Everything You Need to Know About Probationary Periods – October 30, 2025

On the surface, probationary periods seem rather simple, but with the addition of Executive Order 14284: Strengthening Probationary Periods in the Federal Service (April 24, 2025), new regulations and OPM guidance, and ongoing litigation, there are novel processes your agency must follow. Plus, probationary appeal rights have been limited even further by Civil Service Rule XI.

Under the new requirements the termination of a probationer is automatic unless the agency certifies, in writing, that finalizing the individual’s appointment advances the public interest. What does that certification look like? Must you notify employees in advance of their probationary period coming to an end? Can you discipline or PIP someone during their probationary period? Can probationers ever have MSPB appeal rights – and if so, under what circumstances?

This course will answer all your questions about probationary periods, and with all the recent changes it’s one you can’t afford to miss.

Learning objectives

• Identify the similarities and differences between probationary periods and trial periods.
• Understand how the supervisory probationary period is different from the initial appointment probationary period.
• Determine when it is appropriate to separate a probationer, and what process is required.

Training date

October 30, 2025

Training time

1:00 pm – 2:30 pm ET

Pricing

Early bird (register by September 30, 2025)

• $325

Standard (register October 1 – 30, 2025)

• $350

Event FAQs

Can I attend this class using my government computer?

This event will be held on Zoom. Many government computers and systems allow Zoom access. If for some reason your firewall will not allow access, you are welcome to use your personal email address to register and to attend the sessions from your personal device. Dial-in telephone access is also available.

Can I earn CLE credits for this class?

CLE applications are the responsibility of each attendee; FELTG does not apply for the credits on behalf of attendees. If you are seeking CLE credit, you may use the materials provided by FELTG in submission to your state bar. You may also request a certificate of completion, which will contain the number of training hours attended.

Can I share my access link with co-workers?

No. Registration for this event is per individual, and access links may not be shared. Each link may only be used by one person.

Can I register a teleworker?

This event is individual registration, so the cost is the same whether the person is teleworking or attending from an agency facility.

How do I receive a group discount?

Group discounts are available for agencies registering 10 or more individuals by the early bird registration deadline. The group discount must be requested in writing with registration submission via email or fax.

What are the Substitute, Cancellation, and No-show Policies for Registered Participants?

Substitutions may be made at no cost with advance notice to FELTG. We kindly request 24-hour advance notice. No substitutions will be permitted within one hour of the training start time. No cancellations are accepted within 30 days of the training start date. No cancellations are accepted on pre-paid registrations. There are no refunds for no-shows.