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PCS Travel 101: An In-Depth Guide to Per Diem and Allowances

August 7, 2025
3 minute read

PCS, PCS Tips, PCS Travel, PCS Resources

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When you drive to your new duty station, the military doesn't expect you to pay for the entire trip out of pocket. They reimburse you for gas, food, and lodging through a system of travel allowances. Understanding how they work is key to a financially sound PCS.

The Three Main Components:

1. Monetary Allowance in Lieu of Transportation (MALT):

  • This is your mileage reimbursement. It's calculated on a per-mile basis for the official distance between your old and new duty stations.
  • The rate is the same for everyone, regardless of rank. You can find the current rate on the DTMO's MALT page.
  • You can be authorized MALT for up to two vehicles if they are driven to the new duty station. This must be authorized on your orders.

2. Per Diem:

  • This is your daily allowance for lodging, meals, and incidental expenses during your authorized travel days. "Incidentals" include things like tips for hotel staff or laundry.
  • Authorized Travel Days: The military determines how many days you're allowed for travel, typically based on driving an average of 350 miles per day.
  • Calculating the Rate: The daily rate is calculated as follows:
    • Service Member: 100% of the standard CONUS per diem rate.
    • Spouse & Dependents 12+: 75% of the member's rate.
    • Dependents under 12: 50% of the member's rate.
  • Pro-Tip: You can often save money by staying in hotels that offer free breakfast or have kitchenettes, allowing you to keep more of your tax-free per diem allowance.

3. Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE):

  • TLE is a separate allowance that partially reimburses you for lodging and meal expenses incurred in the immediate vicinity of your old or new duty station. It's designed to help cover costs while you're waiting to move out of your old home or into your new one.
  • You are typically authorized up to 10 days of TLE for a CONUS move. Find the daily TLE rate for your location on the DTMO website.
  • Important: TLE is not the same as TLA (Temporary Lodging Allowance), which is for OCONUS moves. Keep all your lodging receipts, as TLE is based on your actual lodging costs up to a certain cap.

You will claim all of these allowances when you file your travel voucher (DD Form 1351-2) at your new installation's finance office.