GENERAL RULES

• Citation: 41 CFR Part 301-2
• Sections: 3

§ 301-2.1 Travel authorization requirement.

Employees generally must have written or electronic authorization before incurring any travel expense. When it is not practicable or possible to obtain such authorization before travel begins, the agency may approve reimbursement for specific travel expenses after travel is completed. However, written or electronic advance authorization is required for specific items outlined in § 301-2.3.

§ 301-2.2 Allowable travel expenses.

Agencies may pay only those expenses essential to the transaction of official business as set forth in this chapter. Agencies will not pay for expenses over the reimbursement limits established in this chapter, nor will it pay for circuitous routes, delays, or luxury accommodations or services that are unnecessary or unjustified in the performance of official business. Employees must exercise the same care in incurring expenses that a prudent person would exercise if traveling on personal business.

§ 301-2.3 Travel arrangements requiring specific authorization or prior approval.

(a) Specific authorization or prior approval is required for:

(1) Use of reduced fares for group or charter arrangements;

(2) Use of a foreign air carrier or foreign ship;

(3) Payment of a reduced per diem;

(4) Use of cash to pay for common carrier transportation;

(5) Travel expenses related to emergency travel;

(6) Acceptance of payment from a non-Federal source for travel expenses (see chapter 304 of this subtitle);

(7) Travel expenses related to conference attendance;

(8) Use of a Government aircraft;

(9) Use of extra-fare train service;

(10) Travel by ship; and

(11) Use of a rental car.

(b) Paragraphs (a)(1), (3), (6), and (7) of this section require a written or electronic advance authorization.