U.S Code last checked for updates: Apr 03, 2025
§ 4025a.
Portability of professional licenses of servicemembers and their spouses
(a)
In general
(b)
Temporary licenses
(c)
Application
An application described in this subsection includes the following:
(1)
Proof of military orders described in subsection (a).
(2)
If the applicant is the spouse of a servicemember, a copy of the marriage certificate.
(3)
A notarized affidavit affirming, under the penalty of law, that—
(A)
the applicant is the person described and identified in the application;
(B)
all statements made in the application are true and correct and complete;
(C)
the applicant has read and understands the requirements to receive a license, and the scope of practice, of the State of the licensing authority;
(D)
the applicant certifies that the applicant meets and shall comply with requirements described in subparagraph (C); and
(E)
the applicant is in good standing in all States in which the applicant holds or has held a license.
(d)
Background checks
(e)
Interstate compacts
If a servicemember or spouse of a servicemember has a covered license to operate in multiple States pursuant to an interstate compact described in section 1784 of title 10
(1)
the servicemember or spouse of a servicemember shall be subject to the requirements of such compact or the applicable provisions of law of the applicable State; and
(2)
this section shall not apply to such servicemember or spouse of a servicemember.
(f)
Definitions
In this section:
(1)
The term “covered license” means a professional license that, with respect to a scope of practice—
(A)
is in good standing with the licensing authority that issued such license;
(B)
has not been revoked or had discipline imposed by any State;
(C)
does not have an investigation relating to unprofessional conduct pending in any State relating to it; and
(D)
has not been voluntarily surrendered while under investigation for unprofessional conduct in any State.
(2)
The term “license” means any license, certificate, or other evidence of qualification that an individual is required to obtain before the individual may engage in, or represent himself or herself to be a member of, a particular profession.
(3)
The term “licensing authority” means any State board, commission, department, or agency that—
(A)
is established in the State for the primary purpose of regulating the entry of persons into or the conduct of persons within, a particular profession; and
(B)
is authorized to issue licenses.
(4)
The term “military orders” has the meaning given such term in section 3955 of this title.
(5)
The term “scope of practice” means the defined parameters of various duties or services that may be provided by an individual under a license.
(Oct. 17, 1940, ch. 888, title VII, § 705A, as added Pub. L. 117–333, § 19(a), Jan. 5, 2023, 136 Stat. 6137; amended Pub. L. 118–159, div. A, title V, § 587, Dec. 23, 2024, 138 Stat. 1912.)
cite as: 50 USC 4025a