Steps to become a teacher in Kentucky:

Follow the steps below and apply for a Kentucky Initial Teacher Certification.

If you wish to become a teacher before acquiring your Initial Teacher Certification, find out how to qualify for an Alternative Teacher Certification.
  • Kentucky Intial Teacher Certification
  • The following are the requirements and steps toward receiving your kentucky intial teacher certification:
    • Step 1:
      You must complete a teacher education program from an accredited university.


    • Step 2:
      Complete application form TC-1. You can also call for a packet to be sent to you, (502) 564-4606.

    • Step 3:
      Request Official Transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate coursework completed.

    • Step 4:
      Kentucky Competency Examinations:
      • Pass the Principles of Learning and Teaching Test (PLT)
      • Pass the Praxis II Specialty Area Test

    • Step 5:
      Have your university complete a Verification of Completed Teacher Education Program.

    • Step 6:
      Include a $50 processing fee in the form of money-order or certified check to the "Kentucky State Treasurer"

    • Send to this address:
      Education Professional Standards Board
      Division of Certification
      100 Airport Road, 3rd Floor
      Frankfort, Kentucky 40601

      Or request more information by contacting a representative at the Kentucky Department of Education at (502) 564-4606, or toll free at (888) 598-7667.

    • Step 7:
      Sit Back and Relax!

  • Kentucky Alternative Teacher Certification

  • The Alternative Teaching Certification in Kentucky allows the recipient to enter the classroom prior to the completion of a teacher education program.

    There are six different avenues to receive a Kentucky Alternative Teacher Certification. The following avenue is the most popular option to alternative certification.

    *Important* -- You must possess a Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university to be considered for the for the Kentucky Alternative Certification programs.

    • Step 1:
      Acquire a job offer from a Kentucky school district.

    • Step 2:
      Complete the application form TC-1.

    • Step 3:

    • Step 4:
      Request Official Transcripts from undergraduate and graduate coursework.

    • Step 5:
      Kentucky Competency Examinations:
      • Pass the Principles of Learning and Teaching Test (PLT)
      • Pass the Praxis II Specialty Area Test

    • Step 6:
      Contact a participating university or college to find out where materials must be sent.

    • Step 7:
      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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