Randolph AFB
Randolph AFB PCS Guide
Base History & Name
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Randolph Air Force Base was established in the late 1920s as a premier training facility for the U.S. Army Air Corps. Its original mission focused on pilot instruction, earning it the nickname "West Point of the Air."
The base's unique circular layout, designed by architect Harold L. Clark, set a standard for future military airfields. Construction began in 1928, and the base officially opened in 1931.
Early operations included housing the Air Corps Training Center, which oversaw all pilot training for the service. This central role positioned Randolph as a leader in military aviation education.
During World War II, Randolph AFB played a critical role in expanding and accelerating pilot training programs to meet wartime demands. The base trained thousands of aviators, directly supporting Allied air operations.
After the war, Randolph continued as a hub for flight training and became home to the Air Training Command in 1949. This move further cemented its reputation as a training powerhouse.
Throughout the Cold War, Randolph AFB adapted to new technologies and missions, including the introduction of jet aircraft and advanced simulators. The base also hosted various support and operational units, reflecting its evolving role in Air Force readiness.
In 2010, Randolph AFB became part of Joint Base San Antonio, integrating with Fort Sam Houston and Lackland AFB under a single command structure. This change improved efficiency and resource sharing across the installations.
Today, Randolph AFB continues to serve as a cornerstone of Air Force training, hosting the 12th Flying Training Wing and supporting a range of specialized training missions.
The base remains an important economic and community partner in the San Antonio region. Notably, it has retained its original name since its establishment, honoring Captain William Millican Randolph.
Namesake
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Christopher Puccia, 39th Flying Training Squadron director of operations, conducts preflight checks of a T-1A Jayhawk prior to the last T-1A flown from Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, July 15, 2024, at JBSA-Randolph, Texas. The Air Force is shifting its training program...
Major Units
12th Flying Training Wing
Responsible for conducting pilot instructor training, combat systems officer training, and remotely piloted aircraft pilot instructor training for the U.S. Air Force and allied nations.
Air Education and Training Command (AETC) Headquarters
Oversees all Air Force recruiting, training, and education programs, shaping the development of Airmen across the service.
Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC)
Manages personnel programs and policies for the Air Force, including assignments, promotions, and career development.
Training Schools
Pilot Instructor Training (PIT)
Overview
Provides advanced training for experienced pilots to become instructor pilots for various Air Force aircraft.
Course Length
4-6 months
Who Attends
Qualified Air Force pilots selected to become instructors
Combat Systems Officer (CSO) Training
Overview
Prepares officers for specialized roles in navigation, electronic warfare, and weapons systems operations aboard Air Force aircraft.
Course Length
12 months
Who Attends
Commissioned officers selected for CSO roles
Arrival & In-Processing
Members of the 6th Force Support Squadron and the United Services Organizations provide assistance to Hurricane Matthew evacuees Oct. 7, 2016, at MacDill Air Force Base, Fla. More than 150 evacuees traveled through MacDill’s gates seeking refuge at the MacDill Inn. (U.S. Air Force photo by...
Welcome to Randolph AFB! Arriving at a new base can feel overwhelming, but being prepared with the right documents and information will make your transition smooth. Review the steps below to ensure a hassle-free arrival and check-in. For more details, visit the official Randolph AFB website.
Randolph AFB's Main Gate is the primary entry point for all incoming personnel and families. The Main Gate operates 24/7 for your convenience. All drivers and passengers must present a valid Military ID, CAC, or approved DoD credential at entry. State-issued IDs must comply with the REAL ID Act—non-compliant licenses are not accepted for unescorted access. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections to maintain base security. If you have family members or guests without DoD credentials, visit the Visitor Control Center to obtain a pass before arrival. Sponsors must escort visitors at all times unless otherwise approved.
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PCS Orders (multiple copies)
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Military ID/CAC
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Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
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Birth Certificates for dependents
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Social Security Cards
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Vehicle Registration & Proof of Insurance
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Medical & Dental Records
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Housing Assignment or Lease Agreement
Randolph AFB offers a robust sponsor program to help you settle in. Contact your gaining unit or the Military Personnel Section to request a sponsor. You may also be assigned a sponsor automatically, but reach out if you have not been contacted prior to arrival.
Report to the Welcome Center (Bldg 399) upon arrival for in-processing. The Welcome Center is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Key steps include Personnel, Finance, Housing, Medical, and Unit Check-in. Most in-processing tasks are completed within 2-3 business days, but some steps may vary based on your assignment.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Main Gate. The VCC is open Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and sponsoring guests. All visitors must be vetted and accompanied by a DoD ID cardholder unless otherwise approved.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Georgia – Personal Property manager Staff Sgt. Brent Rochette, noncommissioned officer in charge, 78th Logistics Readiness Squadron’s Traffic Management Office inspects the condition of shipped items at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, Dec. 15, 2021.
Randolph AFB welcomes inbound service members and families with a streamlined PCS process. Once you receive official orders, contact the base Transportation Office to start your move. Decide if you’ll use a Household Goods (HHG) shipment or a Personally Procured Move (PPM, also called DITY). Each move type has different paperwork, weight limits, and reimbursement rules. The Defense Personal Property System (DPS) at move.mil is your main hub for scheduling, tracking, and managing your move. Use DPS to enter shipment details, request packing dates, and connect with your Transportation Office.
You are entitled to Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) to offset hotel costs while you search for housing, and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) to help with moving expenses. TLE at Randolph AFB follows standard CONUS rules. Always keep receipts and track out-of-pocket costs. Early planning helps avoid delays and maximizes your entitlements. For Randolph AFB-specific arrival info, check the base newcomer’s guide and reach out to your sponsor for local tips and support.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor as soon as you get orders.
- Book temporary lodging early—on-base options fill up fast.
- Keep all PCS documents, orders, and receipts in a secure folder.
- Take photos or videos of your belongings before pack-out.
- Label boxes with your name, room, and destination address.
- Plan pet travel and boarding arrangements well in advance.
- Check Randolph AFB’s gate hours and access rules before arrival.
Important Forms & Links
Start, track, and manage your PCS move online.
Check current TLE, DLA, and per diem rates.
Guides and tools for every step of your PCS.
Official JBSA newcomer info, including Randolph AFB.
Schools & Childcare
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Randolph AFB families rely on local public school districts, as there are no DoDEA schools or on-base K-12 schools. Most children living on or near base attend schools in the Judson Independent School District, which is known for its diverse programs and strong academic support. The School Liaison Officer (SLO) at Randolph AFB is a key resource for families, helping navigate enrollment, special programs, and transitions. Contact the SLO early for guidance on school choices, district requirements, and support for military-connected students.
Childcare Options
Randolph AFB Child Development Center (CDC)
The CDC offers full-day, part-day, and hourly care for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. The center is DoD-certified and NAEYC accredited, providing a safe and nurturing environment.
Randolph AFB Youth Center
The Youth Center delivers after-school care, summer camps, and enrichment clubs for school-age children and teens. Programs focus on leadership, sports, and creative arts.
Randolph AFB Family Child Care (FCC) Program
FCC offers in-home care by certified providers, with flexible hours and options for full-time, part-time, and hourly needs. The program meets DoD standards for quality and safety.
Local Schools
Judson Independent School District
Judson ISD serves Randolph AFB and is rated as a solid district, offering Advanced Placement, STEM, and dual-credit options. Many schools in the district score above average on state assessments (source: GreatSchools.org).
Kitty Hawk Middle School
Kitty Hawk Middle is part of Judson ISD and is known for strong academics, dedicated teachers, and robust extracurriculars. The school receives favorable reviews for student support and enrichment programs.
Veterans Memorial High School
Veterans Memorial High, also in Judson ISD, offers AP courses, career pathways, and a range of athletics and arts. State ratings highlight its college readiness and supportive campus culture.