The Reserve Force Medal may be awarded to a member who has, on or after 14 February 1975 and before 20 April 1999, completed 15 years efficient remunerated service in the Reserve Forces. A minimum of 12 years in the Reserve and up to 3 years in the Regular Forces (to total 15 years) can be counted towards the medal only.
 
Clasps are awarded for each additional period of five years efficient non-commissioned Reserve service after qualifying for the medal. Regular service or service as an officer does not qualify towards clasps for this award.
 
From 20 April 1999 the Reserve Force Medal was replaced by the Defence Long Service Medal However, clasps can still be issued in accordance with the eligibility criteria.