Military Spouse Preference and Federal Hiring Authority

Spouses applying for federal or on-base jobs

Military spouses can receive hiring preference for many DoD civilian positions near the new duty station, and a noncompetitive appointment authority lets federal agencies hire eligible spouses without a full competitive process. Rules on how often and how long preference applies are specific, so read the eligibility language in each job posting.

How to use it

Upload a copy of your sponsor's orders and marriage certificate on USAJOBS and claim spouse preference or the spouse hiring authority where offered.

Go to the official source

Last checked 2026-10. Rules and amounts change; your installation's finance, transportation or family center office has the final word.

Related in Spouse Careers & Licensure

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• Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP)
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