The cell phone...it’s become a part of our body! BUT, with everything Air Force oriented, there are rules for everything...including details on the use of your cell phone. If you are thinking of enlisting in the Air Force, then you’ll want to be aware of these rules and regulations.
One of the most popular questions is are mobile phones allowed during basic training. Let’s get straight into answering that for you.
Are mobile phones allowed in basic training?
Mobile phones are allowed in basic training, but can only be used at authorized times. In fact, according to Air Force policy, you are encouraged to bring your cell phone and charger with you.
BUT, during your in-processing, you will be required to remove any videos or photos that could be considered pornographic in nature. So, keep those steamy photos and videos of your significant other off your phone.
You don’t want to be THAT person that gets singled out by your training instructor!
See image below for the Air Policy on cell phone use in Basic Training
When can you use your phone in Air Force basic training?
Though you are allowed to bring your cell phone to BMT, you are not allowed to use them whenever you want to.
For instance, you are only allowed to place voice calls. You can not receive texts, videos, images or any other type of internet exchanges (so no social media or anything resembling it), and you will not be allowed to carry a phone around with you, as you would normally in everyday life.
In addition, cell phones may be inspected at any time, so you may need to delete any personal information on your cell phone before going to basic training. If you don’t want your MTI or leadership to see it, delete it!
In basic training, cell phones may be confiscated and kept by the MTI, and only returned to you to call home or during other emergency situations.
You’ll have to remember that during basic training you are only permitted to use a phone when supervised, and told it is okay to do so. Do not try to sneak in a text or call when you are not authorized to do so. That would be a huge mistake.
If you do not have a cell phone, then you will be able to contact friends and family during basic training at certain periods of time. You’ll have access to a payphone at the training site and you can use a calling card. If this is the case, be sure to pack extra cards.
As per Basic Military Training policy, you are authorized access to your phone at the fourth week, and at the end of the seventh week of training to confirm travel arrangements with family or other guests and may also be permitted to use your phone throughout training depending on your individual and flight’s performance.
So, if you and your flight perform well, then you MIGHT get additional privileges.
Do you get your phone in Air Force tech school?
The good news is that yes, the Air Force will allow you to bring your phone with your to tech school.
That being said, you are only permitted to use your phone during off duty hours, and not throughout your training, and in periods where you are in your dormitory. This will all be dependent on what phase you are in, and what your local training squadron’s policies are as well.
All privileges can be revoked depending on individual and training squadron performance!
The same rules apply for other electronic devices too. These are permitted, but only in off duty hours.
Can you walk, talk, and text in uniform?
According to AFI 36-2903, you can not walk, talk and text in uniform unless you are performing official duties, there is an emergency, or in other extreme situations.
The best way to navigate around this is to find a common area and sit. BUT, remember to keep your situational awareness and adhere to customs and courtesies (ie, salute and acknowledge leadership).
When it comes to wireless technology, you can indeed wear/use them in uniform if authorized by installation commanders. When you get to your first duty station, be sure to read any MAJCOM or installation supplements to AFI 36-2903 so you’re not surprised.
AFI 36-2903, DRESS AND PERSONAL APPEARANCE OF AIR FORCE PERSONNEL
7.3.4.1. Wear/use of an earpiece, any Bluetooth® wireless technology, or headphones, while in uniform, indoors or outdoors, is authorized for official duties or as determined by installation commanders, delegable no lower than squadron commanders. Exception: Headphones and earphones [iPodsTM, MP3-type players, etc.] are authorized during travel on public transportation (i.e. bus, train or air travel) and/or while wearing the Physical Training Gear (PTG) during individual or personal PT in the fitness center or on designated running areas unless prohibited by the Installation Commander. Use of a hands-free device is authorized while in uniform operating a motor vehicle if local policy permits.
7.3.4.2. Use of personal electronic media devices, including ear pieces, speaker phones or text messaging while walking in uniform is limited to emergencies or when official notifications are necessary. Military customs and courtesies take precedence.