The reserve is formed as the result of the implementation of the 2019 National Resource Management for State Defense Act (Undang-Undang Nomor 23 Tahun 2019 tentang Pengelolaan Sumber Daya Nasional untuk Pertahanan Negara) through Government Regulation No.

Reservists are drawn from the male and female citizenry who are not currently serving in the armed forces or national police, and this service is entirely voluntary.

This includes university students, members of the Indonesian Civil Service, and other working individuals who can apply and join the reserve without interrupting their studies or employment.

The reserves are summoned to active duty only when (1) a general mobilization has been announced by the president in times of national emergency or war, and (2) a call for refresher training (pelatihan penyegaran).

During the reserve's inactive duration, their field equipment and uniform are to be kept at their unit base, are not allowed to keep their firearms, and are expected to be called to active duty at any moment.