Are males required to shave when off duty or on leave?

The requirement for males in the Army to be clean-shaven is primarily focused on their appearance while in uniform. When individuals are off duty or on leave, they are not bound to maintain the same grooming standards as they would when representing the military publicly. Therefore, the policy allows them the flexibility to choose their grooming habits outside of duty hours, reflecting an understanding that personal grooming may vary during those times. While maintaining a neat appearance is encouraged, it is not mandated in the same way it is during duty time. Thus, this option correctly captures the distinction between grooming standards for active duty and personal choice during off-duty hours.