Transferring your teaching license from Oregon to Washington
Transfer pathway available — expect Washington exams + likely an interim license
Oregon and Washington both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Washington's certification exams (such as the WEST-B) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
See 3,210 open teaching jobs in Washington →License transfer finder
Your current credential (Oregon)
- Issuing authority
- Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC)
- License type
- Initial Teaching License (3 years)
- Reciprocity policy
- Oregon participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid licenses may receive an Oregon license; content assessments may be required.
Washington certification
- Issuing authority
- Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI)
- License you'll earn
- Initial Certificate (3 years)
- Typical timeline
- 12–18 months for traditional preparation program; Residency Certification typically takes 2 years while employed
- Washington reciprocity policy
- Washington participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement. Teachers with valid out-of-state certificates and 2+ years of experience may receive a Washington certificate; West-E subject tests typically still required.
Exams typically required in Washington
Out-of-state applicants are usually asked to demonstrate content-area knowledge on Washington's preferred exams, even when basic-skills testing is waived through reciprocity. Plan for one or more of the following:
- WEST-B (Washington Educator Skills Tests — Basic)Reading, writing, and mathematics (waived with qualifying SAT/ACT/GRE scores)
- West-E Subject Knowledge AssessmentContent area knowledge for your endorsement(s)
- edTPAPerformance assessment during student teaching (required for residency completion)
Pass the WEST exam
Mometrix study guide & practice tests for the WEST — prep with confidence.
Steps to transfer your license
- Verify your Oregon credential is current. Washington will request a verification of your active Initial Teaching License from Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC).
- Apply through Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). The application packet typically includes official transcripts, prior teaching service verification, and a fingerprint-based background check.
- Sit for any Washington-specific exams. Most states honor out-of-state content-area exams when scores meet their cutoff, but Washington may require an additional jurisprudence or state-specific assessment.
- Apply to Washington districts that match your endorsement. We're currently tracking 3,210 active openings — browse Washington teaching jobs to start identifying districts.
Common questions
Can I teach in Washington with a Oregon teaching license?
Oregon and Washington both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Washington's certification exams (such as the WEST-B) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
What exams are required to teach in Washington?
Washington typically requires the WEST-B exam(s) for your subject area.
How long does transferring a teaching license to Washington take?
Typically 12–18 months for traditional preparation program; Residency Certification typically takes 2 years while employed.
Who issues teaching licenses in Washington?
Teaching licenses in Washington are issued by Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).