FAQ

What is the Reserve Defence Force (RDF)?

The Reserve Defence Force is the volunteer component of Ireland’s Defence Forces, comprising the First Line Reserve, Army Reserve and Naval Service Reserve. It plays an important supporting role alongside the Permanent Defence Force.

What do Army Reservists do?

Army Reservists volunteer their spare time to train in military skills, support Defence Forces operations, and assist with logistics, ceremonial duties, and augmentation tasks as required.

What roles does the RDF support?

The RDF supports Defence Forces roles such as defence against armed aggression, Aid to the Civil Power, peace support operations, fishery protection, and other duties assigned by Government.

What tasks may be assigned to RDF members?

Tasks may include providing logistic support, reinforcing the PDF, radiological monitoring, armed escorts, naval augmentation, ceremonial duties, and staffing posts during deployments.

What is the time commitment?

Service is flexible, but ideally members commit 7 days full-time training and 48 voluntary training hours per year through parade nights, field days and full-time courses.

What types of training will I complete?

Training includes parade nights, weekend field days, and full-time military courses designed to build both military skills and transferable professional competencies.

How do I apply to join the RDF?

Applications are accepted only through www.military.ie. Applicants select their preferred location and then complete fitness testing, interview, security vetting, a medical exam, and attestation.

What are the age limits?

Applicants must be 18–39 years old. Former PDF/RDF members with at least one year of full-time service may apply up to age 45.

Are there educational requirements?

There are no formal educational requirements. The medical, fitness, and security standards are the same as for the Permanent Defence Force.

What is involved in the fitness test?

Applicants complete the same fitness test as PDF candidates and must bring a completed PAR-Q form declaring themselves fit to participate.

What happens at interview?

Applicants who pass the fitness test are interviewed to assess their suitability, motivation, and understanding of service requirements.

What does security clearance involve?

Applicants complete a consent form authorising An Garda Síochána to confirm whether they have recorded convictions as part of mandatory vetting.

What happens during the medical exam?

Applicants undergo a full medical to ensure they are in good physical and mental health and free from conditions that may impact service.

What is attestation?

Attestation is the formal oath and signing process through which applicants officially become members of the RDF and later receive their uniform and army number.

What training courses are available after joining?

Courses include basic recruit training, 2–3 star qualifications, NCO development, officer training, signals, driving, reconnaissance, physical training leadership and instructor courses.

Are there leadership opportunities?

Yes. Members can progress through Potential NCO, Standard NCO, and Potential Officer training, gaining command and instructional experience.

What transferable skills will I gain?

Reservists develop skills such as teamwork, leadership, communication, physical fitness, planning, logistics, risk management, presentation skills, and technical abilities aligned to their training.