2026 Certification Guide
How to Become a Teacher in Alabama
Everything you need to know to earn a Alabama teaching certificate — from degree requirements and required exams to alternative routes and reciprocity.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified in Alabama
- 1
Complete Your Education
Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. This typically includes completing an approved teacher preparation program that includes coursework in pedagogy, child development, and your subject area.
- 2
Complete Student Teaching
Complete a supervised student teaching experience (clinical practice) in an approved school setting. Most programs require a full semester of student teaching under a cooperating teacher.
- 3
Pass Required Assessments
Alabama requires passing state-approved assessments before certification is issued:
- Praxis Core Academic SkillsBasic skills (reading, writing, mathematics)
- Praxis Subject AssessmentsContent area knowledge for your teaching field
- edTPAPerformance assessment during student teaching
- 4
Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your application to Alabama State Department of Education, including transcripts, test scores, proof of student teaching completion, and any applicable fees. Most applications are processed through an online portal.
- 5
Start Teaching & Advance Your License
Your Class B Professional Educator Certificate (valid 5 years) allows you to begin teaching. Advance to a Class A Professional Educator Certificate (5 years, renewable) by meeting additional requirements such as completing a mentorship program or additional coursework.
Pass the Praxis exam
Mometrix study guide & practice tests for the Praxis — prep with confidence.
Alternative Paths to Certification in Alabama
If you have a bachelor's degree in another field or relevant professional experience, these routes may let you enter the classroom sooner while completing certification requirements.
- Alabama Alternative Baccalaureate-Level Certificate (AABLTC) for career changers
- Teach For America (active in Black Belt region)
- Career and Technical Education (CTE) certificates for industry professionals
Out-of-State Certification & Reciprocity
Alabama participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement. Out-of-state applicants with valid certificates may qualify for an Alabama certificate after evaluation.
Tip: If you hold a valid teaching license from another state, contact Alabama State Department of Education directly about your reciprocity options before re-taking any exams. Many states streamline the process for experienced educators.
What Will You Earn in Alabama?
Now that you know how to get certified, find out what to expect to earn. Alabama teachers start around $39,062 and average $55,461 per year statewide.
Alabama Teacher Salary Guide →Ready to apply?
Browse current teaching positions in Alabama — apply directly on district sites.
Data sources: Alabama State Department of Education. Certification requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Alabama State Department of Education before beginning a preparation program. EduJobsBoard is not affiliated with any state education department.
Frequently asked questions about teaching in Alabama
- How do I become a teacher in Alabama?
- Alabama certification is administered by Alabama State Department of Education. The standard path is a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution from an approved teacher-prep program, completion of state-required exams (Praxis Core Academic Skills, Praxis Subject Assessments, edTPA), and a background check. Total timeline is approximately 12–18 months for initial certification through a traditional preparation program.
- What exams are required to teach in Alabama?
- Alabama requires the following exams: Praxis Core Academic Skills (Basic skills (reading, writing, mathematics)); Praxis Subject Assessments (Content area knowledge for your teaching field); edTPA (Performance assessment during student teaching). Most are computer-based and offered year-round at testing centers.
- How long is a Alabama teaching license valid?
- The initial Class B Professional Educator Certificate is valid for 5 years. After meeting professional development and experience requirements, you can advance to the Class A Professional Educator Certificate which is valid for 5 years, renewable.
- Can I teach in Alabama with a license from another state?
- Alabama participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement. Out-of-state applicants with valid certificates may qualify for an Alabama certificate after evaluation.
- Are there alternative routes to teaching in Alabama?
- Alabama Alternative Baccalaureate-Level Certificate (AABLTC) for career changers; Teach For America (active in Black Belt region); Career and Technical Education (CTE) certificates for industry professionals