Occupational licensing and other career resources for military spouses

Are you a military spouse trying to follow a career path as it twists and turns according to your partner’s military obligations?

As a professional, you know how challenging it can be to have an occupational license recognized in another state. But did you know that states and licensing bodies have been working to make the process easier for military spouses?

Many states have recognized that the highly-mobile military lifestyle can create barriers to consistent and meaningful employment; many states now have laws in place that require or encourage licensing boards to grant military spouses expedited applications, temporary licenses, or license recognition.

You can learn more and find four simple steps to help you take advantage of these efforts with the License Recognition for Military Spouses resource guide, from the U.S. Department of Labor.

More employment resources for military spouses

Employment resources:

• Military Spouse Employment Partnership Career Center is a targeted recruitment and employment solution for spouses.
• Contact your local American Job Center to meet with a career specialist. If you’re a military spouse who lost your job or are underemployed due to your spouse’s relocation, you may be eligible for dislocated worker funding; ask a representative at your local American Job Center.
• Visit your base Family Center to discuss military spouse related opportunities or programs.
• Visit CareerOneStop’s Job Search to search for jobs anywhere in the United States.
• American Corporate Partners is a nonprofit organization that offers career mentorships to active duty military spouses.

Education or training help:

• The MyCAA Scholarship program can help military spouses get credentials to achieve career goals.
• Learn about education and training opportunities on CareerOneStop or at your local American Job Center.
• Visit your base Voluntary Education Center or Family Center to learn about education opportunities or programs for military spouses.
• Research financial aid and scholarships on CareerOneStop.

Relocation information:

• Military OneSource offers Moving Resources to help you plan a successful move.
• Visit CareerOneStop to find state-by-state information about career planning, education and training, and job search.