California Teacher Certification

Teaching Programs in California

So you want to earn your California Teacher Certification? Let's take a look at the step by step instructions:

Traditional Approach for the California Teacher Certification

1. Earn your Bachelors Degree or higher from an accredited university. If you already have a bachelors degree, then take the steps necessary to earn your Master’s Degree ASAP.
2. Complete the Teacher Preparations Program. This will include teacher prep courses, student teaching, and obtain a formal recommendation from your college/university.
3. Pass your Basic Skills Requirement exam (CBEST)
4. You will need to confirm your subject matter competency by 1 of the following:
   • A passing score on the appropriate subject matter (CSET)
   • Complete the Approved Subject Matter Program
5. Complete the Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA). Individuals who hold a valid Teacher Certification are exempt from this prerequisite.
6. Satisfy the Developing English Language Skills by completing a comprehensive reading course.
7. Complete a course about the principles of the U.S. Constitution. This course can be taken at any accredited college or university.
8. Complete the Computer Technology Course to learn the required skills of using computers in an education setting.
9. Submit the following:
   • Apply Online
   • Application fees
   • Official transcripts, degrees, and school credits
   • Fingerprint cards, release form, and background check form
   • Copies of all test scores
   • Mail to:
     California Commission On Teacher Credentialing
     P.O. Box 944270
     1900 Capitol Avenue
     Sacramento, CA 94244-2700
     (916) 445-7254
10. *Do you want to renew your California Teacher Certification?*
    • Apply for your renewal

Alternative Approach for the California Teacher Certification

Alternatively, there is another path you can take to get your teaching credentials in California. The state offers a District Intern Credentenial Program which allows the holder to start their teaching career before they complete their teacher education program. The certificate is valid for 2 years and can be renewed 1 time before they must continue the standard path

1. Earn your Bachelors Degree or higher from an accredited university. If you already have a bachelors degree, then take the steps necessary to earn your Master’s Degree ASAP.
2. Pass your Basic Skills Requirement exam (CBEST)
3. Complete a course about the principles of the U.S. Constitution. This course can be taken at any accredited college or university.
4. Have current school verify internship
5. You will need to confirm your subject matter competency by 1 of the following:
   • A passing score on the appropriate subject matter (CSET)
   • Complete the Approved Subject Matter Program
6. Complete 120 hours of training or 6 semester units
7. Sign up for a mentoring progam
8. Submit the following:
   • Complete Application
   • Application fees
   • Official transcripts, degrees, and school credits
   • Fingerprint cards, release form, and background check form
   • Copies of all test scores
   • Mail to:
     California Commission On Teacher Credentialing
     P.O. Box 944270
     1900 Capitol Avenue
     Sacramento, CA 94244-2700
     (916) 445-7254

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