2026 Certification Guide
How to Become a Teacher in Pennsylvania
Everything you need to know to earn a Pennsylvania teaching certificate — from degree requirements and required exams to alternative routes and reciprocity.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified in Pennsylvania
- 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
Pennsylvania requires passing state-approved assessments before certification is issued:
- Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying SAT/GRE scores)Basic academic skills
- Praxis Subject Assessments (PA-approved tests)Content knowledge for your certification area
- 4
Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your application to Pennsylvania 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 Instructional I Certificate (valid 6 years) allows you to begin teaching. Advance to a Instructional II Certificate (Permanent (with 3 years satisfactory teaching experience)) by meeting additional requirements such as completing a mentorship program or additional coursework.
Pass the PECT exam
Mometrix study guide & practice tests for the PECT — prep with confidence.
Alternative Paths to Certification in Pennsylvania
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.
- Intern Certificate: Teach while completing a preparation program (3-year maximum)
- Emergency Certificate: Issued to districts in critical shortage areas
- Career and Technical Education certificates for industry professionals
Out-of-State Certification & Reciprocity
Pennsylvania participates in NASDTEC. The state evaluates out-of-state certificates and typically requires the Praxis subject assessment for the certification area.
Tip: If you hold a valid teaching license from another state, contact Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
Now that you know how to get certified, find out what to expect to earn. Pennsylvania teachers start around $44,000 and average $72,280 per year statewide.
Pennsylvania Teacher Salary Guide →Ready to apply?
Browse current teaching positions in Pennsylvania — apply directly on district sites.
Data sources: Pennsylvania Department of Education. Certification requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Pennsylvania Department of Education before beginning a preparation program. EduJobsBoard is not affiliated with any state education department.
Frequently asked questions about teaching in Pennsylvania
- How do I become a teacher in Pennsylvania?
- Pennsylvania certification is administered by Pennsylvania Department of Education. 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 SAT/GRE scores), Praxis Subject Assessments (PA-approved tests)), and a background check. Total timeline is approximately 12–18 months for a traditional university program; Intern Certificate allows earlier classroom entry.
- What exams are required to teach in Pennsylvania?
- Pennsylvania requires the following exams: Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying SAT/GRE scores) (Basic academic skills); Praxis Subject Assessments (PA-approved tests) (Content knowledge for your certification area). Most are computer-based and offered year-round at testing centers.
- How long is a Pennsylvania teaching license valid?
- The initial Instructional I Certificate is valid for 6 years. After meeting professional development and experience requirements, you can advance to the Instructional II Certificate which is valid for Permanent (with 3 years satisfactory teaching experience).
- Can I teach in Pennsylvania with a license from another state?
- Pennsylvania participates in NASDTEC. The state evaluates out-of-state certificates and typically requires the Praxis subject assessment for the certification area.
- Are there alternative routes to teaching in Pennsylvania?
- Intern Certificate: Teach while completing a preparation program (3-year maximum); Emergency Certificate: Issued to districts in critical shortage areas; Career and Technical Education certificates for industry professionals