Career Portability Score
Find out how well your career travels with PCS moves. Answer 10 questions about your work situation, licensing, and remote-work options to get a portability score and personalized recommendations.
Why Career Portability Matters
The Military Spouse Employment Gap
Military spouses face a 21% unemployment rate — four times the national average — and earn 26.8% less than their civilian peers (DoD DMDC Survey, 2023). Frequent PCS moves, state licensing barriers, and limited job markets near installations all contribute. Choosing a portable career can close this gap significantly.
Interstate Licensing Compacts
Interstate compacts allow licensed professionals to practice across state lines without re-licensing. The Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) covers 41 states, the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC) covers 42 states, and the Psychology Interjurisdictional Compact (PSYPACT) covers 40 states. Many states also have military spouse expedited licensing laws. Check licenseportability.org for your profession.
Building a Portable Career
The most portable careers combine remote-work capability with nationally recognized credentials. MyCAA provides $4,000 for certificate programs, SECO offers free career coaching (myseco.militaryonesource.mil), and many employers specifically recruit military spouses. Consider IT certifications, project management, medical coding, bookkeeping, or freelance work for maximum portability.
Disclaimer: This assessment provides general career guidance and is not a substitute for personalized career counseling. Contact SECO at Military OneSource (800-342-9647) or your installation Family Support Center for tailored advice.
Resources
Career coaching
SECO
Scholarships
MyCAA ($4,000)
License portability
licenseportability.org
Salary data
BLS OOH
Spouse unemployment
DoD DMDC Survey
Key Compacts
Nursing (NLC)
41 states
Physicians (IMLC)
42 states
Psychology (PSYPACT)
40 states
Physical Therapy
35 states
Real Estate (ARELLO)
15 states
