DAF Form 523: USAF Authorization to Bear Firearms (2026) – The DAF Form 523, officially titled USAF Authorization to Bear Firearms, is the Department of the Air Force’s standardized document that grants qualified personnel written authority to carry and bear firearms while performing official duties. It serves as critical proof of authorization for both uniformed and civilian Department of the Air Force (DAF) members, including those in the Regular Air Force, Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard, and United States Space Force when applicable.
This form is particularly important for personnel not in uniform or those authorized to carry concealed firearms on duty. It ensures compliance with strict DAF policies on arming, use of force, and reliability standards.
What Is DAF Form 523 Used For?
DAF Form 523 authorizes specific individuals to bear firearms in support of official military duties, such as:
- Security Forces operations
- Law enforcement or investigative duties
- Protection of distinguished visitors or assets
- Certain force protection missions
- Other roles designated by authorizing officials
Key policy points from DAFI 31-117 (Arming and Use of Force):
- Personnel not in uniform who are performing official duties must carry the DAF Form 523 when armed and surrender it when the armed portion of their duties ends.
- The DAF generally prohibits concealed carry of firearms on duty unless specifically authorized in writing. When concealed carry is approved, the individual must carry the DAF Form 523 (except in rare cases where it could compromise the mission).
- The form uses standardized permit numbering (e.g., “88 Security Forces Squadron 12-2023”). For concealed authorizations, the word “CONCEALED” precedes the permit number.
- Forms issued for off-base operations typically require a full-face photograph; others include the statement “VALID ON (INSTALLATION NAME) ONLY.”
Installation commanders (including Air National Guard) can authorize retention of the form for personnel whose missions regularly require concealed carry.
Related form: DAF Form 590 is used to withdraw or reinstate authority to bear firearms.
Who Can Authorize and Receive DAF Form 523?
Authorizing officials are designated in DAFI 31-117 and related security forces guidance (such as DAFI 31-118). This typically includes commanders at appropriate levels, Security Forces leadership, or other officials responsible for arming decisions.
Eligibility requires:
- Assignment to an approved “arming group”
- Successful completion of required firearms training and qualification (per AFI 36-2654, Combat Arms Program, or equivalent)
- Meeting Personnel Reliability Assurance Program (PRAP) or other suitability standards, especially for Security Forces personnel (AFSCs 31PX and 3P0X1)
- No disqualifying factors under DoD or DAF reliability programs
Note: This form is not a general concealed carry permit for personal use. It applies strictly to official duties and does not override federal, state, or local laws regarding firearms possession off-duty or off-installation.
How to Obtain and Use DAF Form 523?
- Qualification — Complete required training, background checks, and reliability screening.
- Request — Submit through the chain of command to the appropriate authorizing official.
- Completion — The form includes blocks for personal information, authorization details, permit number, validity period, weapon details (if applicable), signatures, and a photograph (when required).
- Carrying Requirements — Carry the physical or approved form while armed (especially when not in uniform or when carrying concealed). Return it as directed when duties conclude.
- Record Keeping — Units maintain proper documentation in accordance with DAF records management policies.
The official fillable PDF is available for download directly from the Air Force e-Publishing site:
→ Download DAF Form 523 PDF: https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/af_a4/form/daf523/daf523.pdf
Always use the most current version from the official e-Publishing portal to ensure compliance.
Important Compliance and Safety Notes
- Tiered Compliance — Many requirements in DAFI 31-117 carry T-1 (mandatory) compliance levels.
- Use of Force — Authority to bear firearms is paired with strict rules on the use of force. Personnel must follow escalation-of-force protocols and only use necessary force.
- Concealed Carry Restrictions — Unauthorized concealed carry on duty is prohibited for military, civilian, and contract personnel.
- Privacy Act — The form collects personally identifiable information and is protected under the Privacy Act of 1974.
- Local Supplements — Installation-specific guidance may add requirements (e.g., at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson or other locations). Check with your unit or Security Forces squadron.
Commanders and supervisors should ensure all armed personnel understand both the authorization process and the limits of their authority.
Why Proper Authorization Matters?
Maintaining rigorous control over who bears firearms protects Air Force personnel, assets, and the public while ensuring mission effectiveness. The DAF Form 523 provides the necessary written documentation to verify that an individual is trained, reliable, and officially authorized—reducing risk and supporting accountability.
For the latest policy, refer to:
- DAFI 31-117, Arming and Use of Force (current as of 2025 updates)
- DAFI 31-118, Security Forces Standards and Procedures
- Air Force e-Publishing (www.e-publishing.af.mil)
Download the Official DAF Form 523 Here: https://static.e-publishing.af.mil/production/1/af_a4/form/daf523/daf523.pdf
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is based on publicly available Department of the Air Force publications. It is not legal advice. Always consult your chain of command, Security Forces, or the most current official instructions for guidance specific to your situation and installation. Policies can be updated; verify information through official .mil sources.