Instructor Certification Exams State-by-State
It takes numerous work to grow to be a trainer. Along with coaching, learning, and pupil educating, in lots of instances you additionally need to go trainer certification exams. Each single U.S. state requires certification of some type, however every one is completely different.
Whether or not you might be learning for the Praxis, NES, or a state-required examination, check out this record to get an concept of the checks it’s possible you’ll have to take to earn your certificates or license by state. Plus, get ideas for taking (and passing!) your exams from the consultants!
Soar to:
Instructor Certification Examination Overview
Listed below are a couple of notes on trainer checks usually:
- In case you’re incomes your preliminary educating license or certificates by way of your faculty coaching program, excellent news! They’ll inform you which checks you must take and should show you how to organize for them.
- Whereas most new lecturers earn their licenses by way of faculty trainer coaching applications, many states provide different routes. Typically, required checks stay the identical, however this could range by state.
- In case you’re transferring from one state to a different and wish a brand new license, it’s possible you’ll or could not have to take trainer certification exams. Use the state-level hyperlinks on this web page to search out extra info.
- Many states use no less than some nationally standardized checks, normally from organizations like ETS Praxis or Pearson NES. You’ll discover extra information about these checks on the businesses’ web sites, linked right here in your comfort.
- Some states provide endorsements on licenses or certificates, which might require extra checks. Not all of these checks could also be listed right here, so make sure to test with the state when you have questions.
- Some states require checks for substitute lecturers and lecturers’ aides, which aren’t listed right here. Verify along with your state for necessities.
And at last: States are continuously altering, revising, and updating their testing necessities. This info is correct as of spring 2026 however can change at any time. So all the time confirm the checks you’ll have to take earlier than signing up.
Knowledgeable Suggestions and Recommendation for Instructor Certification Exams
For complimentary ideas and methods that you should utilize in any state, take a look at The Educator’s Should-Have Information to Excel at U.S. Instructor Certification Exams from Moreland College. Moreland additionally supplies many free state-specific guides for trainer certification processes together with certification exams.
7 Suggestions From the Consultants
Dedicate simply 20 minutes a day to review. Constant day by day observe over an extended interval yields higher outcomes than three-hour cram classes.
—Kathleen Jasper, Ed.D. (@kj_kathleenjasper)
We requested two test-prep professionals to present us their prime ideas for prepping for and taking your trainer certification exams: Kathleen Jasper, Ed.D. (@kj_kathleenjasper) and Robin Cornecki (@robin.cornecki). Each have well-liked Instagram accounts the place they usually share useful recommendation—make sure to observe them for extra nice ideas!
1. Entry the take a look at blueprint.
“Seek for and obtain the precise take a look at blueprint and specs by looking for your take a look at identify, quantity, and the time period ‘take a look at blueprint and specification,’” Kathleen recommends. The take a look at blueprint outlines the content material, studying targets, and cognitive ranges of an examination, so that you’ll know precisely what info the take a look at covers.
2. Research the classes—not simply random issues.
“Certification exams just like the Praxis are constructed round particular content material domains,” Robin explains. “As a substitute of leaping between random questions, manage your learning by class (algebra, features, statistics & likelihood, educating duties). Once you do that, you begin to acknowledge the patterns of questions that present up many times—and that’s when the take a look at begins to really feel predictable.”
3. Assume like a take a look at maker.
“Evaluation the specs within the blueprint and observe key phrases and phrases,” advises Kathleen. “These phrases usually seem within the appropriate reply decisions. This shift in perspective helps you method the examination from the maker’s standpoint somewhat than the take a look at taker’s.”
4. Research incrementally.
Kathleen additionally affords this easy tip: “Dedicate simply 20 minutes a day to review. Whether or not it’s studying a brief part or finishing a part of a observe take a look at, constant day by day observe over an extended interval yields higher outcomes than three-hour cram classes.”
5. Concentrate on understanding, not simply solutions.
“These exams don’t simply take a look at if you will get the proper reply—they take a look at if you happen to perceive why,” Robin stresses. “Follow explaining your reasoning out loud or writing a fast justification. That is particularly essential for teaching-task questions, the place your rationalization issues simply as a lot as your math.”
6. Work backward from the reply decisions.
“Search for ‘good phrases’ in potential solutions and remove decisions containing ‘dangerous phrases,” Kathleen suggests. “This technique is especially efficient for scenario-based questions. Follow this methodology whereas learning to see if it really works for you earlier than making use of it on take a look at day.”
7. Follow prefer it’s the true take a look at.
“Lots of people research passively however by no means construct test-day stamina,” cautions Robin. “Use a timer, work by way of a full set of questions with out notes, after which evaluate your errors. Additionally take note of pacing. For instance, the center faculty math examination has 66 questions in 180 minutes—that’s about 2.5 minutes per query. Coaching your timing forward of time makes an enormous distinction in confidence.”
Dealing With Instructor Certification Check Anxiousness
Combating a certification examination does NOT imply you’re a foul trainer. You’ll go! Simply maintain making an attempt and you’ll succeed!
—Robin Cornecki (@robin.cornecki)
Each Robin and Kathleen provided one main tip that will show you how to if you happen to’re feeling nervous concerning the take a look at: It’s OK if you happen to don’t go the primary time!
“Keep in mind that many individuals take these exams greater than as soon as earlier than incomes their certification; needing a number of makes an attempt is regular,” assures Kathleen. In truth, in line with Robin, solely 45% of individuals go these exams on their first strive!
“These checks measure a really particular mixture of content material information and test-taking technique—and lots of sturdy educators want multiple try,” Robin shares. “And on the finish of the day, passing isn’t about figuring out every thing—it’s about figuring out sufficient of the proper issues.”
With that in thoughts, listed here are some ideas from these take a look at professionals to assist calm your take a look at anxiousness:
- “Remove the worry of the unknown. Understanding the construction and specs of the examination is one of the simplest ways to scale back anxiousness,” Kathleen recommends. That’s why she suggests downloading the take a look at blueprint upfront.
- Use observe checks to get conversant in the query fashion. Robin says, “Plenty of anxiousness comes from not figuring out what to anticipate. The extra you observe with questions that appear to be the precise examination, the much less intimidating it turns into.”
- Don’t let your research classes stress you out. “Break learning into small, structured classes,” urges Robin. “Concentrate on one subject at a time as a substitute of making an attempt to cowl every thing without delay. Small wins construct confidence shortly.”
- One final tip from Robin: “Concentrate on progress, not perfection. You don’t want to know every thing to go. These exams are designed so you’ll be able to miss questions and nonetheless succeed. The purpose is regular enchancment—not perfection. You may all the time flag an issue and return to it to remove the stress of getting each merchandise appropriate.”
Get extra basic test-taking ideas and methods right here.
State-by-State Testing Necessities for 2026
And now, on to the testing necessities by state! Keep in mind, this info is correct in line with particular person state web sites as of spring 2026. At all times test along with your trainer prep program or state division of schooling for probably the most up-to-date information because it applies to your personal private journey towards changing into a trainer.
Soar to:
The Alabama Educator Certification Evaluation Program (AECAP) requires lecturers to go these exams:
Alaska requires two forms of checks for trainer certification:
Arizona makes use of a mixture of NES and AEPA assessments, collectively known as the Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessments.
Arkansas examination necessities rely upon the age and topic(s) you propose to show.
California administers its personal set of trainer certification exams. Required checks range by age and topic and embrace:
In Colorado, it’s possible you’ll not have to take any content material information checks if you happen to full accepted trainer prep faculty applications. Some endorsements or different paths to certification could require Praxis topic assessments. Study extra about Colorado licensing exams right here.
Connecticut requires content material information exams, primarily provided by Praxis and Pearson.
In Delaware, you’ll have to go content material information exams.
Florida makes use of its personal trainer certification exams program, often known as FTCE (Florida Instructor Certification Examinations). There are three forms of checks all lecturers have to go:
- Basic Information Check: This four-part take a look at measures your fundamental studying, writing, and math expertise. It consists of multiple-choice questions and an essay.
- Skilled Training Check: The pedagogy {and professional} expertise take a look at is comprised of roughly 120 multiple-choice questions.
- Topic Space Examinations: Topic space examinations could also be multiple-choice solely or would possibly embrace written and oral sections, relying on the topic and age. Some checks have a number of subtests.
Georgia has developed its personal educating testing program, GACE (Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators). Starting in 2025, these checks are administered by way of Analysis Techniques, Pearson. Assessments embrace:
- Content material Examinations: These take a look at your information of subject material. Completely different checks are required based mostly on the age and topic(s) you propose to show. See the complete record of Georgia content material exams right here.
- Georgia Ethics Evaluation: This evaluation consists of coaching modules and scenario-based questions centered on moral decision-making and the Georgia Code of Ethics for Educators. It’s required for candidates in search of trainer certification in Georgia.
Hawaii permits candidates to display required educating competencies by way of accepted preparation applications, Praxis exams, or different verification strategies, relying on the certification pathway. See full particulars of Hawaii Praxis checks right here.
- Praxis Core Tutorial Abilities for Educators: This checks your fundamental studying, writing, and math expertise. Candidates can generally meet the fundamental expertise requirement by way of SAT/ACT scores or different measures.
- Rules of Studying and Educating: There are a number of variations of the PLT take a look at, based mostly on the age degree(s) you propose to show.
- Praxis Topic Evaluation Assessments: You’ll take a distinct take a look at or sequence of checks relying on the age and topic(s) you’ll be educating.
Idaho requires the suitable Praxis Topic Assessments for the realm and topic(s) you propose to show. Some checks have a number of subtests in-built. Study extra about Idaho’s required Praxis checks right here.
NOTE: Illinois beforehand required the edTPA. In 2025, this requirement was suspended and is at the moment waived by way of August 31, 2029.
- ILTS Content material Information Assessments: Illinois requires candidates to go the suitable Illinois Licensure Testing System (ILTS) content-area take a look at, administered by Pearson, for the topic and grade degree they plan to show.
Indiana makes use of Praxis to manage its trainer certification checks, listed under. Study extra about Indiana Praxis checks right here.
- Rules of Studying and Educating: There are a number of variations of the PLT take a look at, based mostly on the age degree(s) you propose to show.
- Praxis Topic Assessments: The required content material information exams range based mostly on the certification you’re in search of.
In Iowa, if you happen to full a state-approved trainer prep program, licensure exams will not be required. You’ll be granted your preliminary educating license after finishing this system and assembly state necessities.
If transferring to the state of Iowa, lecturers want to indicate proof of finishing an accredited out-of-state program together with transcript evaluate. Study extra about Iowa’s out-of-state program right here.
As of 2023, Kansas not requires the Rules of Studying and Educating (PLT) Praxis examination. Kansas nonetheless requires Praxis Topic Assessments particular to the ages and topic(s) you’ll be educating.
Kentucky has a number of trainer testing necessities. Study extra about Kentucky Praxis checks right here.
- Praxis Core Tutorial Abilities for Educators: This checks your fundamental studying, writing, and math expertise. Instructor prep applications require it for admission (minimal ACT and GRE scores may accepted).
- Rules of Studying and Educating (PLT): There are a number of variations of the Praxis PLT take a look at, based mostly on the age degree(s) you propose to show.
- Praxis Topic Assessments: These take a look at your information of the topic space(s) you want to educate, relying on grade degree. See the Kentucky required checks right here.
Louisiana requires the next trainer exams. Discover out extra about Louisiana’s Praxis exams right here.
- Rules of Studying and Educating (PLT): There are a number of variations of the Praxis PLT take a look at, based mostly on the age degree(s) you propose to show.
- Praxis Topic Assessments: These take a look at your information of the topic space(s) you want to educate, relying on grade degree. See the complete record of required Louisiana checks right here.
In 2022, Maine eradicated its Praxis testing necessities. As a substitute, lecturers should full an accepted trainer prep faculty with a mean GPA of three.0 in required programs, OR bear a portfolio evaluate by the Maine Division of Training. Study extra about Maine’s trainer certification course of right here.
Maryland has a number of trainer testing necessities. Discover the Maryland Praxis assessments right here.
- Praxis Core Tutorial Abilities for Educators: This checks your fundamental studying, writing, and math expertise. You could waive this examination requirement with minimal scores on the ACT, SAT, or GRE.
- Praxis Topic Assessments: These take a look at your information of the topic space(s) you want to educate, relying on grade degree. See the Maryland required checks right here.
- Pedagogy Efficiency Evaluation: Maryland is in a transition interval for this evaluation class. Till August 31, 2026, the Praxis Rules of Studying and Educating (PLT) examination, the edTPA, OR the Praxis PPAT (Praxis Efficiency Evaluation of Academics) are all acceptable choices. Starting September 1, 2026, candidates should take the edTPA to satisfy this requirement.
The Massachusetts Assessments for Educator Licensure (MTEL) program oversees trainer testing within the state. Right here’s an outline of the present take a look at necessities for many trainer licensure candidates:
NOTE: In 2025, Massachusetts started accepting accepted alternate options to the MTEL assessments for some candidates. Discover out extra about these alternate options for Massachusetts right here.
You’ll have to go the suitable MTTC (Michigan Check for Instructor Certification) content material exams. These Pearson-administered checks range based mostly on the ages and topic(s) you’ll be educating. Some candidates should additionally go the MTTC Skilled Information and Abilities examination that evaluates educating and pedagogical information. Study extra about MTTC exams right here.
As of 2023, Minnesota eliminated the statutory MTLE examination (Minnesota Instructor Licensure Exams) necessities for Tier 3 and 4 candidates who full an accepted licensure program. Nevertheless, almost all candidates do have to take the edTPA to fulfill Minnesota licensure necessities.
Mississippi has a number of testing necessities. See the Mississippi Praxis take a look at particulars right here.
In Missouri, trainer candidates should go Praxis Topic Assessments, which range based mostly on the ages and topics you propose to show. Discover Missouri’s required Praxis exams right here.
Montana candidates could take the Praxis Topic Assessments checks applicable to the ages and topic(s) they’ll be educating, or meet this requirement with a passing rating on a pupil educating portfolio verified by the suitable faculty/college official from the EPP, OR a 3.00 or greater coursework GPA, as verified by the suitable faculty/college official from the EPP.
In Nebraska, candidates who full an accepted trainer preparation program are not required to take Praxis exams. Another pathways to trainer certification should still require these checks. Study extra about Nebraska’s trainer certification right here.
Nevada makes use of Praxis exams—discover the precise checks required for Nevada lecturers right here.
- Praxis Core Tutorial Abilities for Educators: This checks your fundamental studying, writing, and math expertise. (You might be able to submit qualifying scores from different exams such because the ACT, SAT, or GRE to fulfill this requirement.)
- Rules of Studying and Educating (PLT): There are a number of variations of the Praxis PLT, based mostly on the age degree(s) you propose to show. Elementary Training endorsement candidates are not required to take this take a look at.
- Praxis Topic Evaluation Assessments: These take a look at your information of the topic space(s) you want to educate, relying on grade degree. See the Nevada required checks right here.
New Hampshire’s trainer testing necessities embrace:
- Fundamental Tutorial Abilities Evaluation: To indicate proficiency in studying, writing, and math, you’ve got a number of choices. You may take the Pearson Important Tutorial Abilities take a look at, OR rating at or above the fiftieth percentile within the ACT, SAT, GRE, and different checks, or use different choices. Study extra right here.
- Pearson Topic Space Assessments: These take a look at your content material information of the topic space(s) you want to educate, relying on grade degree. See the New Hampshire required checks right here.
New Jersey makes use of Praxis Topic Assessments, which range based mostly on the topic(s) and ages you propose to show. (The state not requires the Praxis Core Tutorial expertise take a look at.) Discover out extra about New Jersey’s Praxis checks right here.
New Mexico makes use of a educating portfolio evaluation rather than standardized exams for a lot of candidates. Nevertheless, all elementary schooling candidates should take the Praxis Educating Studying: Elementary Examination. Particular schooling licenses require the Praxis: Particular Training: Foundational Information examination. See New Mexico’s Praxis exams right here.
These Pearson exams are required in New York:
North Carolina requires a number of checks for trainer certification.
North Dakota makes use of Praxis exams for trainer licensure. See the complete set of North Dakota Praxis exams right here.
- Praxis Core Tutorial Abilities for Educators: This checks your fundamental studying, writing, and math expertise. Instructor prep applications require it for admission.
- Rules of Studying and Educating (PLT): There are a number of variations of the Praxis PLT, based mostly on the age degree(s) you propose to show.
- Praxis Topic Assessments: These take a look at your information of the topic space(s) you want to educate, relying on grade degree. See the North Dakota required checks right here.
In Ohio, these are the testing necessities:
Oklahoma requires these checks:
Most candidates in Oregon take the suitable Oregon Educator Licensure Assessments (ORELA), administered by Pearson. A couple of topic areas nonetheless require Praxis checks as a result of Oregon has not adopted a corresponding ORELA examination.
Listed below are Pennsylvania’s trainer certification examination necessities:
Rhode Island makes use of Praxis checks for trainer certification. These checks embrace pedagogy and content material information evaluation. See Rhode Island’s testing necessities right here.
South Carolina trainer checks embrace:
South Dakota makes use of these checks:
Tennessee makes use of the next checks:
Instructor certification exams in Texas embrace:
In Utah, trainer candidates incomes their educating license within the areas of early childhood, elementary schooling, and particular schooling should go the Utah Foundations of Studying Evaluation.
Vermont requires a number of Praxis checks. See the small print for Vermont’s take a look at necessities right here.
In Virginia, testing necessities embrace:
Washington requires two forms of trainer assessments:
West Virginia makes use of Praxis checks for trainer licensing. See the complete record of West Virginia Praxis checks right here.
- Praxis Core Tutorial Abilities for Educators: This checks your fundamental studying, writing, and math expertise. It’s required for admission to trainer prep applications, however may be waived with minimal ACT/SAT scores or by assembly different necessities.
- Rules of Studying and Educating (PLT): There are a number of variations of the Praxis PLT, based mostly on the age degree(s) you propose to show.
- Praxis Topic Assessments: These take a look at your information of the topic space(s) you want to educate, relying on grade degree.
Wisconsin trainer certification exams embrace:
Wyoming has solely these necessities:
- Content material Information: Solely two preliminary licensures require these Praxis checks—Early Childhood, Elementary Training, and Social Research Composite.
- U.S. & Wyoming Structure: You may meet this requirement by passing an accepted faculty course or passing two 20-question multiple-choice checks.
Instructor Certification Exams FAQs
How do I do know which exams to take?
Each state has its personal trainer certification necessities, lots of which require standardized exams. In case you’re enrolled in a trainer prep program within the state the place you propose to show, they’ll show you how to perceive the native testing necessities. In case you’re planning to show in a distinct state after you graduate out of your program, go to the person state’s web site (listed above) for all the small print.
How a lot does it price to take trainer certification exams?
The whole prices of the exams varies relying in your state and the checks which are required. For standardized checks provided by corporations like Praxis, checks are inclined to vary from $90 to $200. Most states require multiple take a look at, so common testing prices could vary from about $400 to $650.
Necessary observe: Some states provide checks without cost, reimburse lecturers as soon as they go, or provide vouchers to assist scale back prices. Verify along with your state for full particulars. In case you’re having hassle affording the testing charges, discuss to your trainer prep program advisor about potential monetary assist choices.
The place do you go to take trainer certification exams?
As soon as once more, this varies from state to state. Many standardized checks are provided in-person at testing facilities, and also you might be able to take a few of them on-line from a distant location. Be aware that you just’ll have to register in your checks upfront—you’ll be able to’t simply present up on the testing day.
What’s one of the simplest ways to arrange for certification exams?
Obtain the take a look at blueprint (do a seek for your take a look at identify and quantity with the phrase “take a look at blueprint”) to be taught the precise content material, studying targets, and cognitive ranges of an examination. Research briefly increments over an extended time frame, somewhat than making an attempt to cram abruptly. Take observe exams, and replicate the testing circumstances as intently as doable (timing, setting, and many others.). The extra you put together, the extra acquainted every thing shall be on testing day—and the extra relaxed you’ll really feel.
I failed my trainer certification examination—now what?
Don’t panic! Many individuals don’t go these troublesome exams on their first strive. Study your take a look at’s particular retest insurance policies (you’ll normally have to pay the price once more for retakes). Then, take into consideration the components of the take a look at you discovered most troublesome, and evaluate any info the take a look at directors offered about your efficiency. Spend a while specializing in these particular areas earlier than you try a retake. Nonetheless struggling? Contemplate working with a one-on-one tutor for customized help.
Don’t neglect to seize your free educating portfolio templates earlier than you go!
A robust educating portfolio may also help you land your first educating job! Learn to put one collectively and get free customizable templates by clicking the button under and filling out the shape.
In search of a spot to ask extra questions on trainer certification exams and different new-teacher matters? Be part of the We Are Academics HELPLINE group on Fb!
Plus, take a look at 40 Philosophy of Training Examples for Job-Looking Academics.
