The PCIP course (and the QSA for that matter) is just the DSS with some scenarios. Review the DSS, if you are employed at a merchant or service provider, look at how the ROC or appropriate SAQ applies to your environment. Also, see if you can assist your company on policy reviews for DSS alignment (especially after the 4.0 updates) or any of the time based controls if that’s an option based on your role. More on reddit.com

Why was saq D such a nightmare? Because it is very long? Because the requirements are hard to interpret? Implementing the controls needed? Depending on your budget / disposition, you could read the PCI DSS. its free, and includes a lot of introduction and guidance to help understand it all. take a PCIP class from the PCI Council. https://www.pcisecuritystandards.org/program_training_and_qualification/pci_professional_qualification/ More on reddit.com

I’m a veteran, but my MOS in the military was IT. You have one year before you leave the military. Get IT training, either online or at a community college—NOW. You also need to look into these bridge programs that help veterans develop new skills. When it’s all said and done you may not want to do PCI compliance work. However, if you do, you’ll be prepared to learn PCI DSS. Go on Udemy, it’s a good course there that discusses PCI—look at YouTube also. PCI is a very unique niche—i learned it myself. However. Also consider the Risk Management Framework (RMF)since you’re in DoD. It’s also courses on Udemy and YouTube about that framework. Invest in yourself—invest in learning.. You may also see information out here about NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF). Ok I strayed off of the topic.. But PCI is a good standard to learn. Good luck—I’m a CISSP, CISA, CEH, PCIP, Linux and etc… certified professional. I’m an Information Systems Engineer naturally.. You have a whole year to learn!! Let’s GO!! More on reddit.com

What do you mean there's not many pci jobs out there? There's tons!! What job boards do you use? And what does your LinkedIn and resume look like? Of we don't have that flashy certification cissa, cisa, or an amazing amount of experience, it can be challenging. Have you liked in your current job to see if they do compliancy then ask to help out since you just got some new skills? Every company that accepts credit cards has to be compliant, so there's a chance you could start there. More on reddit.com