Transferring your teaching license from Mississippi to Alabama
Transfer pathway available — expect Alabama exams + likely an interim license
Mississippi and Alabama both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Alabama's certification exams (such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
See 2,860 open teaching jobs in Alabama →License transfer finder
Your current credential (Mississippi)
- Issuing authority
- Mississippi Department of Education
- License type
- Novice Educator License (3 years)
- Reciprocity policy
- Mississippi participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates may receive a Mississippi license; content exams may be required.
Alabama certification
- Issuing authority
- Alabama State Department of Education
- License you'll earn
- Class B Professional Educator Certificate (5 years)
- Typical timeline
- 12–18 months for initial certification through a traditional preparation program
- Alabama reciprocity policy
- Alabama participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement. Out-of-state applicants with valid certificates may qualify for an Alabama certificate after evaluation.
Exams typically required in Alabama
Out-of-state applicants are usually asked to demonstrate content-area knowledge on Alabama's preferred exams, even when basic-skills testing is waived through reciprocity. Plan for one or more of the following:
- Praxis Core Academic SkillsBasic skills (reading, writing, mathematics)
- Praxis Subject AssessmentsContent area knowledge for your teaching field
- edTPAPerformance assessment during student teaching
Pass the Praxis exam
Mometrix study guide & practice tests for the Praxis — prep with confidence.
Steps to transfer your license
- Verify your Mississippi credential is current. Alabama will request a verification of your active Novice Educator License from Mississippi Department of Education.
- Apply through Alabama State Department of Education. The application packet typically includes official transcripts, prior teaching service verification, and a fingerprint-based background check.
- Sit for any Alabama-specific exams. Most states honor out-of-state content-area exams when scores meet their cutoff, but Alabama may require an additional jurisprudence or state-specific assessment.
- Apply to Alabama districts that match your endorsement. We're currently tracking 2,860 active openings — browse Alabama teaching jobs to start identifying districts.
Common questions
Can I teach in Alabama with a Mississippi teaching license?
Mississippi and Alabama both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Alabama'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 Alabama?
Alabama typically requires the Praxis Core Academic Skills exam(s) for your subject area.
How long does transferring a teaching license to Alabama take?
Typically 12–18 months for initial certification through a traditional preparation program.
Who issues teaching licenses in Alabama?
Teaching licenses in Alabama are issued by Alabama State Department of Education.