Transferring Your Professional License

Email Printer Friendly PDF

In the last few years, the Department of Defense's State Liaison and Education Opportunities office has worked to streamline state licensing procedures so military spouses like you will face fewer barriers when it comes to finding a job after moving.

Packing up and moving across the country — or around the world — can be a great adventure. But finding a new job may not be, especially if it requires a license. State-issued licenses cover everything from cosmetology to financial planning. And, if you've spent time and money getting your credentials, relicensing in a new state can put a damper on your job search. As a military spouse, you'll want to know how to transfer your license before you PCS.

Depending on your occupation, state-sponsored reciprocal agreements can help reduce or eliminate the relicensing process in your new state. But, sometimes that process can be long and costly. If that's the case, you may be eligible for unemployment compensation while you wait. Your state's employment office can offer more details.

Licensing overseas

Connect

with other military spouses on the Blue Star Networks to share professional information and get the scoop on state licensing requirements.

Moving overseas doesn't have to mean a career hiatus. In some occupations, your state-issued license — no matter where it's from — is valid for government and contracting jobs. Department of Defense schools, for example, accept teaching licenses from any state or territory as long as the teaching categories are marked. Check with your overseas installation's hiring authority for details.

Teachers

Licensing requirements for teachers vary by state, but some states will issue a provisional license if you have a license from another state. The National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification administers an agreement that helps teachers transfer their credentials within the organization's member states. Visit their Interstate Agreement page for details.

Health care professions

Identify

occupations with good job portability. Connect with a certified career counselor through the Spouse Education and Career Opportunities Career Portal.

Nursing — All states require licensing for registered nurses and licensed practical nurses. Many states now participate in the Nurse Licensure Compact, which allows nurses to practice with a multistate license. Visit the National Council of State Boards of Nursing for more information.
Nurse practitioners — Although licensing requirements vary by state, there is a national certification offered by the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.
Physical therapists — All states require licenses for physical therapists and physical therapy assistants, and some states have agreements to help expedite licensing for military spouses moving into their state. Visit the American Physical Therapy Association for detailed information.
Medical transcriptionists — Although most states don't require licensing or certification, visit the Association for Healthcare Documentation Integrity for more information about their voluntary credentials.
Physician assistants — All states require a license, but rules vary. See the National Commission on Certification of Physician's Assistants.
Emergency medical technicians and paramedics — All states require some type of license or certification. Check with the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians for national certifications.

Other occupations

Visit

the Military Spouse JD Network to find out how attorneys are advocating for licensing accommodations for military spouses in the legal field.

Massage therapists — Many states require some type of credential for massage therapists. Visit the American Massage Therapy Association and the Federation of State Massage Therapy Boards for more information.
Social workers — All states require some type of license or registration, but the requirements vary. Nationally recognized agencies offer credentials that may transfer between states. The Association of Social Work Boards has information on state licensing requirements.
Child care workers — Requirements for child care workers vary from state to state. Many employers prefer to hire workers who have earned a nationally recognized designation. The National Child Care Association has more information.
Cosmetologists (includes hair stylists, barbers, nail technicians and skin care specialists) — While states have varying licensing requirements, the National-Interstate Council of State Boards of Cosmetology offers a national testing program.
Real estate agents — Licenses are required in every state. The National Association of Realtors has a listing of state and local real estate boards, which can offer details on each state's licensing requirements and reciprocity agreements.
Attorneys — The Military Spouse JD Network advocates for licensing accommodations military spouses in each state.
Paralegals — Although paralegal credentials are not required in most states, a nationally recognized certification through the National Association of Legal Assistants may offer an advantage when looking for a new job.

The Department of Defense is committed to making it easier for military spouses to find and follow a meaningful career. That's why initiatives like USA4MilitaryFamilies are helping reduce or eliminate licensing barriers for military spouses as they move with the military.