General Information
General Information

You will follow the procedures on this page and in DoD Instruction (DoDI) 5025.01, "DoD Issuances Program," to process all DoD issuances, whether you are creating a new issuance, reissuing an existing one, or changing or cancelling an issuance. More detailed processing procedures are available in Processing ODA&M Issuances. Training on processing issuances is offered bimonthly; for schedules and registration, click here.

The procedures on this page apply to issuances originating in the Office of the Director of Administration and Management (ODA&M). If you're not in an office within ODA&M, click here.

Issuance Submissions

Issuances and their supporting material must be submitted electronically to the Directives Division for review at whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.mil. As your focal point, we will load the material to the DoD Issuances Portal for you (DoD PKI certificate required).
Stage 1A: Draft the Issuance
What You'll Do

-- Determine if your issuance is a directive, instruction, manual, administrative instruction, or directive-type memorandum.
-- For new issuances, assign a number using our guidelines. You won't need to assign a number if your issuance is a change or reissuance.
-- Follow the standards and use the DoD Issuance Style Guide and the Special Considerations Checklist while drafting your issuance.
-- If you have information collections or forms in your issuance (see the Special Considerations Checklist), review the DoD Information Collections and DoD Forms Management Program websites for help.

--Coordinate with any offices within your ODA&M branch having equity in your issuance and adjudicate their comments.

-- Prepare a draft (unsigned) ODA&M Form 1 for ODA&M Internal Coord and a draft (unsigned) DD Form 106.
-- Send the draft issuance and unsigned ODA&M Form 1 and DD Form 106 to us for review via email at whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.mil (unclassified) or whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.smil.mil (classified).
-- We'll assign your package to a compliance analyst, and inform you by email of the suspense date.
-- Your compliance analyst will review your package to make sure it is complete and conforms to DoD issuance standards.
-- We'll return the edited package to you through the DoD Issuances Portal for necessary revisions.
-- Contact your compliance analyst to discuss any questions or concerns.

Documents You'll Use

-- A completed but unsigned DD Form 106
-- A completed but unsigned ODA&M Form 1 for Internal Coord
-- Issuance Template
-- Charter Template (only for use within Organizational and Management Policy Directorate, ODA&M)

Resources You'll Need

-- DoD Issuances Defined
-- DoD Issuance Style Guide (best practices for writing issuances and detailed formatting guide)
-- DoD Issuance Style Guide, Addendum A
-- DoD Issuance Numbering System
-- Special Considerations Checklist (guidance for Federal Register, Labor Relations, Privacy Act, Forms, etc.)
-- ODA&M Authorized Coordinators (for offices within DA&OP only)
-- Forms Website
-- Information Collections Website
-- Using the Issuance Template's MS Word Features

Related Training / Additional Info

-- Plain Writing Act of 2010
-- Plain Language Online Training

-- Timelines for Coordination and Completion of DoD Issuances
-- Action Officer Timeline Tool (right click to download Microsoft Excel document)
-- Security and Classification Information:
-- DoDI 5230.09, "Clearance of DoD Information for Public Release"
-- DoDI 5230.29, "Security and Policy Review of DoD Information for Public Release"
-- Information Security/Website Alert
Stage 1B: Coordinate Internally (with all ODA&M Directorates)
What You'll Do

-- Get your director’s or deputy director’s signature on the ODA&M Form 1 for DA&M Internal Coord.

-- Route the signed ODA&M Form 1, a copy of the revised draft issuance, and a blank DD Form 818 in CATMS for ODA&M coordination. See ODA&M Coord Process Guidance for CATMS trigraphs.

-- Set the suspense date for coordination. Typically, it is a minimum of 10 work days, but this may vary depending on the length and urgency of your issuance.

Documents You'll Use

-- A revised, clean copy (i.e., no track changes or comments) of your issuance
-- Signed ODA&M Form 1 for Internal Coord
-- DD Form 818 and DD Form 818-1
-- ODA&M List of Coordinating Officials

Resources You'll Need
-- ODA&M Coord Process Guidance Including CATMS Addresses (DoD Access: CAC Required)
-- ODA&M Authorized Coordinators

-- Using the Issuance Template's MS Word Features
-- DoD Issuance Style Guide

-- DoD Issuance Style Guide, Addendum A

Related Training / Additional Info
-- DD Form 818 Training
-- Plain Writing Act of 2010
-- Security and Classification Information:

-- DoDI 5230.09, "Clearance of DoD Information for Public Release"
-- DoDI 5230.29, "Security and Policy Review of DoD Information for Public Release"
-- Information Security/Website Alert
Stage 2A: Precoordination Review
What You'll Do

-- Send the precoordination review package described in "Documents You'll Use" to us via email at whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.mil (unclassified) or whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@smil.mil (classified).

-- We'll assign your issuance to a compliance analyst and inform you by email of the suspense date.

-- Your compliance analyst will review your package to make sure it is complete and conforms to DoD issuance standards.

-- We'll return the edited package to you through the DoD Issuances Portal for necessary revisions.

-- Contact your compliance analyst to discuss any questions or concerns.

Documents You'll Use

-- Completed but unsigned ODA&M Form 1 for DD Form 106 Signature

-- Completed but unsigned DD Form 106

-- A revised clean copy (i.e., no track changes or comments) of your issuance

-- Your consolidated DD Form 818-1 from ODA&M internal coordination

-- Your ODA&M List of Coordinating Officials

-- The coordinations from internal coordination

Related Training / Additional Info

-- Timelines for Coordination and Completion of DoD Issuances

-- Action Officer Timeline Tool (right click to download Microsoft Excel document)
Stage 2B: Precoordination Revision
What You'll Do

-- Revise the edited issuance package as directed by your compliance analyst. Contact your compliance analyst to discuss any questions or concerns.

-- If we tell you a second precoordination is required, send the revised package described in "Documents You'll Use" to us via email at whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.mil (unclassified) or whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.smil.mil (classified).
-- The next stage, legal objection review, is optional for non-Federal Register issuances. If you are requesting a legal objection review from the Office of the General Counsel (OGC), go to Stage 2C. If not, go to Stage 2D.

Documents You'll Use
-- Your completed but unsigned ODA&M Form 1 for DD 106 Signature
-- Your completed but unsigned DD Form 106
-- Your issuance
-- Your consolidated DD Form 818-1 from DA&M internal coordination
-- Your ODA&M List of Coordinating Officials

Resources You'll Need

-- DoD Issuances Style Guide (best practices for writing issuances and detailed formatting guide)

-- DoD Issuances Style Guide, Addendum A

-- Using the Issuance Template's MS Word Features

Related Training / Additional Info
-- Plain Writing Act of 2010
-- Plain Language Online Training
-- DoD Issuances Template Training
-- DD Form 818 Training
Stage 2C: Legal Objection Review
What You'll Do

This stage is optional if your issuance isn't going to be published in the Federal Register.

-- Email your issuance and unsigned DD Form 106 to whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.mil (unclassified) or whs.pentagon.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.smil.mil (classified) to post to the DoD Issuances Portal.

-- Your compliance analyst will quickly check your material to make sure it meets required standards and will tell the Directives Administrator when it is ready for release.

-- We’ll release the action on the Portal to OGC for review. The Portal will send an email notifying you of the action, including the suspense date and a copy of the latest version of the issuance package. Be sure to use that version moving forward.

-- OGC will review your issuance to make sure it complies with law. Be sure to make the changes that were identified as legal issues. Discuss and resolve any concerns with the attorney assigned to your issuance.

Documents You'll Use

-- Completed but unsigned DD Form 106

-- A clean copy (i.e., no track changes or comments) of your issuance

Related Training / Additional Info

-- What Do I Do During Legal Review?
Stage 2D: DD Form 106 Signature
What You'll Do

-- If you got a legal objection review:

-- Adjudicate all OGC comments.

-- If possible, don't make additional changes to your issuance or DD Form 106 other than those specified by OGC. If you do need to make changes, talk to the lawyer who reviewed your issuance to make sure your changes don’t raise any legal concerns.

-- Send the approval package described in “Documents You’ll Use” to your director or deputy director to electronically sign the ODA&M Form 1 for DD Form 106 Signature.

-- Email the approved package to whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.mil (unclassified) or whs.pentagon.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.smil.mil (classified).

-- Your compliance analyst will review your formal coordination package. If your package is complete, we will forward it via CATMS to ODA&M leadership for DD Form 106 signature.

Documents You'll Use

-- Your completed but unsigned DD Form 106

-- Signed ODA&M Form 1 for DD Form 106 Signature

-- A clean copy (i.e., no track changes or comments) of your issuance

-- Your consolidated DD Form 818-1 from ODA&M internal coordination

-- Your ODA&M List of Coordinating Officials

-- A blank DD Form 818 with subject line and table header completed (for posting to the DoD Issuances Portal for formal coordination)
Stage 3A: Coordinate via Portal
What You'll Do

-- When the DD Form 106 is signed, we will post your issuance to the DoD Issuances Portal. The Portal will send you an email notifying you that coordination has begun and of the suspense date. The email will also include a copy of the latest version of the issuance package. Be sure to use that version moving forward.

-- If you’re coordinating with anyone who doesn't have access to the Portal (e.g., Federal agencies outside of the DoD), send the issuance, copy of the signed DD Form 106, and a blank DD Form 818 directly to them.
-- You will be notified by email each time a DoD Component posts its response to the Portal.

Resources You'll Need
-- Offices with Access to DoD Directives Portal

Related Training / Additional Info
-- DD Form 818 Training
-- DD Form 818 Signature Tips
Stage 3B: Coordination Revision
What You'll Do

-- Confirm the appropriate Component authorities signed the coordinations in accordance with the List of Signature Authorities and Authorized Component Coordinators.

-- Copy comments onto a DD Form 818-1 (use one form for all the comments you have received).
-- Review comments, note how you will adjudicate them in the DD Form 818-1, and adjust your issuance accordingly.
-- If any comments are legal in nature, work with your focal point to find an associate general counsel in OGC to advise you. If you got a legal objection review, contact the attorney that completed it.
-- Follow the dispute resolution guidance in DoDI 5025.01 to address nonconcurs.
-- Create a List of Coordinating Officials.
-- Create an Executive Summary of Changes (only if you’re changing or reissuing a DoD directive).
-- Prepare an ODA&M Form 1 for Approval. If your issuance is a directive, use the ODA&M Form 1 for DSD Approval and create an Action Memo from the Director of Administration and Management to the DSD.

Documents You'll Use
-- A completed but unsigned ODA&M Form 1 for Approval (or ODA&M Form 1 for DSD Approval for DoD directives)
-- A completed but unsigned DoD Directive Action Memo (for DSD approval only)
-- DoDD Summary of Changes (only if you’re changing or reissuing a DoD directive)
-- Your issuance
-- DD Form 818-1
-- List of Coordinating Officials

Resources You'll Need
-- List of Signature Authorities (guidance for who can initiate coordination, coordinate on issuances, and approve issuances).
-- Authorized Component Coordinators (includes specific designations about who can sign the DD Form 106 – DoD PKI certificate required)

-- DoD Issuance Style Guide

-- DoD Issuance Style Guide, Addendum A

-- Using the Issuance Template's MS Word Features

Related Training / Additional Info
-- DoDI 5025.01, "DoD Issuances Program"
-- Sign up for the next 818(-1) Module
Stage 4A: Presignature Review
What You'll Do

-- Send the presignature package described in “Documents You’ll Use” to us via email at whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.mil (unclassified) or whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.smil.mil (classified).

-- We’ll assign your package to a compliance analyst and inform you by email of the suspense date.

-- Your compliance analyst will review your package to make sure it is complete and conforms to DoD issuance standards.

-- We’ll return the edited package to you through the Portal for necessary revisions.

Documents You'll Use

-- Completed but unsigned ODA&M Form 1 for Approval (or ODA&M Form 1 for DSD Approval for DoD directives)

-- Completed but unsigned DoD Directive Action Memo (for DSD approval only)

-- DoDD Summary of Changes (only if you’re changing or reissuing a DoD directive)

-- A clean copy (i.e., no track changes or comments) of your issuance

-- DD Form 818-1

-- List of Coordinating Officials

-- Any coordinations not posted to the Portal

Related Training / Additional Info

-- Timelines for Coordination and Completion of DoD Issuances

-- Action Officer Timeline Tool (right click to download Microsoft Excel document)
Stage 4B: Presignature Revision
What You'll Do

-- Revise your issuance package as directed by your compliance analyst.

-- Contact your compliance analyst to discuss any questions or concerns.
-- If we tell you a second presignature is required, send the revised package described in “Documents You’ll Use” to us via email at whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.mil (unclassified) or whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.smil.mil (classified).

Documents You'll Use
-- Your completed but unsigned ODA&M Form 1 for Approval (or ODA&M Form 1 for DSD Approval for DoD directives)
-- Your unsigned DoD Directive Action Memo (for DSD approval only)
-- DoDD Summary of Changes (only if you’re changing or reissuing a DoD directive)
-- Your issuance
-- DD Form 818-1
-- List of Coordinating Officials
Stage 4C: Legal Sufficiency Review
What You'll Do

-- Email your package described in “Documents You’ll Use” to us via email at whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.mil (unclassified) or whs.pentagon.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.smil.mil (classified) to post to the DoD Issuances Portal.

-- Your compliance analyst will quickly check your material to make sure it meets required standards and will tell the Directives Administrator when it’s ready for release.

-- We’ll release the action on the Portal to OGC for review, and the Portal will send you an email notifying you of the action, including the suspense date and a copy of the latest version of the issuance package. Be sure to use that version moving forward.

-- OGC will review your issuance to make sure it complies with law and send you their response through the DoD Issuances Portal.

-- Be sure to make the changes that OGC identifies as legal issues. Discuss and resolve any concerns with the attorney assigned to your issuance. Consult your Directives Division compliance analyst if any OGC changes are contrary to issuance standards.

Documents You'll Use

-- Your completed but unsigned ODA&M Form 1 for Approval (or ODA&M Form 1 for DSD Approval for DoD directives)

-- Your unsigned DoD Directive Action Memo (for DSD approval only)

-- DoDD Summary of Changes (only if you’re changing or reissuing a DoD directive)

-- A revised clean copy (i.e., no track changes or comments) of your issuance

-- Consolidated DD Form 818-1

-- List of Coordinating Officials

Related Training / Additional Info

-- What Do I Do During Legal Review
Stage 4D: Security Review

What You'll Do

-- Any issuance that will be publicly accessible on the DoD Issuance Website must be cleared for release by the Defense Office of Publication and Security Review (DOPSR).

-- Email the materials described in “Documents You’ll Use” to the SECREV inbox at whs.pentagon.esd.mbx.secrev@mail.mil. Any questions about the DOPSR review process should be directed to them.
-- When you receive your review, send a copy to the Directives Division at whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.mil.

Documents You'll Use
-- A clean copy (i.e., no track changes or comments) of your issuance
-- List of Coordinating Officials
-- PDF of your Legal Sufficiency Review
-- Signed DD Form 1910
Stage 5A: Approval
What You'll Do

-- Prepare the issuance package described in “Documents You’ll Use” for approval. Have your director or deputy director electronically sign the ODA&M Form 1 for Approval. Do not sign the action memo to the DSD.

-- See the table below for guidance on where and how you should route your approval package once the ODA&M Form 1 for Approval has been signed. This information is also in Table 4 of Processing ODA&M Issuances.

-- Once the Directives Division receives your issuance package, your assigned compliance analyst will quickly check your material to make sure it meets required standards and that all LSR concerns have been resolved.

-- The Directives Division will route your issuance package to the appropriate approval authority on your behalf.

Documents You'll Use

-- Signed ODA&M Form 1 for Approval (or ODA&M Form 1 for DSD Approval for DoD directives)

-- Your unsigned DoD Directive Action Memo (for DSD approval only)

-- DoDD Summary of Changes (only if you’re changing or reissuing a DoD directive)

-- A clean copy (i.e., no track changes or comments) of your issuance

-- Consolidated DD Form 818-1

-- PDF of Legal Sufficiency Review

-- List of Coordinating Officials

Resources You'll Need

-- Processing ODA&M Issuances
Stage 5B: Publication
What You'll Do

-- We'll publish the issuance on the website within 4 days of receiving the approved package from the approval authority.

-- You'll receive an email from the webmaster once the issuance is published.

Additional Info
-- Unclassified issuances with general releasability will be published on the DoD Directives Website.
-- Unclassified issuances with limited release will be protected by a CAC-enabled firewall.
-- Classified issuances whose distribution isn’t controlled will be published on the classified DoD Issuances Website.
-- Classified issuances whose distribution is controlled will be returned to you.
Special Procedures for Changes
Types of Changes

A change amends no more than 25% of an existing DoD issuance and has the full authority of the issuance. A changed issuance keeps its original publication date and signature. The two types of changes to DoD issuances are:

Administrative. Changes only nonsubstantive portions of an issuance such as titles and dates of references and organizational names and symbols.

Substantive. Changes that amend an essential section(s) of an issuance that appears to be or is potentially unnecessary, incorrect, misleading, confusing, or inconsistent with other sections.

What You'll Do

-- Review the Change Standards. More detailed procedures are located in Section 6 of Processing ODA&M Issuances.

-- Contact us for the official version of the issuance (Federal employees only). If the issuance is still on the pre-2015 template, do not convert it to our current template.

-- Determine what type of change you need to do (administrative or substantive).

For Administrative Change

-- If your issuance is a DoDI, DoDM, or AI, prepare a draft (unsigned) ODA&M Form 1 for Approval to be signed electronically by your director, or his or her deputy, requesting DA&M or Director, WHS, approval of the change. Amend the language in the ODA&M Form 1 to clarify that it is a change action. The paragraph on formal coordination should state that formal coordination isn't required in accordance with DoDI 5025.01. You can use the boilerplate language in the Administrative Change Action Memo template as a guide.

--If your issuance is a DoDD, prepare an ODA&M Form 1 for Approval to be signed electronically by your director, or his or her deputy, requesting DA&M approval of the change. Amend the language in the ODA&M Form 1 to clarify that it is a change action. The paragraph on formal coordination should state that formal coordination isn't required in accordance with DoDI 5025.01. Legal sufficiency reviews are required for administrative changes to DoDDs. You can use the boilerplate language in the Administrative Change Action Memo template as a guide.

-- Make the changes to the issuance following the Change Standards (Stage 1A).

-- As appropriate, coordinate your changes internally within your office (Stage 1B).

-- Send your issuance and draft ODA&M Form 1 for Approval to us via email at whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.mil (unclassified) or whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.smil.mil (classified).

-- Your compliance analyst will review your package to make sure it is complete and conforms to DoD issuance standards (equivalent to Stage 4A).

-- After our review, make any necessary changes and get the ODA&M Form 1 signed by your director or deputy .

-- If your issuance is a DoDI, DoDM, or AI, send the files to us following the procedures in Stage 5B. We will forward the material to the proper ODA&M authority for approval on your behalf.

-- If your issuance is a DoDD, follow the procedures in Stage 4C to obtain a legal sufficiency review. Make any necessary changes and send the files to us to route for approval.

For Substantive Change
-- Make the changes to the issuance using the formatting instructions in the Change Standards.
-- Follow the procedures in Stages 1A through 5B.

Documents You'll Use
For administrative changes:
-- Administrative Change Action Memo
-- ODA&M Form 1 for Approval
-- Your issuance

For substantive changes:
-- Documents listed in Stages 1A through 5B.

Resources You'll Need
-- DoD Issuance Style Guide
-- Clearing Changes in DoD Issuances (only if issuance has been changed before)
-- Processing ODA&M Issuances
Special Procedures for Cancellations
An issuance will be cancelled when the owning OSD Component determines that it has served the purpose for which it was intended; is no longer needed; and is not appropriate for incorporation into a new, revised, or existing issuance.

What You'll Do

Review Section 7: Special Procedures for Cancellations in Processing ODA&M Issuances.

- If you want to handle the cancellation yourself, follow the guidance in Paragraph 7.2.a.

- If you want the Directives Division to cancel the issuance for you, follow the guidance in Paragraph 7.2.b.

Documents You'll Use

For internal / ODA&M coordination:

-- DD Form 106

-- ODA&M Form 1 for ODA&M Internal Coord

-- PDF version of your issuance

For precoordination / DD Form 106 signature / formal coord (if you're processing yourself):

-- DD Form 106

-- ODA&M Form 1 for DD 106 signature

-- PDF version of your issuance

-- Your DD Form 818-1 from ODA&M internal coordination

-- Your list of ODA&M Coordinating Officials

-- A blank DD Form 818 with subject line and table header completed (for posting to the DoD Issuances Portal for formal coordination)

After formal coordination:

-- ODA&M Form 1 for Approval

-- Cancellation Action Memo (if the DSD must approve the cancellation)

-- DD Form 818-1 (do not include if you do nott receive any comments)

-- List of Coordinating Officials

-- Any coordinations not provided on the Portal

Resources You'll Need

-- Processing ODA&M Issuances

DoD Issuances

The Official Department of Defense Website for DoD Issuances

Untitled Document

Issuance Process Graphic

Processing OCMO & WHS Issuances (updated 8/22/18)

General Information
General Information

(Complete processing procedures are available within Processing OCMO Issuances)
The procedures on this page apply to issuances that originate in the Office of the Deputy Chief Management Officer and Washington Headquarters Services offices. If you’re not in an office within OCMO or WHS, use the procedures for Processing DoD Issuances.

You will follow the procedures on this page and in DoD Instruction (DoDI) 5025.01, "DoD Issuances Program," to process all DoD issuances, whether you are creating a new issuance, reissuing an existing one, or changing or cancelling your issuance.

Refer to Table 1 of DoDI 5025.01 for timelines for issuance coordination and completion.

Issuance Submissions
ALL electronic submissions of issuances to the Directives Division (DD) for review shall be made by e-mail to:
- DoD Directives inbox (unclassified)
- whs.pentagon.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.smil.mil (classified)
- Timelines for Coordination and Completion of DoD Issuances
- Action Officer Timeline Tool (right click to download Microsoft Excel document)
Issuance Submissions

Issuances and their supporting material must be submitted electronically to the Directives Division for review at whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.mil. As your focal point, we will load the material to the DoD Issuances Portal for you (DoD PKI certificate required).
Stage 1A: Draft the Issuance
What You'll Do
- Determine if your issuance is a directive, instruction, manual, administrative instruction, or directive-type memorandum.
- For new issuances, assign a number using our guidelines. You will not need to assign a number if your issuance is a change or reissuance.
- Follow the standards and use the Writing Style Guide and the Special Considerations Checklist while drafting your issuance.
- If you have information collections or forms in you issuance (see the Special Considerations Checklist), review the DoD Information Collections and DoD Forms Management Program websites for help.
- Coordinate within your directorate (either AD, DBMA&O, DOC, OP&DSD, or PP&AD) to be sure all agree with the proposed issuance. See OCMO Coord Addresses, Tables 1 thru 3 for the CATMS trigraphs.
- Prepare a draft (unsigned) CMO Form 1 for OCMO Internal Coord and the DD Form 106.
- Send the draft issuance and unsigned CMO Form 1 and DD Form 106 to us for review via email at whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.mil (unclassified) or whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.smil.mil (classified).
- We'll return the edited package to you through the DoD Issuances Portal for necessary revision. Contact you compliance analyst to discuss any questions or concerns.
Documents You'll Use
- A completed but unsigned DD Form 106
- A completed but unsiged CMO Form 1 for OCMO Internal Coord
- Issuance Template
- Charter Template (for Organizational Policy & Decision Support Directorate, OCMO use only)
Resources You'll Need
- DoD Issuances Defined
- DoD Issuance Standards (Detailed formatting guide)
- Writing Style Guide (Best practices for writing issuances)
- Special Considerations Checklist (Guidance for Federal Register, Labor Relations, Privacy Act, Forms, etc.)
- AD OCMO Authorized Coordinators (for offices within AD)
- Forms Website
- Information Collections Website
- Using Issuance Template's MS Word Features
Related Training /Additionl Info
- Plain Writing Act of 2010
- Plain Language Online Training
- DoD Issuances Template Training
- Timelines for Coordination and Completion of DoD Issuances
- Action Officer Timeline Tool (right click to download Microsoft Excel document)AO_Focal_Point_Checklist.pdf
Security and Classification Information:
Stage 2
STAGE 2A: Precoordination Review
What You'll Do
- Send the precoordination review package described in “Documents You’ll Use” to us via email at whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.mil (NIPRNET) or whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.smil.mil (SIPRNET).
- We’ll assign an issuance compliance analyst, who will review the documents to make sure they are in compliance with DoD issuance guidance and standards.
- When our review is complete, it will be returned to you for any necessary revisions and CMO Form 1 signature.
- Documents You'll Use
  - Unsigned CMO Form 1 for DD 106 Signature
  - Your Unsigned DD Form 106
  - Your issuance
  - Your DD Form 818-1
  - Your list of OCMO coordinating officials
  - The signed DD Form 818s from internal coordination
- Resources You'll Need
- Related Training / Additional Info
  - Training Module 2A
STAGE 2B: Precoordination Revision
What You'll Do
- Revise your issuance and any supporting documentation in accordance with Stage 2A. If you have any concerns about changes made to your issuance during Stage 2A, contact your Directives Division compliance analyst to discuss.
- If you are requesting a legally objectionable review from General Counsel, proceed to Stage 2C. If not, proceed to Stage 2D.
- Documents You'll Use
  - Your unsigned DD Form 106
  - Your unsigned CMO Form 1 for DD 106 Signature
  - Your issuance
  - Your DD Form 818-1
  - Your list of OCMO coordinating officials
- Resources You'll Need
  - DoD Issuance Standards
  - Using the Issuance Template's MS Word Features
  - Writing Style Guide
- Related Training / Additional Info
STAGE 2C: Legal Objection Review
What You'll Do

This stage is optional.
- Email your issuance and DD Form 106 to the DoD Directives inbox (unclassified) or whs.pentagon.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.smil.mil (classified) to post to the Directives Portal System.
- Your compliance analyst will quickly check your material to make sure it meets required standards and inform the Portal Manager when it is ready for release.
- The Portal Manager will release the action to OGC for its review. You will receive an email notifying you of the action, including the suspense date.
- OGC will review your issuance to make sure it complies with law. You will need to be sure to make the changes that were identified as legal issues.
- Documents You'll Use
  - Your Unsigned DD Form 106
  - Your issuance
- Resources You'll Need
- Related Training / Additional Info
  - Training Module 2C
  - What Do I Do During Legal Review?
STAGE 2D: DD Form 106 Signature
What You'll Do
- If you got a legally objectionable review:
  - Adjudicate all OGC comments
  - If possible, don't make additional changes to your issuance or DD Form 106 other than those specified by OGC. If you do need to make changes, talk to the lawyer who did your review to make sure your changes don’t affect any legal determination.
- Send the approval package described in Documents You’ll Use to your director or deputy director to electronically sign the CMO Form 1 for DD 106 Signature.
- E-mail the approved package to the DoD Directives Inbox (unclassified) or whs.pentagon.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.smil.mil (classified).
- Your compliance analyst will review your formal coordination package. If your package is complete, we'll will forward it via CATMS to the DA OCMO for DD Form 106 signature.
- Documents You'll Use
  - Your unsigned DD Form 106
  - Your signed CMO Form 1 for DD 106 Signature
  - Your issuance
  - Your DD Form 818-1
  - Your list of OCMO coordinating officials
  - A blank DD Form 818 with subject line and table header completed (for posting to the Portal for formal coordination)
- Resources You'll Need
- Related Training / Additional Info
  - Training Module 2D
  - Tips
Stage 3
STAGE 3A: Coordinate Via Portal
What You'll Do
- When the DD Form 106 is signed, we will post your issuance to the Portal. You will receive an email from the Portal notifying you that coordination has begun and of the suspense date.
- If you’re coordinating with anyone who doesn't have access to the Portal, send the issuance, copy of the signed DD Form 106, and a blank DD Form 818 directly to them.
- You will be notified by email each time a DoD Component posts its response to the Portal.
- Documents You'll Use
- Resources You'll Need
  - Offices with Access to DoD Directives Portal
- Related Training / Additional Info
STAGE 3B: Coordination Revision
What You'll Do
- Confirm the coordinations you receive are signed by the right Component authority in accordance with Authorized Component Coordinators.
- Copy comments to a DD Form 818-1 (use one form for all the comments you have received).
- Review comments, note how you will adjudicate them in the DD Form 818-1, and adjust your issuance accordingly.
  - If any comments are legal in nature, your general counsel should advise you. If you got a legal objection review, contact the lawyer that completed it.
  - Follow the dispute resolution guidance in DoDI 5025.01 to address nonconcurs.
- Create a List of Coordinating Officials.
- Prepare a CMO Form 1 for Approval. If your issuance is a directive, use the CMO Form 1 for DSD Approval and create an Action Memo from the AD OCMO to the Deputy Secretary.
- Documents You'll Use
  - Unsigned CMO Form 1 for Approval (or DSD Approval)
  - Action Memo (for DepSecDef approval only)
  - Your issuance
  - DD Form 818-1
  - List of Coordinating Officials
- Resources You'll Need
  - Authorized Component Coordinators
  - Action Memo Templates
  - DoDI 5025.01
  - DoD Issuance Standards
  - Using the Issuance Template's MS Word Features
  - Writing Style Guide
- Related Training / Additional Info
Stage 4
STAGE 4A: Presignature Review
What You'll Do
- Send the presignature package described in “Documents You’ll Use” to us via email at whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.mil (NIPRNET) or whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.smil.mil (SIPRNET).
- Your package will be assigned to an issuance compliance analyst and you will be informed by email of the suspense date.
- Your compliance analyst will review your package to make sure it is complete and conforms to DoD issuance standards.
- Documents You'll Use
  - Unsigned CMO Form 1 for Approval (or DSD Approval)
  - Unsigned Action Memo (for DepSecDef approval only)
  - Your issuance
  - DD Form 818-1
  - List of Coordinating Officials
  - Any coordinations not posted to the Portal
  - Only for issuances requiring DepSecDef approval: DoDD Summary of Changes
- Resources You'll Need
- Related Training / Additional Info
  - Training Module 4A
STAGE 4B: Presignature Revision
What You'll Do
- Revise your material according to your compliance analyst’s direction.
- Contact your compliance analyst to discuss any questions or concerns.
- If a second presignature is required, send the revised package described in “Documents You’ll Use” to us via email at whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.mil (NIPRNET) or whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.smil.mil (SIPRNET).
- Documents You'll Use
- Unsigned CMO Form 1 for Approval (or DSD Approval)
- Unsigned Action Memo (for DepSecDef approval only)
- Your issuance
- DD Form 818-1
- List of Coordinating Officials
- Only for issuances requiring DepSecDef approval: DoDD Summary of Changes
- Resources You'll Need
- Related Training / Additional Info
  - Training Module 4B
  - Tips
STAGE 4C: Legal Sufficiency Review
What You'll Do
- Email your package described in “Documents You’ll Use” to the DoD Directives inbox (unclassified) or whs.pentagon.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.smil.mil (classified) to post to the Directives Portal System.
- Your compliance analyst will quickly check your material to make sure it meets required standards and inform the Portal Manager when it is ready for release.
- The Portal Manager will release the action to OGC for its review. You will receive an email notifying you of the action, including the suspense date.
- OGC will review your issuance to make sure it complies with law. You will need to make all the changes that were identified as legal issues.
- Documents You'll Use
- Unsigned Action Memo (DepSecDef approval)
- Unsigned CMO Form 1 for Approval (or DSD Approval)
- Your issuance
- DD Form 818-1
- List of Coordinating Officials
- Only for issuances requiring DepSecDef approval: DoDD Summary of Changes
- Resources You'll Need
- Related Training / Additional Info
  - Training Module 4C
  - What Do I Do During Legal Review?
STAGE 4D: Security Review
What You'll Do
- Any issuance that will be publically accessible on the DoD Issuance Website must be cleared for release by the Defense Office of Publication and Security Review (DOPSR).
- Incorporate the legal changes required by OGC in the legal sufficiency review into your issuance as appropriate. Consult with your Directives Division compliance analyst if any OGC changes are contrary to issuance standards.
- Email the materials described in “Documents You’ll Use” to the SECREV inbox. Any questions about the DOPSR review process should be directed to them.
- When you receive your review, make sure that a copy has been sent to us at whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.mil.
- Documents You'll Use
  - Your issuance
  - List of Coordinating Officials
  - Legal Sufficiency Review
  - Signed DD Form 1910
- Resources You'll Need
- Related Training / Additional Info
  - Training Module 4D
Stage 5
STAGE 5A: Approval
What You'll Do
- Prepare the issuance package described in “Documents You’ll Use” for approval as described in Table 4 in Processing ODCMO Issuances. Forward to your director or deputy for electronic signature of the CMO Form 1. Do not sign the action memo to the DepSecDef.
- See Table 4 in Processing ODCMO Issuances for guidance on where and how you should route your approval package once the CMO Form 1 has been signed.
- Documents You'll Use
  - Signed CMO Form 1 for Approval (or DSD Approval)
  - Unsigned Action Memo (for DepSecDef approval only)
  - Your issuance
  - DD Form 818-1
  - Legal Sufficiency Review
  - List of Coordinating Officials
  - Only for issuances requiring Deputy Secretary approval: DoDD Summary of Changes
- Resources You'll Need
  - Processing OCMO Issuances
- Related Training / Additional Info
  - Training Module 5A
STAGE 5B: Publication
What You'll Do (Not much at this point!)
- We'll publish the issuance on the website within 2 days of receiving the approved package from the approval authority.
- You’ll receive an email from the Webmaster once the issuance is published.
- Documents You'll Use
  - None
- Resources You'll Need
  - None
- Related Training / Additional Info
  - Training Module 5B
  - Unclassified issuances with general releasability will be published on the Directives Division Website
  - Unclassified issuances with limited release will be protected by a CAC enabled firewall.
  - Classified issuances whose distribution isn’t controlled will be published on the classified Directives Division Website.
  - Classified issuances whose distribution is controlled will be returned to the OSD Component.
Special Procedures for Changes
Special Procedures for Changes
What You'll Do
- Review Section 7: Special Procedures for Changes in Processing DoD Issuances or Processing OCMO Issuances.
- Review the Change Standards.
- Contact us for the official version of the issuance (federal employees/focal points only). You will not be converting the format of the issuance.
- Determine what type of change you need to do (administrative or substantive). See DoDI 5025.01 for definitions.
For Administrative Changes
- Prepare a draft (unsigned) WHS Form for Approval, amending the language to clarify that this is a change. The paragraph on formal coordination should state that this isn't required per DoDI 5025.01.
- Make the changes to the issuance following the standards.
- Coordinate your changes internally.
- Send your issuance and draft Form 2 to us via email at whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.mil (NIPRNET) or whs.mc-alex.esd.mbx.dod-directives@mail.smil.mil (SIPRNET).
- After our review, make any necessary changes, get the CMO Form 1 signed, and send the files to us following the process in 5B.
For Substantive Changes
- Prepare a draft (unsigned) DD Form 106 and CMO Form 1 for OCMO Internal Coord and make the changes to the issuance following the standards.
- Follow the procedures in Stages 1B through 5B.
Documents You'll Use

For administrative changes:
For substantive changes:
Resources You'll Need
Related Training / Additional Info
Special Procedures for Cancellations
Special Procedures for Cancellations
What You'll Do
- Review Section 7: Special Procedures for Cancellations in Processing DoD Issuances or Processing OCMO Issuances.
- Save a copy of the pdf version of your issuance from our website.
- Prepare a draft (unsigned) DD Form 106. The purpose must explain your reasoning for cancelling the issuance. All DoD/OSD Components that coordinated on the version currently online must be collateral coordinators.
- Follow the procedures in Stages 1B through 5B.
- Documents You'll Use
For precoordination:
After formal coordination:
Resources You'll Need
- Related Training / Additional Info
Stage 1B: Coordinate Internally (with all OCMO Directorates)
What You'll Do
Send the issuance and OCMO Form 1 for OCMO Internal Coord to the Director or Deputy Director of your office for electronic signature of the CMO Form 1.
Route the signed CMO Form 1, a copy of the revised draft issuance, and a blank DD Form 818 in CATMS for OCMO coordination. See Table 4 in OCMO Coord Addresses .
Set the suspense date for coordination. Typically, it is a minimum of 10 work days, but may vary depending on the length and urgency of your issuance.
As OCMO directorates upload their responses in CATMS, check the list of OCMO Authorized Coordinators to confirm they are valid. Add the coordinators to your list of OCMO Coordinating Officials.
Consolidated all comments onto the DD Form 818-1, then adjudicate and revise your issuance accordingly. If you do not receive any comments, you do not have to prepare a DD Form 818-1.

Documents You'll Use
A revised clean copy (i.e., no track changes or comments) of your issuance
Signed CMO Form 1 for Internal Coord
DD Form 818 & DD Form 818-1
OCMO List of Coordinating Officials
Resources You'll Need
OCMO Coord Addresses
OCMO Authorized Coordinators
DoD Issuance Standards
Using the Issuance Template's MS Word Features
Writing Style Guide

Related Training / Additional Info
DD Form 818 Training
Plain Writing Act of 2010
Security and Classified Information:
DoDD 5230.09
DoDI 5230.29
Information Security/Website Alert

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DoD Issuances

The Official Department of Defense Website for DoD Issuances

Processing OCMO & WHS Issuances (updated 8/22/18)

General Information

STAGE 2A: Precoordination Review What You'll Do

STAGE 2B: Precoordination Revision What You'll Do

STAGE 2C: Legal Objection Review What You'll Do

STAGE 2D: DD Form 106 Signature What You'll Do

STAGE 3A: Coordinate Via Portal What You'll Do

STAGE 3B: Coordination Revision What You'll Do

STAGE 4A: Presignature Review What You'll Do

STAGE 4B: Presignature Revision What You'll Do

STAGE 4C: Legal Sufficiency Review What You'll Do

STAGE 4D: Security Review What You'll Do

STAGE 5A: Approval What You'll Do

STAGE 5B: Publication What You'll Do (Not much at this point!)

Special Procedures for Changes What You'll Do

For Administrative Changes

For Substantive Changes

For administrative changes:

For substantive changes:

Special Procedures for Cancellations What You'll Do

For precoordination:

After formal coordination:

Resources You'll Need

STAGE 2A: Precoordination Review
What You'll Do

STAGE 2B: Precoordination Revision
What You'll Do

STAGE 2C: Legal Objection Review
What You'll Do

STAGE 2D: DD Form 106 Signature
What You'll Do

STAGE 3A: Coordinate Via Portal
What You'll Do

STAGE 3B: Coordination Revision
What You'll Do

STAGE 4A: Presignature Review
What You'll Do

STAGE 4B: Presignature Revision
What You'll Do

STAGE 4C: Legal Sufficiency Review
What You'll Do

STAGE 4D: Security Review
What You'll Do

STAGE 5A: Approval
What You'll Do

STAGE 5B: Publication
What You'll Do (Not much at this point!)

Special Procedures for Changes
What You'll Do

Special Procedures for Cancellations
What You'll Do