Can service members use third-party CAC readers?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Apr 2018 12:34:38 -0400

At our unit, supply typically gives you an "Official" CAC reader, the grey ones with the long cord. I never really was given guidance on if we only could use this. My laptop has one built in to it and I have a third party one I use on my desktop. I didn't think this was a problem until an NCO warned that nothing other than the issued ones are allowed to be used. Wondering if this has validity or if it doesn't matter for most service members?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 4 at 2018 12:41 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 04 Apr 2018 12:41:07 -0400

I've got one at home that I bought at the PX. All of the guidance that I've ever been given was "If you don't have a CAC reader and you don't want to buy one, Supply has some available."

Response by SGT Joseph Gunderson made Apr 4 at 2018 3:55 PM

SGT Joseph Gunderson — Wed, 04 Apr 2018 15:55:56 -0400

We always did...

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 7 at 2018 3:07 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 07 Apr 2018 15:07:40 -0400

As national guard, I've never been issued one but if I want to do anything with a military website I need one. I purchased my own and know multiple full-timers that have done the same.