Transferring your teaching license from West Virginia to Kentucky
Transfer pathway available — expect Kentucky exams + likely an interim license
West Virginia and Kentucky both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Kentucky's certification exams (such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
See 700 open teaching jobs in Kentucky →License transfer finder
Your current credential (West Virginia)
- Issuing authority
- West Virginia Department of Education
- License type
- Provisional Certificate (3 years)
- Reciprocity policy
- West Virginia participates in NASDTEC. Valid out-of-state certificates are evaluated; Praxis content exams generally required.
Kentucky certification
- Issuing authority
- Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board (EPSB)
- License you'll earn
- Provisional Certificate (3 years)
- Typical timeline
- 12–18 months traditional; SOE pathway allows immediate classroom entry with completion in 3 years
- Kentucky reciprocity policy
- Kentucky participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates receive reciprocal review; content exams may be required.
Exams typically required in Kentucky
Out-of-state applicants are usually asked to demonstrate content-area knowledge on Kentucky'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 West Virginia credential is current. Kentucky will request a verification of your active Provisional Certificate from West Virginia Department of Education.
- Apply through Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board (EPSB). The application packet typically includes official transcripts, prior teaching service verification, and a fingerprint-based background check.
- Sit for any Kentucky-specific exams. Most states honor out-of-state content-area exams when scores meet their cutoff, but Kentucky may require an additional jurisprudence or state-specific assessment.
- Apply to Kentucky districts that match your endorsement. We're currently tracking 700 active openings — browse Kentucky teaching jobs to start identifying districts.
Common questions
Can I teach in Kentucky with a West Virginia teaching license?
West Virginia and Kentucky both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Kentucky'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 Kentucky?
Kentucky typically requires the Praxis Core Academic Skills exam(s) for your subject area.
How long does transferring a teaching license to Kentucky take?
Typically 12–18 months traditional; SOE pathway allows immediate classroom entry with completion in 3 years.
Who issues teaching licenses in Kentucky?
Teaching licenses in Kentucky are issued by Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board (EPSB).