FAQs

Allied travel professionals typically earn between $1,500 and $3,500 per week, depending on their specialty, certification, and assignment location. Higher-paying roles—such as respiratory therapists, imaging technologists, or speech-language pathologists in high-demand areas—can exceed $4,000 weekly. Compensation packages often include stipends for housing, meals, and travel, as well as bonuses for completing longer-term contracts.

Allied travel professionals often receive a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with 401(k) retirement options. Agencies typically reimburse for travel expenses and licensure-related costs such as certification renewals or background checks. In addition, many travelers are eligible for referral bonuses, loyalty rewards, and consistent support from recruiters familiar with allied disciplines like imaging, therapy, and lab services.

Allied travel professional assignments typically last around 13 weeks, though duration can vary by specialty and facility. Some roles—such as those in physical therapy or radiology—may be offered in shorter 4-week blocks, while others can extend up to 26 weeks based on demand, coverage gaps, or contract renewals.

Yes, allied travel professionals must hold an active license for each state in which they plan to work. Licensing requirements vary significantly by discipline—radiologic technologists, respiratory therapists, physical therapists, and lab professionals may need state-issued credentials, national certifications, or both. It's important to check whether your specialty is governed by a national board (like ARRT or ASCP) and to verify lead time for license processing before accepting an assignment.

Most allied travel professionals can begin an assignment within 2 to 3 weeks after submitting their application and documents. The exact timeline depends on your specialty, licensing requirements, and how quickly your credentialing materials—such as certifications or background checks—are processed. Some roles, particularly in imaging or therapy, may offer expedited starts for high-demand needs.

Common specialties for allied travel professionals include respiratory therapy, diagnostic imaging, medical laboratory science, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology. Depending on the setting—such as outpatient clinics, hospitals, or rehab centers—opportunities can vary based on patient volume, licensure portability, and seasonal demand.

The best allied travel professional agencies provide responsive communication, knowledgeable recruiters familiar with allied specialties, and a smooth credentialing experience. Agencies that offer competitive compensation, continuing education support, and assignment flexibility are often preferred by professionals in fields like imaging, therapy, and lab science. Referral incentives and long-term traveler perks can also signal a strong commitment to supporting allied talent.

Most allied travel professionals receive a housing stipend, allowing them to choose accommodations that suit their assignment and lifestyle. While some agencies still offer pre-arranged housing—particularly for longer-term or rural placements—stipends provide more flexibility. Allied travelers working in outpatient clinics, therapy centers, or diagnostic labs often use local housing recommendations provided by recruiters familiar with the area.

To apply for a travel allied health assignment, professionals typically complete the following steps:

1. Create an online profile and upload work history
2. Submit discipline-specific licenses, certifications, and immunization records
3. Speak with a recruiter who specializes in allied health fields
4. Review contract options tailored to your specialty and availability

Agencies may also require background checks, skill assessments, or verification of national board certifications (e.g., ARRT, ASCP, NBCOT) prior to placement.

Yes, allied travel professionals have control over where they take assignments. You’ll be presented with opportunities that align with your discipline—such as imaging, respiratory therapy, or lab sciences—along with your location preferences and preferred contract length. You decide which offers to pursue based on your goals, availability, and licensing status.

Yes, referral bonuses are commonly offered by allied travel professional agencies. These programs reward you for referring qualified professionals—such as radiologic technologists, therapists, or lab techs—who complete a full assignment. The bonus amount, payout timing, and eligibility rules vary by agency, so be sure to ask for program details before submitting a referral.

Yes, most reputable allied travel professional agencies maintain accreditation from national healthcare oversight bodies. One of the most widely recognized credentials is The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval, which reflects an agency’s commitment to ethical staffing, clinical quality, and safety standards. For allied professionals—especially those in diagnostic or therapeutic roles—choosing an accredited agency helps ensure compliance with licensure and credentialing best practices.

Yes, allied travel professional agencies commonly reimburse for job-related expenses, including licensure and travel costs. These may cover airfare, mileage, lodging, license application fees, and even required background checks or immunizations. Reimbursement policies can vary, but most agencies require proof of payment—such as receipts or documentation—submitted within a specific time frame.

Yes, most allied travel professional agencies offer support with credentialing and licensing. This often includes assistance gathering necessary documentation such as board certifications, state licenses, vaccination records, and background checks. Allied travelers may also receive guidance on meeting discipline-specific requirements from organizations like ARRT, ASCP, or NBCOT. Credentialing timelines and checklists vary by specialty, so starting early is key to avoiding delays.

Allied travel professionals are typically paid on a weekly basis, although the exact pay frequency can vary by agency or assignment. Weekly pay offers consistency for professionals working in hourly roles across different departments, such as imaging, therapy, or lab services. Always confirm your agency’s specific payroll schedule before your contract begins.

Allied travel professionals are supported by a dedicated recruiter and a team that assists with credentialing, payroll, and compliance. These teams help troubleshoot assignment-related issues like pay delays, documentation gaps, scheduling conflicts, or facility onboarding. For professionals rotating through departments like imaging, therapy, or lab, having responsive agency support is key to staying focused on patient care.

Yes, many allied travel professionals have the option to extend their assignments, depending on facility demand and their own availability. Extensions are often offered when a department—such as imaging, rehab, or lab—continues to experience staffing shortages or has open long-term needs. Your recruiter typically coordinates the extension process with the facility and confirms any updated contract terms.

It’s best for allied travel professionals to apply at least 4 to 6 weeks before their desired start date. This gives ample time for gathering certifications, completing background checks, and matching with open positions in your specialty. Certain roles—especially those requiring complex documentation or multiple state licenses—may benefit from even earlier planning. Agencies may also accommodate expedited placements when facilities have urgent needs.