Final answer:
A sailor becomes eligible to apply for new orders through CMS/ID when they are in their orders negotiation window, which is typically 12 months before their Projected Rotation Date (PRD) for sea duty and 9 months prior for shore duty. They need to be within their Detailing window and have a Service Record demonstrating their qualifications and readiness for the next assignment.
Step-by-step explanation:
The eligibility conditions for a sailor to start applying for orders via the Career Management System Interactive Detailing (CMS/ID) mainly pivot around the timing in relation to their current tour and their career timeline. Sailors typically become eligible to apply for new orders through CMS/ID within a specific time frame known as their 'orders negotiation window.' This usually starts approximately 12 months before their Projected Rotation Date (PRD) for those on sea duty and about 9 months before their PRD for those on shore duty.
Additionally, they must be in a Detailing window, which signifies they are within the timeframe that allows them to negotiate follow-on orders. Sailors are also expected to have completed the necessary career milestones such as required trainings, evaluations, and physical fitness assessments to be considered for new assignments. Their Service Record plays a crucial role in this process, as it must reflect their qualifications and readiness for available positions. In some cases, command endorsements and career development board reviews might influence the assignment process. It's important for sailors to consult with their detailers and use the resources provided by the Naval Personnel Command to understand their specific eligibility and ensure a smooth detailing process.