Teaching Requirements by State

Across the U.S., states have unique requirements for becoming a certified teacher. Still, they share some of the same qualifications. Teaching requirements by state differ depending on three key factors:

Public school teachers traditionally need to complete college coursework, take a certification exam, and provide references and comparable documentation to secure employment. Explore this helpful guide to learn about the appropriate degree, major, and certifications for your needs.

Teaching licenses, also called certificates or certifications, depending on the state, provide legal permission to teach in public schools. Public school teachers in preschool through 12th grade need licensure.

Unlicensed teachers may instruct students at private schools where administrators set regulations independent of the state’s authority, but many private schools still follow the same state licensing requirements as public schools. College instructors, including tenured and adjunct professors, do not need licenses to teach.

Each state has its own education department or a separate agency that regulates teacher licensing. Teachers must apply to the appropriate agency after completing state-approved educational programs. All states require a bachelor’s degree, and some mandate additional coursework.

Becoming a teacher takes time and dedication. It involves earning a four-year degree, obtaining state licensure, and navigating several complex steps along the way. We’ve got you covered with a detailed breakdown of each step below.

At the Undergraduate Level: When earning a bachelor’s degree from an accredited program, you should pursue degrees that meet standards established by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. You can earn a bachelor’s in education in specializations such as:

At the Graduate Level: Areas of study commonly found at the graduate level include curriculum and design, educational technology, and education administration. Even if you don’t need a master’s to work in these areas, holding an advanced degree in any area can lead to career advancement when accompanied by teaching credentials.

Secondary Teachers: Secondary education teachers should consider a degree in the subject they seek to teach. Science teachers, for example, can earn a bachelor’s degree in biology, chemistry, or physics while completing requisite education coursework. Another option for secondary teachers is a master’s degree in secondary education with a concentration in a specific subject.

Student teaching experiences place you in an actual classroom where you can apply what you have learned in your degree program. You’ll immerse yourself in school settings, working with teachers and students alike.

As a student teacher, you’ll develop lesson plans, instruct learners, and create assessments under the supervision of K-12 teachers and program mentors. Student teaching requirements generally span one semester, working full time in your assigned classroom.

If your state requires an exam for teacher certification or licensure, determine when you can take it. The Praxis® Core Academic Skills for Educators tests are offered at thousands of testing centers around the country, with additional options to complete the exam at home.

Similarly, if you need to take a Praxis subject assessment in an area such as early childhood, elementary, or secondary education, you can do so at an approved testing center or at home. Each exam includes objective response questions and essay sections.

To apply for teacher certification or licensure in your state, first determine the specific documentation required by your state. Most states require a minimum of a completed application form, college transcripts, and a copy of requisite exam scores.

Additional requirements may include evidence of first aid and CPR training, a recommendation form, fingerprint and background check waivers, and a copy of your driver’s license. Applying for certification or licensure also involves a fee.

As you look for teaching jobs, gather letters of recommendation, references, a resume, and examples of your classroom experience. Having a portfolio to supplement teaching demonstrations at interviews provides insight into your process and presentation.

Finding the right job requires networking and research. Reaching out to colleagues, seeking guidance from mentors, and browsing job resources provided by professional organizations can lead you to open positions.

In most cases, yes. The ability to transfer your teaching license ultimately depends on the reciprocity policy of the state to which you’re moving. Currently, 45 states offer full or limited reciprocity, while a few have more restrictive or no reciprocity policies at all.

The Education Commission of the States provides a comprehensive list of reciprocity policies by state.

The majority of states have policies in place to extend reciprocity for eligible teachers. In these states, fully licensed, experienced teachers may have to take some additional assessments, but licensing barriers are limited. Inexperienced teachers may have additional requirements and coursework to complete to demonstrate their knowledge to their new state.

If the state where you are seeking licensure offers a full reciprocity agreement, then you can use your current teaching license to teach in that state. Eight states, including Florida and Arizona, offer full reciprocity with no additional requirements for out-of-state, fully licensed teachers.

States with full reciprocity usually only require completing an application with proof of your academic records and a criminal background check. The National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) facilitates teacher reciprocity across states.

Lastly, several states, including New York and Wisconsin, are not NASDTEC participants, meaning they have no or very strict reciprocity policies. In these states, you’ll have to meet specific education and experience requirements, pass a state test, and complete additional coursework to receive a teaching license.

For example, teachers looking to work in New York need a valid license, three years of prior experience, and certification by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards to apply for a similar license.