Transferring your teaching license from Tennessee to Georgia
Transfer pathway available — expect Georgia exams + likely an interim license
Tennessee and Georgia both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Georgia's certification exams (such as the GACE Basic Skills Assessment) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
See 358 open teaching jobs in Georgia →License transfer finder
Your current credential (Tennessee)
- Issuing authority
- Tennessee Department of Education
- License type
- Apprentice License (3 years)
- Reciprocity policy
- Tennessee participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates may receive a Tennessee license; content exams may be required.
Georgia certification
- Issuing authority
- Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC)
- License you'll earn
- Induction Certificate (3 years)
- Typical timeline
- 12 months for an approved preparation program; 2 years for alternative routes while teaching
- Georgia reciprocity policy
- Georgia participates in the NASDTEC compact. Valid out-of-state certificates reviewed; Georgia GACE exams may still be required.
Exams typically required in Georgia
Out-of-state applicants are usually asked to demonstrate content-area knowledge on Georgia's preferred exams, even when basic-skills testing is waived through reciprocity. Plan for one or more of the following:
- GACE Basic Skills AssessmentReading, writing, and mathematics
- GACE Content AssessmentsContent knowledge in your teaching field
Pass the GACE exam
Mometrix study guide & practice tests for the GACE — prep with confidence.
Steps to transfer your license
- Verify your Tennessee credential is current. Georgia will request a verification of your active Apprentice License from Tennessee Department of Education.
- Apply through Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC). The application packet typically includes official transcripts, prior teaching service verification, and a fingerprint-based background check.
- Sit for any Georgia-specific exams. Most states honor out-of-state content-area exams when scores meet their cutoff, but Georgia may require an additional jurisprudence or state-specific assessment.
- Apply to Georgia districts that match your endorsement. We're currently tracking 358 active openings — browse Georgia teaching jobs to start identifying districts.
Common questions
Can I teach in Georgia with a Tennessee teaching license?
Tennessee and Georgia both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Georgia's certification exams (such as the GACE Basic Skills Assessment) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
What exams are required to teach in Georgia?
Georgia typically requires the GACE Basic Skills Assessment exam(s) for your subject area.
How long does transferring a teaching license to Georgia take?
Typically 12 months for an approved preparation program; 2 years for alternative routes while teaching.
Who issues teaching licenses in Georgia?
Teaching licenses in Georgia are issued by Georgia Professional Standards Commission (PSC).