Transferring your teaching license from Missouri to Kansas
Transfer pathway available — expect Kansas exams + likely an interim license
Missouri and Kansas both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Kansas's certification exams (such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
See 1,520 open teaching jobs in Kansas →License transfer finder
Your current credential (Missouri)
- Issuing authority
- Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE)
- License type
- Initial Professional Certificate (4 years)
- Reciprocity policy
- Missouri participates in the NASDTEC compact. Missouri MEGA exams are generally still required even with reciprocity.
Kansas certification
- Issuing authority
- Kansas State Department of Education
- License you'll earn
- Initial License (5 years)
- Typical timeline
- 12–18 months traditional; Restricted License allows immediate classroom entry with coursework completion over 5 years
- Kansas reciprocity policy
- Kansas participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates receive reciprocal review; content exams may still be required.
Exams typically required in Kansas
Out-of-state applicants are usually asked to demonstrate content-area knowledge on Kansas's preferred exams, even when basic-skills testing is waived through reciprocity. Plan for one or more of the following:
- Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying SAT/ACT/GRE scores)Basic reading, writing, and mathematics
- Praxis Subject AssessmentsContent knowledge for your licensure area
Pass the Praxis exam
Mometrix study guide & practice tests for the Praxis — prep with confidence.
Steps to transfer your license
- Verify your Missouri credential is current. Kansas will request a verification of your active Initial Professional Certificate from Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).
- Apply through Kansas State Department of Education. The application packet typically includes official transcripts, prior teaching service verification, and a fingerprint-based background check.
- Sit for any Kansas-specific exams. Most states honor out-of-state content-area exams when scores meet their cutoff, but Kansas may require an additional jurisprudence or state-specific assessment.
- Apply to Kansas districts that match your endorsement. We're currently tracking 1,520 active openings — browse Kansas teaching jobs to start identifying districts.
Common questions
Can I teach in Kansas with a Missouri teaching license?
Missouri and Kansas both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Kansas's certification exams (such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
What exams are required to teach in Kansas?
Kansas typically requires the Praxis Core Academic Skills exam(s) for your subject area.
How long does transferring a teaching license to Kansas take?
Typically 12–18 months traditional; Restricted License allows immediate classroom entry with coursework completion over 5 years.
Who issues teaching licenses in Kansas?
Teaching licenses in Kansas are issued by Kansas State Department of Education.