZ date sooner without the equivalent passage of time and to correct errors. Additional TIR may also be granted in some circumstances when acting rank is converted to substantive rank. See Annex F, Acting Rank for details.

1.11 TIR can be subtracted in cases of reduction, reversion or relinquishment of rank and promotion after reduction, reversion or relinquishment of rank. This will affect the TIR required to reach the EPZ date. When a CAF member is promoted to a rank previously held, TIR is counted from the seniority date that a CAF member previously had for that rank, but time spent in the reduced, reverted, or relinquished rank after a CAF member is promoted back to their previous rank is subtracted from the TIR in that occupation. In some cases, this may extend the EPZ date for the next rank.

1.12 Calculation of TIR on military occupation transfer (MOT) considers whether the CAF member was trained or untrained in the military occupation they are transferring from. If the CAF member was trained in their previous occupation or completed some courses, that TIR may count toward the EPZ date in the new military occupation to recognize the military leadership experience gained. If the CAF member was untrained or failed to complete training in the previous occupation, any TIR except time spent as on-the-job-experience (OJE) will not count towards the EPZ date in the new military occupation.

Note – “Trained” in this case means the member had either reached the OFP or had at least achieved the qualifications required for the next rank in the previous military occupation.

1.13 TIR is considered upon CT from the Reserve to the Regular Force or between sub-components of the Reserve. TIR upon CT from the Regular Force to the Reserve Force may include additional TIR granted if the CAF member is already qualified for the next rank.

1.14 Generally, leave without pay (LWOP), exemption from drill and training (ED&T), and time on non-effective strength (NES) are excluded from the calculation of TIR. However, any LWOP or ED&T granted for maternity or parental purposes (MATA/PATA) is included in the TIR calculation. TIR may also be adjusted for long term sick leave. Periods of LWOP granted after enrolment may count towards the minimum TIR for EPZ date purposes as detailed in Annex H.

1.15 TIR will be adjusted to account for time spent in training or awaiting re-training if a course failure or non-completion is because of personal non-Service related reasons. Any time that is spent on OJE will count towards TIR. The adjustment will add the time that the member is unable to attend a scheduled training course as well as any time awaiting training less any OJE to the TIR requirement.

TIR and acting rank

1.16 TIR to EPZ does not count while CAF members hold acting (while so employed) (AWSE) rank. However, the time spent in acting (lacks qualification) (AL) rank may count provided there is no break between the period of AL rank and promotion to substantive rank. See Annex F, Acting Rank for further details.

TIR and forfeiture of seniority

1.17 A CAF member’s EPZ date may be delayed when a court martial imposes a punishment of forfeiture of seniority under section 144 of the NDA. This will increase the time required to reach the minimum TIR to EPZ.

1.18 Unless forfeited under section 144 of NDA or decreased under QR&O 3.09(3)(b) all seniority a member accrues in a higher substantive or temporary rank is retained if the member is reduced in rank or reverted from that rank. If the member is subsequently promoted to the higher substantive or temporary rank again, the member retains the seniority previously accrued in that higher rank. Therefore, this seniority may be counted as TIR toward the EPZ date.

Note – Only a court martial may impose a punishment of forfeiture of seniority on a CAF member. The notes to QR&O 104.11, Forfeiture of Seniority, contain guidance on the punishment of forfeiture of seniority.

Adjusting seniority

1.19 QR&O article 3.09(3)(a) permits the CDS, or such officer as they may designate, to grant additional seniority. Any promotion approval authority holding the rank of Col/Capt(N) or higher is designated as an officer who may increase the seniority of a member.

1.20 In accordance with QR&O article 3.09(3)(b) the conditions under which seniority may be adjusted are:

1. on reduction or reversion;
2. on promotion after reduction or reversion;
3. on transfer from the Reserve Force to the Regular Force, or
4. on transfer between sub-components of the Reserve Force.

1.21 In accordance with the authority provided to the CDS in QR&O 3.09, the following appointments are designated as officers who may decrease seniority:

1. CMP;
2. DGMC;
3. DMCA; or
4. An OCC or an officer exercising the powers of an OCC or, in respect of a member of the Reserve Force, an officer designated as an officer having the power and jurisdiction of an OCC (L2 Commander).

NCM reversion in rank

1.22 Pursuant to QR&O 11.10, Reversion and Remustering for Inefficiency and QR&O 11.11, Reversion Upon Conviction by a Civil Authority an NCM can be reverted to a lower rank for inefficiency or misconduct. Reversion or remustering (now known as military occupation transfer) for inefficiency may occur because of a performance deficiency as detailed in DAOD 5019-2, Administrative Review. Reversion for misconduct may occur because of misconduct as detailed in DAOD 5019-2 or upon conviction by a civil authority for an offence which would constitute misconduct in the CAF. The offence must clearly indicate that the NCM is not fit to hold and exercise the authority of their current rank.

1.23 When an NCM is reverted for inefficiency, that NCM is not eligible for promotion for a minimum of one year following the date of reversion. They continue to receive a Performance Appraisal Report (PAR) pursuant to CAFMPI 01/23, Performance and Competency Evaluation (PaCE). All previous service in the higher rank, or ranks, together with all previous service at the lower rank will count towards seniority in the lower rank.

Note – NCMs who are appointed MCpl/MS or AL MCpl/MS and whose appointment is subsequently revoked will retain the substantive rank of Cpl/S1.

1.24 In cases involving reversion concurrent with MOT in accordance with QR&O 11.10 (2)(b), the effective date of reversion will be the effective date of MOT. The EPZ date for promotion to the next higher rank in the new military occupation will be one year from the date of reversion.

1.25 DGMC is the authority for the reversion or the revocation of the appointment of MCpl/MS of Regular Force NCMs to a lower substantive rank. The officer commanding the command (OCC) is the authority for the reversion or revocation of the appointment of MCpl/MS for Reserve Force NCMs to a lower substantive rank. A CO can order the reversion of an NCM or the revocation of the appointment of MCpl/MS for inefficiency who has been granted an acting rank below that of WO/PO1 to the NCM’s substantive rank.

1.26 An NCM cannot be reverted below the rank of Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T).

Note – There is no provision in the QR&O for an officer to be reverted from substantive rank to a lower rank for inefficiency or misconduct. Since QR&O 3.03 states that the substantive rank of an officer is the officer’s confirmed rank. An officer can be reverted from temporary or acting rank pursuant to QR&O 3.04, Temporary Rank and QR&O 3.05, Acting Rank, but not substantive rank. An officer can have their substantive rank reduced as a result of a sentence imposed by a court martial or sanction imposed in respect of a service infraction.

Relinquishment of rank

1.27 Pursuant to QR&O 11.12, Relinquishment of Rank an officer or non-commissioned member may apply for permission to relinquish a rank held by them and revert to a lower rank. Relinquishment includes the surrender of a MCpl/MS appointment. A member can request relinquishment of rank for the following reasons:

1. for personal reasons;
2. to meet the terms of employment for full-time Class "B" or "C" Reserve Service; or
3. for purposes of MOT or component transfer (CT).

1.28 A Reserve Force member who has relinquished their rank as a condition of employment on full-time Class "B" or Class "C" Reserve Service will, with the approval of the officer authorizing the reversion, be promoted to the rank held prior to the reversion at the conclusion of their period on Class "B" Reserve Service, unless there are substantive reasons to preclude such promotion.

1.29 The date of seniority of a Reserve Force member who relinquishes a substantive rank for the purpose of employment on Class "B" or "C" Reserve Service will, on completion of the employment and promotion to the former substantive rank, be the same as the previous date of seniority for that rank but the TIR and EPZ date will be adjusted by the promotion authority for the period of service at the lower rank.

1.30 Except in the cases of a CT, MOT or meeting the terms of Class "B" Reserve Service, a CAF member who relinquishes their rank will not be considered for promotion for that promotion year. They continue to receive a PAR pursuant to CAFMPI 01/23, Performance and Competency Evaluation (PaCE). All previous service in the higher rank, or ranks, together with all previous service at the lower rank will count towards seniority in the lower rank.

1.31 The effective date of relinquishment of rank for CAF members who undergo MOT is the same date as the effective date of transfer to the new military occupation.

1.32 CAF members who undergo an MOT in accordance with DAOD 5002-12, Military Occupation Transfer and who are higher than the ranks of Cpl/S1 and Capt/Lt(N) may have to relinquish their rank to Cpl/S1 or Capt/Lt(N) as a condition of accepting the MOT depending on the requirements of the new military occupation and any qualifications granted through a Prior Learning and Recognition (PLAR) assessment.

Relinquishment of Officer or OCdt/NCdt Rank to NCM rank

1.33 When a Regular Force OCdt/NCdt fails or withdraws from an officer enrolment/training plan and requests relinquishment to NCM rank for MOT to an NCM military occupation, NDHQ/DGMC is the authority who will determine the member’s new rank. Normally this will be the rank of Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T) if the OCdt/NCdt has not previously served in an NCM rank. TIR as an OCdt/NCdt, however, may count as qualifying service for promotion toward Cpl/S1. The table at paragraph 1.36 of this annex provides guidance on the rank changes.

1.34 The rank offered on relinquishment to an NCM rank will be based on any equivalencies granted through a PLAR. Additional TIR in the NCM rank will only be granted when there is compatibility between the previous officer occupation and the new NCM occupation.

1.35 A commissioned officer relinquishing a rank to become an NCM will also need their commission to be rescinded through a process within CMP that requires approval by the Governor-General (GG). Until rescinded the member will legally remain an “officer” under the NDA regardless of the rank held. Note that only the GG can rescind a commission upon notification by CMP.

Table for relinquishment of Officer rank to NCM Rank for MOT

1.36 The table below provides guidance on rank when an officer requests relinquishment to an NCM rank for MOT to an NCM occupation. 

Alteration of punishment or sanction of reduction in rank

1.37 The effect on seniority when a punishment or sanction of reduction in rank is remitted, commuted, mitigated or suspended is detailed separately in Annex I due to the amount of regulatory information presented. This in turn can affect TIR and the EPZ date as detailed in this Annex.

MOT – Seniority, TIR and EPZ date

1.38 A CAF member can transfer from their current military occupation to a new military occupation through a variety of military personnel production plans. These plans encompass both trained (attained OFP in current occupation) and untrained (not attained OFP in current occupation) status, include both voluntary and compulsory MOT, and can comprise a subsidized civilian education component. When a CAF member changes military occupations, they cease to be eligible for promotion in the former military occupation on the effective date of transfer.

Note – An NCM may apply and be selected for an officer commissioning plan or a specialist officer production plan. In-service selection for a commissioning program or a military training plan is not considered an MOT for a CAF member. Promotion requirements under these programs are detailed in Appendix 1 to Annex C.

1.39 A CAF member may also transfer to a new military occupation while undergoing a concurrent Component Transfer (CT). Information pertaining to Component and Sub-Component transfers is provided in DAOD 5002-3, Component and Sub-Component Transfer and CAFMPI 03/08, Canadian Forces Component Transfer and Component Transfer Career Programs.

MOT – Regular Force Officer

1.40 When a Regular Force officer is required to undergo training or education following an MOT, promotion eligibility depending on the rank held before MOT is as follows:

1. a 2Lt/ASLt remains eligible for promotion to Lt/SLt in accordance with Appendix 1 to Annex C; and
2. an officer, other than those officers governed by the Military Dental Training Plan (MDTP), Military Legal Training Plan (MLTP) and Military Medical Training Plan (MMTP) and in the rank of Lt/SLt or above will -
   1. remain eligible for promotion in the officer's current MOSID until the effective date of transfer, and
   2. after the effective date of transfer, they will be considered for promotion on their EPZ date after they reach OFP in their new military occupation;

Note – Regular Force NCMs selected for MLTP are commissioned and promoted to Lt/SLt while undergoing study for their baccalaureate law degree.

3. an officer governed by MDTP, MLTP, and MMTP is in the new military occupation upon the effective date of transfer. Promotion occurs as detailed in Appendix 1 to Annex C;
4. when an officer is transferred to a military occupation in which the member has already attained OFP, the EPZ date is the effective date of transfer; and
5. an officer transferred to Chaplain under CAFMPI 12/06 Subsidized Education for Entry-Level Masters in Physiotherapy, master’s in social work, Master of Divinity - Regular Force will be promoted to Capt/Lt(N) after successful completion of their MDiv and after their pastoral internship.

TIR on MOT – Regular Force Officer

1.41 A Regular Force officer at Capt/Lt(N) rank and below who is at OFP in their current military occupation will retain their TIR in the current military occupation when transferred to another military occupation, but the EPZ date will be adjusted by NDHQ/DMCPG as detailed in paragraph 1.58. A CAF member may have reached the EPZ but not be eligible for promotion because they have not yet met the other conditions and standards for promotion. Reaching OFP in the new military occupation is required.

Note – An officer at the rank of Lt/SLt who is at OFP and who undergoes MOT from a GSO occupation to a specialist occupation as defined in Appendix 1 to Annex C may count TIR in the GSO occupation towards EPZ for Capt/Lt(N) in the specialist occupation.

1.42 Officers above the rank of Capt/Lt(N) must agree to relinquish their rank and revert to Capt/Lt(N) on a voluntary MOT. Officers above the rank of Capt/Lt(N) who cannot remain in their current military occupation either must relinquish the rank on a compulsory MOT in accordance with DAOD 5002-12, Military Occupation Transfer or be recommended for release.

MOT – Regular Force NCM

1.43 When a Regular Force NCM is required to undergo training following an MOT, promotion eligibility depending on rank is as follows:

1. an NCM at the rank of Cpl/S1 and above who accepts voluntary MOT remains eligible for promotion in the current occupation until the effective date of transfer to the new military occupation. If the NCM is promoted in the current military occupation prior to the effective date of transfer to the new military occupation, the promotion does not affect the MOT, but the chain of command must advise the NCM that reversion to the rank of Cpl/S1 in the new military occupation, will be effective on the date of transfer to the new military occupation;
2. unless otherwise specified by the MOT authority, a member above the rank of Cpl/S1 must relinquish that rank and revert to the substantive rank of Cpl/S1, effective the date of transfer to the new military occupation;
3. a Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T)who has attained QL5A/RQ Cpl/S1 and who transfers to a new military occupation as a Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T) may be promoted to Cpl/S1 when the TIR in the new military occupation has been met;
4. a Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T) who is authorized provisional QL5A/RQ Cpl/S1 on MOT may be granted acting Cpl/S1 rank when all other conditions and standards have been met; and
5. when an NCM is transferred to another military occupation in which the NCM is already qualified to OFP, the EPZ date will be the effective date of transfer.

MOT – Regular Force NCM – Acting Lacking (AL) Cpl/S1

1.44 When a Regular Force Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T) transfers to another military occupation they may be granted AL/Cpl/S1 with the effective date of AL/Cpl/S1 rank being the date the member has the required TIR as detailed in paragraph 1.54 and has qualified QL4/RQ Cpl/S1 in any military occupation. For those military occupations that do not have a QL4/RQ Cpl/S1 qualification, the member must have QL3/RQ Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T) qualification and a minimum of three years total CAF service.

MOT – Reserve Force Officer

1.45 When a Reserve Force officer is required to undergo training following an MOT, promotion eligibility depending on rank is as follows:

1. a 2Lt/ASLt remains eligible for promotion to Lt/SLt in accordance with Appendix 1 to Annex C;
2. for a Lt/SLt or above after the effective date of transfer, they will be considered eligible for promotion on their EPZ date after they reach OFP in the new military occupation; and
3. when a Reserve Force officer is transferred to another military occupation in which the officer has already attained OFP, the EPZ date will be the effective date of transfer.

TIR on MOT – Reserve Force Officer

1.46 A Reserve Force officer at Capt/Lt(N) rank and below who is at OFP in their current military occupation will retain their TIR in the current military occupation when transferred to another military occupation, but the EPZ date will be adjusted by the applicable OCC as detailed in paragraph 1.57. A CAF member may have reached the EPZ but not be eligible for promotion because they have not yet met the other conditions and standards for promotion. Reaching OFP in the new military occupation is required.

Note – A Reserve Force officer in the rank of Lt/SLt who undergoes MOT from a GSO occupation to a specialist occupation as defined in Appendix 1 to Annex C may count TIR in the GSO occupation towards EPZ for Capt/Lt(N) in the specialist occupation.

1.47 Officers above the rank of Capt/Lt(N) must agree to relinquish their rank and revert to Capt/Lt(N) on a voluntary MOT as a condition of accepting the MOT. Officers above the rank of Capt/Lt(N) who cannot remain in their current military occupation must either relinquish their rank on a compulsory MOT in accordance with DAOD 5002-12, Military Occupation Transfer or be recommended for release.

MOT – Reserve Force NCM

1.48 A Reserve Force NCM remains eligible for promotion in their current occupation until the effective date of transfer. If the Reserve Force NCM is promoted in the current military occupation prior to the effective date of transfer to the new military occupation they must be advised by their chain of command that reversion to the rank of Cpl/S1 will be effective on the date of transfer to the new military occupation. Reserve Force NCMs who are MCpl/MS and above must relinquish their rank to Cpl/S1 on MOT.

Reserve Force NCM – Acting Lacking (AL) Cpl/S1

1.49 When a Reserve Force Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T) transfers to another military occupation, the approving formation commander may grant AL/Cpl/S1. The effective date of AL Cpl/S1 is the date the CAF member meets the conditions and standards at Annex A and the required TIR as detailed paragraph 1.54.

TIR and EPZ table

1.50 The table below depicts the calculation of the seniority date or Base TIR date for each rank/appointment scenario.

Enter Promotion Zone (EPZ) initial date

1.51 The initial EPZ date is determined from the enrolment/transfer date plus the specified minimum TIR prerequisite for the next higher rank minus any TIR credited for CAF members with previous service, experience or training (see note), if applicable. It is never earlier than the enrolment/transfer date.

Note – For Primary Reserve to Regular Force CT, a Prior Learning and Recognition (PLAR) report provides the credit for TIR granted a CAF member upon transfer.

EPZ dates after initial EPZ date

1.52 For Regular Force members, EPZ dates for higher ranks are normally determined from the seniority date of the current rank plus the specified minimum TIR prerequisite for the next higher rank as detailed at paragraph 1.54. The seniority date can be earlier than the effective date of promotion.

1.53 For Reserve Force members, future EPZ dates are normally determined from the date of promotion to that rank, which also acts as their seniority date.

TIR required for EPZ by rank

1.54 The table below prescribes the minimum TIR to EPZ for the next rank. The CAF common qualification requirements are also shown.

Note 1 – PLQ/PLP Module 3 is the CAF common requirement. However, the NCM General Specification (NCMGS) may identify additional environmental-specific qualifications required for promotion beyond the CAF Common PLQ/PLP.

Note 2 – Plus, any RQ for WO/PO1 and MWO/CPO2, if applicable, in accordance with occupation specification.

Note 3 – As specified in officer enrolment/production plans.

Note 4 – Must attain the OFP. See exception at paragraphs 1.55 and 1.56.

Note 5 – Total of three years of commissioned service one of which may be as 2Lt/ASLt. Variable depending on entry plan. The TIR normally required as a commissioned officer to become eligible for promotion to Capt/Lt(N) is three years in the current military occupation, whether commissioned as a 2Lt/ASLt or commissioned as a 2Lt/ASLt with simultaneous promotion to Lt/SLt. TIR from a previous military occupation may also be counted. Specialist military occupations may reduce the TIR for promotion to Capt/Lt(N), depending on the specific specialist officer entry plan, by one year for a CAF member who has a master’s degree depending on the applicability of the degree, and by two years for a CAF member with at least one year civilian experience acquired after the attainment of the master’s degree. These occupations are:

• MOSID 00195 NURSING,
• MOSID 00197 BIOSCIENCE,
• MOSID 00190 PHYSIOTHERAPY,
• MOSID 00374 PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT,
• MOSID 00203 SOCIAL WORK,
• MOSID 00208 PERSONNEL SELECTION,
• MOSID 00214 MILITARY POLICE, and
• MOSID 00211 TRAINING DEVELOPMENT.

Note 6 – Except MOSID 00204 LEGAL Officer who must complete CAFJOD at Capt/Lt(N) rank. See Annex B to Legal Officer occupation specification.

OFP exception

1.55 OFP is not a standard for promotion for officer occupations that require more than three years of initial training. Achieving the designated rank qualification for Lt/SLt in the occupation specification is the standard for promotion. The TIR calculation for EPZ includes all time at 2Lt/A/SLt and Lt/SLt ranks except time spent undergoing training that was not successfully completed. A 2Lt/A/SLt will be promoted to Lt/SLt and simultaneously to Capt/Lt(N) and a Lt/SLt will be promoted to Capt/Lt(N) upon achieving the designated rank qualification and having three years total commissioned service.

1.56 Where an officer has not received additional pay increments, promotion to Lt/SLt will be effective the day the member has one year TIR as 2Lt/ASLt with promotion to Capt/Lt(N) effective the date that the RQ for Lt/SLt is achieved provided the officer has three years total TIR.

1.57 Paragraphs 1.55 and 1.56 apply to the following military occupations:

1. MOSID 00183 PILOT upon completion of Phase III, “Wings Standard”.

EPZ date recalculation and adjustment – Officers

1.58 The EPZ date for promotion to Lt/SLt for officer military occupations will be recalculated and adjusted when an officer fails or does not complete their initial military occupation training for reasons not related to service. The TIR as 2Lt/ASLt between the start of any failed or incomplete training and the start of new training in the current or a new military occupation is not considered productive towards reaching OFP. Hence, it will not normally be counted for EPZ purposes unless the officer completes some on the job experience or delays are service related. The EPZ date for promotion to Lt/SLt or promotion will be adjusted by DGMC for the Regular Force or the appropriate Reserve Force authority for the Reserve Force.

1.59 If the officer was successful in their initial military occupation training and they undergo military occupation transfer (whether compulsory or voluntary), TIR in the previous military occupation is counted towards the new military occupation EPZ, even if the member had not reached OFP in the previous occupation. An example of an officer EPZ recalculation is detailed in paragraph 1.62.

1.60 An EPZ recalculation/adjustment decision must not be negatively affected because of a CAF member's circumstance that is interdependent, in whole or in part, on a prohibited ground of discrimination set out in the Canadian Human Rights Act. The EPZ date will not be recalculated in cases where MELS, a learning disability or neurodivergence disorder results in a military occupation transfer whether voluntary or compulsory.

Note – EPZ dates are not re-calculated for NCM occupations, however, they can be amended.

Method and example of Officer EPZ re-calculation – 2Lt/A/SLt to Lt/SLt

1.61:

Example EPZ recalculation – Scenario: Compulsory Military Occupation Transfer (COT) due to course failure

1.62:

Note – Therefore, the non-completion of the first course attempt and recourse or the course failure and subsequent COT resulted in a delayed EPZ to Lt/SLt by nine months.

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Annex C – Appendix 1 – Commissioning and promotion of Officer Cadets/Naval Cadets and promotion of Officers to higher ranks

Commissioning and promotion of OCdts/NCdts – General Service Officers (GSOs)

1.1 In accordance with NDA s. 20(2) persons will be enrolled as OCdts/NCdts or NCMs. Once an OCdt/NCdt has met the requirements for promotion as prescribed in this instruction, the Governor-General will authorize, upon recommendation from CMP, their commissioning as per the table at 1.4 below. Promotion to 2Lt/ASLt or higher ranks will be approved by the promotion authority designated in paragraph 5.2 of CAFMPI 01/26.

1.2 OCdts/NCdts can be enrolled in GSO occupations or Specialist Officer occupations. GSO occupations constitute all officer occupations not listed as Specialist Officers in paragraph 1.3 of this appendix.

Commissioning and promotion of OCdts/NCdts – Specialist Officers

1.3 The following military occupations are designated as Specialist Officers for the purposes of promotion:

1. Bioscience;
2. Chaplain;
3. Dental;
4. Legal;
5. Medical;
6. Medical Specialist;
7. Military Police;
8. Nursing;
9. Pharmacy;
10. Physician Assistant;
11. Physiotherapy;
12. Personnel Selection;
13. Social Work; and
14. Training Development.

Effective date of promotion and Time in Rank (TIR) for OCdts/NCdts Commissioned and promoted to higher ranks

1.4 The table below specifies the effective date of commissioning and promotion to 2Lt/ASLt or higher rank depending on enrolment plan and occupation, as well as the TIR for promotion where applicable. Promotion above Col/Capt(N) does not require completion of a specified TIR to be eligible for promotion to higher rank.

Note – Therefore, the non-completion of the first course attempt and recourse or the course failure and subsequent COT resulted in a delayed EPZ to Lt/SLt by nine months.

Training Standards for promotion to Lt/SLt - GSOs

1.5 Promotion to Lt/SLt for GSOs will occur once the officer has achieved the rank qualification or training required for this rank as specified in the applicable occupational specification to meet the promotion standard detailed in paragraph 1.4 of Annex A. Note that the training standard or qualification for promotion to Lt/SLt does not necessarily mean OFP which is required for promotion to Capt/Lt(N).

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Annex D – Effective date of promotion, appointment and other rank changes

Effective date of promotion, appointment or other rank changes

1.1 The effective date of a promotion or appointment (hereinafter included in the term “promotion”), or other rank change (including acting rank) established by the promotion authority, determines when the member begins to hold that rank or appointment and its accompanying authority and responsibility. It can be:

1. the day on which a promotion authority approved the promotion or other rank change;
2. any day specified by a promotion authority when they approve the promotion or other rank change;
3. the day after a member successfully completes Counselling and Probation (C & P) in accordance with DAOD 5019-4, Remedial Measures. See Annex G for more details; or
4. in respect of a deferred promotion for someone assigned to the CAF Transition Group (CAFTG), the day the member returns to duty full time fit unrestricted duties or any later day.

Amendment/cancellation of promotion and effective date

1.2 A promotion can be amended or cancelled up until the effective date. Once the effective date has arrived and a CAF member has been promoted, the promotion cannot be arbitrarily removed. Since a CAF member’s circumstances may have changed between the time a CAF member is recommended and selected for promotion, the promotion is approved and a rank change instruction is issued and received at the unit, a CO must inform the promotion authority of any non-concurrence prior to the effective date of promotion. The promotion authority will then decide if the promotion will proceed, be deferred or cancelled.

1.3 The presentation of the new rank to a CAF member is not to be confused with the effective date of promotion. As stated in CAFMPI 01/26 paragraph 5.14, the promotion should be presented to a CAF member as close as possible to the effective date but may be earlier due to service requirements. For example, a member may be leaving early in the APS for an OUTCAN posting and the CO of the losing unit may wish to recognize the member by presenting their new rank to them before departure. While the member may wear the new rank in such cases, the member does not hold that rank until the effective date.

Effective date of promotion scenarios

1.4 The effective date of promotion or appointment of CAF members given various scenarios is listed in the table below.

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Annex E – Accelerated promotion

Accelerated promotion policy

1.1 A CAF member who has demonstrated outstanding performance and ability, exceptional leadership, or supervisory potential that is deserving of promotion or appointment ahead of their peers may be nominated for accelerated promotion. A CAF member must meet all promotion conditions and standards except the EPZ date. They must have a minimum of one year of TIR in their current substantive rank to be eligible for accelerated promotion except Regular Force Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T) require two years total CAF service for accelerated promotion to Cpl/S1, and Regular Force Lt/SLt in a General Service Officer (GSO) occupation require two years of total commissioned service to be eligible for accelerated promotion to Capt/Lt(N). An officer in a Specialist Officer occupation as defined in Appendix 1 to Annex C must be in the rank of Capt/Lt(N) or above and have completed a minimum of one year of service in the officer’s current substantive rank to be eligible for accelerated promotion.

Accelerated promotion approval authorities

1.2 The approving authority for accelerated promotion to Cpl/S1 is the CAF member’s CO. DGMC is the approving authority for Regular Force members for accelerated appointment to MCpl/MS or accelerated promotion to Sgt/PO2 up to and including LCol/Cdr. An Officer Commanding a Command (OCC) is the approving authority for Reserve Force members for accelerated appointment to MCpl/MS or accelerated promotion to Sgt/PO2 up to and including LCol/Cdr. Accelerated promotion to Col/Capt(N) and above must be approved by the CDS.

Accelerated promotion process

1.3 For ranks above Cpl/S1 or appointment to MCpl/MS, the CO, or higher commander, recommends an accelerated promotion to the next higher commander for further review and endorsement prior to it being sent to the appropriate approving authority.

1.4 The request must include specific assessments of leadership abilities and describe the member’s outstanding qualities based on which the CAF member is deserving of rapid and extraordinary promotion ahead of their peers and why such a promotion would benefit the CAF. Where appointment or promotion to the rank requested is competitive, the nominated CAF member’s file will then be included in the next promotion selection board or other comparative assessment as applicable.

1.5 For Regular Force members being nominated for accelerated promotion to ranks above Cpl/S1 or appointment to MCpl/MS, the request is addressed to DGMC and staffed through the applicable career manager. See paragraph 1.11 below for specific guidance on accelerated promotion of Regular Force Lt/SLt to Capt/Lt(N) in a GSO occupation. For Reserve Force members, the request must be staffed through the chain of command to the OCC.

Accelerated promotion notes

1.6 A member above the rank of Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T) must not be accelerated through successive ranks or to the same rank twice, in cases of reduction, reversion or relinquishment of rank, except as approved by DGMC for Regular Force members or an OCC for Reserve Force members.

1.7 A Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T) nominated for accelerated appointment to MCpl/MS will be accelerated to substantive Cpl/S1 pending selection board consideration. The effective date of promotion to Cpl/S1 will be the date the recommendation was approved. The effective date of promotion to MCpl/MS will be in accordance with the applicable promotion selection list.

1.8 Regular Force members in military occupations eligible for the NCM Subsidized Training and Education Plan (STEP) are not eligible for accelerated promotion while on NCM STEP. See DAOD 5002-7, Non-Commissioned Member Subsidized Training and Education Plan - Regular Force for information on the applicable military occupations.

1.9 NCMs who are commissioned through the CFRP into a GSO occupation and promoted 2Lt/ASLt with simultaneous promotion to Lt/SLt must have two years TIR as Lt/SLt to be eligible for accelerated promotion. This meets the two years of total commissioned service provision required for Lts/SLts.

1.10 Accelerated promotion to CWO/CPO1 is not permitted.

Accelerated promotion Lt/SLt to Capt/Lt(N) guidance – Regular Force GSO occupations

1.11 D Mil C has been delegated the authority to approve the accelerated promotion from Lt/SLt to Capt/Lt(N) of Regular Force officers. Unit requests for accelerated promotion should, at a minimum, address the following four factors:

1. Needs of the CAF. The letter of recommendation must detail the way in which the accelerated promotion of the officer will meet the institutional and/or operational needs of the CAF (position and rank requirement);
2. Performance. The member must have demonstrated exceptional performance and potential. The latest Feedback Notes completed in accordance with CAFMPI 01/23, Performance and Competency Evaluation, must include specific assessment of the officer’s outstanding leadership, extremely effective performance and advanced potential including the ability to work at the Capt/Lt(N) level;
3. Professional Development (PD). The member must have demonstrated exceptional PD at their current rank such as:
   1. advanced degree(s) beyond the current minimum requirement,
   2. accelerated military PD such as completing two (2) CAFJOD modules each year since commissioning. See note below; and
4. Physical Fitness. The member must have demonstrated exceptional physical fitness as a key indicator of leadership potential. Examples of exceptional physical fitness include (but are not limited to):
   1. Achieving a FORCE evaluation result of Silver or better, and/or
   2. Participation in CISM or competitive National or Provincial teams.

Note – CEOTP officers nominated for accelerated promotion to Capt/Lt(N) must have an approved Individual Learning Plan (ILP) or Self-Development Programme (SDP), as applicable, and have demonstrated steady progress towards degree completion within the specified entry program timeline. The Canadian Defence Academy (CDA) HQ must be contacted to confirm whether a member has a valid ILP or SDP.

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Annex F – Acting rank

Acting rank – General

1.1 Pursuant to QR&O 3.05 Acting Rank, a CAF member may be granted an acting rank higher than the member's substantive rank:

1. for an indefinite period; or
2. for the period during which the member is filling a position on an establishment for which a rank higher than the member's substantive or temporary rank is authorized.

1.2 While there is only one type of rank called “Acting Rank” specified in QR&O 3.05, acting rank is used administratively in two ways:

1. when granted in accordance with QR&O 3.05(a) it takes the form of Acting (Lacks Qualification) rank also known as “Acting Lacking” (AL) rank; and
2. when granted in accordance with QR&O 3.05(b) it takes the form of Acting While So Employed (AWSE) rank.

Acting lacking rank

1.3 A Regular Force member who meets all the prerequisites for promotion except for either a CAF common, environmental or rank qualification (RQ) that is obtained by formal course may be granted AL rank. AL recognizes the fact that a CAF member has been recommended, selected and approved for promotion to substantive rank to fill a vacancy at the next rank but is missing a qualification because of the CAF’s inability to deliver the required training in time for the member to be promoted to substantive rank.

1.4 A Reserve Force promotion authority may grant AL rank to a Reserve Force member for special purposes such as to permanently fill a position at the next rank or appointment. The Reserve Force member must meet all the prerequisites for promotion except either the minimum time in rank (TIR) prerequisite or the qualifications required for the member's military occupation. The period of AL rank for a Reserve Force member may not exceed two years without OCC authorization, and the member cannot be promoted to substantive rank until all promotion conditions and standards have been met. The Reserve Force member must continuously demonstrate the ability to perform satisfactorily in the assigned position as evidenced by their performance appraisals reports.

1.5 AL rank may also be used when a CAF member who has been recommended and selected for promotion cannot achieve a promotion standard due to Medical Employment Limitations (MELs). If the CAF member’s MELs are lifted and they achieve the lacking promotion standard, they can be promoted substantively to that rank. There is no time limit to achieve the lacking promotion standard. If they cannot ever achieve the lacking promotion standard due to MELs, the Administrative Review MELs (AR/MEL) process will determine the CAF member’s ability to continue to serve in accordance with DAOD 5023-1, Minimum Operational Standards Related to the Universality of Service. If the decision is to release the CAF member they will remain in and be employed at their AL rank until release.

1.6 A CAF member granted AL rank does not have to compete for promotion at further selection boards or other comparative process, as they are considered, for all intents and purposes, to have been promoted.

1.7 AL rank may be granted when a provisional QL/RQ is granted by the enrolling authority on the enrolment, re-enrolment or transfer of a CAF member who has had former service in the CAF, or with another country, or has obtained recognized civilian qualifications for the prospective military occupation. Experience as a cadet in a Canadian Cadet Organization may also be considered. This is known as Acting Cpl/S1 Provisional. (A/Cpl/S1(P)).

1.8 For a grant of A/Cpl/S1(P) rank on enrolment or transfer the CAF member must:

1. be rank qualified and have completed training for the QL/RQ specified for that rank or have been granted the QL/RQ through a PLAR; and
2. meet all other promotion prerequisites in accordance with Annex A of this instruction.

AL rank granting authority

1.9 The authority for granting of AL rank:

1. AL/Cpl/S1 is the enrolment/transfer authority or CO; and
2. AL/MCpl/MS and above is NDHQ/DGMC for Regular Force CAF members and the designated promotion authority for Reserve Force CAF members.

AL rank eligibility

1.10 To be eligible for AL rank there must be a vacancy in the rank and military occupation and the member must:

1. for Regular Force members:
   1. lack either the CAF common or occupation rank qualification;
   2. have not previously failed the required QL/RQ qualification;
   3. have not declined attendance on a course or not have been unavailable for other than military reasons;
   4. meet all other promotion prerequisites; and
   5. have been selected and recommended for promotion.
2. for Reserve Force members:
   1. lack either the CAF common or occupation rank qualification; or
   2. lack the TIR.

Eligibility for AL rank following Military Occupation Transfer (MOT), re-enrolment, or transfer

1.11 When a CAF member does an MOT to another military occupation, that CAF member may be granted AL/Cpl/S1 if the eligibility criteria in paragraph 1.10 are met. In such cases, the effective date of promotion to AL/Cpl/S1 will be the date the member has completed a minimum of three years qualifying service or full-time equivalent and has qualified QL4/RQ Cpl/S1 in any military occupation. For those military occupations that do not have a QL4/RQ Cpl/S1 qualification, the CAF member must have QL3/RQ Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T) qualification and have a minimum of three years qualifying service.

1.12 Except where promotion is authorized under the terms of re-enrolment or transfer, the earliest date that a member may be eligible for AL/Cpl/S1 following re-enrolment or transfer will be determined using the criteria in paragraph 1.10. The effective date of promotion to substantive rank will be the date the member meets the required promotion standards.

Acting rank – Final year of service and release

1.13 Acting rank on release is governed by CFAO 15-2, Release – Regular Force. CFAO 15-2 includes provisions that also apply to the Reserve Force. In accordance with CFAO 49-10, Terms of Service – Officers Primary Reserve Annex E and CFAO 49-11, Terms of Service – NCMs Primary Reserves Annex D, the reasons, conditions and procedures pertaining to the release of CAF members are prescribed in QR&O Chapter 15, Sections 1 and 3. The policies indicating which item of release should be applied to the release of a member of the Primary Reserve are the same as those which pertain to the Regular Force.

Acting rank notes

1.14 An NCM who holds AL rank and who is subsequently selected for any officer training plan may be exempted from attending the QL/RQ course required for promotion to substantive NCM rank. Therefore, they should not be promoted to substantive NCM rank.

1.15 Acting lacking Maj/LCdr rank may be granted by DGMC for Regular Force officers enrolled under the CEOTP or an OCC for Primary Reserve officers for special circumstances such as where a suitable degreed officer is not available to fill a Maj/LCdr position on the CAF establishment.

1.16 A CAF member granted AL rank must be assessed on performance in that rank as prescribed in CAFMPI 01/23, Performance and Competency Evaluation (PaCE).

1.17 While a CAF member holding AL rank may be considered by a selection board for promotion to the next higher rank when they EPZ, they cannot be promoted to the next higher rank until they are substantive in the current rank. Should a CAF member with AL rank who is on the promotion selection list fall within the promotion forecast, and they have not achieved the missing promotion standard for the current rank by the end of the applicable promotion year, they cannot be promoted that promotion year.

1.18 For example, an A/L WO/PO1 who is within the promotion forecast for MWO/CPO2 in 2025 based on the promotion selection list approved in Fall 2024, and who does not achieve the missing WO promotion standard by 31 December 2025, cannot be promoted to MWO. The promotion to MWO lapses and the CAF member must recompete for promotion in 2026.

1.19 When AL rank is terminated by promotion to substantive rank, TIR for EPZ purposes will include time served in the AL rank.

Reversion from AL rank

1.20 A CAF member may be reverted from an acting rank to their substantive rank for misconduct or inefficiency by the promotion authority as an outcome of an Administrative Review pursuant to DAOD 5019-2, Administrative Review.

1.21 In accordance with QR&O 11.10, Reversion and Remustering for Inefficiency, or QR&O 11.11, Reversion Upon Conviction by a Civil Authority, only an NCM may be reverted from their substantive rank to a lower rank for inefficiency or for misconduct respectively.

1.22 Reversion to substantive rank will take place on the date of the reversion message plus five (5) working days (excluding weekends, statutory holidays and special Christmas or New Year's Leave). Example: if the message Date Time Group is 160800ZAUG 23 then reversion is effective 22 Aug 23. This allows time for the message to be actioned by the applicable unit upon its receipt.

Acting While So Employed (AWSE) rank

1.23 CAFMPI 01/24 – Acting Rank or Appointment (While So Employed) (AWSE) For LCol/Cdr and Below provides details on AWSE rank. Inquiries regarding AWSE for CAF members at the substantive rank of CWO/CPO1 and Col/Capt(N) and above are to be addressed to NDHQ/Director Senior Appointments (DSA).

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Annex G – Remedial measures and promotion

Remedial measures and promotion

1.1 A CAF member on the remedial measures of Initial Counselling (IC) or Recorded Warning (RW) remains eligible for promotion in accordance with DAOD 5019-4, Remedial Measures.

1.2 A CAF member on the remedial measure of Counselling and Probation (C&P) in accordance with DAOD 5019-4 is not eligible for promotion during their period of C&P. They will continue to receive a Performance Appraisal Report in accordance with CAFMPI 01/23, Performance and Competency Evaluation, and their file may be considered at future promotion selection boards, if applicable.

1.3 If a CAF member is selected for promotion while they are on C&P, the promotion will be deferred that year until they successfully complete the C&P. The CO must still concur with the promotion. If the probation period ends no later than 31 December of the year for which the CAF member has been selected for promotion the effective date of promotion will be:

1. the day after the C&P period ends, if there is still a service need for them to be promoted; or
2. on 01 December, or a later date in December if the C&P ends after 01 December, if they have been bypassed on the promotion selection list after the start of the C&P and there is no longer a position at the next rank for them to fill that year and CAF members below them have been promoted or the CAF member is on the ATL.

1.4 The seniority date in the new rank will be in the same year as the effective date of promotion and based on the dates prescribed, depending on the rank, in Annex C.

1.5 If the period of C&P will extend into the next promotion year, the intended promotion will lapse, and the CAF member must compete for promotion again. In this case their file may still be considered by a selection board for promotion, if one is being used, for the following year even if it means the board will be held while they are on C&P.

1.6 A promotion cannot be made retroactive after the successful completion of a period of C&P as that would include time in the new rank during which the CAF member was ineligible for promotion.

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Annex H – Leave Without Pay and Allowances (LWOP) and promotion

LWOP general

1.1 Periods of LWOP granted on enrolment for Regular Force members do not count towards seniority, nor as time in rank (TIR) for Enter Promotion (EPZ) purposes. Periods of LWOP of 120 days duration or less, except that period granted on enrolment, will count towards the minimum TIR for EPZ purposes. LWOP of a duration of greater than 120 days may count towards the minimum TIR for EPZ purposes only as specified by the approving authority of the leave. Periods of LWOP granted for maternity/parental (MATA/PATA) leave count towards the minimum TIR for EPZ purposes. While seniority accrues for the entire time a CAF member holds a specific rank regardless of the occupation or occupations the CAF member is in at that rank, the minimum TIR for EPZ purposes applies to the time spent in an occupation. TIR can be adjusted. See Annex C for details.

1.2 When a rank change instruction is issued for a Regular Force member or an approved promotion document for a Reserve Force member is received when they are on LWOP, the CO, in addition to informing the CAF member, must advise the appropriate promotion authority of the LWOP commencement and termination dates. The CAF member will be provided with an opportunity to choose whether to return from LWOP to be promoted. If the CAF member chooses not to return from LWOP, the appropriate promotion authority will decide if the promotion will be deferred or cancelled considering the circumstances and length of time for which the LWOP was approved. This does not apply to MATA/PATA leave.

LWOP – Maternity/parental leave

1.3 Pursuant to QR&O 16.26 Maternity Leave and 16.27 Parental Leave is a type of LWOP and applies to CAF members of the Regular Force or the Reserve Force on Class “B” or “C” Reserve Service. Extended MATA/PATA leave to 18 months is granted pursuant to QR&O 16.25 Leave Without Pay and Allowances. The promotion date for Regular Force members and Reserve Force members on Class B or C Reserve service who are on MATA/PATA leave must not be delayed solely due to the maternity or parental leave as detailed in paragraph 1.4.

1.4 A CAF member on MATA/PATA can be promoted if it is determined that they would otherwise have been promoted had they not been on maternity or parental leave. The effective date of promotion will be no later than 14 days prior to the COS date for a promotion that would have required a posting, or, when all requirements have been met in cases where no COS date is needed. Seniority will be calculated from the effective date of promotion or not earlier than 01 January in the year the promotion is effective depending on the rank, in accordance with Annex C.

Note – Reserve Force Class “A” members on MATA/PATA will be listed as Exempt Duty and Training (ED&T) for the period they are maternity or parental leave, but time spent on ED&T MATA/PATA still counts towards the minimum TIR for EPZ purposes. See CAFMPI 20/04, Administrative Policy of Class A, Class B and Class C Reserve Service, for details on ED&T.

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Annex I – Alteration of punishment or sanction and promotion following reduction or reversion of rank

Reduction and reversion of rank – General

1.1 This annex prescribes the policy relating to rank, seniority and eligibility for promotion:

1. when a CAF member has been sentenced to or received a sanction of reduction in rank;
2. where a CAF member has received an alteration to the punishment or sanction of reduction in rank; or
3. where a CAF member has been reverted in rank.

1.2 When a CAF member is reduced in rank or is reverted to a lower rank, all previous service in the higher rank, or ranks, together with all previous service at the lower rank will count towards seniority in the lower rank.

1.3 A punishment of reduction in rank imposed by a court martial or a sanction of reduction in rank imposed by a summary hearing can be altered by remission (cancellation in whole or part of sentence or sanction), commutation (changing the type of punishment by awarding a punishment or sanction lower in the scale), or mitigation (awarding a lesser amount of the same punishment or sanction). These alterations in punishment affect the CAF member’s rank and seniority, which in turn can impact the TIR required to reach the EPZ date.

Reduction in rank – Court martial punishment

1.4 A court martial can sentence a CAF member to reduction in rank. Where a court martial imposes a punishment of imprisonment on a CAF member, the court martial may, in addition, impose an additional accompanying punishment of reduction in rank. The Court Martial Appeal Court (CMAC) can overturn the decision or substitute an alternative punishment.

Reduction in rank – Summary hearing sanction

1.5 An officer of or above the rank of Col/Capt(N), designated as a superior commander, and acting as an Officer Conducting a Summary Hearing may impose the sanction of reduction in rank in respect to a service infraction. The sanction of reduction in rank applies to officers above the rank of 2Lt/ASLt and to NCMs above the rank of Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T). Pursuant to QR&O 123.01, Reduction in Rank the rank of a CAF member who has committed a service infraction may only be reduced by one substantive rank. The review process at QR&O 124, Review can commute, mitigate or remit sanctions.

Reduction and seniority after subsequent promotion

1.6 The Court Martial Appeal Court (CMAC) has the power to set aside, suspend, or substitute a punishment. The review authority for the summary hearing can suspend, commute, or remit a sanction. When a CAF member who has been sentenced to a punishment of service imprisonment with an additional accompanying punishment of reduction in rank, or a punishment of reduction in rank (including MCpl/MS appointment) and the sentences is set aside, suspended, or substituted, and the CAF member is subsequently promoted, seniority in the higher rank is dated from the date of the CAF member’s last previous promotion to that substantive rank.

1.7 When a CAF member (including MCpl/MS appointment) who has the sanction of reduction in rank commuted or remitted as a result of a review pursuant to QR&O 124.07 – Commutation, Mitigation and Remission of Sanctions, and the CAF member is subsequently promoted, seniority in the higher rank is dated from the date of the CAF member’s last previous promotion to that substantive rank.

Detention and rank – General

1.8 If a court martial imposes a sentence of detention on an NCM above the rank of private (Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T)), QR&O 104.09, Detention deems that the NCM is a private (Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T)) until detention is complete. Without a sentence that includes a reduction in rank, there is no actual reduction in substantive rank. The substantive rank of the member remains as it was. They are deemed for certain purposes to be a private (Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T)). If the sentence is suspended, commuted or remitted, the CAF member is never deemed to have been a private (Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T)).

1.9 QR&O 124.06, Substitution of Sanctions allows for the alteration of a sanction such as reduction in rank. Where reduction is to a rank other than to private (Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T)), eligibility for appointment to MCpl/MS and promotion to Sgt/PO2 and above is based on meeting the conditions and standards specified in Annex A.

Rank and seniority on alteration of punishment or sanction

Remission

1.10 Where a punishment or sanction of reduction in rank is remitted, set aside or substituted, the CAF member will have the rank and seniority date held immediately prior to the imposition of the punishment or sanction, as if no such punishment or sanction of reduction in rank had been pronounced.

1.11 Where a punishment or sanction of reduction in rank from the rank of Cpl/S1, resulting in the rescinding of the member's appointment as MCpl/MS is remitted, the return to the substantive rank (Cpl/S1) is automatic. However, the authority having power to appoint the CAF member to MCpl/MS will re-appoint the CAF member to MCpl/MS effective either as of the date original punishment was imposed or as of any subsequent date.

Commutation

1.12 A CMAC appeal allows for substitution of a punishment. A summary hearing review allows for commutation of a sanction. If a punishment or sanction of reduction in rank is substituted or commuted, that is, a punishment lower in the scale is substituted, the member will hold the rank and seniority date the member held immediately prior to the original punishment or sanction being imposed, as if no such punishment or sanction had been imposed. Where the punishment substituted involves a forfeiture of seniority, the seniority date in the rank held immediately prior to the original punishment being imposed will be adjusted by the amount of seniority forfeited under the new punishment. Note only a court martial or the CMAC can order a forfeiture of seniority.

1.13 Where a punishment or sanction of reduction in rank from the rank of Cpl/S1, resulting in the rescinding of the CAF member's appointment as MCpl/MS, and in those cases where reduction was from Sgt/PO2 and above, is substituted or commuted, the authority having power to appoint the CAF member to MCpl/MS will re-appoint the CAF member to MCpl/MS effective either as of the date the original punishment was imposed or as of any subsequent date.

Mitigation

1.14 Only a court martial can reduce rank by more than one rank. If a punishment of reduction in rank imposed on a CAF member is mitigated, that is, if a lesser amount of the same punishment is substituted, the CAF member will have seniority in the rank to which the CAF member was reduced by the new punishment, calculated from the seniority date when last in that rank as if the member had remained in that rank from that time, provided the CAF member has had continuous service since that time.

1.15 As the rank of a CAF member who has committed a service infraction and had the sanction of reduction in rank imposed on them may only be reduced by one substantive rank at the highest classification in the reduced rank, a sanction of reduction in rank cannot be mitigated.

Sentence suspension and rank

1.16 When a Cpl/S1 (including MCpl/MS appointment) is sentenced to a punishment of service imprisonment or detention requiring reduction in rank to Pte(T) and the sentence is suspended, the promotion authority may grant Acting Cpl/S1 (A/Cpl/S1) rank. If the CAF member is subsequently committed to imprisonment, the CO must revoke the A/Cpl/S1 prior to signing the committal order. Where a period of suspension of sentence is completed during which time a CAF member had held an A/Cpl/S1 rank, promotion to substantive Cpl/S1 may be authorized effective the day following completion of the suspended sentence.

1.17 In cases where a sentence was imposed and subsequently suspended, the determination of seniority will be:

1. if promoted A/Cpl/S1 on the date of sentence, from the CAF member’s last previous date of promotion to Cpl/S1; or
2. if promoted A/Cpl/S1 during the period of suspension of sentence effective a date other than the date of sentence, from the CAF member’s last previous date of promotion to Cpl/LS less the number of days of the suspension of sentence served at the rank of private (Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T))

Promotion following end of imprisonment

1.18 NCMs above the rank of private who have been sentenced to periods of imprisonment as a result of the findings of a court martial and have served the required period of imprisonment will only be promoted to the rank of Cpl/S1 or A/Cpl/S1 under the authority of DGMC for the Regular Force and an OCC or an officer with the powers of an OCC for the Reserve Force. This authority cannot be delegated further.

1.19 Following termination of service imprisonment or detention where a CAF member has been reduced to the rank of Pte(T)/S2/Avr(T), the promotion authority may promote a qualified CAF member to Cpl/S1. The effective date of promotion is the day following the release from service imprisonment or detention and the seniority date is the same as the seniority date of the CAF member's last previous promotion to Cpl/S1 as detailed in Annex C.

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Annex J – Use of promotion pools for promotion

Promotion pools - General

1.1 Promotion to the following ranks may be done by selection from merit-based promotion pools:

1. LGen/VAdm;
2. MGen/RAdm;
3. BGen/Cmdre; and
4. CWO/CPO1 (see note).

Note – In accordance with paragraph 5.6 of CAFMPI 01/26, promotion to the rank of CWO/CPO1 and BGen/Cmdre is competitive but selection from merit-based promotion pools may be authorized by the promotion approving authority to meet the needs of the CAF in filling certain appointments. If promotion pools are not used, the ranked selection list generated through an objective comparative process like the National Selection Boards for Regular Force members or other similar process must be used.

Promotion pool levels definitions

1.2 For Promotion to CWO/CPO1

1. Promotion Pool Green – suitable for promotion without further development in the current rank; and
2. Promotion Pool Blue – suitable for promotion but would benefit from further development in the current rank.

1.3 For Promotion to BGen/Cmdre and above

1. Pool A – Advancement Priority. This pool comprises officers who are ranked at the top of the merit list and are assessed as fully ready for promotion. They are considered immediately suitable for appointment to higher-level positions and should be prioritized in promotion decisions. Promotion would be substantive or acting lacking as applicable;
2. Pool B – Advancement Eligible. This pool includes officers who are assessed as ready for promotion but whose current career trajectory suggests greater benefit from continued service in their present role or reassignment to a high-profile position. Targeted for promotion if deemed best fit. Promotion would be substantive or acting lacking as applicable; and
3. Pool C – Advancement Pathway. This pool includes officers identified as future candidates for promotion who require further development before being considered promotion ready. Advancement for these individuals may occur if deemed essential and promotions would be AWSE. Continued progression through key appointments and/or completion of professional development is required.

Promotion pool use and process

1.4 Promotion pools allow the promotion authority to select candidates based on a best-fit criteria to meet CAF needs. Promotion pools are created from the ranked selection list generated through an objective comparative process that is then divided into pools. Once placed in a promotion pool; a CAF member’s Selection Board score no longer matters. All members in the promotion pool are eligible for promotion. A member selected for promotion from a promotion pool will not result in other members in that pool being considered an out of sequence promotion (bypassed), therefore they are not promoted on 01 December of the promotion year.

1.5 Normally all CAF members in a higher promotion pool will be promoted before any CAF members in a lower pool can be promoted except when there is a requirement for a specific skill set not resident in the higher pool. A CAF member promoted from a lower pool will not result in an out if sequence promotion (bypassed) situation for CAF members in a higher pool who are not promoted. See paragraph 5.12 in CAFMPI 01/26 for details on out of sequence promotion.

1.6 The process used to establish merit-based promotion pools is detailed in the CAF Selection Board Guidance Manual for the Regular Force, and in Environmental Command orders for the Reserve Force.