Tennessee Teacher Certification Reciprocity:

If you hold a valid teaching certification in another state and have taught for 3 years out of the last 7, you may be eligible for a similar certification through reciprocity agreements.

The following are requirements and steps to be taken in order to earn a Reciprocal Teacher Certification in Tennessee.

  • Reciprocal Teacher Certification Requirements:

    • Step 1:

    • Step 2:
      Call (615) 532-4885 and find out if you may qualify for teacher competency examination exemption. Otherwise, you will need to complete the proper Praxis examinations to complete Competency requirements for a Tennessee Educator.

    • Step 3:
      Enclose front and back copies of your valid, out-of-state teacher certification within your application packet.

    • Step 4:
      Submit verification of work experience. The form is available through the above link.

    • Step 5:
      You will need to provide Official Transcripts for all college course credit received.

    Send materials to this address:
    Tennessee Department of Education
    Office of Teacher Licensing
    710 James Robertson Parkway
    4th Floor Andrew Johnson Tower
    Nashville, TN 37243-0377

    Or contact the Tennessee Department of Education by calling (615) 532-4885

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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