Travel & Relocation
GovTrip FAQs
Open Authorizations
- What is an Open Authorization?
- Who is authorized to travel under an Open Authorization?
- What does an Open Authorization do?
- How do I create an Open Authorization?
- How do I plan travel using an Open Authorization?
- How do I know if travel has been created under an Open Authorization for this person?
What is an Open Authorization?
In GovTrip, and open authorization is similar to a "blanket" authorization in the NFC TRVL system. In GovTrip, instead of the various types of blanket authorization (Types A, B, and N), there is only one "type" and limitation are placed on it. The open authorization may be limited by purpose, geographic location, trip dollar limit or total dollar limit.
Who is authorized to travel under an Open Authorization?
The same officials and positions that were authorized to use a blanket authorization in the NFC TRVL system are authorized to use an open authorization in GovTrip.
What does an Open Authorization do?
An Open Authorization, once approved, allows the traveler to plan trips that meet the limits of the authorization without further approval. The employee's travel arranger may plan and reserve transportation tickets, lodging, and rental car without the need for an approval. Once the document is stamped signed, the trip is auto-approved.
How do I create an Open Authorization?
To create an Open Authorization you must select "Open Authorization/Orders" under the "Official Travel" tab if you are creating it as a Traveler and under "Official Travel - Others" tab if you are creating it as the Arranger (see examples of each below). Select "Create New Open Authorizations/ Orders". Designate constraints associated with this open authorization. Be sure that you have selected the appropriate routing list to be associated with this authorization (who will be required to stamp the document "Approved"). Once this document has been initially approved you may plan itineraries under this authorization without additional approval. You will proceed to arrange travel as a trip-by-trip authorization. On the "Digital Signature" page, you will apply the "Signed" stamp and the document will auto-approve. (Limited Open Trifold for more detailed instructions)
TRAVELER ARRANGER
How do I plan travel using an Open Authorization?
After selecting the traveler you are arranging for, click on "Create Authorizations from Open Authorizations". Select the appropriate open authorization for this trip (as there may be more than one). From this point you will plan travel just as you would under a trip-by-trip authorization. The only difference is that after this document is stamped "Signed" it will auto-approve.
How do I know if travel has been created under an Open Authorization for this person?
In the "Trip Overview" you will see two separate authorization numbers.
Last updated: 07/24/2008
