2026 Certification Guide
How to Become a Teacher in Georgia
Everything you need to know to earn a Georgia teaching certificate — from degree requirements and required exams to alternative routes and reciprocity.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified in Georgia
- 1
Complete Your Education
Bachelor's degree. 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
Georgia requires passing state-approved assessments before certification is issued:
- GACE Basic Skills AssessmentReading, writing, and mathematics
- GACE Content AssessmentsContent knowledge in your teaching field
- 4
Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your application to Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC), 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 Induction Certificate (valid 3 years) allows you to begin teaching. Advance to a Professional Certificate (5 years, renewable) by meeting additional requirements such as completing a mentorship program or additional coursework.
Pass the GACE exam
Mometrix study guide & practice tests for the GACE — prep with confidence.
Alternative Paths to Certification in Georgia
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.
- Alternative Teacher Preparation Programs (through approved providers)
- Teach For America (active in Atlanta and rural Georgia)
- Career and Technical Education (CTAE) certificates
Out-of-State Certification & Reciprocity
Georgia participates in the NASDTEC compact. Valid out-of-state certificates reviewed; Georgia GACE exams may still be required.
Tip: If you hold a valid teaching license from another state, contact Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC) directly about your reciprocity options before re-taking any exams. Many states streamline the process for experienced educators.
What Will You Earn in Georgia?
Now that you know how to get certified, find out what to expect to earn. Georgia teachers start around $38,000 and average $59,131 per year statewide.
Georgia Teacher Salary Guide →Ready to apply?
Browse current teaching positions in Georgia — apply directly on district sites.
Data sources: Georgia Professional Standards Commission. Certification requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC) before beginning a preparation program. EduJobsBoard is not affiliated with any state education department.
Frequently asked questions about teaching in Georgia
- How do I become a teacher in Georgia?
- Georgia certification is administered by Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC). The standard path is a Bachelor's degree from an approved teacher-prep program, completion of state-required exams (GACE Basic Skills Assessment, GACE Content Assessments), and a background check. Total timeline is approximately 12 months for an approved preparation program; 2 years for alternative routes while teaching.
- What exams are required to teach in Georgia?
- Georgia requires the following exams: GACE Basic Skills Assessment (Reading, writing, and mathematics); GACE Content Assessments (Content knowledge in your teaching field). Most are computer-based and offered year-round at testing centers.
- How long is a Georgia teaching license valid?
- The initial Induction Certificate is valid for 3 years. After meeting professional development and experience requirements, you can advance to the Professional Certificate which is valid for 5 years, renewable.
- Can I teach in Georgia with a license from another state?
- Georgia participates in the NASDTEC compact. Valid out-of-state certificates reviewed; Georgia GACE exams may still be required.
- Are there alternative routes to teaching in Georgia?
- Alternative Teacher Preparation Programs (through approved providers); Teach For America (active in Atlanta and rural Georgia); Career and Technical Education (CTAE) certificates