What the Course Entails and Exam Details

The DTS Basics course covers the fundamental aspects of navigating and utilizing the Defense Travel System.

Key topics included in the syllabus and covered in the practice exam are:

• DTS Navigation: Understanding the DTS dashboard, menus, and how to access various modules.

• Creating Travel Authorizations: Step-by-step guidance on initiating a travel request, including selecting dates, locations, and transportation.

• Per Diem and Expenses: How to correctly input estimated expenses and understand per diem rates.

• Line of Accounting (LOA): The importance of selecting the correct funding source for travel.

• Creating Travel Vouchers: The process for submitting expenses for reimbursement after travel is completed.

• Submitting and Tracking: How to sign and submit documents and monitor their status through the approval process.

• Supporting Documentation: Requirements for uploading receipts and other necessary files.

• Joint Travel Regulations (JTR) Basics: A foundational understanding of the regulations governing official DoD travel.

What to Expect in the Final Exam

The final assessment for DTS Basics is typically an online, computer-based exam.

Here are the common details you can expect:

• Format: The exam usually consists of multiple-choice and true/false questions. Some assessments may also include simulation exercises where you must perform tasks within a mock DTS environment.

• Number of Questions: The test typically features between 30 and 50 questions.

• Time Limit: You will generally have 60 to 90 minutes to complete the exam.

• Passing Score: A passing score of 80% or higher is typically required to receive certification.

• Open Book/Resource: Most iterations of this exam are not open-book. However, you are tested on practical knowledge you should have acquired during training.

How to Study and Exam Centers

Preparation is key to succeeding on the DTS Basics exam.

Here are effective study strategies:

• Utilize Official Training: The primary resource should be the official web-based training (WBT) modules available through the Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO) or your component's learning management system.

• Review DTS User Guides: Familiarize yourself with the DTS standard operating procedures and user guides.

• Hands-on Practice: If possible, spend time in the DTS training environment to practice creating mock authorizations and vouchers.

• Focus on the Workflow: Understand the end-to-end process from creating an authorization to receiving reimbursement on a voucher.

• Take Practice Tests: Use practice exams to gauge your knowledge and identify areas where you need further review.

Exam Centers:

The DTS Basics exam is not taken at physical testing centers like Pearson VUE. Instead, it is an online assessment accessed through official DoD portals. The most common location to access training and the exam is the TraX (Training Explorer) portal on the Defense Travel Management Office (DTMO) website, or through a specific military branch's learning management system (e.g., Joint Knowledge Online - JKO, Army Learning Management System - ALMS). Users must have a Common Access Card (CAC) and an active DTS account to access the training and assessment.

Job Opportunities from the Course

DTS proficiency is a fundamental skill for many roles within the Department of Defense.

While not a standalone job certification for most, it is a mandatory requirement or a significant asset for the following positions:

• Defense Travel Administrator (DTA): Responsible for managing DTS for a command or organization.

• Authorizing Official (AO) / Approving Official: Personnel who review and approve travel documents in DTS.

• Reviewer: Individuals responsible for reviewing travel documents prior to AO approval.

• Travel Clerk / Technician: Administrative personnel who assist others with creating DTS documents.

• Administrative Officer / Assistant: Many administrative roles in the DoD require DTS knowledge.

• All Deployable and Traveling DoD Personnel: Proficiency is required for all military and civilian personnel who travel for official business.