Why do AD and RC personnel have different criteria for when they are authorized to wear the rank of WOC?

CW2 Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 14 May 2019 15:36:29 -0400

"DA PAM 670-1, 19-15 (c) states:
When worn. All AA personnel wear the insignia beginning on date of entry into the resident WO entry course; the resident WO entry course; all RC personnel wear the insignia beginning on the date of the board selection to enter WOC status. Both AA and RC WOC personnel will wear the insignia until appointed to the WO category, or eliminated from WOC status."

"NGR 600-101, 2-11 (b) states:
Once determined qualified to enter the WOES by a DA MOS Proponent and an FRB, applicants may be appointed as a WOC. Applicants appointed as WOC, to include those serving in AGR status, will remove any enlisted rank devices/chevrons from uniforms and wear the WOC collar insignia. WOC insignia will be removed and designation automatically terminated upon---"

I'm legit curious why the criteria is different for Active Duty and Reservists/NG. I've never been able to find a solid answer. Does anyone know?

Response by CW5 Jack Cardwell made May 14 at 2019 4:41 PM

CW5 Jack Cardwell — Tue, 14 May 2019 16:41:37 -0400

Once selected in the NG it might be months before they get a school date.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made May 15 at 2019 9:26 AM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 15 May 2019 09:26:50 -0400

Because the guard states convene federal recognition boards that potential candidates attend. Once you pass that, your MOS switches to 09W - Warrant Officer Candidate. And then it could be a while before you get an actual WOCS school date. During that wait (and of course at the course until you graduate), you are a WOC and wear that candidate rank. On active duty you simply qualify for, get a school date, and go. It could be a bit more complicated, and lengthy, for guard candidates.