What is the role of an Authorizing Official (AO) in the DTS process?

The role of an Authorizing Official (AO) in the Defense Travel System (DTS) process is primarily focused on performing the final review of travel plans submitted by travelers. The AO evaluates the traveler's request to ensure that it aligns with organizational travel policies and the necessary regulations. Once the review is completed, the AO makes a critical decision on whether to approve the travel plans.

This responsibility is vital as it ensures that travel incurred by employees is authorized and complies with both budgetary constraints and policy guidelines. The AO serves as a safeguard for proper travel procedure and fiscal responsibility, helping to manage the organization's resources effectively.

In contrast, creating travel authorizations, submitting reimbursement claims, and reviewing documents for accuracy are tasks typically handled by travelers and administrators rather than the AO. This distinction emphasizes the AO's specific role in the approval process, which is oriented towards higher-level oversight rather than operational tasks.