2026 Certification Guide
How to Become a Teacher in Oklahoma
Everything you need to know to earn a Oklahoma teaching certificate — from degree requirements and required exams to alternative routes and reciprocity.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified in Oklahoma
- 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
Oklahoma requires passing state-approved assessments before certification is issued:
- Oklahoma General Education Test (OGET)Basic reading, writing, and mathematics skills
- Oklahoma Subject Area Tests (OSAT)Content knowledge for your certification area
- Oklahoma Professional Teaching Examination (OPTE)Professional knowledge and pedagogy
- 4
Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your application to Oklahoma State 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 Standard Teaching Certificate (valid 5 years) allows you to begin teaching. Advance to a Standard Teaching Certificate (renewed) (5 years, renewable) by meeting additional requirements such as completing a mentorship program or additional coursework.
Alternative Paths to Certification in Oklahoma
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 Placement Certification: Teach with an emergency certificate while completing coursework
- Teach For America (active in Tulsa and Oklahoma City)
- Career and Technical Education certification
- District-sponsored alternative programs
Out-of-State Certification & Reciprocity
Oklahoma participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates may receive an Oklahoma certificate; OSAT content exams are typically still required.
Tip: If you hold a valid teaching license from another state, contact Oklahoma State 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 Oklahoma?
Now that you know how to get certified, find out what to expect to earn. Oklahoma teachers start around $36,000 and average $53,088 per year statewide.
Oklahoma Teacher Salary Guide →Ready to apply?
Browse current teaching positions in Oklahoma — apply directly on district sites.
Data sources: Oklahoma State Department of Education. Certification requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Oklahoma State Department of Education before beginning a preparation program. EduJobsBoard is not affiliated with any state education department.