Fill out OF-306 (Declaration for Federal Employment) online
Optional Form 306 (OF-306) is the Declaration for Federal Employment, used to collect background information from applicants and appointees for federal positions. It covers topics including selective service registration, military service, criminal history, and prior federal employment.
How to fill out OF-306 (Declaration for Federal Employment)
Enter personal information
Provide your name, Social Security number, date of birth, place of birth, and current contact information including phone number and email.
Answer background questions
Respond to questions about Selective Service registration, military service history, criminal history (felonies, firearms violations, domestic violence), and prior federal employment.
Disclose any relevant history
If you answered "Yes" to any background question, provide details in the continuation space. Include dates, circumstances, and resolution for each item disclosed.
Sign the certification
Read the certification statement carefully. Sign and date the form, certifying that all information provided is true, complete, and correct to the best of your knowledge. False statements may be grounds for dismissal or criminal prosecution.
About OF-306 (Declaration for Federal Employment)
Who needs this form
All applicants for and appointees to federal civilian positions, unless the hiring agency determines the form is not required for a particular position. Most federal job offers are contingent on the satisfactory completion of this form.
Where to submit
Submit to the hiring agency or human resources office as directed in the job offer or appointment instructions. The form is typically submitted electronically through the agency hiring system or by hand to the HR office.
Source and content freshness
- Reviewed: 2026-02-16
- Filing deadlines may shift for weekends and holidays. Verify due dates with official instructions.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not disclosing criminal convictions when required (omissions can result in removal or debarment)
- Confusing "charged" with "convicted" when answering question 9
- Not signing and dating the certification section
- Failing to update the form if circumstances change between submission and appointment
Frequently asked questions
Is this form free to fill out?
Yes. SimplePDF lets you fill out any PDF form for free, directly in your browser. No account required. For team and business features, see our pricing plans.
Do I need to create an account?
No. You can fill out and download the form without creating an account or signing up.
Is my data secure?
SimplePDF is not a covered entity under HIPAA. Documents are processed entirely in the user's browser and never transit via SimplePDF's servers, on any plan. Read our privacy policy for more details.
Is this legal, tax, or immigration advice?
No. SimplePDF provides form-filling tools and general informational content, not professional advice. Verify requirements with official instructions or a qualified professional.
Can I share a direct link to this form?
Yes! You can create a direct link to any PDF by prefixing its URL with simplepdf.com/. For example: simplepdf.com/https://example.com/form.pdf. Anyone who opens the link can fill out the form immediately in their browser. You can also embed the editor in your own website.
Will a criminal record automatically disqualify me from federal employment?
No. A criminal record does not automatically disqualify you. Federal agencies consider the nature and seriousness of the offense, when it occurred, and evidence of rehabilitation. However, certain convictions may disqualify you from specific positions (e.g., law enforcement, positions requiring a security clearance). Honest disclosure is always required.
SimplePDF provides a tool to fill out PDF forms. We are not affiliated with any government agency or form issuer. It is your responsibility to verify the accuracy and completeness of any information entered. SimplePDF is not liable for errors, omissions, or consequences resulting from the use of filled-out forms.