Transferring your teaching license from Montana to North Dakota
Transfer pathway available — expect North Dakota exams + likely an interim license
Montana and North Dakota both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect North Dakota's certification exams (such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
See 368 open teaching jobs in North Dakota →License transfer finder
Your current credential (Montana)
- Issuing authority
- Montana Office of Public Instruction
- License type
- Class 2 License (Standard) (5 years)
- Reciprocity policy
- Montana participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates typically receive Montana licensure with verification of content knowledge.
North Dakota certification
- Issuing authority
- North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB)
- License you'll earn
- Initial License (2 years)
- Typical timeline
- 12–18 months traditional; Alternative Authorization allows immediate classroom entry with coursework over 3 years
- North Dakota reciprocity policy
- North Dakota participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates may receive a North Dakota license with limited additional requirements.
Exams typically required in North Dakota
Out-of-state applicants are usually asked to demonstrate content-area knowledge on North Dakota'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 ACT/SAT/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 Montana credential is current. North Dakota will request a verification of your active Class 2 License (Standard) from Montana Office of Public Instruction.
- Apply through North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB). The application packet typically includes official transcripts, prior teaching service verification, and a fingerprint-based background check.
- Sit for any North Dakota-specific exams. Most states honor out-of-state content-area exams when scores meet their cutoff, but North Dakota may require an additional jurisprudence or state-specific assessment.
- Apply to North Dakota districts that match your endorsement. We're currently tracking 368 active openings — browse North Dakota teaching jobs to start identifying districts.
Common questions
Can I teach in North Dakota with a Montana teaching license?
Montana and North Dakota both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect North Dakota'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 North Dakota?
North Dakota typically requires the Praxis Core Academic Skills exam(s) for your subject area.
How long does transferring a teaching license to North Dakota take?
Typically 12–18 months traditional; Alternative Authorization allows immediate classroom entry with coursework over 3 years.
Who issues teaching licenses in North Dakota?
Teaching licenses in North Dakota are issued by North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB).