Colorado Teacher Reciprocity

Colorado recognizes all states for teacher licensure reciprocity. Teachers are able to apply for a 3-year Initial Teaching Certification or a 5-year Professional Teaching Certification. There are two ways a certified teacher from another state may begin teaching in Colorado.

You must have one of the two scenarios completed to become a teacher in Colorado:
  • Complete an approved educator preparation program through an accredited University in your state (If you are teaching, you most likely have already done this).

  • Complete an alternative teacher preparation program in your state.

  • You will need the following in your application packet (this is not a comprehensive list. Make sure you read the application thoroughly or contact the CDE if you have any questions).
    • Official Transcripts
    • You will need to Pass the PLACE or Praxis II assessment exams.
    • You must turn in a CDE fingerprint card to the CBI.

      Send to this address:
      Colorado Bureau of Investigation
      690 Kipling Street, Suite 3000
      Denver, CO. 80215
      or call for more information (303)239-4208
      e-mail: http://cbi.state.co.us
Send application to this address:
Educator Licensing
Colorado Department of Education
201 E. Colfax Ave. Room 105
Denver, Colorado 80203-1799

If you have more Questions, Call (303)866-6628

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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