I already have a college degree

Steps to becoming a teacher in Delaware:

• Route 1: Delaware Initial Teaching License/Certification


The Initial Delaware Teaching Certification is valid for a period of 3 years. The following steps are subject to change and meant only as a helpful guide. You should verify whether you have everything in order with the Delaware Teacher Certification Office by calling (302) 735-4120 or toll free at (888) 759-9133.


• Step 1:
  You must have completed a teacher preparation program from an accredited institution. Teacher Preparation Programs.


• University of Phoenix
• Walden University
• Capella University
• Ashford University


• Step 2:
  You must pass the Praxis I requirements for the Certification you wish to receive. Visit www.ets.org for more information on testing requirements for your desired licensure in Delaware.


• Step 3:
  Certification procedures in Delaware are now automated. You will need to create a user account and begin your application process online.
  • First, print the instructions from the Delaware Initial Licensure Instructions page.
  • Secondly, create a username and password to begin your application process.


• Step 4:
  The following are documents you will have to forward to the Delaware Department of Education Certification Division:
  • Official transcripts from all colleges or universities you have attended (no copies will be accepted)
  • Test scores can be sent to the Delaware Department of Education directly from the institution where you received your Teacher Education or from the ETS.
  • If you already hold a valide certification, you will need to send a copy of your certification.
  • All other applicable forms that will be indicated through your application process online.


Send materials to this address:
ATTN: Certification
Delaware Department of Education
401 Federal Street
Suite #2
Dover, DE. 19901
Or call for more information at (302) 735-4120 or toll free at (888) 759-9133.


• Step 5:
  Sit Back and Relax!

• Route 2: Delaware Alternative Teacher Certification


ARTC: the Delaware Alternative Teacher Certification Route. This route to certification allows the candidate to enter the classroom prior to the completion of a teacher education program. The process requires the candidate to complete a teacher education program within the first-year in the classroom while concurrently being enrolled in a rigorous teacher mentoring program. The following are some of the initial requirements of applicants:
• Bachelor's Degree in "Critical Needs Field"
• You must already be hired as a full-time teacher in a Delaware Secondary School
• Pass Praxis I basic skills test in reading, writing, and mathematics.
• Pass the Praxis II subject-area test.
• Pass Health and Criminal Background Checks
Application Process
The ARTC application process is actually completed by your hiring district. For more information, contact one of the following offices:
Newark Office:
College of Human Services, Education & Public Policy
Delaware Center for Teacher Education
University of Delaware
200 Academy Street
Newark, DE. 19716

Or contact by phone, (302) 831-4598


Georgetown Office:
William A. Carter Partnership Center
University of Delaware
Room 527 F
P.O. Box 660
Georgetown, DE 19947

Or contact by phone, (302) 855-1632

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.