TRICARE when you PCS
Keeping your family covered and your care uninterrupted through the move.
When you PCS, your TRICARE coverage continues, but you must update your address in DEERS and, if you use TRICARE Prime, transfer to the new region and pick a new primary care manager. Handle these steps soon after arrival to keep referrals, prescriptions, and claims flowing without a gap.
Last updated: 2026-07-19
Steps to take
- Update DEERS with your new address as soon as you arrive.
- Transfer your region if you use Prime, and select a new primary care manager.
- Move prescriptions to a pharmacy near the new base and confirm any ongoing referrals.
- Confirm Prime vs Select based on how close you are to a military treatment facility.
Prime vs Select at the new base
TRICARE Prime offers low-cost managed care with referrals and works well near a base with a military treatment facility. TRICARE Select gives more provider freedom without referrals but higher out-of-pocket costs. Your choice often depends on how close your new home is to on-base medical care.
TRICARE PCS FAQ
Do I need to update TRICARE when I move?
Yes. When you PCS, you must update your address in DEERS and, if you use TRICARE Prime, transfer your enrollment to the new region and select a new primary care manager. Failing to update can disrupt referrals and claims, so handle it soon after arrival, ideally within a few weeks.
What is the difference between TRICARE Prime and Select?
TRICARE Prime is a managed-care option with an assigned primary care manager and referrals, usually at low or no cost near a base. TRICARE Select is a fee-for-service option with more provider freedom and no referrals for most care, but higher out-of-pocket costs. Availability of Prime depends on proximity to a military treatment facility.
Does TRICARE cover care during the move itself?
Yes, you remain covered during a PCS. For urgent or emergency care while traveling, you are covered, though non-emergency care away from your region may follow different rules. Keep your enrollment active, carry your information, and update DEERS promptly at the new location to avoid claim issues.
Planning the rest of your move?
Walk the full PCS timeline and check housing at your next base.
Open the PCS timeline