If you want to earn a teaching certificate, you’ll need to know the requirements in your state. Our free guide will get you started. Read on, or click to download it!
To become a teacher, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree and a teaching certificate. Some states call it a teaching license or credential — but it's the same thing. We'll walk you through the basics of how to get there.
Some states will have you complete additional steps (or complete steps in a different order), but in general, here's what you'll need to do.
Because certification requirements vary by state, subject and grade level, the first step is to figure out where you want to teach, as well as the grade level, subjects or specialty areas (like special education or bilingual education) you’d like to teach.
For most teaching certificates, you'll need at least a bachelor’s degree. If you don’t already have a bachelor’s, you can often earn your degree and your teaching certificate at the same time!
Some states require a master’s degree as well, but you may be able to work toward this while you’re already teaching.
For some skilled career and technical positions, like electrical engineering or health sciences, you may be able to substitute work experience for a degree.
You'll need to complete a state-approved teaching program to earn a teaching certificate. Your program will give you the tools you need to be successful in the classroom.
In many states, you can enroll in a teaching program as an undergrad, so you'll graduate with both a degree and teaching certificate.
Already have a bachelor's? Some teaching programs that offer a master’s degree or a certificate-only option. Many alternative certification programs are designed with working adults in mind , so you can work and get certified at the same time.
If testing stresses you out, don't panic! Your teaching program can often help you prepare for any subject tests or teaching portfolios.
Once you’ve completed your program and passed the required tests, you’re almost a certified teacher! The last step is to apply to your state education agency for your official certificate. Your teaching program may need to give approval before you can apply.
You’ll also need to pass a background check. States might have additional requirements, depending on your grade and subject. Your teaching program should help you prepare for this final step.
As you complete your requirements, you’ll start looking for your first teaching job. Check out district job fairs, virtual fairs and recruiting events with your teaching program. In some cases, your program may have connections with school districts in your area.
National Board Certification is the most advanced certification that a teacher can receive. It's purely optional, but completing the rigorous and challenging certification process is a prestigious accomplishment and could lead to a higher salary, more professional opportunities and easier transfer between states.
When it comes to teacher certification, there's a lot to remember! That's why we made a free downloadable version of this guide, so you can keep the info handy.
Certification varies from state to state. To learn more about requirements where you live, click "Find Your State" and choose the state you’re interested in.
You may have heard the terms “alternative certification” or “alternative licensure.” If you already have a bachelor's degree, alternative certification can be a great option!
These are the most common types of alternative programs:
“When we think of careers that make a lasting impact on society, few can compete with teaching.”
—Dr. Phillip Burchfield, Executive Director, Mississippi Association of School Superintendents
We'll answer a few more common questions here. It's a good idea to talk with staff at teaching programs too. They're experts on teacher certification in your state!
Do I need a degree in education to teach?Not necessarily! While you do need a bachelor's degree, you don't usually need a degree in education. In fact, for middle and high school subjects, you probably want a degree in your teaching subject, like science or history.
Here are three common scenarios:
The short answer is — not really. All public school teachers have some sort of certificate or license. T hat said, if you get certified through an alternative certification program, you may be able to start teaching while you earn your certificate.
Check with your state education agency and local school districts to learn about your options!
What's the difference between a teaching degree and teaching certificate?A teaching degree is awarded by your college or university, whereas your teaching certificate is awarded by the state.
If a college offers a “teaching degree,” it means you'll take all the classes you need in your future teaching subject, along with coursework that prepares you to plan lessons and lead a class.
At the end of your program, you'll still need to apply to the state for your teaching certificate or license. You may also need permission from your degree program before you can apply for your certificate.
How long does it take to become a teacher?If you're starting as an undergraduate, it can take four to five years (give or take) to complete your degree and certificate. Already have a bachelor's degree? A master's degree teaching program often takes one to two years.
Alternative or certificate-only teaching programs are usually the shortest route — often a year or less.
How do I choose a teaching program?There are a lot of great teaching programs out there! To choose the right one for you, start with the basics. Narrow down your teaching program options to those that:
Once you’ve narrowed the list, you can find programs that work for your specific needs and goals. Consider questions like:
If you have a teaching credential in one state and want to teach in another, you may be able to transfer your certificate to your new state. This is called “reciprocity.”
In some cases, when there is a reciprocity agreement between states, the process is relatively easy; in other cases, it can take longer. If you're planning a move from one state to another, research your new state's specific requirements for out-of-state certified teachers. Start by checking with your new state's education agency to see if you can fill out a simple application for a certificate. They will let you know if you need to complete additional requirements.
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