Becoming a Classroom Teacher in Texas

There are five requirements to become a certified teacher.

1. Obtain a Bachelor’s Degree - You must earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university.
   • The Texas Administrative Code requires that candidates completing a Texas program must have a degree from a university that is accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB).
   • U.S. Department of Education Database for Accredited Colleges and Universities (outside source)
   • Health Science Technology and Trades & Industrial Education certifications are exempt from the Bachelor's degree requirement
2. Complete an Educator Preparation Program - You must complete an Approved Educator Preparation Program. If you do not hold a degree you must complete a university program. If you hold a degree you may contact an Alternative Certification Program or Post Baccalaureate program .
         Resources to Help Pay for Educator Preparation 
3. Pass Certification Exams - You must pass the appropriate teacher certification exams. Contact your program for exam approval.
4. Submit a State Application – You must apply to be certified after all requirements are met. Do not apply until you have verified with your program that you are eligible.
5. Complete Fingerprinting – All first-time applicants must be fingerprinted as part of a national criminal background check.

• Alternative Certification Program Information
• University Based Program Information