Transferring your teaching license from New York to Pennsylvania
Transfer pathway available — expect Pennsylvania exams + likely an interim license
New York and Pennsylvania both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Pennsylvania's certification exams (such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
See 638 open teaching jobs in Pennsylvania →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.
Pennsylvania certification
- Issuing authority
- Pennsylvania Department of Education
- License you'll earn
- Instructional I Certificate (6 years)
- Typical timeline
- 12–18 months for a traditional university program; Intern Certificate allows earlier classroom entry
- Pennsylvania reciprocity policy
- Pennsylvania participates in NASDTEC. The state evaluates out-of-state certificates and typically requires the Praxis subject assessment for the certification area.
Exams typically required in Pennsylvania
Out-of-state applicants are usually asked to demonstrate content-area knowledge on Pennsylvania'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/GRE scores)Basic academic skills
- Praxis Subject Assessments (PA-approved tests)Content knowledge for your certification area
Pass the PECT exam
Mometrix study guide & practice tests for the PECT — prep with confidence.
Steps to transfer your license
- Verify your New York credential is current. Pennsylvania will request a verification of your active Initial Certificate from New York State Education Department (NYSED).
- Apply through Pennsylvania Department of Education. The application packet typically includes official transcripts, prior teaching service verification, and a fingerprint-based background check.
- Sit for any Pennsylvania-specific exams. Most states honor out-of-state content-area exams when scores meet their cutoff, but Pennsylvania may require an additional jurisprudence or state-specific assessment.
- Apply to Pennsylvania districts that match your endorsement. We're currently tracking 638 active openings — browse Pennsylvania teaching jobs to start identifying districts.
Common questions
Can I teach in Pennsylvania with a New York teaching license?
New York and Pennsylvania both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Pennsylvania'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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania typically requires the Praxis Core Academic Skills exam(s) for your subject area.
How long does transferring a teaching license to Pennsylvania take?
Typically 12–18 months for a traditional university program; Intern Certificate allows earlier classroom entry.
Who issues teaching licenses in Pennsylvania?
Teaching licenses in Pennsylvania are issued by Pennsylvania Department of Education.