UNIFORM REGULATIONS - U.S. Coast Guard

COMDTINST M1020.6G
1.A. General Information
1.A.1. Policy
14 U.S.C. § 485 provides that: (a) the Coast Guard may purchase uniforms,
accouterments, and related equipment for sale to officer personnel or cadets of the Coast
Guard and; (b) the Coast Guard may purchase uniform clothing for sale to enlisted
personnel of the Coast Guard. The actual cost of the clothing thus sold to enlisted
personnel may be withheld from their pay. The cost of initial issue of enlisted uniforms
is recovered from each member over time by way of a reduced clothing maintenance
allowance.
This Manual provides descriptions of all authorized U.S. Coast Guard uniforms and
components, and guidance for all Coast Guard activities prescribing uniform wear in
order to present a consistent Coast Guard image worldwide. In cases when a further
determination of the appropriateness of any uniform item, grooming, or appearance
standard is necessary, refer the matter to Personnel Service Center (Personnel Services
Division - Military Uniforms), PSC-(PSD-mu) for review and determination.
1.A.2. Implementation
These regulations define the composition of authorized uniforms and appearance
standards. Coast Guard uniforms are distinctive visual evidence of the authority and
responsibility vested in their wearer by the United States. The prescribing authority
determines when and where the uniforms in this Manual are appropriate for wear. Coast
Guard personnel must present a proud, professional, and consistent appearance that will
reflect positively on the individual, the Coast Guard, and the United States. All personnel
will comply with these regulations and serve as a positive example (A mentor) for the
proper wearing of Coast Guard uniforms. Exemplary military appearance should be the
norm for uniformed personnel.
1.A.3. Optional Uniform Items
Optional uniform items are items that are officially recognized and authorized to be worn,
but are not required to be owned by members. For example, the wooly pully sweater and
the Service Dress Blue skirt are optional uniform items. The purpose for specifying some
items as optional is to provide some flexibility of choice and individual comfort, while
minimizing the cost incurred by individuals or the Government if all were required.
Since members are not required to have optional items, those items may not be specified
for wear by prescribing authorities. Additionally, optional items may not be appropriate
for wear on all occasions or in all locations. Some restrictions on wear may be set by
prescribing officials, who are responsible for determining appropriate uniforms for the
various seasons, functions, and situations in their region. Individuals may wear optional
1-1