Many Soldiers returning to service—or joining from civilian life—are unaware that you can earn retirement points (and in some cases pay) through approved online training. This process is called Electronic-Based Distance Learning (EBDL) and is one of the easiest ways to maintain military readiness and advance professionally from home.
🧭 What Is EBDL?
EBDL refers to online self-paced courses that qualify for retirement points and, when authorized, compensation. These courses are hosted primarily on platforms such as:
- Army Learning Management System (ALMS)
- Joint Knowledge Online (JKO)
- Distributed Leader Course (DLC) (by rank level)
These platforms track your progress and completion of courses that have been approved for credit by Training & Doctrine Command (TRADOC).
✅ Courses That Commonly Qualify
Here are examples of EBDL-approved courses that may qualify for pay and/or points. Check with your unit to confirm eligibility:
| Course Name | Platform | Estimated Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Distributed Leader Course (DLC I–VI) | ALMS | 40–80 hrs | Mandatory for promotions |
| SHARP Annual Training | ALMS | ~1.5 hrs | Often required annually |
| Cyber Awareness Challenge | ALMS | ~1 hr | Must be completed for email access |
| Antiterrorism Level I | JKO | ~2 hrs | Required for deployment readiness |
| Basic Contracting Officer Rep (COR) | JKO | ~10 hrs | For those supporting logistics |
| Intro to CAOCL Cross-Cultural Competency | JKO | ~4 hrs | Civil affairs–relevant |
| OPSEC Level I | ALMS | ~1 hr | Recommended for all personnel |
🖥️ How to Register for EBDL Platforms
ALMS (https://www.lms.army.mil)
- Log in with CAC or DS Logon.
- Use the “Search” field to find courses.
- Click “Register.”
- Complete the course and print/save certificate.
JKO (https://jkodirect.jten.mil)
- Log in with CAC.
- Use the Course Catalog (upper-left).
- Register and launch course.
- Upon completion, download your completion certificate.
📝 How to Submit EBDL for Pay (DA Form 1380)
💡 Reserve Soldiers must use a DA Form 1380 to request pay for EBDL hours.
Required Items:
- Course certificate (PDF or screenshot showing name, course name, completion date).
- Total hours (must align with known course hours).
- Command approval.
Example Submission:
- Fill out DA Form 1380:
- Block 9: “EBDL – Completed Cyber Awareness, 2 Hrs.”
- Block 12: Total number of hours (8 hours = 1 retirement point).
- Signature and date.
- Submit to your unit admin/NCO for processing in RCAS or RLAS.
📌 Tips and Reminders
- 8 hours = 1 retirement point.
- You must complete the course in your own time (not during IDT/AT).
- DLC courses are often mandatory for promotion eligibility.
- Keep a digital folder of your completion certificates.
EBDL is a flexible, efficient way to earn retirement points and keep up with professional military education. Don’t wait until the end of the year—build your points steadily and keep records updated for credit.