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Steps to become a teacher in California:
Follow the steps below and begin your career as a teacher in California. If you wish to become a teacher before acquiring your Preliminary Teacher Certification, find out how to qualify for the Internship Certification.
- California Preliminary Teacher Certification
Step 1:
You must have at least a bachelor's degree to become a teacher in California. Request information from accredited institutions regarding Bachelor's programs, Master's programs with certification or simply certification programs.
Step 2:
To begin the application, you will either want to have completed your teacher education program or at least be currently enrolled in a program.
Step 3:
Download an application for your Preliminary Teaching Certification, Here.
Step 4:
You must pass the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST). Find more information at:
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Step 5:
You must verify subject matter competence by one of the following methods:
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Step 6:
Complete a teacher preparation program (successful student teaching, teacher prep courses, etc.)
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Step 7:
You will need to have your fingerprints taken and be cleared through the California Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. You can have your fingerprints taken at your local police department.
*IMPORTANT*
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You will need to fill out a LiveScan Request Form. Find the form and more information about fingerprinting forms and fees, Here.
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Step 8:
Your Preliminary Teacher Certification packet will contain the following contents:
Completed application packet Official Transcripts of all degrees and credits you have earned -
LiveScan receipt
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Scores from your successful completion of required exams.
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Current fees (find out what fees you are responsible for, Here).
Send to this address:
California Commission On Teacher Credentialing
P.O. Box 944270
1900 Capitol Avenue
Sacramento, CA 94244-2700
If you have more Questions, Call (916)445-7254 or toll free at (888)921-2682
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Step 9:
Sit Back and Relax!
- California Internship Certification
The California Internship Certification allows the holder to begin teaching prior to the completion of a teacher education program. There are various Internship programs, but the most practical for those wishing to jump right into the classroom is the District Intern Credential Program. This credential is valid for two years, but your employing school district may request a one year extension.
Step 1:
You must possess a Bachelor's degree or higher.
Step 2:
You must pass the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST)
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Step 3:
Obtain Official Transcripts (photocopies will not be permitted)
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Step 4:
You must complete a course on Provisions and Principles of the U.S. Constitution from an accredited college or university, or pass an exam.
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Step 5:
You will need the governing body of your employing school to verify you will be mentored by a qualified, experienced educator during your internship.
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Step 6:
You will need to have your fingerprints taken and be cleared through the California Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. You can have your fingerprints taken at your local police department.
*IMPORTANT*
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You will need to fill out a LiveScan Request Form. Find the form and more information about fingerprinting forms and fees, Here.
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Step 7:
You must verify subject matter competence by one of the following methods:
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Step 8:
Applications and more detailed instructions may be found, Here.
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Step 9:
You will need to complete a Professional Development Plan which consists of the following:
Prior to teaching:
120 clock hours of training prior to entering the classroom, OR: 6 semester units of course work prior to entering the classroom
Coursework or training during the time of your teaching Successful annual evaluation Enrollment in a mentoring program
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Step 10:
Mail your application:
Send to this address:
California Commission On Teacher Credentialing
P.O. Box 944270
1900 Capitol Avenue
Sacramento, CA 94244-2700
If you have more Questions, Call (916)445-7254 or toll free at (888)921-2682, or visit this website, District Internship Credential
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Step 11:
Sit Back and Relax!
Learn about the requirements of another state by clicking on one of the state certification links to your left.
Request information from schools by clicking on the links or school logos below.
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