Yuma Proving Ground
Yuma Proving Ground PCS Guide
Military Base History
A Test Vehicle Operator’s workday starts with doing pre-maintenance checks on the test vehicle. They check for multiple things including fluid leaks, the tires for flats and ensure the lights function. Clayton Wall and Jaime Quinones are pictured inspecting the M1311 Medium Equipment Trailer.
Yuma Proving Ground (YPG) began operations in 1943 as the Yuma Test Branch, part of the Desert Training Center established during World War II. Its original mission was to test military equipment, vehicles, and weapons in desert conditions, supporting the U.S. Army's need to prepare troops for combat in North Africa and similar environments.
During WWII, the installation rapidly expanded, adding new ranges and facilities to accommodate a wide range of testing. After the war, the site briefly closed but soon reopened as the Yuma Test Station in 1951, reflecting the Army's ongoing need for a desert testing environment during the early Cold War.
The installation was officially renamed Yuma Proving Ground in 1962, marking its growing importance as a permanent test facility.
Throughout the Cold War, YPG supported testing for artillery, munitions, armored vehicles, and aircraft systems. It became a hub for innovation, hosting units such as the U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command.
The proving ground played a key role in validating equipment for conflicts in Korea, Vietnam, and the Middle East.
Today, Yuma Proving Ground is one of the largest military installations in the world by land area. It supports year-round testing of ground combat systems, unmanned aerial vehicles, and munitions.
The installation is vital to Army modernization efforts and contributes significantly to the local economy. There have been no significant name changes since its designation as Yuma Proving Ground in 1962.
Major Units & Training Programs
U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground proudly supports the Yuma community. One way it does this is by taking part in community events and spreading awareness about its mission of conducting developmental testing of equipment before they get into the hands of the warfighter. On the morning of Feb. 8,...
Major Units
U.S. Army Yuma Proving Ground (YPG) Garrison
YPG Garrison oversees the daily operations, logistics, and support for all activities on the installation, ensuring mission readiness and support for tenant units and test operations.
U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command (ATEC) – Yuma Test Center
The Yuma Test Center conducts developmental testing and evaluation of military ground combat systems, artillery, munitions, and equipment in realistic desert environments.
U.S. Army Airborne Test Force
This unit is responsible for the testing and evaluation of parachute systems, airdrop equipment, and airborne delivery methods for Army and joint service use.
Training Schools
Target Acquisition and Night Observation (TANO) Course
Overview
Provides training on advanced target acquisition and night vision systems, focusing on operation, maintenance, and field application for ground combat units.
Course Length
2 weeks
Who Attends
Soldiers assigned to reconnaissance, artillery, and fire support roles
Arrival & In-Processing
On Tuesday, Sept. 10, construction begins to install culverts to avoid flooding like has been seen after heavy monsoon storms. One culvert is planned closer to the Walker gate and the other will go where the temporary steel plate is currently in place. The work area is approximately a one mile...
Welcome to Yuma Proving Ground! Arriving at a new installation can feel overwhelming, but being prepared with the right documents and understanding the check-in process will make your transition much smoother. Review these steps carefully to ensure a seamless arrival for you and your family. For more details, visit the official Yuma Proving Ground website.
Yuma Proving Ground's main entrance is the Walker Gate, located at the primary access point to the installation. This gate operates 24/7, ensuring round-the-clock access for authorized personnel. Always present a valid Military ID, CAC, or DoD-issued ID at the gate. State driver’s licenses must comply with the REAL ID Act for entry; non-compliant IDs require additional documentation. Expect 100% ID checks and random vehicle inspections as part of YPG’s strong security posture. Family members and visitors must obtain a pass—sponsors should escort them to the Visitor Control Center for processing. Allow extra time for vehicle checks and visitor pass procedures, especially during peak arrival hours.
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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 & Insurance
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Medical/Dental Records
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Proof of Housing (if arranged)
Yuma Proving Ground offers a sponsor program to help new arrivals settle in. To request a sponsor, contact your gaining unit’s administrative office as soon as you receive assignment notification. You may also inquire through the base’s in-processing or Welcome Center staff for direct assistance.
Report to the Welcome Center, Building 501, upon arrival for in-processing. The center is open Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Key steps include checking in with Personnel, Finance, Housing, Medical, and your assigned unit. Most in-processing tasks are completed within 2–3 business days, depending on your needs and arrival time. Bring all required documents to avoid delays.
The Visitor Control Center (VCC) is located just outside the Walker Gate, making it easy for guests and new arrivals to access before entering the installation. The VCC operates Monday through Friday, 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Services include issuing visitor passes, DBIDS registration, and processing guest sponsorship requests. Arrive early to allow time for background checks and paperwork.
PCS & Relocation Essentials
Former claims advisor, current quality assurance/quality control inspector at the 403rd Army Field Support Brigade Logistics Readiness Center-Daegu, and military spouse, Chalon Conley-Mosley, shows one of the informational booklets she made to educate and inform service members about how to submit a claim.
Arriving at Yuma Proving Ground starts with receiving your official PCS orders. As soon as you have them, contact the Base Transportation Office to schedule your move and discuss your options. Most personnel use either a Household Goods (HHG) shipment, where movers pack and transport your belongings, or a Personally Procured Move (PPM/DITY), where you handle the move yourself for potential reimbursement. Both methods require you to register and manage your move in the Defense Personal Property System (DPS), the DoD’s official portal for all PCS moves.
Entitlements like Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) and Dislocation Allowance (DLA) help offset costs during your relocation. TLE covers lodging and some meal expenses at your new duty station while you secure housing. DLA assists with miscellaneous moving costs. Make sure to keep all receipts and submit claims promptly through your finance office. Yuma Proving Ground is in a remote desert area, so plan ahead for limited local services and extreme summer heat. Use official resources to stay updated on base-specific requirements and arrival procedures.
Temporary Lodging Information
Temporary Lodging Expense (TLE) allowance
PCS Tips
- Request a sponsor from your gaining unit as soon as possible.
- Keep orders, IDs, and important documents with you during travel.
- Understand your weight allowance to avoid excess charges.
- Label boxes with your name and contact info for easier delivery.
- Take photos of valuable items before movers pack them.
- Plan for the desert climate—pack essentials for extreme heat.
- Book temporary lodging early; on-base options are limited at Yuma.
Important Forms & Links
Register and manage your PCS move online.
Check current TLE, DLA, and per diem rates.
Guidance and checklists for every step of your move.
Estimate your DLA entitlement before you move.
Official base information for incoming personnel.
Schools & Childcare
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