AF Form 937: Dependent Travel Request & Authorization – Air Force members relocating, facing overseas assignments, or dealing with special circumstances often need to arrange government-funded or authorized travel for their dependents (spouse, children, and other eligible family members). AF Form 937, officially titled Request and Authorization for Dependent(s) Travel, is the key document used to request and authorize this travel.
This form ensures dependents receive proper entitlements under the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR), including transportation, per diem (in eligible cases), and related allowances for Permanent Change of Station (PCS), Temporary Duty (TDY), early return of dependents, emergency situations, or advanced/delayed travel.
What Is AF Form 937 Used For?
AF Form 937 serves as the official travel order or authorization when dependents travel separately from the sponsor (the Air Force member). Common scenarios include:
- PCS Moves: Dependents traveling ahead of or after the member (advanced or delayed dependent travel).
- Early Return of Dependents (ERD): From overseas locations due to hardship, safety concerns, or command-directed situations (governed by JTR para 050804).
- Emergency Leave or Invitational Travel: When dependents need to travel for family emergencies or authorized events.
- Student Dependent Travel: For command-sponsored dependents overseas.
- Other Authorized Travel: Such as concurrent travel adjustments, unaccompanied tours, or specific entitlements.
Note: When dependents travel with the member, travel is often incorporated into the member’s PCS/TDY orders (e.g., via Defense Travel System – DTS). AF Form 937 is primarily for unaccompanied dependent travel.
Who Needs AF Form 937?
- Active Duty Air Force members (and sometimes Space Force or other DoD personnel) with eligible dependents.
- Dependents must meet JTR definitions (spouse, children, etc.).
- Processed through the Military Personnel Section (MPS), Finance, or appropriate command channels (e.g., for ERD, via Installation Commander or delegated authority).
How to Obtain and Fill Out AF Form 937?
- Download the Official Form: Get the current fillable PDF directly from the Air Force e-Publishing site.
Direct Download Link: AF Form 937 PDF - Coordination Steps:
- Contact your MPS Career Development or Personnel office for guidance specific to your situation (PCS, ERD, etc.).
- For ERD or hardship cases, submit a formal request with justification, supporting documents (e.g., PCS orders, command sponsorship), and route through GEARS or command channels.
- Finance certifies funds; the Orders Approving Official (often a commander or designee) authenticates the form.
- In many cases, DTS handles related authorizations, but AF Form 937 is used when manual orders are required.
Key Sections on the Form (based on official samples and instructions):
- Sponsor (member) information: Name, rank, SSN, unit.
- Dependent details: Names, relationships, dates of birth.
- Travel itinerary: From/to locations, dates, mode of travel.
- Entitlements: Transportation, per diem if authorized, remarks citing JTR authority.
- Signatures: Member, approving official, finance certifier.
Refer to AFI 65-103 (Temporary Duty Orders) for detailed preparation instructions and a sample (Figure 6.1).
Important Entitlements and Regulations
- Travel and transportation allowances are governed by the Joint Travel Regulations (JTR) – the primary source for dependent entitlements.
- Per diem for dependents is typically 75% or less of the member’s rate, depending on circumstances.
- Household goods (HHG) shipment and other allowances may be authorized alongside the form.
- Always verify current rules, as entitlements can change (e.g., for OCONUS moves, command sponsorship, or stop-movement situations).
Pro Tip: Use the Defense Travel System (DTS) where possible for efficiency, but AF Form 937 remains essential for standalone dependent authorizations.
Common Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I download and fill it out myself?
A: Yes, but it must be properly coordinated, approved, and authenticated by your unit/command for it to be valid for reimbursement or travel booking.
Q: What if my dependents are traveling for emergency reasons?
A: For funded emergency leave travel, AF Form 972 is often used for the member + dependents; AF Form 937 is for dependents traveling alone. Contact your commander/1st Sgt and American Red Cross if needed for assistance.
Q: How long does processing take?
A: Varies – routine PCS may be quick via DTS; ERD packages can take 7-10 duty days or more. Start early.
Q: Where do I submit travel vouchers after travel?
A: Use DD Form 1351-2 through DTS or your local Finance office.
Resources for Air Force Families
- Official Form: Download AF Form 937 Here
- JTR: Defense Travel Management Office (travel.dod.mil)
- AFI 65-103: Temporary Duty Orders (e-Publishing)
- Local MPS / Finance Office / myFSS
- For PCS guidance: myAirForceBenefits or assignment counselors
Disclaimer: This article provides general guidance based on publicly available official sources as of 2026. Policies and entitlements are subject to change. Always consult your local Military Personnel Section, Finance office, or chain of command for personalized advice and current JTR interpretations. Do not rely solely on this for official actions.
This guide helps USAF members and families navigate dependent travel smoothly and compliantly. Safe travels!