Transferring your teaching license from North Carolina to Tennessee
Transfer pathway available — expect Tennessee exams + likely an interim license
North Carolina and Tennessee both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Tennessee's certification exams (such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
See 482 open teaching jobs in Tennessee →License transfer finder
Your current credential (North Carolina)
- Issuing authority
- North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI)
- License type
- Lateral Entry License or Residency License (3 years)
- Reciprocity policy
- North Carolina participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with equivalent licenses may receive an NC license; content exams may still be required.
Tennessee certification
- Issuing authority
- Tennessee Department of Education
- License you'll earn
- Apprentice License (3 years)
- Typical timeline
- 12–18 months traditional; TNALP allows immediate classroom entry with completion over 3 years
- Tennessee reciprocity policy
- Tennessee participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates may receive a Tennessee license; content exams may be required.
Exams typically required in Tennessee
Out-of-state applicants are usually asked to demonstrate content-area knowledge on Tennessee'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
- 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 North Carolina credential is current. Tennessee will request a verification of your active Lateral Entry License or Residency License from North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI).
- Apply through Tennessee Department of Education. The application packet typically includes official transcripts, prior teaching service verification, and a fingerprint-based background check.
- Sit for any Tennessee-specific exams. Most states honor out-of-state content-area exams when scores meet their cutoff, but Tennessee may require an additional jurisprudence or state-specific assessment.
- Apply to Tennessee districts that match your endorsement. We're currently tracking 482 active openings — browse Tennessee teaching jobs to start identifying districts.
Common questions
Can I teach in Tennessee with a North Carolina teaching license?
North Carolina and Tennessee both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Tennessee'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 Tennessee?
Tennessee typically requires the Praxis Core Academic Skills exam(s) for your subject area.
How long does transferring a teaching license to Tennessee take?
Typically 12–18 months traditional; TNALP allows immediate classroom entry with completion over 3 years.
Who issues teaching licenses in Tennessee?
Teaching licenses in Tennessee are issued by Tennessee Department of Education.