2026 Certification Guide
How to Become a Teacher in Texas
Everything you need to know to earn a Texas teaching certificate — from degree requirements and required exams to alternative routes and reciprocity.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified in Texas
- 1
Complete Your Education
Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. This typically includes completing an approved teacher preparation program that includes coursework in pedagogy, child development, and your subject area.
- 2
Complete Student Teaching
Complete a supervised student teaching experience (clinical practice) in an approved school setting. Most programs require a full semester of student teaching under a cooperating teacher.
- 3
Pass Required Assessments
Texas requires passing state-approved assessments before certification is issued:
- Texas Examinations of Educator Standards (TExES) Core SubjectsContent knowledge for elementary educators
- TExES Content Area ExaminationsSubject knowledge for secondary and specialty areas
- TExES Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities (PPR)Professional knowledge and teaching practice
- 4
Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your application to Texas Education Agency (TEA), including transcripts, test scores, proof of student teaching completion, and any applicable fees. Most applications are processed through an online portal.
- 5
Start Teaching & Advance Your License
Your Standard Teaching Certificate (valid 5 years) allows you to begin teaching. Advance to a Standard Teaching Certificate (renewed) (5 years, renewable) by meeting additional requirements such as completing a mentorship program or additional coursework.
Alternative Paths to Certification in Texas
If you have a bachelor's degree in another field or relevant professional experience, these routes may let you enter the classroom sooner while completing certification requirements.
- Texas Alternative Certification Programs (ACP): Offered by approved providers; teach while completing coursework
- Teach For America (active in Houston, Dallas, and Rio Grande Valley)
- iTeach and other private ACP providers
- Career and Technical Education certificates
Out-of-State Certification & Reciprocity
Texas participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators may receive Texas certification; TExES exams are typically required for the Standard Certificate. Texas is considered moderately reciprocity-friendly.
Tip: If you hold a valid teaching license from another state, contact Texas Education Agency (TEA) directly about your reciprocity options before re-taking any exams. Many states streamline the process for experienced educators.
What Will You Earn in Texas?
Now that you know how to get certified, find out what to expect to earn. Texas teachers start around $33,000 and average $57,641 per year statewide.
Texas Teacher Salary Guide →Ready to apply?
Browse current teaching positions in Texas — apply directly on district sites.
Data sources: Texas Education Agency. Certification requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Texas Education Agency (TEA) before beginning a preparation program. EduJobsBoard is not affiliated with any state education department.