There's good news if you're about to PCS and are concerned that professional licensing procedures in your new state could keep you from following your career path. Soon, a new initiative that will streamline licensing and certification processes for service members, veterans and their spouses will make it less difficult.
First Lady Michelle Obama and the nation's governors are taking action to streamline state occupational licensing for service members, veterans and their spouses by the end of 2015. Whether you're already a licensed or certified professional or are planning to become one, you won't have to dread going through the credentialing process every time you PCS to a new state. So keep making those career plans — soon it'll be easier than ever to do, or keep doing, what you love.
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New options for licensure and certifications
Find
the latest information on the state licensing and career credentials initiative by visiting USA4MilitaryFamilies.
To date, all states except New York and the District of Columbia have made progress toward licensing portability. Once the initiative is in effect, you'll have three new options for getting credentialed when you move:
- Licensure through endorsement. This option will let you prove you know your stuff by completing continuing education units, or through recent work or volunteer experience (at least two years of experience within the five years before you submit your application).
- Temporary licensure. Many states will give you a temporary license when you show proof of a current license or certification. You can work while completing the requirements for your new state credentials, or while waiting for an endorsement.
- Faster processes for issuing licenses. Some states will approve a license if the application is correct and verified by affidavit or sworn statement. Other states will allow the supervising agency director to approve applications on behalf of the licensing boards. These options won't change the quality standards in licensed or certified professions, so you'll still have to meet the required qualifications.
Licensed occupations
Visit
MySECO for information, tools and resources on your chosen profession.
Visit the CareerOneStop Licensed Occupations page to find out which occupations and states require a license or certification. The page describes the profession, provides the name and address of the licensing agency and lists the types of licenses required. Some of the many occupations requiring licensing or certification include health care, education, real estate, child care and food services.
For more information, talk with a Spouse Education and Career Opportunities career counselor at 800-342-9647.