Military Spouse Licensing Act: All You Need To Know

Military spouses are provided plenty of exciting benefits to make it easier for them to lead fulfilling lives with their service member partners. Aside from the federal law Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) and Education Improvement Act, among the most attractive benefits provided to spouses is the Military Spouse Licensing Act.

What is this law, and how does it impact professional licenses? We’ll discuss further in this article.

Understanding the Military Spouse Licensing Act

This act allows military families more job opportunities when moving across the country. Service members are often deployed to various parts of the nation for work, which can affect their spouses’ jobs.

This law enables spouses to apply for and work in a licensed occupation and hold a license in good standing anywhere in the country. They won’t have to wait months for approval to apply for new opportunities.

Requirements for Licensure Relief

Transferring occupational licenses isn’t automatic. You must satisfy the following requirements to be able to use your license in other states:

1. Good standing with the licensing authority that issues the certification
2. Military orders or proof that the active duty service member was mandated to move to another state
3. Covered professional license

Implementation and Enforcement

Before anything else, it must be proven that spouses are married to active duty service members. Each state has its rules regarding license adaptation, but federal law requires states to honor the license issued by a previous licensing authority.

President Joe Biden signed a bill to transfer occupational licenses, but the spouse must submit requirements. Likewise, they should comply with the requirements set by the state’s licensing board.

The Justice Department is mandated to ensure that all states adhere to the new law and respect other spouse benefits, such as financial and housing protections. If a spouse has issues with professional licenses, they should report to the nearest court for legal assistance.

Benefits for Military Spouses

How does this law impact military families? Here are some key benefits military spouses can enjoy through the Military Spouse Licensing Act:

1. Better job opportunities: They won’t have to look for jobs outside their chosen career field. Some people used to change careers to find opportunities near their new residence for convenience. That won’t be the case because of this law.
2. Less waiting time: Before this new law was signed, spouses had to wait months to apply for job opportunities within their line of work. Military spouses can begin applying once they receive their spouses’ deployment orders.
3. Economic impact: While service members are paid well and given attractive benefits, both spouses might have to work to provide the best lives for their families. This law makes it easier for spouses to look for well-paying opportunities that are accessible to them.
4. Work-life balance: Being granted more opportunities means military spouses can find well-paying jobs close to home and within their expertise. They can work in the field they prefer while keeping close to their family.

How does it Impact the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act?

The Military Spouse Licensing Act doesn’t diminish the benefits the SCRA provides. It even enhances them so that military spouses have more options to live the life they want. They won’t have to switch careers to provide for their families. They can follow their dreams while living with their spouses across the nation.

However, proof of active duty service is required before these benefits are honored. Even service members must request each institution for SCRA protections. Fortunately, services like SCRACVS make it easier for military families to find job opportunities. SCRACVS can provide military verification in as fast as one business day.

Conclusion

Fortunately, military spouses are granted more job opportunities thanks to this law. Because of frequent movement, it can be challenging for spouses to come. Fortunately, they have more options due to this law. However, they need to prove that their spouse is on active duty.

SCRACVS can help spouses maximize the Military Spouse Licensing Act. Click here to sign up at SCRAVS and verify the active duty status.

FAQs

What is the SCRA for military spouses?

The SCRA focuses on service members. However, select benefits, including interest rate reduction and protection from eviction, are extended to spouses.

What are military spouses entitled to?

As long as the spouse remains married to the service member, they’re granted access to military bases, insurance and healthcare, and even education benefits. They forfeit these perks if they divorce their spouse but haven’t been married for one or two decades.

How do you prove you are a military spouse?

You must present your marriage certificate and other documents reflecting your marital status. Likewise, you must prove that your husband or wife is in the Armed Forces.

What is the military protection for spouses?

You’re given free insurance and healthcare, such as TRICARE if your employer doesn’t provide any. Moreover, you have access to the military bases’ resources.

Which professions are covered under the Military Spouse Licensing Act?

In general, only law and medical licenses are excluded from this act. You can use your license across state lines if you’re a pharmacist, nurse, social worker, or cosmetologist.

Can military spouses start working immediately upon relocation under this act?

No, they must still satisfy the basic requirements to apply for a new job. If they can provide the necessary documents and go through the selection process, then they can work immediately.