DAF Form 869: U-Drive-It Joint Vehicle Inspection (PDF)

DAF Form 869: U-Drive-It Joint Vehicle Inspection (PDF) – U.S. Air Force and Department of the Air Force (DAF) personnel frequently use government vehicles for official duties. DAF Form 869, titled U-Drive-It Joint Vehicle Inspection, plays a critical role in safely managing short-term vehicle rentals through the U-Drive-It (UDI) program. This form ensures accountability, documents vehicle condition, and protects both users and the government from liability for damage.

What Is DAF Form 869?

DAF Form 869 is the official joint inspection document for U-Drive-It vehicles. It records pre- and post-use inspections of government-provided vehicles, typically general-purpose cars or light trucks issued for temporary official use.

Key sections include:

  • Requester and Vehicle Details: Confirmation number, plate number, mileage, fuel level, vehicle type, date/time provided, and projected return.
  • Customer Vehicle Inspection Findings: Users check for and mark any new damage (e.g., D = Dent, S = Scratch, M = Missing, W = Windshield) on a vehicle diagram, noting any issues not on the Permanent Waiver Card.
  • Certification Statements: The user certifies official use only per Public Law, DoDM 4500.36, and DAFI 24-301. They acknowledge potential responsibility for damages.
  • Vehicle Return Joint Inspection: In-check details including return mileage, fuel level, and any additional damage found.

The latest edition is dated 20260408 (April 8, 2026), prescribed by DAFI 24-301. Previous editions are obsolete.

Purpose of the U-Drive-It (UDI) Program

The U-Drive-It program provides short-term, centralized vehicle support for official government business. It minimizes the need for long-term vehicle assignments and supports:

  • Temporary Duty (TDY) personnel
  • Mission requirements
  • Distinguished visitors (in some cases)
  • Units needing vehicles for less than 60 days (typically limited to general-purpose vehicles)

UDI vehicles operate under strict official-use rules. Misuse can trigger investigations and financial liability.

Why the Joint Inspection Process Matters?

The joint inspection (before checkout and upon return) protects all parties:

  • Pre-use: Identifies existing damage so the user is not held responsible.
  • Post-use: Documents any new issues, fuel levels, mileage, and cleanliness (users must refuel to the original or higher level, clean mud/grime, and remove trash).

This process complies with Department of Defense and DAF policies on non-tactical vehicle management. It supports safety, accountability, and proper resource use across U.S. Air Force installations.

How to Complete DAF Form 869? (Step-by-Step)

  1. Checkout (Out-Check): The requester and vehicle operations personnel complete requester/vehicle info and perform the initial inspection together. Mark any new damage and sign.
  2. During Use: Operate the vehicle strictly for official purposes.
  3. Return (In-Check): Joint inspection with Ground Transportation staff. Note mileage, fuel, and any new damage. Both parties certify.
  4. Retention: Follow local procedures for form submission and records.

Notes from the form: Users must refuel appropriately and clean the vehicle. Unauthorized damage may lead to investigations.

Where to Get DAF Form 869?

  • Official Download: Direct PDF from Air Force e-Publishing → Download DAF Form 869 here.
  • Contact your local Logistics Readiness Squadron (LRS) / Ground Transportation Operations Center (GTOC) or Vehicle Operations office on base.
  • Some installations provide the form digitally through their vehicle request systems.
  • DAFI 24-301: Ground Transportation – Primary governing instruction for vehicle operations, including UDI procedures.
  • DoDM 4500.36: Acquisition, Management, and Use of DoD Non-Tactical Vehicles.
  • AFMAN 24-306: Operation of Air Force Government Motor Vehicles (driver training and licensing).
  • Local base supplements or operating instructions may add specific rules.

For the most current guidance, visit the official Air Force e-Publishing website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who needs to use DAF Form 869?
Any authorized DAF, military, or approved civilian user checking out a U-Drive-It vehicle.

Can UDI vehicles be used off-base?
Yes, for official duties within policy limits (check local radius restrictions and approvals).

What if damage is found on return?
Document it on the form. An investigation may determine responsibility.

Is the form mandatory?
Yes, for proper accountability and compliance with federal and DAF regulations.

How long can I keep a UDI vehicle?
Typically limited to short-term use (under 60 days) to avoid circumventing standard vehicle acquisition processes.

Stay Compliant and Drive Safely

Proper use of DAF Form 869 helps maintain readiness, ensures safety, and avoids unnecessary costs to the U.S. taxpayer. Always coordinate with your installation’s Ground Transportation office for training, vehicle availability, and specific procedures.

Download the latest DAF Form 869 PDF directly from the official source and keep this guide handy for your next U-Drive-It checkout. For questions, reach out to your local LRS Vehicle Operations team.

This article is for informational purposes and based on publicly available official DAF sources. Policies can change—verify with current DAFI 24-301 and your installation for the latest requirements.