Transferring your teaching license from Pennsylvania to West Virginia
Transfer pathway available — expect West Virginia exams + likely an interim license
Pennsylvania and West Virginia both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect West Virginia's certification exams (such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
See 1,133 open teaching jobs in West Virginia →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.
West Virginia certification
- Issuing authority
- West Virginia Department of Education
- License you'll earn
- Provisional Certificate (3 years)
- Typical timeline
- 12 months traditional; 1–2 years for temporary authorization route
- West Virginia reciprocity policy
- West Virginia participates in NASDTEC. Valid out-of-state certificates are evaluated; Praxis content exams generally required.
Exams typically required in West Virginia
Out-of-state applicants are usually asked to demonstrate content-area knowledge on West Virginia'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 ACT/SAT/GRE scores)Basic academic skills
- Praxis Subject AssessmentsContent knowledge for your certification area
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. West Virginia will request a verification of your active Instructional I Certificate from Pennsylvania Department of Education.
- Apply through West Virginia Department of Education. The application packet typically includes official transcripts, prior teaching service verification, and a fingerprint-based background check.
- Sit for any West Virginia-specific exams. Most states honor out-of-state content-area exams when scores meet their cutoff, but West Virginia may require an additional jurisprudence or state-specific assessment.
- Apply to West Virginia districts that match your endorsement. We're currently tracking 1,133 active openings — browse West Virginia teaching jobs to start identifying districts.
Common questions
Can I teach in West Virginia with a Pennsylvania teaching license?
Pennsylvania and West Virginia both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect West Virginia'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 West Virginia?
West Virginia typically requires the Praxis Core Academic Skills exam(s) for your subject area.
How long does transferring a teaching license to West Virginia take?
Typically 12 months traditional; 1–2 years for temporary authorization route.
Who issues teaching licenses in West Virginia?
Teaching licenses in West Virginia are issued by West Virginia Department of Education.