Unclassified

2–2. Determining proficiency requirements
a. When determining the proficiency requirement for a language-coded position, commanders will consider the
following:
(1) The duties the incumbent will be expected to perform.
(2) The location of the position in question. How frequently will the linguist be required to use the foreign
language? Will there likely be other linguists with similar foreign language skills in the same location?
(3) The position’s grade level. Basic language courses are designed to train to level 2/2/1+ proficiency (limited
working proficiency), intermediate language courses to level 2+/2+/2 proficiency (limited working proficiency, plus),
and advanced language courses to level 3/3/2+ proficiency (general professional proficiency). Therefore, skill level 10
positions should not, as a rule, be documented with proficiency higher than the Army’s minimum standard of 2/2/1+.
Units may consult with the DCS, G–2 (DAMI–PIO) for advice on required proficiency for particular positions or
duties.
(4) Current operational requirements. If these justify increased proficiency, requests for changes to the language
proficiency indicator (LPIND) of a position should be made through command channels to the DCS, G–2 (DAMI–PIO)
and include supporting justification.
b. The LPIND is based on a four digit code. The first two digits show the listening and reading proficiency level,
and the last two digits show the speaking (S) proficiency level. For both the first two digits and the last two digits, the
first number shows the whole proficiency level, and the second number shows the plus level (expressed as either “0” or
“5”) (see table 2–1).
1
DA PAM 11–8 • 8 January 2016

---