Does the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR) get TRICARE?

Direct answer: Almost no TRICARE medical coverage — IRR members can purchase the TRICARE Dental Program, but generally don't qualify for TRICARE Reserve Select or any other TRICARE health benefit unless they're currently on active duty orders or recently deactivated.

Applies to: All TRICARE plans · All regions

Details

This is a real gap many IRR members don’t expect: unlike drilling Selected Reserve members, IRR status alone (including Navy Reserve Voluntary Training Units) does not qualify you to purchase TRICARE Reserve Select. If you need medical coverage as an IRR member, look at VA health benefits eligibility separately, or check whether a period of active duty orders currently qualifies you for full TRICARE coverage.

What to do next

Confirm this with your Primary Care Manager or regional contractor before scheduling — rules can vary by region and by service.