Initial Georgia Teacher Certification
Gain the credentials you need

• Route 1: Traditional Approach


Under the Traditional Approach to certification, you will earn a Clear Renewable Certification which will be valid for five years, during which time you will have to fulfill certain requirements to be qualified for a certification renewal.


• Step 1:
  
  
  Request information from accredited institutions regarding Master's programs with certification or simply certification programs. With a Master's degree, you will be eligible for a level five certification. With only a certification program, you will earn a level four certification.


• University of Phoenix
• Walden University
• Capella University
• Ashford University
• American InterContinental University


• Step 2:
  
  
  Gather information from the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators (GACE). This is the new educator assessment test for those wishing to become teachers. Find out what test you should be taking as well as when and where that test is given, Here.


• Step 3:
  
  
  Request official transcripts from all of the previous post-secondary educational institutions you have attended, including the college or university where you completed an approved teacher preparation program.


• Step 4:
  
  
  Download the "Application for Certification" form and the "Approved Program Recommendation" form, Here.
  • Section #3 of Certification Application: Fill out the first bubble "Clear Renewable Certificate"
  • If wishing to teach middle school or high school, list field names on the designated line
  • Fill out the remainder of the form as indicated


• Step 5:
  
  
  On completion of your approved education program and successful completion of your GACE exams, you will send a packet containing the following contents:
  
  
  • Completed application packet with both forms
  • $20^* non-refundable application fee
  • Official Transcripts of all degrees and credits you have earned
  • Include copies of GACE test scores
  * All fees should be in the form of cashiers check or money order made payable to the "State of Georgia".
  
  
  To this address:
  Georgia PSC Certification Application
  Two Peachtree Street, Suite 6000
  Atlanta, Georgia 30303-3141


• Step 6:
  
  
  Sit Back and Relax!

• Route 2: Alternative Approach


Georgia's Teacher Alternative Preparation Program (TAPP) allows you to enter the classroom and begin teaching before attaining a Clear Renewable Certification by acquiring an Intern Certification. The applicant for an Intern Certification must possess a PSC-accepted college degree. The Intern Certification is initially issued for a two year period. During this time, the you must either complete all requirements for the issuance of a Clear Renewable Certification or you may be issued a one year extension at the request of your employing school district.


• Step 1:
  
  
  Find out if you are eligible to enter the Georgia TAPP program, Here. If you are not eligible, then you should request information from universities, enter into an approved education program and upgrade your present status.


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


• Step 2:
  
  
  Obtain a Job offer from a Georgia TAPP supporting school system. The school you obtain employment from will complete and send off your application packet when necessary. View a list of job openings, Here.


• Step 3:
  
  
  Acquire a Criminal History report from your local law enforcement office.


• Step 4:
  
  
  Finally, contact a TAPP program provider and gather the rest of the information you need. You are not automatically guaranteed acceptance into the TAPP program if you have completed the previous steps and have passed the previously stated qualifications. The program provider will be able to inform you whether you are accepted or not. Request information, Here.


• Step 5:
  
  
  Sit Back and Relax!




Back to Georgia Teacher Certification/Credentialing
Or, Steps to become a teacher in Georgia

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.