DAF Form 590: Withdrawal or Reinstatement of Firearms Authority

DAF Form 590: Withdrawal or Reinstatement of Firearms Authority – DAF Form 590, officially titled Withdrawal/Reinstatement of Authority to Bear Firearms, is a critical Department of the Air Force (DAF) form used to document the temporary or permanent removal or restoration of an individual’s authorization to carry, possess, or use firearms in the performance of official duties.

This form primarily applies to active-duty Air Force and Space Force members, particularly those in roles requiring arming, such as Security Forces (AFSCs 31PX and 3P0X1), law enforcement, or other personnel authorized under the Arming and Use of Force program.

What Is DAF Form 590 Used For?

Commanders (or their authorized delegates) use DAF Form 590 to formally document:

  • Withdrawal of firearms authority (often called Permanent Arming Withdrawal or PAW when indefinite).
  • Reinstatement of that authority after concerns are resolved.

Temporary withdrawals (typically under 72 hours) can occur via oral notification, but permanent or longer-term actions require documentation on DAF Form 590.

The form ensures accountability, supports force protection, and maintains compliance with safety, legal, and reliability standards. It helps protect personnel, the mission, and the public by addressing situations where an individual’s ability to safely bear arms may be in question.

Key triggers for withdrawal include:

  • Disciplinary issues or UCMJ violations.
  • Medical or mental health concerns.
  • Performance or reliability issues.
  • Legal prohibitions (e.g., certain convictions or restraining orders).
  • Commander’s determination based on duty performance, medical records, or other circumstances.

Relevant Governing Instructions

The primary reference is DAFI 31-117, Arming and Use of Force (updated as of 2025). This instruction details the Arming and Use of Force (AUoF) program, including authorization processes, temporary and permanent withdrawals, and reinstatements.

Additional related guidance appears in:

  • DAFI 36-2608 (Military Personnel Records System) — for filing the form.
  • DoDM 5210.42 and related Personnel Reliability Assurance Program (PRAP) rules, especially for Security Forces and nuclear-related duties.
  • AFMAN 71-102 — for handling personally owned firearms.

Commanders must consider all relevant factors (legal, medical, disciplinary, and performance) before permanent withdrawal and may consult Staff Judge Advocate (SJA), medical providers, Force Support Squadron, or Defense Force Commander.

How the Process Works?

  1. Withdrawal:
    • Oral notification to the individual, supervisor, and servicing armory.
    • For permanent actions, commanders document the decision on DAF Form 590.
    • The form includes the member’s name, rank/grade, unit, reason for withdrawal, and authorizing official’s signature.
    • Notification may also include restrictions on carrying firearms on installation (including under LEOSA provisions for qualified law enforcement).
  2. Reinstatement:
    • Occurs when the commander determines the individual can safely resume armed duties — typically after a favorable investigation outcome, medical clearance, successful treatment, or resolution of concerns.
    • Requires written notification to the individual and updated documentation (DAF Form 590, TAW roster, or memorandum) provided to the armory within 24 hours.
    • Armory personnel must receive signed reinstatement authorization before issuing weapons or ammunition.
    • For personally owned firearms held by the government, a criminal justice information check may be required before return.

The form is filed in accordance with personnel records guidance and becomes part of the individual’s official record when applicable.

Who Needs DAF Form 590?

  • Commanders and supervisors initiating or approving arming actions.
  • Security Forces personnel and others routinely armed for duties.
  • Individuals whose authority is affected (they receive notification and may be involved in reinstatement requests via medical or investigative processes).

Note: This form is internal to the Department of the Air Force. It does not directly affect civilian firearms rights (such as ATF Form 4 transfers or private purchases), though service members should consult legal counsel if concerned about any potential collateral impacts. Questions about effects on civilian gun ownership are common in service forums but are handled case-by-case.

How to Obtain and Complete DAF Form 590?

The official form is available through the Department of the Air Force e-Publishing system. You can download the current version here:
DAF Form 590 PDF

Completion tips (based on standard usage):

  • Provide accurate personal information (name, rank, SSN or DoD ID, unit).
  • Clearly document the reason for withdrawal or the basis for reinstatement.
  • Include dates, signatures, and any supporting references (e.g., medical evaluation, investigation results).
  • Route through the appropriate chain of command.

Always refer to the latest version of DAFI 31-117 for detailed block-by-block instructions, as form layout and requirements can be updated.

Why Proper Use of DAF Form 590 Matters?

Accurate and timely use of this form supports:

  • Mission readiness and safety.
  • Legal compliance with DoD and DAF arming policies.
  • Personnel due process — ensuring decisions are documented and individuals receive proper notification.
  • Reliability programs — especially critical for Security Forces and high-stakes duties.

Commanders have significant discretion but must act reasonably and document thoroughly to withstand potential reviews or corrections boards.

Additional Resources

  • Official DAF e-Publishing site: www.e-publishing.af.mil — for the most current forms and instructions.
  • DAFI 31-117: Arming and Use of Force (search on e-Publishing).
  • Consult your unit armory, commander, first sergeant, or servicing legal office (SJA) for specific situations.
  • For medical/mental health-related withdrawals or reinstatements, coordinate with primary care or mental health providers.

Important Disclaimer: This article provides general information based on publicly available Department of the Air Force publications as of 2025–2026. Policies can change. Always verify with official sources, your chain of command, or legal advisor for the latest guidance and how it applies to your specific situation. Do not rely solely on this overview for official actions.

If you are a DAF member dealing with arming authority issues, reach out to your supervisor or commander promptly. Early engagement with support services (medical, chaplain, or legal) can often help resolve concerns and support successful reinstatement when appropriate.