What’s the Army ADOS Process like?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 11:47:14 -0400

Good morning, I am typing this question from my phone. As the question states, what’s the Army ADOS process like? Currently it took me a while, but I just got my O-6 to sign off on my release memo for an ADOS opportunity. It was a whole mess trying to get that, anyways the required highlighted staff of 3 personnel have received all the required documents for them to approve the ToD packet.

My other question is that, once acknowledged that they have the proper documentation. How long does it usually take to get the approval from your G3 Mob? They acknowledged my required documents, but have yet to respond to my question on how long it will take?

I have waited for about a week with no response, so I’m wondering if anyone else has experienced something similar or maybe I’m just being arrogant. Just trying to get expedited before I lose this cool opportunity to go on these Orders.

Thank you,

Response by COL Randall C. made Mar 12 at 2024 2:05 PM

COL Randall C. — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 14:05:25 -0400

Short answer: Start to finish is typically 60-90 days if there are no hiccups, but they can easily take 120+ days if the packet has to be sent back to an earlier step for corrections/additional information or if additional approval authorities are added into to the workflow.

The ultimate approval authority isn't (usually) the force requester (where you're going to work). For the majority of the ADOS packets, HQDA will be the final approval authority.

The process is a little different between CO-ADOS and OP-ADOS, but the main steps are the following (Assuming the requesting command has already created a position):
● You apply for the position in TOD. You'll have to upload all the required documents to ensure you are "green" - ACFT, Medical, etc. Any "red bubbles" will will have to have the issue fixed or addressed prior to the packet being submitted (e.g., you don't have a current PHA or ACFT; there is a rank/MOS mismatch between you and the position, etc.)
● If the position has been restricted to you, then all the requesting organization has to do is approve your selection and then you have to accept the selection (it's the same process regardless if the position is restricted to you or not).
● The packet is sent to your RC CoC where it will have to be staffed, have your release approved, etc. It sounds like you have the approvals in place, so it's just a matter of getting the official digital signatures on the packet.
● Once it completes on the RC CoC side, then it's routed to HQDA. HQDA routes it through a multitude of sections to ensure you're "green" on requirements, ensure the money is still available for funding your position, ensure you specifically don't have any regulatory or legal issues that would stop your packet, etc.
● Finally, if everything is approved, your packet is transferred over to another system (DAMPS) for final processing and orders production.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 13 at 2024 9:47 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 13 Mar 2024 09:47:20 -0400

It varies wildly based on all kinds of factors. Paperwork that is to your benefit always takes the longest. Good luck

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 19 at 2024 12:09 PM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 12:09:36 -0400

I've been on ADOS multiple times and frequently managed to get new ADOS once the old one expired.

However, I think it has something to do with my releasing unit was approving unit for the ADOS I was going to work for (or at least my releasing unit was subordinate to the receiving unit).

That said............. the Army quite frequently loses soldiers for ADOS because it took too long and they had to secure civilian employment elsewhere while the system was spinning it's wheels.

Act on employment opportunities that best work out for you. There is no shortage of ADOS opportunities.