Transferring your teaching license from Pennsylvania to Delaware
Transfer pathway available — expect Delaware exams + likely an interim license
Pennsylvania and Delaware both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Delaware's certification exams (such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
See 797 open teaching jobs in Delaware →License transfer finder
Your current credential (Pennsylvania)
- Issuing authority
- Pennsylvania Department of Education
- License type
- Instructional I Certificate (6 years)
- Reciprocity policy
- Pennsylvania participates in NASDTEC. The state evaluates out-of-state certificates and typically requires the Praxis subject assessment for the certification area.
Delaware certification
- Issuing authority
- Delaware Department of Education
- License you'll earn
- Initial License (3 years)
- Typical timeline
- 12–18 months traditional; ARC typically takes 1–2 years while teaching
- Delaware reciprocity policy
- Delaware participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates may receive a Delaware license after evaluation; content exams may be required.
Exams typically required in Delaware
Out-of-state applicants are usually asked to demonstrate content-area knowledge on Delaware'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 reading, writing, and mathematics
- Praxis Subject AssessmentsContent knowledge for your certification 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 Pennsylvania credential is current. Delaware will request a verification of your active Instructional I Certificate from Pennsylvania Department of Education.
- Apply through Delaware Department of Education. The application packet typically includes official transcripts, prior teaching service verification, and a fingerprint-based background check.
- Sit for any Delaware-specific exams. Most states honor out-of-state content-area exams when scores meet their cutoff, but Delaware may require an additional jurisprudence or state-specific assessment.
- Apply to Delaware districts that match your endorsement. We're currently tracking 797 active openings — browse Delaware teaching jobs to start identifying districts.
Common questions
Can I teach in Delaware with a Pennsylvania teaching license?
Pennsylvania and Delaware both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Delaware'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 Delaware?
Delaware typically requires the Praxis Core Academic Skills exam(s) for your subject area.
How long does transferring a teaching license to Delaware take?
Typically 12–18 months traditional; ARC typically takes 1–2 years while teaching.
Who issues teaching licenses in Delaware?
Teaching licenses in Delaware are issued by Delaware Department of Education.