Missouri Initial Teacher Certification
Gain the credentials you need

Missouri Initial Teacher Certification:

• Route 1: Missouri's Traditional Route to Certification


For certification applicants who have completed formal teacher education training, the proper Missouri Certification type to be applied for will be the Initial Missouri Teacher Licensure.

Follow the following steps to apply for your Initial MO Teaching License:


• Step 1:
  
  
  You must have completed a teacher preparation program from an accredited institution. Missouri 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 following examinations:
  • The Praxis I Test of Basic Skills or the CAAP Exam
  • The Praxis II Principles of Learning Test and a Specialty Area Test related to your subject area.
  • Find information on Praxis testing locations and dates here.


• Step 3:
  
  
  Typically, an advisor from your Teacher Preparation Institute will assist you with downloading and completing your application for the Initial Missouri Teaching Certification.
  
  However, if you are inclined to take matters into your own hands, download the Application for Missouri Licensure


• Step 4:
  
  
  Request Original Transcripts for all college credits you have received.
  
  Your transcripts must show you as having a Grade Point Average of 2.5 or greater from a 4.0 scale in order to qualify for a Missouri Initial Teaching License.


• Step 5:
  
  
  You will need to submit your fingerprints and a initiate a background check before you will be considered for Missouri's Initial Teaching Certificate.
  
  You will need to schedule an appointment with Identix by calling (866) 522-7067 and use the Missouri Applicant Fingerprint Services (MOAPPS).
  
  Follow the instructions on this web page.
  
  There will be a fee of $50.95. Call (573) 522-8315 for more information.


• Step 6:
  
  
  Your application will need to bare your teacher prep. institute's seal before being sent to the Missouri Department of Education.
  
  Therefore, you will need to sign the application, make sure transcripts, fees and Praxis exam scores are all in the possession of the certification officer at your university before the application is sent.


Send materials to this address:
Missouri Department of Education
Educator Certification
Post Office Box 480
Jefferson City, MO 65102-0480

For further questions, Call a Missouri Teacher Licensure Representative at (573) 751-4212


• Step 7:
  Sit Back and Relax!

• Route 2: Missouri Alternative Certification


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

When enrolled in a Missouri Alternative Certification Program, you will be awarded a 2-year Provisional Teaching Certification.

The following are the requirements of the applicant for the Missouri alternative certification route:


• You must have a minimum of a Bachelor's degree.
• You must have a GPA no lower than a 2.5
• You will need to gain employment with a participating school district.
• Complete a Background Check by the same process as above.
• An academic contract will need to be completed by your employing school district, the alternative certification program provider and yourself before being sent to the Missouri Department of Education.

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.