2026 Certification Guide
How to Become a Teacher in Arizona
Everything you need to know to earn a Arizona teaching certificate — from degree requirements and required exams to alternative routes and reciprocity.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified in Arizona
- 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
Arizona requires passing state-approved assessments before certification is issued:
- Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessments (AEPA) Professional KnowledgePedagogy and professional knowledge
- AEPA Subject Knowledge AssessmentContent knowledge for your certification area
- NES (National Evaluation Series) examsUsed for some subject areas as an alternative to AEPA
- 4
Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your application to Arizona 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 Standard Teaching Certificate (valid 6 years) allows you to begin teaching. Advance to a Standard Teaching Certificate (renewed) (6 years, renewable) by meeting additional requirements such as completing a mentorship program or additional coursework.
Alternative Paths to Certification in Arizona
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.
- Arizona Alternative Teacher Program: Earn certification while teaching with an intern substitute certificate
- Structured English Immersion (SEI) endorsement pathway
- Teach For America (active in Phoenix and Tucson)
- Career and Technical Education certificates for industry professionals
Out-of-State Certification & Reciprocity
Arizona participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state teachers with valid certificates may receive an Arizona certificate; AEPA exams may still be required for some subject areas.
Tip: If you hold a valid teaching license from another state, contact Arizona 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 Arizona?
Now that you know how to get certified, find out what to expect to earn. Arizona teachers start around $35,000 and average $53,658 per year statewide.
Arizona Teacher Salary Guide →Ready to apply?
Browse current teaching positions in Arizona — apply directly on district sites.
Data sources: Arizona Department of Education. Certification requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Arizona Department of Education before beginning a preparation program. EduJobsBoard is not affiliated with any state education department.