Military Programs AR 600-8-19

Enlisted Promotions

How enlisted promotions work — decentralized, semi-centralized, and centralized.

Promotion Categories

  • Decentralized (PV1 through SPC/CPL): Promotions are automatic based on Time in Service (TIS), Time in Grade (TIG), and commander recommendation. No board required for PV1 through PFC. Effective April 2026, the Army eliminated the 'Mandatory Corporal' requirement that laterally appointed a Specialist (SPC) to Corporal (CPL) simply after graduating BLC. Promotions are decentralized (PV1-SPC), semi-centralized (SGT-SSG), and centralized (SFC-SGM).
  • Semi-Centralized (SGT and SSG): Requires an appearance before a promotion board. The board simply votes 'Recommended' or 'Not Recommended' (Go/No-Go). If recommended, promotion depends on an 800-point administrative system and monthly cutoff scores by MOS.
  • Centralized (SFC through SGM): Selection by a DA (Department of the Army) centralized Evaluation Board. These boards review the Soldier's entire record and establish an Order of Merit List (OML). Promotions occur based on OML standing as Army requirements dictate.

Promotion Points (SGT/SSG)

Under the semi-centralized system, Soldiers compete for a maximum of 800 points. Board appearance points are NO LONGER awarded. All 800 points are objectively generated from a Soldier's administrative records (IPPS-A):

  • Military Training (Weapons & AFT)
  • Awards, Decorations, and Achievements
  • Military Education (Resident courses, DL, etc.)
  • Civilian Education (College credits, degree completion)

Time in Service/Time in Grade

Current pin-on requirements for semi-centralized promotions:

  • SGT (E-5) Primary Zone: 36 months TIS, 12 months TIG
  • SGT (E-5) Secondary Zone: 18 months TIS, 6 months TIG
  • SSG (E-6) Primary Zone: 72 months TIS, 18 months TIG
  • SSG (E-6) Secondary Zone: 48 months TIS, 8 months TIG

Board Tips

Know the three categories of promotions and how each works. A huge trap for older study guides is 'Board Points' — if asked, confidently state that the board is a Go/No-Go recommendation and that all 800 promotion points are administrative. Know the updated TIS/TIG pin-on requirements for SGT and SSG. For Senior NCO boards, understand that Centralized promotions are now based on an Order of Merit List (OML) rather than a simple cutoff list.