Nevada Department of Education

Physical Address

Carson City Office

700 E Fifth Street
Carson City, NV  89701

Las Vegas Office

2080 E Flamingo Rd, Suite 210
Las Vegas, NV  89119

Contact Information

Carson City Office: (775) 687-9115

Las Vegas Office: (702) 486-6458

Email: license@doe.nv.gov
Website:  Educator Licensure

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

Licensure Checklist for New Out-of-State Applicants

• Create an OPAL account profile by going to: https://online.nvdoe.org/#/
•  Self-Disclosure
  • Please answer the questions in the OPAL application and upload any official documents
    showing final disposition of criminal cases, or current status of ongoing cases (court
    documents, law enforcement/district attorney documents, etc.), and any documentation of
    discipline taken against a prior or current professional license. These must be uploaded as
    PDF documents.
• Make legible/readable copies of your Government-issued picture ID to be scanned in as PDF
  documents.
  • Valid Driver’s License or
  • Valid Passport or
  • Valid US Military ID
    • Also required are any court documents showing any previous names that may be on
      your transcripts (i.e. marriage certificate, divorce decree, or name change decree).
• Business License(s) (if applicable)
• Active Duty, Veteran, or Retired US Military Information of applicant or spouse of applicant to be eligible
  for the $50.00 military discount at the time of license application.
  • US Military ID or
  • DD-214 form
  • Marriage Certificate is required if it is your spouse who is/was in the US Military
• Education
  • We require ALL official transcripts of every regionally accredited college or university listed
    as having attended.
    • Transcripts may be dropped off at our Las Vegas or Carson City office, mailed to our
      Las Vegas office, or sent by the college/university/clearing house to:
      transcripts@doe.nv.gov
• Test Scores
  • Make legible PDF copies of any current testing done within 5 years of application to be
    uploaded during the application process.
• Reciprocity
  • Upload legible PDF copy of valid, non-conditional, and non-provisional license(s) from the
    state(s) you are licensed in.
  • Upload a copy of the verification of teaching/work experience form filled out by your
    former/current employer (applicable for educators looking to have CTE, administrator, social
    worker, and B&I licenses).
• Professional Certificates/Licenses (if applicable)
  • ASHA
  • National Board
  • Social Worker
  • Registered Nurse
  • Psychologist
  • ARL Certificates
  • ARL Evaluations
  • ASE (For Automotive)
  • JROTC (Letter from Sec. of Defense)
• Pay the applicable fees through OPAL
• Receive two (2) emails:
  • Receipt of Payment
  • Background and Fingerprinting instructions
    

    ---

    The information regarding applying for a teaching license in Nevada after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on August 20, 2024.

    If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the Nevada Department of Education, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

New Mexico Public Education Department

Licensure Bureau

Address

300 Don Gaspar
Room 103
Santa Fe, NM 87501

Contact Information

(505) 827-5800, Option 1

Email:  LicensureUnit@state.nm.us

Website: Licensure Bureau

Licensure Requirements

Out-Of-State/Out-of-the-Country Applicants

• Applicants should obtain a set of fingerprints from a local law enforcement agency or an IdentoGO location that offers “Print-n-GO!” retail services.  These fingerprint cards may be either traditional ink-rolled fingerprints or electronically captured and printed on fingerprint cards.
  • Applicants may be charged an additional fee to have fingerprints taken.
  • Applicants will be required to show identification at the time of fingerprint. Check with the location for their specific identification requirements.
• Once fingerprints are captured on a fingerprint hard card, and the individual’s demographic data is filled out completely, follow these steps to pre-enroll:
  1. Go online to the IdentoGO website
  2. Select the option To Mail in your Fingerprint Card (See image HERE)
• Note: IdentoGO has a fee of $59.00 that you must pay when registering at their site.

Click here to download Fingerprint Cards
Click here for Printer friendly instructions (Out-of-State/Out-of-the-Country Registration)

Frequently Asked Questions can be found HERE

NOTE: When registering with IdentGO, you must select ORI# NM920140Z, regardless of the type of license you are seeking. Failure to do so will result in a loss of your background check fee and a delay in the processing of your application. Applications will not be processed without a criminal background check done with “ORI# NM920140Z.”

Background Forms

To request a copy of your background check, please email StephanieJ.Lujan@ped.nm.gov.
NOTE:  You must have a cleared background for Teacher Licensure to be eligible for a copy of your background.
NMPED Background does not accept completed backgrounds from other states or agencies.

Early Childhood Education

Reciprocating a License

• $150 (non-refundable) fee; and
• Initial Application via NMPED Online Licensure Portal; and
• Provide Official transcripts reflecting a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree earned from a regionally accredited college/university; and
  • If this was completed through an alternative teacher preparation program, please have that agency complete the NMPED Approved Program Completion Verification Form
  • If applicable – Official Foreign Transcripts and Official Course-by-Course Transcripts Evaluation; must be sealed and addressed to 300 Don Gaspar, Room 103, Santa Fe, NM 87501
• Copy of current valid teaching license from out-of-state state education agency, Department of Defense School, or foreign country or a Notarized statement stating licensure was not required; and
• Copy of Passage of Teacher Exams or a Notarized statement stating exams were not required; and
• Verification of experience (Must be on Out-of-State School District Letterhead). Please break down experience by M/D/Y and please indicate the number of days taught for each year. 160 days commonly equals 1 full school year. Please use the form below; and
• Register for background/fingerprints for “Teacher Licensure”.

Elementary Education

• $150 (non-refundable) fee; and
• Initial Application via NMPED Online Licensure Portal; and
• Provide Official transcripts reflecting a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree earned from a regionally accredited college/university; and
  • If this was completed through an alternative teacher preparation program, please have that agency complete the NMPED Approved Program Completion Verification Form
  • If applicable – Official Foreign Transcripts and Official Course-by-Course Transcripts Evaluation; must be sealed and addressed to 300 Don Gaspar, Room 103, Santa Fe, NM 87501
• Copy of current valid teaching license from out-of-state state education agency, Department of Defense School, or foreign country or a Notarized statement stating licensure was not required; and
• Copy of Passage of Teacher Exams or a Notarized statement stating exams were not required; and
• Verification of experience (Must be on Out-of-State School District Letterhead). Please break down experience by M/D/Y and please indicate the number of days taught for each year. 160 days commonly equals 1 full school year. Please use the form below; and
• Register for background/fingerprints for “Teacher Licensure”.

Secondary Education

• $150 (non-refundable) fee; and
• Initial Application via NMPED Online Licensure Portal; and
• Provide Official transcripts reflecting a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree earned from a regionally accredited college/university; and
  • If this was completed through an alternative teacher preparation program, please have that agency complete the NMPED Approved Program Completion Verification Form
  • If applicable – Official Foreign Transcripts and Official Course-by-Course Transcripts Evaluation; must be sealed and addressed to 300 Don Gaspar, Room 103, Santa Fe, NM 87501
• Copy of current valid teaching license from out-of-state state education agency, Department of Defense School, or foreign country or a Notarized statement stating licensure was not required; and
• Copy of Passage of Teacher Exams or a Notarized statement stating exams were not required; and
• Verification of experience (Must be on Out-of-State School District Letterhead). Please break down experience by M/D/Y and please indicate the number of days taught for each year. 160 days commonly equals 1 full school year. Please use the form below; and
• Register for background/fingerprints for “Teacher Licensure”.

Special Education

• $150 (non-refundable) fee; and
• Initial Application via NMPED Online Licensure Portal; and
• Provide Official transcripts reflecting a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree earned from a regionally accredited college/university; and
  • If this was completed through an alternative teacher preparation program, please have that agency complete the NMPED Approved Program Completion Verification Form
  • If applicable – Official Foreign Transcripts and Official Course-by-Course Transcripts Evaluation; must be sealed and addressed to 300 Don Gaspar, Room 103, Santa Fe, NM 87501
• Copy of current valid teaching license from out-of-state state education agency, Department of Defense School, or foreign country or a Notarized statement stating licensure was not required; and
• Copy of Passage of Teacher Exams or a Notarized statement stating exams were not required; and
• Verification of experience (Must be on Out-of-State School District Letterhead). Please break down experience by M/D/Y and please indicate the number of days taught for each year. 160 days commonly equals 1 full school year. Please use the form below; and
• Register for background/fingerprints for “Teacher Licensure”.

Specialty License (Grades Pre K-12)

Educators who have completed a program in Physical Education (preK-12), Performing Arts Education (preK-12), and Visual Arts Education (preK-12) are eligible to apply for this license.

• $150 (non-refundable) fee; and
• Initial Application via NMPED Online Licensure Portal; and
• Provide Official transcripts reflecting a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree earned from a regionally accredited college/university; and
  • If this was completed through an alternative teacher preparation program, please have that agency complete the NMPED Approved Program Completion Verification Form
  • If applicable – Official Foreign Transcripts and Official Course-by-Course Transcripts Evaluation; must be sealed and addressed to 300 Don Gaspar, Room 103, Santa Fe, NM 87501
• Copy of current valid teaching license from out-of-state state education agency, Department of Defense School, or foreign country or a Notarized statement stating licensure was not required; and
• Copy of Passage of Teacher Exams or a Notarized statement stating exams were not required; and
• Verification of experience (Must be on Out-of-State School District Letterhead). Please break down experience by M/D/Y and please indicate the number of days taught for each year. 160 days commonly equals 1 full school year. Please use the form below; and
• Register for background/fingerprints for “Teacher Licensure”.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in New Mexico after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on August 22, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the New Mexico Public Education Department, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

Ohio Department of Education & Workforce

Office of Educator Licensure & Effectiveness

Address

Office of Educator Licensure & Effectiveness
30 W. Spring Street, 12th Floor
Columbus, Ohio 43215

Contact Information

Toll Free: (855) 983-4868
Phone: (614) 466-3593

Email:  educator.licensure@SBOE.ohio.gov
Website: Educator Licensure

Licensure Requirements

Candidates who completed an out-of-state licensure program should the Ohio State Board of Education resources regarding licensure requirements and the online application process. Candidates must submit the online application and all required documentation in order to begin the evaluation process and determine eligibility for an Ohio license. Please review all the steps of the licensure process and other useful information regarding the online application system on the Educator Licensure Process webpage.

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

1-Year Out-of-State Teaching Licenses

Candidates employed in an Ohio school may apply for the 1-Year Out-of-State teaching license to allow time to complete Ohio licensure exams or reading and phonics coursework requirements.  Candidates may only apply for the 1-Year Out-of-State license at the request of their employing Ohio school or district after their eligibility has been determined for either the Resident Educator or professional teaching license (candidates should first apply for the standard license to determine eligibility). Candidates may be granted the 1-Year Out-of-State teaching license if one or both of the following apply:

• Candidates must hold a valid, standard out-of-state teaching license and have met all requirements for a standard Ohio teaching license except for required Ohio licensure exams.
• Candidates who hold a valid, standard out-of-state teaching license and need to complete the initial reading or phonics coursework requirements for Ohio licensure, must pass the Ohio Assessment for Educators (OAE) 190 Foundations of Reading exam on the first try.

Please review the Required Documents outlined below. Candidates must submit their documents with their licensure application to determine eligibility for licensure.

The 1-Year Out-of-State teaching license is nonrenewable. Candidates must take and pass Ohio exams and complete initial reading and phonics coursework requirements before re-applying for the Resident Educator or professional teaching license.

Licensure Exams

Please note that educators adding an area to an existing Ohio teaching license or seeking a new license, who completed a teacher preparation program after July 1, 1991, must meet current exam requirements for the Ohio license even if exams were not required for their out-of-state license.

Professional Knowledge & Content Area Exams

Ohio requires passing scores for both content area exam(s) and a professional knowledge (pedagogy) exam for educator licensure (see the Licensure Testing Requirements webpage for more information). Candidates who passed content or professional knowledge exams for the out-of-state license(s) they hold should submit their official score report(s) with their online application for consideration.

Foundations of Reading Exam

Candidates seeking a Primary Childhood (grades PreK-5), Middle Childhood (grades 4-9), or any Intervention Specialist license (including multi-age and PreK-5), must also pass the Ohio Assessment for Educators (OAE) Foundations of Reading exam. Please see the Pearson Education website for exam registration.

Reading Coursework Requirements

Candidates seeking a Primary Childhood (grades PreK-5), Middle Childhood (grades 4-9), or any Intervention Specialist license (including PreK-5, PreK-12 and K-12) in Ohio, must successfully complete teaching of reading coursework through an accredited college or university (coursework must be reflected on an official transcript from that institution). This coursework includes:

• Nine semester hours in the teaching of reading, and
• A three-semester hour course in the teaching of phonics (in the context of reading, writing and spelling).

Candidates must have completed at least six of the required 12 semester hours of reading and phonics coursework to be issued a standard teaching license in Ohio. The remaining coursework requirements will be listed as a limitation on their license.  License holders must complete the remaining coursework requirements before they may advance or renew their license.

Out-of-State License

Educators must submit the out-of-state license(s) they held during their teacher, administrator or pupil services assignment(s). The years on the license(s) must coincide with their work experience.

Official Transcripts

Educators must submit their official transcripts from an accredited college or university. Applicants should review the Instructions for Submitting Transcripts before uploading their transcripts. Applicants may also view a short video tutorial on how to scan and upload transcripts.

• Applicants who prefer to mail their original, official transcripts must use the following address:

Office of Educator Licensure & Effectiveness
William Green Building
30 W. Spring Street, 12th Floor
Columbus, OH 43215

• Coursework completed outside the United States. Educators who completed college coursework outside the United States must provide a course-by-course analysis from an approved international credential evaluation service.

Background Checks

Candidates must submit BCI and FBI background checks for initial licensure. Please see the Background Check FAQs webpage for information.

Candidates who live outside of Ohio may email the Office of Educator Licensure & Effectiveness to request fingerprint cards.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in Ohio after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on August 22, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the Ohio Department of Education and Early Development, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission

Address

Teacher Standards and Practices Commission
250 Division St NE
Salem OR, 97301-1012

Contact Information

Phone Consultation by Appointment Only; schedule an appointment
Email Contacts:

General Inquiries – contact.tspc@tspc.oregon.gov
eLicensing: online.tspc@tspc.oregon.gov
To submit transcripts: tspc.transcripts@tspc.oregon.gov
Fingerprinting and Background Check Questions: finger.printing@tspc.oregon.gov

Website: Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

A TSPC license is required in order to serve in a certified position in an Oregon public school district or Educational Service District (ESD). A Reciprocal Teaching License is available to you if you have completed an educator preparation program in another state and have not previously held a non-provisional license of the same type in Oregon.

The Reciprocal Teaching License is issued to teachers who have completed an educator preparation program and hold an active and valid non-provisional teaching license from another state. The purpose of the Reciprocal Teaching License is to allow an out-of-state licensed teacher to transition into the Oregon licensure system based on the credentials they earned in the other jurisdiction while they work on any missing Oregon requirements. At the end of the one-year Reciprocal term, the teacher must
meet the requirements of the Oregon Preliminary Teaching License or another non-provisional Oregon license. The Reciprocal Teaching License is valid for full-time teaching and substitute teaching.

The Reciprocal Teaching License is issued for one year. To be eligible for the Reciprocal Teaching License, you must not have previously held an Oregon non-provisional educator license or completed an Oregon educator preparation program.

Minimum Qualifications

To be eligible to apply for any of the licenses above, you will need to meet the minimum requirements, which include a minimum degree requirement, preparation program requirement, and background clearance.

Minimum Requirements

The Oregon Reciprocal Teaching License requires the submission of :

• The application and associated fee through eLicensing.
• Fingerprints and/background clearance.
• Scanned or copied current unrestricted license from another state or NASDTEC jurisdiction.
• Official transcripts sent by the college or university to verify completion of a bachelor’s degree and teacher preparation program

Upon issuance of your Reciprocal Teaching License you will be advised that you need to complete the current subject exam for Oregon in order to qualify for any further licensure.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in Oregon after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on August 23, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

South Carolina Department of Education

Address

Office of Educator Services
8301 Parklane Road
Columbia, SC  29223

Contact Information

Telephone assistance is available at (803) 896-0325 during the following hours except on state holidays.

Email:certification@ed.sc.gov
Website:  Certification

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

An out-of-state educator eligible for a South Carolina certificate based on reciprocity will be issued an educator certificate either at the Initial or Professional level.

Initial Certificate

• The SCDE will issue an Initial certificate to an educator who presents less than twenty-seven months of qualifying educator experience in the last seven years on the out-of-state credential. An Initial certificate is typically issued to an early career educator or to an educator without recent work experience in a regionally accredited PK-12 education setting.
• The South Carolina Initial certificate is valid for up to three school years and is not renewable. It may be extended at the request of an employing school district if needed. To advance from the Initial to a Professional certificate, an educator must complete South Carolina’s summative evaluation process as part of the state’s system for Assisting, Developing, and Evaluating Professional Teaching (ADEPT).
• During the validity period of the Initial certificate, the educator must also document successful completion of a pedagogy assessment.
• Leadership and administrative fields cannot be added to an educator certificate at the Initial level.

Out-of-State Credentials and Eligibility

For educator certification purposes, South Carolina accepts valid, standard certificates or licenses issued by the credentialing authority of another US state, the District of Columbia, and the Department of Defense Education Authority (DoDEA).

The out-of-state credential presented must meet the following requirements.

• A certificate or license presented must be a standard educator credential documenting that the individual has completed all requirements of an approved educator preparation program recognized by the issuing state and that certification examination requirements have been met.
• The out-of-state credential must be current and valid, allowing the educator to serve in a public school setting located in the issuing jurisdiction. The South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) will not accept an expired credential for reciprocity purposes.
• The credential must be in good standing without current or pending disciplinary action. An out-of-state credential that has been subject to prior disciplinary action will require additional review to determine if the applicant is eligible for issuance of a South Carolina certificate.
• The SCDE does not accept temporary, emergency, provisional, or conditional educator credentials issued by another jurisdiction for reciprocity purposes. An out-of-state educator holding one of these credential types may have other options for pursuing certification in South Carolina. These options may include traditional or alternative route programs approved for the preparation of South Carolina educators.
• An educator who has participated in an alternative route preparation program in another state must have advanced to a standard educator certificate in that jurisdiction to be eligible for reciprocity. Credentials earned through an alternative route may be subject to additional review.
• Career and technology education (CTE) work-based credentials are not eligible for reciprocity; however, the educator may be eligible for participation in the work-based certification process in South Carolina. Additional information is provided on the Applying for CTE Work-Based Certification webpage.
• South Carolina requires an educator certificate in School Psychology for individuals working in that professional role in public school settings in the state. For certification purposes, the SCDE may accept the following: a current, valid out-of-state educator credential; a current, valid Nationally Certified School Psychologist (NCSP) credential issued by the National Association of School Psychologists; or a current, valid license in School Psychology issued by a state board of psychology or licensing authority that allows an individual to serve as a school psychologist in public school settings in that state.
• The SCDE does require educator certification for Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) working in public school settings, whether employed through a district or through a third-party provider; however, the individual must first obtain an SLP license through the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation (LLR).
• The SCDE does not issue educator certificates for related service providers including audiologists, school nurses, and school social workers. Please consult LLR for additional information.

The Application Checklist for Out-of-State Educators provides a succinct review of the required elements to apply for a license in South Carolina after receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching License.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in South Carolina after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on August 26, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the South Carolina Department of Education, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

South Dakota Department of Education

Educator Certification

Address

800 Governors Drive
Pierre, SD

Contact Information

(605) 773-3134
Email:  certification@state.sd.us.
Website: Educator Certification

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary

Reciprocity Eligibility Requirements

Individuals seeking teaching licensure reciprocity:

• Must have received a teacher, administrator, or educator specialist certificate in another state.
• Must complete full state-certification. May not be a temporary, emergency, substitute, or provisional certificate.
• Nust have completed a successful student teaching, internship, or field experience.
• Must provide verification from the licensing state that there are no disciplinary actions or ethics violations.

Reciprocity Requirements

Individuals who have met the reciprocity eligibility requirements must also

• Complete an approved suicide awareness and prevention training.
• Pass approved 3-credit South Dakota Indian studies course with a C or higher.

Applicants may receive a one-year provisional certificate to complete South Dakota Indian Studies. This certificate may be renewed once.

Preparations and endorsements may be added based on a review of the valid out-of-state certificate and the equivalent South Dakota preparations and endorsements. Unless otherwise stipulated, no additional content or pedagogy requirements apply.

Special Education

Reciprocity Eligibility Requirements

Individuals seeking teaching licensure reciprocity:

• Must have received a teacher, administrator, or educator specialist certificate in another state.
• Must complete full state-certification. May not be a temporary, emergency, substitute, or provisional certificate.
• Nust have completed a successful student teaching, internship, or field experience.
• Must provide verification from the licensing state that there are no disciplinary actions or ethics violations.

Reciprocity Requirements

Individuals who have met the reciprocity eligibility requirements must also

• Complete an approved suicide awareness and prevention training.
• Pass approved 3-credit South Dakota Indian studies course with a C or higher.

Applicants may receive a one-year provisional certificate to complete South Dakota Indian Studies. This certificate may be renewed once.

Special Education Requirements

• If the applicant has a categorical special education endorsement, the applicant must pass the state-designated content test for a K-12 special education endorsement.
• If the applicant has a K-8 special education endorsement, the applicant must have a minimum of one year of teaching experience as a secondary teacher or pass the state-designated pedagogy test for the secondary level to add the K-12 special education endorsement.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in South Dakota after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on August 27, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the South Dakota Department of Education, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

Texas Education Agency

Educator Certification

Address

1701 N Congress Avenue
Austin, TX  78701

Contact Information

TEA Business hours are 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. (except for weekends and state holidays)P

(512) 936-8400

Educator Certification and CPE Help Desk
Webform: Help Desk Ticket – Please allow up to two business days to receive a response.
Website: Certification

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

Individuals who hold a standard certificate to teach in another state or territory, seeking certification in Texas, must first apply for a review of credentials. A standard certificate is defined in TAC §230.111(c). Texas does not have reciprocity with any state.

Overview of Application for Review

1. Create a TEAL user account online using Google Chrome.
   • Visit the instructions page if you need additional assistance.
2. Complete educator profile.
3. Submit an application for review of your credentials.
4. Pay the $164 non-refundable fee. Note: The review of your credentials will not occur until the payment is received.
5. Upload the required documentation to support your application. Documentation includes a copy of your current valid license or certification, official transcripts, verification of experience and/or verification of test results that you have completed.
6. The TEA Review will indicate any additional exams or coursework needed for licensure.

Once the review is complete, applicants receive an individualized report that shares what elements are needed in order to move forward with an Out-of-State Application for Licensure as well as the next steps the individual applicant should take to apply for a Standard Certificate.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in Texas after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on August 28, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the Texas Education Agency, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

Virginia Department of Education

Teacher Education and Licensure

Mailing Address

P.O. Box 2120
Richmond, VA  23218

Contact Information

(804) 786-2302
Email: licensure@doe.virginia.gov
Transcripts: transcripts@doe.virginia.gov
Website: Teacher Licensure

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

An individual coming into Virginia from any state may qualify for a Virginia teaching license with comparable endorsement areas if the individual has completed a state-approved teacher preparation program through an accredited four-year college or university, if the individual holds a valid out-of-state teaching license (full credential without deficiencies), or holds an active national certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS).

In order to apply for a Virginia teaching license, individuals must

• Complete the Application Form
• Submit Application Fee
• Complete the College Verification Form
• Obtain the Professional Experience Form
• Include Professional Teachers’ Assessment Scores
• Include Official Transcripts
• Include copy of Out-of-State License
• Include certificates of the following trainings
  • Child Abuse and Neglect Recognition and Intervention Training
  • Emergency First Aid, CPR, and AED Training 
  • Dyslexia Awareness Training
  • Behavior Intervention and Support Training
  • Cultural Competency Training

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in Virginia after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on August 29, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the Virginia Department of Education, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction

Teacher Certificate

Physical Address

Old Capitol Building
600 Washington St, SE
Olympia, WA  98504-7200

Mailing Address

Mail stop: 47200
Old Capitol Building
P.O. Box 47200
Olympia, WA 98504-7200

Contact Information

(360) 725-6000
Email:  Cert@k12.wa.us
Website: Teacher Certificate

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

This application is for those educators who have completed a teacher preparation program through an accredited institution or have held a full teaching credential in another state.

Requirements

• Completion of a bachelor’s degree or higher. Must submit official transcripts showing degree conferral
• Must complete a basic skills test (WEST-B or approved alternative) and pass a content area test for endorsement sought (WEST-E/NES or approved alternative). Teacher Testing Assessments
• Submission of fingerprints for a background check is required if a valid certificate is not already on record

In addition, you must complete one of the following:

• Completion of any state’s approved teacher preparation program through an accredited institution Form 4020E, OR an approved alternate route program 4020E-1. The preparation program must include a defined course of study and a supervised student teaching/internship.

OR

• Copy of an out-of-state teaching certificate (valid or expired) AND three years of out-of-state teaching experience 4020F-1.

Apply

If you have all the necessary documentation to apply for this certificate, log in to E-Certification.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in Washington after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on August 29, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction

Address

125 S Webster Street
Madison, WI  53703

Contact Information

Licensing Help Desk Phone: (800) 266-1027; voicemails are typically responded to within 48 to 72 hours
Licensing Help Desk Form: Licesning Online Help Desk; questions through the online help desk are responded to within 24 to 28 hours
Licensing Office Appointment: Appointments are requested using the online appointment form and are typically scheduled within a week of their request.
Website: Licensing

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

Wisconsin offers various pathways for applicants who completed an out-of-state preparation program seeking teacher, administrator, and pupil services (school counselor, school psychologist, school social worker) licensure.

General Requirements for a Teacher License

• bachelor’s degree or higher
• state-approved educator preparation program:
  •  accredited four-year college or university
  • offered at the bachelor’s, post-baccalaureate, or master’s degree level
  • comparable to Wisconsin’s requirements
  • approved by the state education department where program is headquartered
• Any test score(s) required for licensure in the state where you completed your educator preparation program(s) and all tests required for Wisconsin licensure

The Teacher License Flowchart for Out-of-State Applicants provides a checklist of the needed documentation to be submitted for each pathway and a link to the appropriate Educator Licensing Online (ELO) application instructions.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in Wisconsin after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on August 29, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education

Office of Educator Licensure

Address

135 Santilli Highway
Everett, MA 02149

Walk-in Welcome Center Service CounterHours:
Monday–Friday 8:45am – 4:45pm
Located on the 3rd floor

Contact Information

Office Hours: Monday–Friday 9am–12pm & 2pm–5pm
Phone: (781) 338-6600
Fax: (781) 338-3391
Website: Office of Educator Licensure

Licensure Requirements

Massachusetts participates with every state and the District of Columbia through the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement to accept candidates’ state-approved educator preparation programs or possession of the equivalent of at least an Initial license/certificate. Please note that the interstate agreement does not exempt candidates from degree, testing and/or prerequisite requirements applicable to the license sought.

Candidates from outside of Massachusetts may meet the requirements for an Initial license if they have:

1. Completed a “traditional” state/jurisdiction-approved educator preparation program outside of Massachusetts. A traditional program is completed via a regionally accredited higher education institution.
2. Hold a valid license from that state/jurisdiction.

Those educators seeking a core academic teacher, Principal/Assistant Principal, or Supervisor/Director license may also require a Sheltered English Language (SEI) endorsement to be eligible for an initial level license. Teachers seeking licensure through “reciprocity/interstate agreement” may consider applying for the Temporary or Preliminary license if they do not yet hold an SEI endorsement.

Early Childhood

Academic: Teacher, Early Childhood, PreK-2, Provisional License

Massachusetts General Requirements

Elementary

Academic: Teacher, Elementary, 1-6, Provisional License

Massachusetts General Requirements

• Possession of a bachelor’s degree
• Achieve a passing score on the Communication and Literacy Skills test
• Achieve a passing score on the General Curriculum: Language Arts and History/Social Science subtest
• Achieve a passing score on the General Curriculum: Mathematics, Science, and Technology/Engineering subtest
• Seminars or courses on, or demonstrated knowledge of, ways to prepare and maintain students with disabilities for general classrooms; for example, use of strategies for learning and of behavioral management principles
• One of the following:
  • Achieve a passing score on the Foundations of Reading subject matter test
  • Achieve a passing score on the Reading Specialist subject matter test view
  • Achieve a passing score on the Foundations of Reading subject matter test-NEW view

Secondary

Academic: Teacher, Elementary, 1-6, Provisional License

Massachusetts General Requirements

Each subject area has its own requirements. Please review the specific guidance included in the Public Licensure Requirements Search.

Special Education

Academic: Teacher, Early Childhood: Students with and without Disabilities, PreK-3, Initial – Extension License

Massachusetts General Requirements

• Submission of a letter stating that you plan to complete the requirements for Professional licensure
• Five years of employment under a valid Initial license for this field and grade level
• Possession of a Massachusetts Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) Teacher Endorsement.

Academic: Teacher, Severe Disabilities, All Levels, Initial License

Massachusetts General Requirements

Mississippi Department of Education

Educator Licensure

Address

PO Box 771
Jackson, MS  39205-0771

Contact Information

(601) 359-3483
Email: teachersupport@mdek12.org
Website: Educator Licensure

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

The department shall grant a standard five-year license to any individual who possesses a valid standard license from another state, or another country or political subdivision thereof, within a period of twenty-one (21) days from the date of a completed application. The issuance of a license by reciprocity to a military-trained applicant, military spouse or person who establishes residence in this state shall be subject to the provisions of Section 73-50-1 394 or 73-50-2, as applicable.

Prospective and practicing educators seeking to obtain initial licensure in the state of Mississippi by way of completion of a traditional state-approved or nationally accredited licensure-track teacher, administrator, certain supplemental service provider, and supplemental endorsement preparation program from a regionally/nationally accredited institution of higher education program outside of Mississippi, shall first obtain Institutional Program Verification (IPV) from the educator preparation provider in the state where the preparation occurred. Upon obtaining Institutional Program Verification (IPV) using the form established by the MDE Division of Educator Licensure, the candidate shall submit an application with required supporting documentation to the MDE Division of Educator Licensure for
the purpose of determining eligibility to obtain a Mississippi license via guidelines in effect on the date the complete application is received by the MDE. Educators who complete a nontraditional licensure-track program outside of Mississippi shall first be licensed in another state and seek to obtain a Mississippi license via Reciprocity guidelines in effect on the date the complete application and required supporting documentation are received by the MDE.

Application Requirements

• Online Licensure application
• Verification of Lawful Presence (VLP) form (if not previously submitted)
• Valid standard license issued by an educator licensing agency outside the state of Mississippi
• Official transcript(s) of all completed degrees and coursework

Applicants may be asked to demonstrate that they meet the requirements for a Class A Teaching Mississippi Teaching License

1. Bachelor’s degree or higher in Elementary Education with documentation of completion of student teaching from a state-approved or NCATE/CAEP
   approved program from a regionally/nationally accredited institution of higher education
2. Twenty-one (21) ACT (or SAT equivalent) or achieve a qualifying passing score on the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators examination or minimum GPA of 3.0 on a minimum of 60-hours of course credit as established by the State Board of Education; and
3. Foundations of Reading Assessment
4. Praxis Subject Assessment
5. Praxis: Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT)

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in Mississippi after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on September 18, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the Mississippi Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

Missouri Department of Elementary & Secondary Education

Educator Certification

Mailing Address

Educator Certification
PO Box 480
Jefferson City, MO  65102-0480

Contact Information

(573) 751-0051
Email:  certification@dese.mo.gov
Website:  Educator Certification

Licensure Requirements

An individual with a valid certificate from another state can be granted a comparable certificate in Missouri. Verification of certification from the other state must be provided. Depending on the number of previous years of teaching experience, the individual may qualify for an initial or career certificate.

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

Application Checklist for Missouri Teacher’s License for Non-Missouri Graduates

• A NON-MISSOURI GRADUATE APPLICATION will need to be submitted. To submit the online application, you will need to create a username and password to establish an account in the Educator Certification System. The Educator Certification System Help Guide provides the information needed to complete this step.
• PROCESSING FEE OF $100 IS REQUIRED. The fee will be paid at the time the application is submitted online.  Fees may be paid by credit/debit card or by e-check. All processing fees are NON-REFUNDABLE.
• INSTITUTIONAL RECOMMENDATION (not required if you possess a valid out-of-state license) If you do not have a valid professional certificate in another state, you must complete the online application form and forward it to the certification officer at the institution where you completed your initial teacher education program. The certification officer must complete Section III and return it to our office. NOTE: This portion of the application is not required if you hold a valid professional teaching certificate in another state; a temporary, emergency, and/or substitute teaching certificate is not applicable. If you do not hold a valid out-of-state license, your application will be evaluated based on current Missouri requirements.
• TRANSCRIPTS Original transcripts (no photocopies) from ALL institutions attended must be provided. Please be sure your complete social security number or educator ID is listed. NOTE: We are unable to accept faxed, scanned, emailed or photocopies of transcripts.
• VALID TEACHING CERTIFICATE(S) If you hold a valid certificate(s) or license(s) in another state, you must include a photocopy of the certificate(s) with your packet.
• VERIFICATION OF APPROVED TEACHING EXPERIENCE Teaching experience must be contracted and at least half time employment. You have two options available to verify experience:
  • You will need to submit a completed Verification of teaching experience form showing the completion of experience; or
  • Your school district(s) will need to submit an official letter to the Department verifying your years of experience. The letter should include subject areas and grade levels taught, as well as dates of employment. Substitute teaching, student teaching, college-level teaching, or serving as a teacher’s aide or assistant does not qualify as acceptable teaching experience. The letter must be signed by an official of the school system where you taught and be enclosed in the school’s official envelope. You may check Accrediting Agencies and Associations to determine the accreditation status of your previous district(s).

If you do not have approved teaching experience, you will not need to do the above step.

• BACKGROUND CHECK A criminal background check must be completed. This information will be sent to us directly by the Highway Patrol once you have printed with the fingerprint company.  It does not need to be mailed to us.

The items become the property of the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and will not be returned or released to other agencies. Mail the complete application packet to: Educator Certification, Post Office Box 480, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0480.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in Missouri after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on September 20, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the Missouri Department of Elementary & Secondary Education, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

Office of Public Instruction

Accreditation, Educator Preparation Programs, & Licensure

Mailing Address

PO Box 202501
Helena, MT  59620-2501

Contact Information

(406) 444-3150
Email:  cert@mt.gov
Website:  Educator Licensure

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary Education, Secondary Education, and Special Education

Montana does not have reciprocity with any state for teacher licensure. To get a Montana teaching license you will need to submit an application.

The application will require official transcripts, a fingerprint background check, a copy of your current out-of-state license, a university recommendation (which verifies you have completed a teacher preparation program, including student teaching and the endorsements you qualify for), a licensure fee, along with all other forms on the application. All applications are submitted online through our licensing system, TeachMT.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in Montana after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on September 19, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the Montana Office of Public Instruction, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

New Hampshire Department of Education

Bureau of Credentialing

Address

New Hampshire Department of Education
Bureau of Credentialing
25 Hall Street, 3rd Floor
Concord, NH 03301-3852

Contact Information

(603) 271-2409
Help Desk Submit a Request Webform
Website:  Bureau of Credentialing

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

For any state of the U.S., the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, a Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands, the Department of Defense Education Activity, or any territory or possession of the U.S

An out-of-state professional educator preparation program may lead to New Hampshire licensure providing the program:

• Is for an endorsement comparable in content and grade level to one issued by New Hampshire;

• Is college- or university-based;

• Is state-approved by the institution’s home state as a traditional (i.e., not alternative) program;

• Includes a culminating field experience (internship or practicum) in the role of the endorsement;

• Leads directly to institutional recommendation to the institution’s home state for issuance of a full professional license.

The applicant must meet all New Hampshire

• testing

• degree and experience requirements

as applicable to the endorsement and either:

• Apply for a New Hampshire educator license and endorsement within 3 years of the date of program completion, or

• Have obtained full licensure in that state in the endorsement area providing that such endorsement has not been expired for more than 3 years from the date of application.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in New Hampshire after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on September 23, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the New Hampshire Department of Education Bureau of Credentialing, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

New Jersey Department of Education

Certification

Mailing Address

PO Box 500
Trenton, NJ  08625-0500

Contact Information

Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
(609) 376-2070
Website: Certification

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

Educators from other states seeking New Jersey certification via reciprocity must hold the equivalent type and subject area/grade level out-of-state license. Assuming such equivalency, the following applies:

Out-of-State Certificate Equivalent to a Certificate of Eligibility with Advanced Standing (CEAS or “Traditional Route”)

Educators must complete each of the following requirements:

1. Hold the equivalent of a valid CEAS following the completion of a CEAS educator preparation program which includes clinical practice or “student teaching.”
2. Demonstrate passage of a subject-matter test to receive the out-of-state license or pass the appropriate New Jersey subject-matter test.

Out-of-State Certificate Equivalent to a Standard Certificate

• Hold a valid standard certificate issued by another state and demonstrate at least two effective years of teaching within three consecutive years of the last four calendar years, as documented on the electronic Record of Professional Experience form, which will be sent to the employer when the application is made.
  or
• Hold a National Board of Professional Teaching Standards certificate in the equivalent subject area/grade level.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in New Jersey after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on September 24, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the New Jersey Department of Education, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

New York State Education Department

Office of Teaching Initiatives

Address

Office of Teaching Initiatives
New York State Education Department
89 Washington Ave., 5N EB
Albany, New York 12234

Contact Information

(518) 474-3901
Helpdesk Webform: OTI Contact Form
Website: Certification

Licensure Requirements

A certificate can be issued to an applicant who completed a comparable educator program in another U.S. State or Territory and has completed all examination, workshop and fingerprinting requirements.

In general, applicants must

• Submit an application and fee for an Initial certificate
• Complete a comparable approved teacher preparation program, in the subject of the application, at a college in another U.S. State or Territory that would lead to an institutional recommendation for certification in the state the college is located
• Bachelor’s degree
• 2.5 cumulative GPA in a Bachelor’s or higher degree
• Satisfactory passing score on all required exams for Initial certificate sought
• Fingerprint Clearance
• Complete all required workshops

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

Please use the NYS Department of Education Search Certification Requirements tool for guidance regarding specific subject area and grade level requirements.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in New York after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on September 25, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the New York Office of Teaching Initiative, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

North Carolina Department of Public Instruction

Physical Address

North Carolina Department of Public Instruction
301 N. Wilmington Street
Raleigh, NC 27601-2825

Mailing Address

6301 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-6301

Contact Information

(800) 577-7994
(919) 716-1800
Email: asklicensure@dpi.nc.gov
Website: Educator’s Licensure

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

North Carolina recognizes approved EPPs from all states.

Applicants should begin the process for an Educator’s License to have their application considered by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction Staff.

Typically, applicants will be asked to provide:

• Degree-dated transcripts – bachelor’s, master’s, and all other post-secondary studies
• Licensure content area examination(s) – if applicable
• Valid and current educator’s license from another state if held
• Verification by Institution:  Completion of Approved Education Program (Form V)
• Forms
  • Form V
  • Experience request forms for previous work
    • PreK-12 teaching/teacher’s assistant (Form E)
    • Post-secondary (Form CE),
    • Non-teaching (Form NE),
    • Military Instructor or Leadership (Form ME)
      • Have each different employer complete and sign a separate form
      • Review requirements for experience credit on each form prior to submitting the application.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in North Carolina after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on September 26, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

North Dakota Educator Standards and Practices Board

Address

2718 Gateway Avenue, Suite 204
Bismarck, ND  58503-0585

Contact Information

Phone: (701) 328-9641
Fax: (701) 328-9647
Email: espbinfo@nd.gov
Website:  Licensure

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

Out-of-State Reciprocal License:

Issued to individuals who graduated from an out-of-state university but do not hold a teaching license in another state. A transcript analysis is completed, and a plan of study is developed for each individual, indicating the coursework and testing needed. This license can be issued twice, so the educator has a total of five years to complete all requirements.

Other State Educator License (OSEL):

A two or five-year license issued to those applicants who hold and submits a valid teaching license received from an approved regular teacher education program from another state. If the applicant has not tested in the sending state and has been licensed after 2002 in that state, they will have two years to complete ND tests. The regular application will be submitted, including official transcripts, a completed background packet, a copy of your current teaching license from another state, and/or confirmation form or test scores. If you have completed an approved program, including student teaching, hold a license in another state and have met their testing requirements, there will be no additional requirements.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in North Dakota after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on September 27, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the North Dakota Educator Practices and Standards Board, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

Oklahoma State Department of Education

Teacher Certification

Address

Teacher Certification
2500 North Lincoln Boulevard, #212
Oklahoma City, OK  73105-4599

Please note: All visitors to the Teacher Certification Section must have a scheduled appointment through the Certification Specialist Appointment Request.

Contact Information

(405) 521-3337
Email:  TeacherCertification@sde.ok.gov
Website:  Teacher Certification

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

If you hold a full teaching credential issued by any state’s Department of Education, you are eligible for certification in Oklahoma’s most equivalent subject areas.

Please complete and submit the Application for Oklahoma School Standard Teaching Certificate to the Teacher Certification Office of the Oklahoma State Department of Education. You may also apply online.  Log into your OECS account, click “EDU-Educator” and locate the application wizad on your dashboard.  You will used the box titled “OUT OF STATE RECIPROCITY”

You will need to supply

1. Official transcripts from all colleges or universities. Transcript must denote degree earned and the date degree was conferred.
2. Proof of Teaching form and copy of teaching certificate valid during dates of experience listed, if applicable.
3. Copy of all teaching certificates. (Copy the back if it holds any valid information.)
4. A $50 processing fee (check, cashier’s check, or money order) made payable to the Oklahoma State Department of Education.
5. Recent certification or dual fingerprinting (background check) needed, unless you are already certified in Oklahoma. For the most up to date information refer to Fingerprints/Background Checks Information.
6. If you have completed an approved program from another state and did not get certified in that area, please have this form filled out by the proper officials.  If Oklahoma has a comparable certification area you may be able to obtain the equivalent Oklahoma certification area by passing the appropriate Oklahoma examination(s).
7. Verification of State-Approved Teacher Education Program from Non-Oklahoma College/University
8. If you have passed teacher test(s) in another state, you may request a review of these test(s) for comparability to Oklahoma tests by the Office of Educational Quality and Accountability (OEQA). They will determine if any of the out-of-state tests are comparable and inform the Teacher Certification Office which test(s) are acceptable. For more information, you may visit the OEQA Web site and search for Teacher Certification.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in Oklahoma after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on September 30, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the Oklahoma State Department of Education, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

Pennsylvania Department of Education

Bureau of School Leadership and Teacher Quality

Certification

Address

Bureau of School Leadership and Teacher Quality
Pennsylvania Department of Education
333 Market Street, 12th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17126-0333

Contact Information

Phone: (717) PA-TEACH (717-728-3224)
Email:  ra-edcertquestions@pa.gov
Website: Certification

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

Completed Approved Preparation Program Outside of PA

1. Verify that your state is part of the National Association Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate AgreementOpens In A New Window. If your state is not a party to the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, your certification program will be evaluated against PA certification program guidelines.
2. Identify the comparable Pennsylvania certificate for which you will be applying (see Types of Certificates).  Special note:  PDE no longer issues the Special Education PK-8 or 7-12 certification areas.  PDE began issuing the Special Education PK-12 certificate 1/1/22.  Refer to CSPG 61 (Grade-Level Scope of Certificates section) for more information.
3. Obtain all official transcripts (both bachelors and beyond). If submitting transcripts electronically, do not submit your transcript request until you have submitted your application in TIMS. A bachelor’s degree from a nationally accredited college/university is a base requirement for certification. These will be used to verify:
   • Bachelor’s degree conferral
   • 3.0 cumulative degree GPA
   • Program completion and/or required coursework for certification
   • Student teaching/internship/practicum or field experience
4. Obtain a photocopy of your current and valid state certificate comparable to the PA certificate you are seeking if available.
   • For School Speech and Language Pathologist certification or School Social Worker certification, also submit a photocopy of your ASHA and/or PA Department of State license if applicable.
5. Obtain a completed Education Preparation Program Verification Form, PDE338A​ (PDF) as proof of completion of an educator preparation program approved for certification in the state in which the program was completed.
6. Confirm that the required tests have been completed and reported to PDE directly from the test administrator [basic skills assessments in reading, writing and mathematics (PAPA, CORE, SAT or ACT); Fundamental Subjects (for all subject areas PK-12); and the content area test(s)]. For current test information, refer to Test Requirements.
   • If submitting SAT scores to meet the basic skills assessments, obtain your paper score report in a sealed envelope from the testing agency.
   • If submitting ACT scores, they need to be submitted electronically to PDE (code 1909) or a paper score report in a sealed envelope from the testing agency.
   • You must take the PA required tests and meet the PA qualifying score. No other tests can be substituted or exceptions made.
   • The basic skills assessments are not required for post-baccalaureate program completers or for applicants who hold a conferred master’s degree. The basic skills tests may still be requested in your TIMS application as the determination to waive the basic skills requirement is not made by TIMS. It is determined by the certification specialist at the time the application is evaluated.
7. Complete and submit the application in TIMS.
   • All applicants for initial certification in PA must apply for a Level I credential type.
   • After completing the payment selection and successfully SUBMITTING your application in TIMS, you will be provided a link to the application cover sheet. First upload all applicable documents possible. Follow directions for submitting transcripts. If documents cannot be uploaded or sent electronically, include the cover sheet with the documents and mail to the address indicated on the cover sheet.
   • All certification requirements including testing should be met for all subject areas applied for before submitting the required documentation for review.
   • Electronic payment (see Application ​Fees) accepted in TIMS.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in Pennsylvania after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on October 1, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the Pennsylvania Bureau of School Leadership and Teacher Quality, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

Rhode Island Department of Education

Office of Educator Excellence and Certification Services

Address

255 Westminster Street
Providence, RI  02903

Contact Information

(401) 222-4600
Email: eqac@ride.ri.gov.
Website:  Educator Certification

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

This reciprocity pathway is available to individuals who hold a valid, current, full out-of-state certificate. The certificate must align to a specific RI certificate grade range and content area. Temporary or preliminary certificates are not accepted.

Individuals pursuing this pathway should review the testing requirements.

When submitting an application, include official student-issued transcripts and/or letter of verification of a completed approved program stating the content and grade range as well as an official test report if it hasn’t already been sent to RIDE.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in Rhode Island after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on October 3 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the Rhode Island Department of Education, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

Tennessee Department of Education

Office of Educator Licensure and Preparation

Address

Office of Educator Licensure and Preparation
710 James Robertson Parkway, 9th Floor
Nashville, TN  37243

Contact Information

(615) 741-5158
Email: Educator.Licensure@tn.gov
Website:  Out-of-State Educators

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

The practitioner license is an initial license, valid for three years. To be issued a practitioner license using a valid out-of-state initial-level license, an applicant must:

• hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university;
• hold an initial level license in a state other than Tennessee,
• submit a recommendation, using the Out-of-State Educator Preparation Verification form, from the out-of-state EPP where the educator completed a preparation program (all out-of-state providers must meet conditions stipulated in State Board Rule 0520-02-04); and
• ensure that the department has official transcripts of all credits earned through an institution of higher education. The transcript must be submitted by the institution to Educator.Licensure@tn.gov through an approved clearinghouse, or mailed to 710 James Robertson Parkway, 9th Floor, Nashville, TN 37243. For more information, review the Academic Transcripts Operating Procedures.
• meet TN Literacy Success Act requirements as evidenced by completion of a qualifying training or assessment, if applicable

Educators who apply for the practitioner license based on possession of an active initial level out-of-state license are not required to submit assessments as part of the initial application process. However, such educators must either pass the required content assessment(s) as defined in Professional Assessments for Tennessee Educators Policy 5.105 or submit evidence of possession of an active professional level out-of-state license in order to qualify for renewal or advancement.”

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in Tennessee after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on October 3, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the Tennessee Department of Education, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

Utah State Board of Education

Educator Licensing

Mailing Address

Utah State Board of Education Educator Licensing
PO Box 144200
Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-4200

Contact Information

(801) 538-7740
Email: licensing@schools.utah.gov
Website:  Educator Licensing

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

If you have a standard renewable educator license from another state or country and would like to apply for a Utah Educator License, please read the following step by step instructions to prepare your License Equivalency Review (LER) application for submission to Utah State Board of Education.

Please use the License Equivalency Review Checklist (Google Docs) to prepare and submit your application.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in Utah after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on October 4, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the Utah State Board of Education, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

Vermont Agency of Education

Licensing Office

Address

1 National Life Drive, Davis 5
Montpelier, VT  05620-2501

Contact Information

The Licensing Office is staffed Monday through Friday, 7:45AM to 4:30PM.

Phone: (802) 828-3440
Email:  aoe.edinfo@vermont.gov
Transcripts: aoe.transcripts@vermont.gov
Website: Educator Licensure

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

Eligibility for licensure through reciprocity is determined by meeting requirements under the rules of reciprocity per the National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification (NASDTEC) Interstate Agreement.

Application

All applicants under reciprocity must submit a complete application packet including:

• Official Transcripts
  • May be scanned and uploaded into an application by an applicant. Official
    • Transcripts include:
      • The seal of the college or university
      • Visible signature of the Registrar
      • Visible confer date of degree
      • Recommendation for licensure
      • Visible transcript key/guide
      • All pages (front and back)
  • A transcript with the Registrar’s seal and stamped “Issued to Student” may be used. Please note that the Agency of Education reserves the right to request an official transcript from an Institution of Higher Education at the educators/applicants’ expense, at any time.
  • The official transcript should show the conferred date of when you completed an educator preparation program. If an applicant completed an “alternate route” educator preparation program, documentation from that program, should upload for the formal recommendation for licensure.
• Out of State License Copy
  • • Copy of your non-conditional/non-expired educator license, from a state that has signed the NASDTEC INTERSTATE Agreement, listing the endorsement you seek in Vermont (if applicable).
• If you have neither National Board Certification, or an out of state educator license as described above, then you will be required to meet our state’s testing
  requirement. All testing requirements must be met before you submit your application.

Fees for an initial license application

• $50 NON-REFUNDABLE APPLICATION PROCESSING FEE – You will need a credit card or checking account information to complete the application process. You will be charged a $50 non-refundable application processing fee before your application is submitted for review. Please be sure you have read all the instructions and have all requirements needed for an application before submitting. Incomplete initial license applications are subject to closure, in which case the $50 non-refundable processing fee will be retained by the agency. Those who have their application closed should re-apply, once all application requirements have been met. However, an entirely new initial license application will need to be submitted and another non-refundable application processing fee will need to be paid.
• $150 THREE YEAR LICENSE FEE – After an applicant has been found eligible for initial licensure AND the agency has satisfactory results of a fingerprint supported record check done for the VT Agency of Education, the applicant will need to make an on-line payment of $150 for the 3 year license fee. Again, payment of the 3 year license fee will not be required UNTIL the applicant has be found eligible for licensure AND satisfactory results of the fingerprint supported record check have been received. Do not attempt to make the 3 year license fee payment until prompted to do so. No VT educator license will be issued without satisfactory results on a VT Agency of Education fingerprint supported record check and payment of the 3 year license fee.
• $13.25 Fingerprint Record Check processing fee – The applicant will be charged in addition to the NON-REFUNDABLE application processing fee. The fee is paid to the VT Dept. of Public Safety and is not refundable.
  • Fingerprint Authorization Certificate form will be downloaded from the checklist which appears at submission. For more information see the FAQs on CRCs maintained by the Agency of Education.
  • Upload receipt of fingerprinting within fifteen (15) calendar days from date application fee was paid. If a receipt is not uploaded into your application checklist within fifteen (15) calendar days from the date the application fee was paid, the application will be closed and you will need to re-apply and incur additional non-refundable fees.
  • Fees for Law Enforcement Agencies who do the fingerprinting – The law enforcement agency that does your fingerprinting may charge their own fee for fingerprinting. This is completely at the discretion of the law enforcement agency. Any fees charged by the law enforcement agency are kept by the law enforcement agency.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in Vermont after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on October 7, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the Vermont Agency of Education, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

West Virginia Department of Education

Certification

Address

1900 Kanawha Boulevard East
Charleston, WV

Contact Information

(304) 558-7010
Website: Certification Info

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

If you have completed an out-of-state licensure program or would like to apply using a valid out-of-state license via reciprocity, you must meet one of the following:

Have completed a program at an accredited institution which was approved by the public school licensing agency of that state to lead to the issuance of a public school teaching certificate/license in that state, meet all WV Board of Education (WVBE) policy 5202  requirements including all WV-required licensure assessments, and receive the recommendation of the preparing institution. Must complete Form 20A

-or-

Submit a copy of a valid out-of-state public school license/certificate. Must complete Form 20R

Official transcripts must be submitted with either option.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in West Virginia after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on October 9, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the West Virginia Department of Education, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.

Wyoming Department of Education

Wyoming Professional Teaching Standards Board

Mailing Address

Wyoming Professional Teaching Standards Board
2001 Capitol Avenue
Emerson Building, Room #128
Cheyenne, WY 82002

Contact Information

(307) 777-7291

Email: wyoptsb@wyo.gov
Website: Certification & Licensure

Licensure Requirements

Early Childhood, Elementary, Secondary, and Special Education

Wyoming participates in state-to-state reciprocity; however, reciprocity implies an “equal exchange.” Therefore, the requirements an applicant met to obtain his or her out-of-state teaching license must be equivalent to Wyoming requirements.

Wyoming generally recognizes all out-of-state teaching licenses IF the standards the applicant met in his or her state are equivalent to Wyoming licensing standards. Equivalent standards include:

• Completion of a regionally or nationally accredited teacher education program
• Supervised student teaching
  Passing the required test(s) for the state in which you hold a teaching license
• Added endorsements are recognized in the same manner as described above

For complete details on reciprocity, please review the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement on Reciprocity.

The information regarding applying for a teaching license in Wyoming after completing studies at MLC and receiving a Minnesota Tier III Teaching license was last reviewed on October 9, 2024.

If you encounter discrepancies between the information posted here and the information provided by the Wyoming Professional Teaching Standards Board, please let us know by contacting Mrs. Deb Plath.