Transferring your teaching license from New Hampshire to Maine
Transfer pathway available — expect Maine exams + likely an interim license
New Hampshire and Maine both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Maine's certification exams (such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
See 123 open teaching jobs in Maine →License transfer finder
Your current credential (New Hampshire)
- Issuing authority
- New Hampshire Department of Education
- License type
- Beginning Educator Certificate (3 years)
- Reciprocity policy
- New Hampshire participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates may receive a New Hampshire license after review.
Maine certification
- Issuing authority
- Maine Department of Education
- License you'll earn
- Provisional Certificate (2 years)
- Typical timeline
- 12–18 months for traditional program; 2–3 years with conditional certification
- Maine reciprocity policy
- Maine participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates may receive reciprocal licensure; Praxis exams may still be required.
Exams typically required in Maine
Out-of-state applicants are usually asked to demonstrate content-area knowledge on Maine'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 academic skills
- Praxis Subject AssessmentsContent knowledge in your teaching area
Pass the Praxis exam
Mometrix study guide & practice tests for the Praxis — prep with confidence.
Steps to transfer your license
- Verify your New Hampshire credential is current. Maine will request a verification of your active Beginning Educator Certificate from New Hampshire Department of Education.
- Apply through Maine Department of Education. The application packet typically includes official transcripts, prior teaching service verification, and a fingerprint-based background check.
- Sit for any Maine-specific exams. Most states honor out-of-state content-area exams when scores meet their cutoff, but Maine may require an additional jurisprudence or state-specific assessment.
- Apply to Maine districts that match your endorsement. We're currently tracking 123 active openings — browse Maine teaching jobs to start identifying districts.
Common questions
Can I teach in Maine with a New Hampshire teaching license?
New Hampshire and Maine both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Maine'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 Maine?
Maine typically requires the Praxis Core Academic Skills exam(s) for your subject area.
How long does transferring a teaching license to Maine take?
Typically 12–18 months for traditional program; 2–3 years with conditional certification.
Who issues teaching licenses in Maine?
Teaching licenses in Maine are issued by Maine Department of Education.