2026 Certification Guide
How to Become a Teacher in Washington
Everything you need to know to earn a Washington teaching certificate — from degree requirements and required exams to alternative routes and reciprocity.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified in Washington
- 1
Complete Your Education
Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year 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
Washington requires passing state-approved assessments before certification is issued:
- WEST-B (Washington Educator Skills Tests — Basic)Reading, writing, and mathematics (waived with qualifying SAT/ACT/GRE scores)
- West-E Subject Knowledge AssessmentContent area knowledge for your endorsement(s)
- edTPAPerformance assessment during student teaching (required for residency completion)
- 4
Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your application to Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), 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 Initial Certificate (valid 3 years) allows you to begin teaching. Advance to a Continuing Certificate (5 years, renewable) by meeting additional requirements such as completing a mentorship program or additional coursework.
Pass the WEST exam
Mometrix study guide & practice tests for the WEST — prep with confidence.
Alternative Paths to Certification in Washington
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.
- Residency Certification Program: Non-traditional preparation while employed by a district
- Troops to Teachers: Support for military veterans entering teaching
- Career and Technical Education (CTE) certificates for industry professionals
- Washington Teacher Corps (for high-need schools)
Out-of-State Certification & Reciprocity
Washington participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement. Teachers with valid out-of-state certificates and 2+ years of experience may receive a Washington certificate; West-E subject tests typically still required.
Tip: If you hold a valid teaching license from another state, contact Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) directly about your reciprocity options before re-taking any exams. Many states streamline the process for experienced educators.
What Will You Earn in Washington?
Now that you know how to get certified, find out what to expect to earn. Washington teachers start around $44,700 and average $67,687 per year statewide.
Washington Teacher Salary Guide →Ready to apply?
Browse current teaching positions in Washington — apply directly on district sites.
Data sources: Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). Certification requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) before beginning a preparation program. EduJobsBoard is not affiliated with any state education department.
Frequently asked questions about teaching in Washington
- How do I become a teacher in Washington?
- Washington certification is administered by Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI). The standard path is a Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year institution from an approved teacher-prep program, completion of state-required exams (WEST-B (Washington Educator Skills Tests — Basic), West-E Subject Knowledge Assessment, edTPA), and a background check. Total timeline is approximately 12–18 months for traditional preparation program; Residency Certification typically takes 2 years while employed.
- What exams are required to teach in Washington?
- Washington requires the following exams: WEST-B (Washington Educator Skills Tests — Basic) (Reading, writing, and mathematics (waived with qualifying SAT/ACT/GRE scores)); West-E Subject Knowledge Assessment (Content area knowledge for your endorsement(s)); edTPA (Performance assessment during student teaching (required for residency completion)). Most are computer-based and offered year-round at testing centers.
- How long is a Washington teaching license valid?
- The initial Initial Certificate is valid for 3 years. After meeting professional development and experience requirements, you can advance to the Continuing Certificate which is valid for 5 years, renewable.
- Can I teach in Washington with a license from another state?
- Washington participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement. Teachers with valid out-of-state certificates and 2+ years of experience may receive a Washington certificate; West-E subject tests typically still required.
- Are there alternative routes to teaching in Washington?
- Residency Certification Program: Non-traditional preparation while employed by a district; Troops to Teachers: Support for military veterans entering teaching; Career and Technical Education (CTE) certificates for industry professionals; Washington Teacher Corps (for high-need schools)