(1) Time limit for promotion to the rank of officer in peacetime: second lieutenant is promoted to lieutenant, two years for those who have graduated from junior college or above, and three years for others; Captain promoted to captain, captain promoted to major, major promoted to lieutenant colonel, lieutenant colonel promoted to colonel, colonel promoted to senior colonel, each for 4 years; Promotion to the rank of senior colonel or above is based on the officer's position, ability and political integrity and contribution to national defense construction;

(2) The time limit for the promotion of officers' ranks in wartime may be shortened, and the specific measures shall be formulated by the Central Military Commission (CMC) according to wartime conditions.

The time spent by officers studying in institutions of higher learning is included in the period of rank promotion.

Officers' ranks should generally be gradually promoted within the prescribed time limit.

Officers who have made outstanding achievements in combat or work may be promoted ahead of schedule.