Keep Your Career Moving Through Every PCS
Military spouses know that a permanent change of station (PCS) often means restarting routines — but it doesn’t have to mean restarting your career. The Marine Corps provides resources to help spouses and 21st century military families maintain professional licenses, reduce financial barriers, and continue working after a move.
Military Spouse Licensure Reimbursement Program
The Marine Corps offers the Military Spouse Licensure Reimbursement Program, which reimburses up to $1,000 for qualifying license and certification costs and up to $1,000 for business-related relocation costs tied to a PCS move. The program has disbursed more than $200,000 to spouses in the past five years.
Military spouses work in a variety of careers, including:
- Healthcare
- Education
- Social Work
- Real Estate
- Cosmetology
- Self-employment and entrepreneurship
Many of these professions offer strong portability—an important factor for families who relocate every three to five years. The reimbursement program helps reduce the financial strain of maintaining credentials and supports both career continuity and family readiness.
For additional guidance, reference MARADMIN 074/25.
Spouse License Portability & Legal Protections
Military spouses are also protected under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) and the Military Spouse Licensing Relief Act.
These protections require states to recognize a military spouse’s professional license when relocating due to PCS orders—provided the license is active and in good standing. This helps reduce:
- Repeated testing
- Additional training requirements
- Licensing delays
- Extra relocation costs
While individual state requirements may still apply, these protections significantly improve license transferability and employment continuity.
Learn more about SCRA protections:
Get Support
For assistance with spouse employment services or the Military Spouse Licensure Reimbursement Program, contact your installation Family Member Employment Assistance Program (FMEAP).