States are using different approaches to tackle the teacher shortage. Some are offering alternative certification pathways, increasing teacher pay, or providing incentives like student loan forgiveness. Many are expanding “grow-your-own” programs to recruit educators from local communities. Streamlined licensure processes and emergency certifications help fill immediate gaps. Additionally, investments in mentorship and professional development aim to improve retention. Some states are also partnering with universities and organizations to create accelerated training programs, ensuring a steady pipeline of qualified teachers. All of these changes can complicate your understanding of teacher certification requirements. We’re here to spell them out for you.
While the federal government sets broad expectations for teacher quality and equity, states ultimately determine the specific certification and qualification requirements.
Easiest Teacher Certification Requirements
The fastest paths to teacher certification are alternative certification programs, which allow career changers to become licensed educators without returning to college for a traditional degree. These programs provide online coursework and competency-based assessments, enabling candidates to earn certification in months rather than years.
Becoming a certified teacher through the American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (American Board) is a streamlined and flexible process designed for aspiring educators who want to enter the classroom without the burden of traditional coursework. If you’re considering this path, understanding the certification requirements is the first step toward achieving your goal.
Requirements can be split into two categories: enrollment requirements and completion requirements.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for American Board certification, you must meet the following criteria:
Hold a Bachelor’s Degree – A four-year degree from an accredited college or university is required.
Pass a Background Check – American Board will run a background check in addition to your state check.
Meet State-Specific Requirements – American Board only requires the degree and background check, but a few states have additional criteria, such as a GPA requirement. You can learn more by visiting your individual state certification page.
What Are the Completion Requirements?
American Board candidates must pass two rigorous assessments to graduate the program.
Subject Area Exam – This test assesses your knowledge of the subject you plan to teach. American Board offers certification in core subjects like Elementary Education, Mathematics, and the Sciences.
Professional Teaching Knowledge (PTK) Exam – This evaluates your understanding of pedagogy, instructional strategies, and classroom management.
The two competency tests are American Board’s only completion requirements. However, some states have added some additional steps to ensure that program graduates match those of their traditionally-trained teachers. For example, North Dakota requires a Clinical Experience. Some states require a specific course like suicide prevention or a state constitution course. Lastly, a few states like Ohio and West Virginia require an additional test. Since American Board’s program is designed to meet the rigor of traditional university programs, passing American Board’s tests suggests you can meet all state requirements.
What Comes Next?
Once you pass both exams, you’ll earn your American Board certification, which qualifies you for a state teaching license. It’s truly that simple, and most people complete the program in just a couple months. For more details, visit American Board’s official website. You can also visit American Board’s YouTube page to hear from program graduates.
