TAP is the DoD program that prepares service members to leave active duty. It is mandatory for separating members who have served 180 continuous days or more on active duty. It covers counseling, a transition plan, briefings on benefits and careers, and a final Capstone review. You can attend more than once.
Who qualifies
- Mandatory for separating service members with 180 or more continuous days on active duty. [Military OneSource; DoDI 1332.35]
- Spouses and caregivers are encouraged to attend pre-separation counseling with the service member. [Military OneSource]
- Installation TAP offices also help spouses for up to 180 days after separation or retirement. [Military OneSource]
The timing that matters
- Start no later than 365 days before separation. For retirement, start as soon as possible within the 24 months before the retirement date, and no later than 365 days before. [10 U.S.C. 1142; DoDI 1332.35, Change 1, July 29, 2025]
- Capstone happens no later than 90 days before separation. A commander or designee checks that your Career Readiness Standards are met and that you have a viable Individual Transition Plan. [Military OneSource; DoD Military Leader's Guide to TAP]
- If separation comes up with less than 365 days' notice, TAP starts as soon as possible in the time left. [Military OneSource]
What is in it
List as written by Military OneSource
Individualized initial counseling, pre-separation counseling, the DoD Transition Day (Managing Your Transition, the Military Occupational Code Crosswalk and Financial Planning), VA Benefits and Services, the Department of Labor Employment Fundamentals of Career Transition, and a two-day track you choose: Employment, Vocational, Education or Boots to Business. You elect at least one track.
Questions worth asking before you move on
- Which track fits where I'm headed, and when is my next class date?
- When is my Capstone date, and what do I need on file by then?
- Where do I get my VMET (DD Form 2586), and does it list my training and occupation correctly?
Official sources
- Military OneSource, About the Transition Assistance Program
- DoD Instruction 1332.35 (Change 1, July 29, 2025)
- 10 U.S.C. 1142
- TAP events and classes
Where Loona One fits
Loona One works alongside TAP, 24/7, on your own time and between appointments. Your Career Record keeps your rate, MOS or AFSC, dates and goals in plain civilian language so you have something ready for the Military Occupational Code Crosswalk session. The translator is free and needs no sign-up.
Last checked Oct 30, 2026. Rules change. Confirm on the official page before you act.
Keep your transition organized in one place.
Loona One works alongside TAP, your transition office and veteran nonprofits so you can plan between appointments and on your own time.
Loona One is an independent product from Loona LLC, a Florida business. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by the DoD, the VA or any military branch. This page is general information. The program decides who qualifies.