2026 Certification Guide
How to Become a Teacher in Montana
Everything you need to know to earn a Montana teaching certificate — from degree requirements and required exams to alternative routes and reciprocity.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified in Montana
- 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
Montana requires passing state-approved assessments before certification is issued:
- Praxis Subject Assessments (or approved content knowledge verification)Content knowledge for your licensure area
- 4
Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your application to Montana Office of Public Instruction, 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 2 License (Standard) (valid 5 years) allows you to begin teaching. Advance to a Class 2 License (renewed) (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 Montana
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.
- Provisional License: For candidates who meet most requirements while completing outstanding requirements
- Substitute License to full license pathway
- Career and Technical Education authorization
- Tribal College-based preparation programs for reservation school teachers
Out-of-State Certification & Reciprocity
Montana participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates typically receive Montana licensure with verification of content knowledge.
Tip: If you hold a valid teaching license from another state, contact Montana Office of Public Instruction directly about your reciprocity options before re-taking any exams. Many states streamline the process for experienced educators.
What Will You Earn in Montana?
Now that you know how to get certified, find out what to expect to earn. Montana teachers start around $32,000 and average $50,890 per year statewide.
Montana Teacher Salary Guide →Ready to apply?
Browse current teaching positions in Montana — apply directly on district sites.
Data sources: Montana Office of Public Instruction. Certification requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Montana Office of Public Instruction before beginning a preparation program. EduJobsBoard is not affiliated with any state education department.
Frequently asked questions about teaching in Montana
- How do I become a teacher in Montana?
- Montana certification is administered by Montana Office of Public Instruction. The standard path is a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution from an approved teacher-prep program, completion of state-required exams (Praxis Subject Assessments (or approved content knowledge verification)), and a background check. Total timeline is approximately 12–18 months traditional; Provisional License allows classroom entry while completing requirements.
- What exams are required to teach in Montana?
- Montana requires the following exams: Praxis Subject Assessments (or approved content knowledge verification) (Content knowledge for your licensure area). Most are computer-based and offered year-round at testing centers.
- How long is a Montana teaching license valid?
- The initial Class 2 License (Standard) is valid for 5 years. After meeting professional development and experience requirements, you can advance to the Class 2 License (renewed) which is valid for 5 years, renewable.
- Can I teach in Montana with a license from another state?
- Montana participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates typically receive Montana licensure with verification of content knowledge.
- Are there alternative routes to teaching in Montana?
- Provisional License: For candidates who meet most requirements while completing outstanding requirements; Substitute License to full license pathway; Career and Technical Education authorization; Tribal College-based preparation programs for reservation school teachers