California teachers are credentialed by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). Candidates need a bachelor's degree, the Basic Skills Requirement, subject-matter competence, and a Commission-approved preparation program. Testing is no longer the only path: degrees and coursework can satisfy both the basic skills and subject-matter requirements. This guide walks you through the main steps, typical requirements, and the exam options.
Requirements can change. Always confirm current licensing rules with the official state licensing authority before applying.
Quick Overview
- DegreeBachelor's
- ExamsOptional Paths
- Renewal5 Years
- CE NeededNone
Figures come from official sources and can change. Always confirm with the licensing authority before applying.
3 Steps to Licensure
- 1
Meet the requirements
Requirements for a California teaching credential typically include:
- A bachelor's degree or higher.
- The Basic Skills Requirement (BSR): since June 29, 2024 a bachelor's or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution meets it by itself; qualifying coursework (B or better), exams such as CBEST, SAT, ACT, or AP, or a mix also qualify.
- Subject-matter competence via the CSET, a qualifying degree major, or coursework (AB 130).
- Completion of a Commission-approved teacher preparation program.
Requirements can change. Always confirm current licensing rules with the official state licensing authority before applying.
- 2
Submit your application
The path to a California teaching credential generally involves these steps:
- Earn a bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution.
- Verify how you will meet the Basic Skills Requirement (degree, coursework, exams, or a mix).
- Establish subject-matter competence via the CSET, a degree major, or coursework.
- Complete a Commission-approved teacher preparation program.
- Apply through CTC Online for the Preliminary credential ($100 plus a $2.65 online service fee).
- Complete induction to earn the Clear credential.
Steps can change, so verify the current process with the CTC.
- 3
Pass the teacher exam
When testing is the chosen route, the CBEST and CSET are administered through the CTC exams program run by Pearson Evaluation Systems (ctcexams.nesinc.com). Many candidates now skip these exams entirely by meeting the requirements through their degree or coursework.
Note that the RICA reading exam was replaced by a literacy performance assessment pathway under SB 488; confirm current literacy assessment requirements on the CTC site. Always confirm exam requirements with the CTC, because pathways and assessments change.
License Types
Clear Credential
The full California teaching credential, renewed every 5 years.
- Full classroom authority
- Renewable
Preliminary Credential
Teach for up to 5 years while completing induction.
- Time-limited
- Path to Clear
Details
Experience
California builds classroom experience into the credential structure rather than requiring prior work history. Candidates complete a Commission-approved teacher preparation program, receive a Preliminary credential valid for 5 years, and clear it through an induction program.
Out-of-state prepared teachers can apply for a California credential based on a comparable out-of-state credential or program; route details should be confirmed with the CTC.
Details
Fees
The initial credential application costs $100 plus a $2.65 online service fee, and the Certificate of Clearance is $50. If you take the CBEST, the fee is $102 computer-based or $41 paper-based; CSET fees vary by subtest. Clear Credential renewal is $125 effective July 1, 2026 ($100 before that date). Always confirm current fee amounts with the CTC before submitting payment.
Details
Renewal
Credentials issue as Preliminary, valid for 5 years, and convert to Clear after induction. The Clear credential renews every 5 years online through CTC Online. No continuing education is required for Clear renewal, only the renewal fee, which is $125 effective July 1, 2026. Requirements can change; always confirm renewal requirements with the CTC before your renewal deadline.
Frequently asked questions
Is the CBEST required to become a teacher in California?
No. The CBEST is only one option for the Basic Skills Requirement. Since June 29, 2024, a bachelor's or higher degree from a regionally accredited institution meets the BSR by itself, and qualifying coursework with a B or better, exams such as SAT, ACT, or AP, or a mix also qualify. See the CTC's CL-667 leaflet.
Do I need to pass the CSET for a California credential?
Not necessarily. Under AB 130, subject-matter competence can be established through the CSET, a qualifying degree major, or coursework. Confirm which route fits your transcript with the CTC or your preparation program.
How much does a California teaching credential cost?
The initial application is $100 plus a $2.65 online service fee, and the Certificate of Clearance is $50. The CBEST costs $102 computer-based or $41 paper-based if you take it, and CSET fees vary by subtest. Check the CTC fee schedule (CL-659) for current amounts.
How do I renew a California teaching credential?
The Clear credential renews every 5 years online through CTC Online. No continuing education is required, only the fee: $125 effective July 1, 2026 ($100 before). Preliminary credentials are valid for 5 years and are cleared through induction rather than renewed.
