Massachusetts Initial Teacher Certification

Steps to becoming a teacher in Massachusetts:

• Route 1: Massachusetts Initial Teaching License/Certification


For certification applicants who have completed formal teacher education training, the proper Massachusetts Certification type to be applied for will be the Initial Massachusetts Teacher Licensure. The Initial Licensure is valid for 5 years and is renewable.

Follow the following steps to apply for your Initial MA Teaching License:
• Step 1:
  You must have completed a teacher preparation program from an accredited institution. Massachusetts Teacher Preparation Programs.
  
  Or request information from the accredited universities below:


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


• Step 2:
  You will need to pass the Massachusetts Tests for Educators License (MTEL). Find more information on the MTEL Exams.


• Step 3:
  You will either need to Apply Online, or download an application packet and submit through regular mail.


• Step 4:
  You will need to pay an application processing fee of $100 and $25 for any additional endorsements. You may pay by bank check, money order or credit card. Checks and money orders should be made payable to "The Commonwealth of Massachusetts".


• Step 5:
  Official Transcripts:
  • Your official transcripts will need to be forwarded to the Massachusetts Department of Education, or
  • Your official transcripts will need to be enclosed within your application packet.


Send materials to this address:
Massachusetts Department of Education
Office of Educator Licensure
350 Main Street
Malden, MA 02148

For further questions, Call a Massachusetts Teacher Licensure Representative at (781) 338-6600


• Step 6:
  Sit Back and Relax!

• Route 2: Massachusetts Alternative Certification


The Massachusetts Alternative Certification Route allows the applicant to acquire an educator's license prior to the completion of a Teacher Education Program.

If you fulfill the proper requirements, you will be issued a Preliminary Massachusetts License that is valid for 5 years.
• You must have at least a bachelor's degree.
• You will be required to show passing scores on the appropriate Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure.
• Request more information from a Massachusetts' licensure representative at (781) 338-6600


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

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.