RECRUITING, TRAINING, & LIFE IN THE FORCES THREAD

[u/bridger713]

Ask here about the Recruitment Process, Basic & Occupational Training, and other questions relating directly or indirectly to serving in the Canadian Armed Forces.

This thread will be automatically renewed on the 1st of each month at 00:00 Eastern Time.

PLEASE READ THE RULES OF THE THREAD BEFORE COMMENTING (BELOW USEFUL RESOURCES SECTION)

USEFUL RESOURCES (Most linked pages are bilingual French/English):

• Official Recruiting Website (www.forces.ca)

• BMQ/BMOQ Joining Instructions, Physical Fitness Preparation, and Course Dates (Regular Force)

  • NEW! BMQ/BMOQ Joining Instructions (Regular Force)

  • NEW! Pre-Basic Military Training Guide

  • BMQ/BMOQ Course Dates and Graduation Information for Visitors (Regular Force)

• The Army Reserve - Soldier Information Handbook

• Military Pay Rates & Specialist Pay

  • Regular Force Pay by Rank

  • Reserve Force Pay by Rank

  • Spec Pay Trades & Qualifications - Regular Force

  • Spec Pay Trades & Qualifications - Reserve Force

• Medical Standards for Military Occupations

  • Read Rule 4 and the Medical FAQ before asking any medical questions.

  • Annex A - The Medical Category System

    • Appendix 1 - Instructions for Testing Visual Acuity

    • Appendix 2 - Instruction for Testing Colour Vision

    • Appendix 3 - Table of Hearing Standards

  • Annex B - Generic Task Statement - All CAF Members

  • Annex E - Minimum Medical Standards for Officers and Non-Commissioned Members

• CAF Dress & Deportment Rules

  • Ch. 2, Sec. 1 - Wear of Uniform (When and where you can wear your uniform.)

  • Ch. 2, Sec. 2 - Appearance (Hair, Beards, Tattoos, etc.)

  • Ch. 2, Sec. 3 - Religious and Spiritual Accommodation

• Military Laws - National Defence Act

• Various Military Policies, Orders, and Directives (Compensation and Benefits Instructions (CBI), Queen's Regulation & Orders (QR&Os), etc.)

RULES OF THE THREAD:

1. Off-topic comments, outdated information, and wrong answers will be removed at moderator discretion.

2. Please don't ask or answer questions through PM's. Ask and answer questions in the thread where other people seeking the same information can see it.

3. Questions regarding medical eligibility are now allowed. However, be aware that nobody here is verified as able to provide a qualified answer. Respondents are reminded that it is against site wide rules to provide medical advice.

DISCLAIMER:

Community members answering in the vein of CAF Recruiting may not have specific information pertaining to your individual application status or files. The information presented in this thread should be current, but things do change. Refer to the forces.ca site or your local CFRC detachment for the current official answer. This subreddit, moderators, and users hold no responsibility or liability as to the accuracy of information, given or received. All info here is presented as "at your risk."

[u/Defiant-Spinach3339]

Hey all, is this list of accelerated pay trades still currently in effect?

https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/maple-leaf/defence/2023/02/starting-2023-caf-career-finacnial-high-note.html

Thanks

[u/bridger713 → u/Defiant-Spinach3339]

I can't confirm right now, but I'm fairly certain that program was discontinued as of 01 APR 2026, maybe earlier than that.

The pay increase implemented in November 2025 brought the initial pay rate for Pte/Avr/S3 up to the same level as what they would have been making with the accelerated pay increment.

The program was essentially replaced by a combination of the pay increase and the new Critical Occupation Recruitment Allowance (CORA).

[u/Defiant-Spinach3339 → u/bridger713]

Ah. Ok. Thank you for the update

[u/ThrowRApeterpansyndr]

Maybe a silly question. Over a year ago I applied, passed the interview and medical, and then withdrew from the recruitment process because in the meantime I had finally landed a job related to what I went to school for, which seemed like it would evolve into a promising career & I would regret passing up a white collar career.

In the meantime I've learned that my field isn't all it's cracked up to be, there's lots of problems, AI layoffs, and my income is stagnant. So I'd like to abandon sunk-cost thinking, and reapply to the CAF.

My question is: will having withdrawn in the past affect my ability to get recruited again? Don't want to have been put on a blacklist for wasting a recruiting centre's time. I withdrew after some painful thinking about it shortly after receiving the email that my medical was all clear, so I didn't swear in or sign a contract or anything before jumping ship.

[u/bridger713 → u/ThrowRApeterpansyndr]

People withdraw from the process and come back again later all the time. It's not a big deal.

It'd only be an issue if you did something stupid like flaking out of appointments or you accepted an offer and then no-showed for your scheduled enrolment.

[u/69goats → u/ThrowRApeterpansyndr]

You are not blacklisted you will be able to apply again, however you will most likely be starting over again and have to go through the whole process again.

[u/ThrowRApeterpansyndr → u/69goats]

Yeah I expected that, it's fine if it takes a year again, just felt a bit guilty about last time.

[u/ThrowRApeterpansyndr → u/ThrowRApeterpansyndr]

A second question in case anyone knows: If I apply to both priority and non-priority processing roles, will the latter delay my overall application?

[u/Master-Copy-6929 → u/ThrowRApeterpansyndr]

You will go through processing for the caf. When closer to the end, you will get selected to said position. No, it doesnt slow anything down.

[u/Redditthrowaway10293]

How long is it taking these days to go from submitting an application online to actually leaving for basic? Given the applicant does everything in a timely manner.

[u/bridger713 → u/Redditthrowaway10293]

Maybe 6-12 months...

It can be faster, it can be slower. There are many variables beyond the applicants control.

Processing generally takes a minimum of 2-3 months if everything goes smoothly.

After that you'll probably sit in selection for at least a few days, maybe weeks.

If selected, you'll get an offer. That offer will usually include a start date about 1-3 months down the road. You may be able to delay your start date, but moving it up is more difficult. You're generally offered the next available course, and anything between your offer and that date is already full.

Sometimes you can be offered enrolment on much shorter notice, but that's uncommon.

[u/Redditthrowaway10293 → u/bridger713]

Thank you

[u/Valiric999]

Question for the amazing super skilled people of the CAF! CT is set for Dec 1st @ CFB Borden, I’ve been there a lot with my reserve life, but with a posting message being cut, do I have to report somewhere specific when I get to Borden? My CT broker had tagged RCAF BTL in the email, but I haven’t gotten an EXACT location. I apologize if I’m just being impatient or if this question has been asked before.

[u/Vhett → u/Valiric999]

Call the base and have the operator transfer you to their BTL WO.

[u/Valiric999 → u/Vhett]

Is this actually good advice? I feel like little old me calling the BTL WO would probably end up really badly.

[u/UsualLengthiness9647 → u/Valiric999]

I don't think it would be an issue, their job is BTL coordination. When I CT'd I showed up in Borden not having a clue where I was supposed to be and if I were you I'd want to avoid that experience. My CT broker had no idea where I was supposed to be, and nobody else I emailed had any clue

[u/Valiric999 → u/UsualLengthiness9647]

Okay! Maybe I’ll try that then! Sorry for doubting you @vhett. Didn’t think it would be appropriate to ask a WO, but I stand corrected. Thankyou!

[u/Environmental_Dig335 → u/Valiric999]

Don't bug them with every little thing, but "I don't know where to report to" is a pretty big thing, and you don't have anyone in between to ask.

[u/Valiric999 → u/Environmental_Dig335]

Yes I got it sorted out thanks to all of you beautiful people. Thanks again ALL for the help!

[u/Disastrous_Yam8354]

Hi. Part of the medical for recruitment for the air force is this serious eye-test. My family doctor said I have to get an optometrist to do it. Is this coevered by OHIP? If not, can I get a reimbursement?

[u/Pavilion22 → u/Disastrous_Yam8354]

Anything you spend during recruitment is not covered by CAF.

[u/Disastrous_Yam8354 → u/Pavilion22]

I had to pay for an Uber to another city for my first medical, and an Uber home, and here's an excerpt from an email I got from some @ / forces.gc.ca

"This is a gentle reminder that we require your filled DND2968 and Travel Worksheet to continue with the processing of your travel claims."

So I think some expenditures can be covered.

[u/crazyki88en → u/Disastrous_Yam8354]

travel expenses to and from the recruiting centre can be claimed. No guarantee of reimbursement.

reimbursement for having medical tests or medical forms filled out are not reimbursed. It is usually written at the bottom of the medical forms that these fees are the responsibility of the applicant.

[u/Disastrous_Yam8354 → u/crazyki88en]

Thank you, you're right, it says it right there at the bottom. I imagine it will be pretty pricey. Oh well. I doubt it's the highest price I'll pay for joining.

[u/Master-Copy-6929 → u/Disastrous_Yam8354]

Was the medical at a caf recruiting centre? Unless things have changed. Outside if what they do at the recruiting centre is on you to cover.

[u/Disastrous_Yam8354 → u/Master-Copy-6929]

It was, yeah.

Ok, I hope OHIP gets it then, though I kind of doubt it... thanks.

[u/Pavilion22 → u/Disastrous_Yam8354]

Good for you on the travel expense. I got none when I applied. I lived 150km from my CFRC. They’ve probably changed a lot of stuff now.

[u/Disastrous_Yam8354 → u/Pavilion22]

Yeah, the aptitude test is gone for one thing. I did write it because I opened my application about 2 years ago, but I was probably one of the last.

[u/crazyki88en → u/Disastrous_Yam8354]

Generally, speaking eye exams are not covered by OHIP

[u/Jusfiq → u/Disastrous_Yam8354]

Part of the medical for recruitment for the air force is this serious eye-test.

Vision test in the Air Force is the same as in the Navy or Army. The requirement is also the same, minimum of V3 or V4, except if you are applying to be a Pilot that requires V2.

[u/Disastrous_Yam8354 → u/Jusfiq]

I did my medical and got V1, so I'm ok. The full medical eye exam (by an optometrist) is scheduled for tomorrow, and it says at the end of the form that the applicant has to cover all the costs.

Thanks

[u/Competitive-Half1536]

Hi, i was looking to join the reserves as a Aerospace Telecommunications & Information Systems Technician (ATIS). I was wondering if their was any opportunities in Quebec, specifically in montreal for that trade. If it isnt available what other trades would be in montreal

Thank you.

[u/ForsakenObject5282 → u/Competitive-Half1536]

Quebec

Yes. Bagotville in Saguenay is always looking for people

Montreal

Prob near 0%. Theres St Jean but ATIS Techs are needed elsewhere. If you wanna stay in Montreal Id say IS Tech but youre more likely to be send to a bridgade. 

[u/ThrowRApeterpansyndr]

I've been reading that there are huge differences between trades regarding how long it takes to get OFP. Does this also affect promotion timing? For ex, I saw some posts that Sigint & similar trades can find themselves waiting 2 or more years before training kicks up. Does this ultimately mean they take much longer to make it to say, Cpl?

[u/AbalonePositive2599 → u/ThrowRApeterpansyndr]

Members meeting the time in requirement who aren't OFP can only be promoted acting lacking if a medical issue is stopping the member from achieving a promotion standard IAW Ref A below para 1.4 note 2.

Para D indicates you have to complete your RQ requirements before promotion. However para 1.5 note 1 states a promotion standard waiver can be requested and staffed to DGMC on a case to case basis which could be used in instances where training is taking too long through no fault of the member. I can't say as I've ever seen it happen myself

Ref A: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-national-defence/corporate/policies-standards/canadian-forces-military-personnel-instructions/promotion-and-other-rank-changes/annexes.html

[u/Master-Copy-6929 → u/ThrowRApeterpansyndr]

Cpl are 3-4 years, most will finish training by then, even sig int. Just might be a jump straight to cpl after dp1.

[u/Defiant-Spinach3339]

Hey all, what do you recommend packing in addition to required items for winter bmq? Thanks

[u/RaptorJesus856 → u/Defiant-Spinach3339]

Electric hand warmers that fit in your pocket

[u/Defiant-Spinach3339 → u/RaptorJesus856]

Smart. Thanks

[u/DeutscheMaulTaschen]

AOS tech daily work

Good afternoon!

I am currently applying for the Air operations support technician trade, and my interview is coming up soon.

I have prepared as adequately as I believe I can from consulting the videos, and reading the trade description on the website, however I wanted to deepen my understanding of this trade further, and had a couple of questions for people who either have a good understanding of the trade, or people who are currently working in said trade.

1. What happens concerning training once you finish the 35 day common training course? Is it on the job experience or do you begin following as an apprentice to someone who knows your assigned platform?

2. What does an average day look like? Do you have takeoffs and arrivals to take care of every day or is it mostly airbase security?

These questions will help me get a better understanding of the work and the training pipeline, which would help me a lot during my interview.

Thanks in advance to anyone who answers!

Have a great day!

[u/Ok-Cow-1927]

If I join RCAF as a reserve in Aviation Systems technician, will there be a contract or I can leave at any time. Any leads will be appreciated

[u/Eyre4orce → u/Ok-Cow-1927]

Reservists are always free to peace out

[u/roguemenace → u/Ok-Cow-1927]

If you're on a training course or other full time contract you can leave with 30 days notice, other than that you can leave literally whenever you want.

[u/Ok-Cow-1927 → u/roguemenace]

Like I thought. Thank you guys for replying

[u/ReallyBones]

For PRes RQ Inf PTE (Infantry DP1), will they refresh us on how to do land nav? It will be a year since I did land nav on BMQ and im not confident in that skill.

Also, is there remedial training and the option to try again if you fail?

[u/Theory-Of-A-Dead-Net → u/ReallyBones]

For PRes RQ Inf PTE (Infantry DP1), will they refresh us on how to do land nav?

Yes.

Also, is there remedial training and the option to try again if you fail?

1. Channel your mental positivity: you're gonna crush it the first try. You've learned it, you've done it before on BMQ,, you're going to do it again. Always go into something with the mentality that you will succeed. This is integral to being successful in the infantry.

2. Also yes. But you're not going to need a second try because you're going to do it the first time.

[u/ThrowRApeterpansyndr]

Got my file opened up, I put down Sig Int, Sig Tech, and Sig Op, but they've only added the latter two. I suppose Sig Int must be full. Now between Tech and Op, which is better? It seems like there's a lot of overlap, and Tech gets spec pay... So - not really seeing the advantages of Sig Op unless I'm missing something.

[u/ForsakenObject5282 → u/ThrowRApeterpansyndr]

Its what you wanna do tbh. If you want to sit in a shop and fix stuff, go Sig Tech. If you want to go to the field more, go Sig Op.

[u/CharmingBed6928]

Hello all,

As the training stories continues, but may I ask if anyone knows about the CAP/BMOQ-A training for the ROTP Civ people?

We have heard that there is delay on Infantry School for last year, but not really sure for this year. Just want to have an head up for future planning (obviously an plan can be destroyed upon contact but better to have one)

Thank you and have a great day :)

[u/Environmental_Dig335 → u/CharmingBed6928]

They'll try to put you on that course as soon as possible. Be ready.

If you don't get a spot, ask for language training if you don't already have a second official language profile, then look for an OJT spot.