Transferring your teaching license from West Virginia to Maryland
Transfer pathway available — expect Maryland exams + likely an interim license
West Virginia and Maryland both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Maryland's certification exams (such as the Praxis Core Academic Skills) and often a time-limited interim license while you complete any remaining requirements.
See 519 open teaching jobs in Maryland →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.
Maryland certification
- Issuing authority
- Maryland State Department of Education
- License you'll earn
- Standard Professional I Certificate (2 years)
- Typical timeline
- 12–18 months traditional; RTC pathway allows immediate classroom entry with completion over 2 years
- Maryland reciprocity policy
- Maryland participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates may receive reciprocal licensure; content exams may be required.
Exams typically required in Maryland
Out-of-state applicants are usually asked to demonstrate content-area knowledge on Maryland'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. Maryland will request a verification of your active Provisional Certificate from West Virginia Department of Education.
- Apply through Maryland State Department of Education. The application packet typically includes official transcripts, prior teaching service verification, and a fingerprint-based background check.
- Sit for any Maryland-specific exams. Most states honor out-of-state content-area exams when scores meet their cutoff, but Maryland may require an additional jurisprudence or state-specific assessment.
- Apply to Maryland districts that match your endorsement. We're currently tracking 519 active openings — browse Maryland teaching jobs to start identifying districts.
Common questions
Can I teach in Maryland with a West Virginia teaching license?
West Virginia and Maryland both participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, so a transfer pathway exists — but it isn't automatic. Expect Maryland'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 Maryland?
Maryland typically requires the Praxis Core Academic Skills exam(s) for your subject area.
How long does transferring a teaching license to Maryland take?
Typically 12–18 months traditional; RTC pathway allows immediate classroom entry with completion over 2 years.
Who issues teaching licenses in Maryland?
Teaching licenses in Maryland are issued by Maryland State Department of Education.