📊Career Progression

Time-in-Grade
Requirements Guide

Understand federal promotion eligibility and when you can advance to the next GS grade level.

What is Time-in-Grade?

Time-in-Grade (TIG) is a federal requirement that employees must serve a minimum period at their current grade level before being eligible for promotion to the next higher grade. This ensures employees gain sufficient experience before advancing.

Key Rule

For most GS positions, you must complete 52 weeks (one year) at your current grade before you can be promoted to the next grade level.

Time-in-Grade Requirements by Grade

Current Grade	Next Grade	TIG Required	Notes
GS-5	GS-7	52 weeks	Standard progression
GS-7	GS-9	52 weeks	Standard progression
GS-9	GS-11	52 weeks	Standard progression
GS-11	GS-12	52 weeks	Standard progression
GS-12	GS-13	52 weeks	Often competitive
GS-13	GS-14	52 weeks	Supervisory positions
GS-14	GS-15	52 weeks	Senior positions

Understanding Career Ladders

Many federal positions have "career ladders" that allow for automatic promotion upon meeting time-in-grade and performance requirements. Common career ladder patterns include:

GS-5/7/9

Entry-level professional positions. Automatic promotion each year with satisfactory performance.

Examples: HR Specialist, Budget Analyst

GS-7/9/11

Professional positions requiring specialized education or experience.

Examples: IT Specialist, Accountant

GS-9/11/12

Mid-level professional positions with full performance at GS-12.

Examples: Program Analyst, Contract Specialist

GS-11/12/13

Senior professional positions. GS-13 often requires competition.

Examples: Management Analyst, Engineer

Exceptions to Time-in-Grade

Time-in-grade requirements don't apply in all situations. Here are the main exceptions:

Positions Outside Competitive Service

Excepted service positions, SES, and certain scientific/professional positions may not have TIG requirements.

Reinstatement from Outside Government

Former federal employees returning after a break in service may not be subject to TIG for their first appointment.

Special Hiring Authorities

Some hiring authorities like Schedule A or direct hire may have different requirements.

Agency Waivers

In exceptional circumstances, agencies can request waivers from OPM for critical positions.

Lateral Transfers

Moving to a position at the same grade level doesn't require TIG consideration.

Tips for Career Advancement

📅

Track Your TIG Date

Know exactly when you become eligible for the next grade. Mark it on your calendar.

⭐

Maintain Excellent Performance

Career ladder promotions require satisfactory or better performance ratings.

📝

Document Accomplishments

Keep records of achievements for your resume and performance reviews.

📈

Seek Developmental Opportunities

Take on special projects, details, and training to build your qualifications.

🤝

Network Within Your Agency

Build relationships with managers who may have positions opening up.

🎯

Apply Broadly

Don't limit yourself to one agency. Federal experience transfers across government.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is time-in-grade for federal employees?

Time-in-grade (TIG) is a requirement that federal employees must serve a minimum period at their current grade level before being eligible for promotion to the next higher grade. For GS positions, the typical requirement is 52 weeks (one year) at the current grade before promotion to the next grade.

How does time-in-grade affect federal promotions?

Time-in-grade requirements mean you must complete at least 52 weeks at your current GS grade before being promoted to the next grade. For example, to be promoted from GS-11 to GS-12, you must have served at least one year as a GS-11. Some positions have career ladders that allow automatic promotions upon meeting TIG requirements.

Are there exceptions to time-in-grade requirements?

Yes, there are exceptions. Time-in-grade doesn't apply to: positions outside the competitive service, certain scientific and professional positions, reinstatement eligibles applying from outside government, and some special hiring authorities. Additionally, agencies can request waivers in exceptional circumstances.

For more general federal resume guidance, see our comprehensive guide:

← Back to Federal Resume Guide

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