Little changes to the PT test can make a big difference in your career. That’s the message to take away from the new physical training guidance, with modifications that took effect June 25.

The revisions are subtle — they lack the major shock of the revamped PT test introduced two years ago that changed all the rules and introduced civilian testers. But ignore these new details about the timing of your PT test, and you could soon be on the wrong side of the drawdown.

That means keeping track of when your test expires, even if you are on a medical waiver, said Capt. Kristina Rennie, a spokeswoman for Air Force fitness. Airmen who scored a 90 or above must take the test again one year later; those who earned a passing score of 75 but less than 90 must take it in six months.

“Overall, the goal is for all airmen to be current,” Rennie said. “If an airman is not current when their evaluation closes out, they will receive a referral.”

Warnings that you could lose your “5” rating on your enlisted performance report never materialized, but that doesn’t mean PT can’t affect your career. A referral on your EPR can be a career ender.Click here to read more

U.S. Air Force Airmen take to the flight-line pavement during the 5 km base-wide run, Hurlburt Field, Fla., Nov. 7, 2011. Air Force Special Operations Command Airmen ran as one team to promote unity among the base. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman 1st Class Naomi Griego)(Released) Photo by Hurlburt Field

A1C Naomi M. Griego