Texas requires teachers to hold a valid educator certificate before teaching in its public schools. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) oversees licensing in Texas. This guide walks you through the main steps, typical requirements, and the exam process.
Requirements can change. Always confirm current licensing rules with the official state licensing authority before applying.
Quick Overview
- DegreeBachelor's
- ExamFTCE/TExES
- Renewal5 Years
- CE NeededRequired
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 Texas teacher certification typically include:
- A bachelor's degree and an approved educator preparation program (epp).
- A completed application submitted to the Texas Education Agency (TEA).
- A passing score on the Texas certification exam.
- Payment of application and examination fees.
Requirements can change. Always confirm current licensing rules with the official state licensing authority before applying.
- 2
Submit your application
The application process for a Texas teaching certificate generally involves these steps:
- Confirm you meet the education or experience prerequisites.
- Submit your application and supporting documents to the Texas Education Agency (TEA).
- Pay the application fee.
- Receive eligibility approval.
- Schedule and pass the exam through Pearson VUE.
- Submit any post-exam documentation and pay the licensing fee.
Steps can change, so verify the current process with the Texas Education Agency (TEA).
- 3
Pass the teacher exam
The Texas certification exams are the Texas Examinations of Educator Standards (TExES): Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities (PPR) plus content-area tests. Plan to pass with a scaled score of 240 or higher on each test. The exam covers pedagogy, classroom management, and student assessment plus Texas-specific rules. Always confirm exam requirements with the Texas Education Agency (TEA) or Pearson VUE, because formats and approved materials can change.
License Types
Professional / Standard Certificate
The full, renewable teaching certificate.
- Full classroom authority
- Renewable
Temporary / Probationary
Teach while completing exam and program requirements.
- Time-limited
- Path to standard
Details
Experience
Texas expects candidates to complete a bachelor's degree and an approved educator preparation program (EPP) before licensure. Documentation standards are set by the Texas Education Agency (TEA), and acceptable proof can include employer verification, course completion certificates, or program transcripts depending on the credential. Check the current standards with the Texas Education Agency (TEA) before you apply.
Details
Fees
Texas application, exam, and licensing fees are set by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) and Pearson VUE and are subject to change. Budget for both an application fee and an exam scheduling fee. Always confirm current fee amounts with the official authority before submitting payment.
Details
Renewal
Texas teaching certificates are renewed on a fixed cycle (commonly every 5 years) and typically require continuing education and a renewal fee. Specific continuing-education hours are set by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). Requirements can change; always confirm renewal requirements with the Texas Education Agency (TEA) before your renewal deadline.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get a teaching certificate in Texas?
Timelines depend on application volume and how complete your submission is. After the Texas Education Agency (TEA) approves your application, you schedule the exam through Pearson VUE. Confirm current timelines with the Texas Education Agency (TEA).
Do I need to pass an exam to get a Texas teaching certificate?
Yes. Texas requires passing the certification exam administered by Pearson VUE, generally with a scaled score of 240 or higher on each test. Requirements can change, so verify with the Texas Education Agency (TEA).
What education or experience does Texas require?
Texas typically requires a bachelor's degree and an approved educator preparation program (EPP). Acceptable documentation is defined by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). Always confirm the current standard before applying.
Is there reciprocity for teaching certificates in Texas?
Reciprocity rules vary and change over time. Contact the Texas Education Agency (TEA) directly to ask about current reciprocity options for your situation.
