Transferring your teaching license from New York to Connecticut
Transfer pathway available — expect Connecticut exams + likely an interim license
New York and Connecticut both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Connecticut's certification exams (such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
See 2,300 open teaching jobs in Connecticut →License transfer finder
Your current credential (New York)
- Issuing authority
- New York State Education Department (NYSED)
- License type
- Initial Certificate (5 years (non-renewable))
- Reciprocity policy
- New York participates in NASDTEC but requires New York-specific exams (NYSTCE) in most cases. A master's degree is required for the Professional Certificate, making NY one of the more demanding reciprocity states.
Connecticut certification
- Issuing authority
- Connecticut State Department of Education
- License you'll earn
- Initial Educator Certificate (8 years)
- Typical timeline
- 1–2 years for traditional program; ARC can take 1 year while employed
- Connecticut reciprocity policy
- Connecticut participates in the NASDTEC compact. Valid out-of-state certificates evaluated case-by-case.
Exams typically required in Connecticut
Out-of-state applicants are usually asked to demonstrate content-area knowledge on Connecticut's preferred exams, even when basic-skills testing is waived through reciprocity. Plan for one or more of the following:
- Praxis Core Academic SkillsBasic reading, writing, and math
- Praxis Subject AssessmentsContent knowledge in your certification area
- edTPAPerformance assessment portfolio
Pass the Praxis exam
Mometrix study guide & practice tests for the Praxis — prep with confidence.
Steps to transfer your license
- Verify your New York credential is current. Connecticut will request a verification of your active Initial Certificate from New York State Education Department (NYSED).
- Apply through Connecticut State Department of Education. The application packet typically includes official transcripts, prior teaching service verification, and a fingerprint-based background check.
- Sit for any Connecticut-specific exams. Most states honor out-of-state content-area exams when scores meet their cutoff, but Connecticut may require an additional jurisprudence or state-specific assessment.
- Apply to Connecticut districts that match your endorsement. We're currently tracking 2,300 active openings — browse Connecticut teaching jobs to start identifying districts.
Common questions
Can I teach in Connecticut with a New York teaching license?
New York and Connecticut both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Connecticut'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 Connecticut?
Connecticut typically requires the Praxis Core Academic Skills exam(s) for your subject area.
How long does transferring a teaching license to Connecticut take?
Typically 1–2 years for traditional program; ARC can take 1 year while employed.
Who issues teaching licenses in Connecticut?
Teaching licenses in Connecticut are issued by Connecticut State Department of Education.