2026 Certification Guide
How to Become a Teacher in North Carolina
Everything you need to know to earn a North Carolina teaching certificate — from degree requirements and required exams to alternative routes and reciprocity.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified in North Carolina
- 1
Complete Your Education
Bachelor's degree (subject area degree accepted for Lateral Entry). 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
North Carolina requires passing state-approved assessments before certification is issued:
- Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying SAT/ACT/GRE)Basic reading, writing, and math skills
- Praxis Subject AssessmentsContent knowledge in your licensure area
- edTPAPerformance assessment for initial licensure
- 4
Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your application to North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI), 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 Lateral Entry License or Residency License (valid 3 years) allows you to begin teaching. Advance to a Standard Professional 1 → Standard Professional 2 Certificate (5 years, renewable) by meeting additional requirements such as completing a mentorship program or additional coursework.
Alternative Paths to Certification in North Carolina
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.
- Lateral Entry: Teach immediately with a bachelor's degree while completing licensure coursework
- Residency License: School-based preparation program over 2 years
- Career and Technical Education licenses for industry professionals
- Teach For America (active in rural NC and Charlotte)
Out-of-State Certification & Reciprocity
North Carolina participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with equivalent licenses may receive an NC license; content exams may still be required.
Tip: If you hold a valid teaching license from another state, contact North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) directly about your reciprocity options before re-taking any exams. Many states streamline the process for experienced educators.
What Will You Earn in North Carolina?
Now that you know how to get certified, find out what to expect to earn. North Carolina teachers start around $37,000 and average $56,643 per year statewide.
North Carolina Teacher Salary Guide →Ready to apply?
Browse current teaching positions in North Carolina — apply directly on district sites.
Data sources: North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. Certification requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) before beginning a preparation program. EduJobsBoard is not affiliated with any state education department.