2026 Certification Guide
How to Become a Teacher in Indiana
Everything you need to know to earn a Indiana teaching certificate — from degree requirements and required exams to alternative routes and reciprocity.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified in Indiana
- 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
Indiana requires passing state-approved assessments before certification is issued:
- CORE Academic Skills Assessment (or qualifying SAT/ACT/GRE scores)Basic reading, writing, and mathematics
- Praxis Subject Assessments or Indiana CORE Content Area ExamsContent knowledge for your license area
- 4
Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your application to Indiana 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 Practitioner License (valid 2 years) allows you to begin teaching. Advance to a Proficient Practitioner License (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 Indiana
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.
- Transition to Teaching (T2T): For career changers employed by an Indiana school
- Troops to Teachers: For military veterans
- Career and Technical Education (CTE) licenses for industry professionals
- Teach For America (active in Indianapolis)
Out-of-State Certification & Reciprocity
Indiana participates in the NASDTEC compact. Valid out-of-state licenses evaluated; content exams may be required. Educators with 2+ years of experience receive streamlined review.
Tip: If you hold a valid teaching license from another state, contact Indiana 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 Indiana?
Now that you know how to get certified, find out what to expect to earn. Indiana teachers start around $35,000 and average $55,427 per year statewide.
Indiana Teacher Salary Guide →Ready to apply?
Browse current teaching positions in Indiana — apply directly on district sites.
Data sources: Indiana Department of Education. Certification requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Indiana Department of Education before beginning a preparation program. EduJobsBoard is not affiliated with any state education department.
Frequently asked questions about teaching in Indiana
- How do I become a teacher in Indiana?
- Indiana certification is administered by Indiana 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 (CORE Academic Skills Assessment (or qualifying SAT/ACT/GRE scores), Praxis Subject Assessments or Indiana CORE Content Area Exams), and a background check. Total timeline is approximately 12 months traditional; T2T program typically takes 2 years while teaching.
- What exams are required to teach in Indiana?
- Indiana requires the following exams: CORE Academic Skills Assessment (or qualifying SAT/ACT/GRE scores) (Basic reading, writing, and mathematics); Praxis Subject Assessments or Indiana CORE Content Area Exams (Content knowledge for your license area). Most are computer-based and offered year-round at testing centers.
- How long is a Indiana teaching license valid?
- The initial Practitioner License is valid for 2 years. After meeting professional development and experience requirements, you can advance to the Proficient Practitioner License which is valid for 5 years, renewable.
- Can I teach in Indiana with a license from another state?
- Indiana participates in the NASDTEC compact. Valid out-of-state licenses evaluated; content exams may be required. Educators with 2+ years of experience receive streamlined review.
- Are there alternative routes to teaching in Indiana?
- Transition to Teaching (T2T): For career changers employed by an Indiana school; Troops to Teachers: For military veterans; Career and Technical Education (CTE) licenses for industry professionals; Teach For America (active in Indianapolis)