2026 Certification Guide
How to Become a Teacher in Louisiana
Everything you need to know to earn a Louisiana teaching certificate — from degree requirements and required exams to alternative routes and reciprocity.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified in Louisiana
- 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
Louisiana requires passing state-approved assessments before certification is issued:
- Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying ACT/SAT/GRE scores)Basic reading, writing, and mathematics
- Praxis Subject AssessmentsContent knowledge for your certification area
- edTPAPerformance assessment during student teaching
- 4
Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your application to Louisiana 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 Level 1 Teaching Certificate (valid 3 years) allows you to begin teaching. Advance to a Level 2 Teaching Certificate (5 years, renewable) by meeting additional requirements such as completing a mentorship program or additional coursework.
Alternative Paths to Certification in Louisiana
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.
- Louisiana Alternate Certification (LAC): Earn certification while teaching, sponsored by a school system
- Teach For America (active in New Orleans and Baton Rouge)
- Louisiana Teacher Advancement Program
- Career and Technical Education certification
Out-of-State Certification & Reciprocity
Louisiana participates in the NASDTEC compact. Valid out-of-state certificates are evaluated; content assessments may still be required.
Tip: If you hold a valid teaching license from another state, contact Louisiana 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 Louisiana?
Now that you know how to get certified, find out what to expect to earn. Louisiana teachers start around $36,000 and average $54,278 per year statewide.
Louisiana Teacher Salary Guide →Ready to apply?
Browse current teaching positions in Louisiana — apply directly on district sites.
Data sources: Louisiana Department of Education. Certification requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Louisiana Department of Education before beginning a preparation program. EduJobsBoard is not affiliated with any state education department.