2026 Certification Guide
How to Become a Teacher in North Dakota
Everything you need to know to earn a North Dakota teaching certificate — from degree requirements and required exams to alternative routes and reciprocity.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified in North Dakota
- 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
North Dakota 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 licensure area
- 4
Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your application to North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB), 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 Initial License (valid 2 years) allows you to begin teaching. Advance to a Standard 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 North Dakota
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 Authorization: For candidates with content degrees employed by a district while completing pedagogy requirements
- Career and Technical Education endorsements for industry professionals
- Emergency Authorization for critical shortage areas
Out-of-State Certification & Reciprocity
North Dakota participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates may receive a North Dakota license with limited additional requirements.
Tip: If you hold a valid teaching license from another state, contact North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB) directly about your reciprocity options before re-taking any exams. Many states streamline the process for experienced educators.
What Will You Earn in North Dakota?
Now that you know how to get certified, find out what to expect to earn. North Dakota teachers start around $38,000 and average $57,826 per year statewide.
North Dakota Teacher Salary Guide →Ready to apply?
Browse current teaching positions in North Dakota — apply directly on district sites.
Data sources: North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board. Certification requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB) before beginning a preparation program. EduJobsBoard is not affiliated with any state education department.
Frequently asked questions about teaching in North Dakota
- How do I become a teacher in North Dakota?
- North Dakota certification is administered by North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB). The standard path is a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution from an approved teacher-prep program, completion of state-required exams (Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying ACT/SAT/GRE scores), Praxis Subject Assessments), and a background check. Total timeline is approximately 12–18 months traditional; Alternative Authorization allows immediate classroom entry with coursework over 3 years.
- What exams are required to teach in North Dakota?
- North Dakota requires the following exams: Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying ACT/SAT/GRE scores) (Basic reading, writing, and mathematics); Praxis Subject Assessments (Content knowledge for your licensure area). Most are computer-based and offered year-round at testing centers.
- How long is a North Dakota teaching license valid?
- The initial Initial License is valid for 2 years. After meeting professional development and experience requirements, you can advance to the Standard License which is valid for 5 years, renewable.
- Can I teach in North Dakota with a license from another state?
- North Dakota participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates may receive a North Dakota license with limited additional requirements.
- Are there alternative routes to teaching in North Dakota?
- Alternative Authorization: For candidates with content degrees employed by a district while completing pedagogy requirements; Career and Technical Education endorsements for industry professionals; Emergency Authorization for critical shortage areas