2026 Certification Guide
How to Become a Teacher in West Virginia
Everything you need to know to earn a West Virginia teaching certificate — from degree requirements and required exams to alternative routes and reciprocity.
Step-by-Step: Getting Certified in West Virginia
- 1
Complete Your Education
Bachelor's degree. 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
West Virginia requires passing state-approved assessments before certification is issued:
- Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying ACT/SAT/GRE scores)Basic academic skills
- Praxis Subject AssessmentsContent knowledge for your certification area
- 4
Apply for Your Certificate
Submit your application to West Virginia Department 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 Certificate (valid 3 years) allows you to begin teaching. Advance to a Professional Certificate (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 West Virginia
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.
- Temporary Authorization to Teach: Issued in shortage areas while seeking certification
- Career and Technical Education (CTE) authorization
- Teach For America (active in southern West Virginia)
Out-of-State Certification & Reciprocity
West Virginia participates in NASDTEC. Valid out-of-state certificates are evaluated; Praxis content exams generally required.
Tip: If you hold a valid teaching license from another state, contact West Virginia Department 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 West Virginia?
Now that you know how to get certified, find out what to expect to earn. West Virginia teachers start around $34,000 and average $50,162 per year statewide.
West Virginia Teacher Salary Guide →Ready to apply?
Browse current teaching positions in West Virginia — apply directly on district sites.
Data sources: West Virginia Department of Education. Certification requirements change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with West Virginia Department of Education before beginning a preparation program. EduJobsBoard is not affiliated with any state education department.
Frequently asked questions about teaching in West Virginia
- How do I become a teacher in West Virginia?
- West Virginia certification is administered by West Virginia Department of Education. The standard path is a Bachelor's degree from an approved teacher-prep program, completion of state-required exams (Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying ACT/SAT/GRE scores), Praxis Subject Assessments), and a background check. Total timeline is approximately 12 months traditional; 1–2 years for temporary authorization route.
- What exams are required to teach in West Virginia?
- West Virginia requires the following exams: Praxis Core Academic Skills (or qualifying ACT/SAT/GRE scores) (Basic academic skills); Praxis Subject Assessments (Content knowledge for your certification area). Most are computer-based and offered year-round at testing centers.
- How long is a West Virginia teaching license valid?
- The initial Provisional Certificate is valid for 3 years. After meeting professional development and experience requirements, you can advance to the Professional Certificate which is valid for 5 years, renewable.
- Can I teach in West Virginia with a license from another state?
- West Virginia participates in NASDTEC. Valid out-of-state certificates are evaluated; Praxis content exams generally required.
- Are there alternative routes to teaching in West Virginia?
- Temporary Authorization to Teach: Issued in shortage areas while seeking certification; Career and Technical Education (CTE) authorization; Teach For America (active in southern West Virginia)