2026 Certification Guide
How to Become a Teacher in Vermont
Everything you need to know to earn a Vermont teaching certificate — from degree requirements and required exams to alternative routes and reciprocity.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified in Vermont
- 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
Vermont requires passing state-approved assessments before certification is issued:
- Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying SAT/ACT/GRE scores)Basic reading, writing, and mathematics
- Praxis Subject AssessmentsContent knowledge for your licensure area
- 4
Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your application to Vermont Agency of Education, 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 Provisional License (valid 3 years) allows you to begin teaching. Advance to a Standard License (5 years, renewable) by meeting additional requirements such as completing a mentorship program or additional coursework.
Pass the Praxis exam
Mometrix study guide & practice tests for the Praxis — prep with confidence.
Alternative Paths to Certification in Vermont
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.
- Provisional License: Allows teaching while completing full licensure requirements
- Experienced Educator pathway for those with 3+ years out-of-state experience
- Career and Technical Education endorsements
Out-of-State Certification & Reciprocity
Vermont participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates typically receive a Vermont license with minimal additional requirements.
Tip: If you hold a valid teaching license from another state, contact Vermont Agency of Education directly about your reciprocity options before re-taking any exams. Many states streamline the process for experienced educators.
What Will You Earn in Vermont?
Now that you know how to get certified, find out what to expect to earn. Vermont teachers start around $38,000 and average $60,561 per year statewide.
Vermont Teacher Salary Guide →Ready to apply?
Browse current teaching positions in Vermont — apply directly on district sites.
Data sources: Vermont Agency of Education. Certification requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Vermont Agency of Education before beginning a preparation program. EduJobsBoard is not affiliated with any state education department.
Frequently asked questions about teaching in Vermont
- How do I become a teacher in Vermont?
- Vermont certification is administered by Vermont Agency of Education. The standard path is a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution from an approved teacher-prep program, completion of state-required exams (Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying SAT/ACT/GRE scores), Praxis Subject Assessments), and a background check. Total timeline is approximately 12–18 months traditional; Provisional License allows classroom entry while completing requirements over 3 years.
- What exams are required to teach in Vermont?
- Vermont requires the following exams: Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying SAT/ACT/GRE scores) (Basic reading, writing, and mathematics); Praxis Subject Assessments (Content knowledge for your licensure area). Most are computer-based and offered year-round at testing centers.
- How long is a Vermont teaching license valid?
- The initial Provisional License is valid for 3 years. After meeting professional development and experience requirements, you can advance to the Standard License which is valid for 5 years, renewable.
- Can I teach in Vermont with a license from another state?
- Vermont participates in the NASDTEC compact. Out-of-state educators with valid certificates typically receive a Vermont license with minimal additional requirements.
- Are there alternative routes to teaching in Vermont?
- Provisional License: Allows teaching while completing full licensure requirements; Experienced Educator pathway for those with 3+ years out-of-state experience; Career and Technical Education endorsements