Becoming a teacher requires significant effort. Alongside training, studying, and student teaching, passing certification exams is often essential. Every U.S. state mandates some form of certification, though the specifics vary by state.
If you are preparing for the Praxis, NES, or a state-specific exam, this guide provides a summary of the tests you might need to take to gain your teaching certificate or license by state. Additionally, expert tips on how to take and pass these exams are included!
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Teacher Certification Exam Overview
Here are some general points about teacher certification tests:
- If you’re obtaining your initial teaching license or certificate through a college training program, they will inform you about the necessary tests and assist with arrangements.
- Many states offer alternative paths to teacher certification, although the required tests typically remain the same. However, this can differ by state.
- If you relocate to another state and need a new license, you might need to take certification exams. Check state-specific links on this page for more details.
- Numerous states utilize nationally standardized tests, often from ETS Praxis or Pearson NES. More details about these tests are available on the companies’ websites, linked here for your convenience.
- Some states offer endorsements on licenses or certificates, which may necessitate additional tests. Not all of these may be listed here, so verify with the state if you have questions.
- Some states also require tests for substitute teachers and teaching aides, which aren’t covered here. Check with your state for specifics.
Finally, states frequently change their testing requirements. This information is valid as of spring 2026 but may change. Always confirm the tests you need before registering.
Expert Tips and Advice for Teacher Certification Exams
For helpful tips and strategies applicable to any state, consult The Educator’s Must-Have Guide to Excel at U.S. Teacher Certification Exams provided by Moreland University. Moreland also offers free state-specific guides for teacher certification including certification exams.
7 Tips From the Experts
Dedicate just 20 minutes a day to study. Consistent daily practice over a longer period yields better results than three-hour cram sessions.
—Kathleen Jasper, Ed.D. (@kj_kathleenjasper)
We spoke with two test-prep experts for their top recommendations when preparing for teacher certification exams: Kathleen Jasper, Ed.D. (@kj_kathleenjasper) and Robin Cornecki (@robin.cornecki). Both are active on Instagram, sharing valuable advice—be sure to follow them for more insights!
1. Access the test blueprint.
“Find and download the specific test blueprint and specifications by searching for your test name, number, and the term ‘test blueprint and specification,’” Kathleen advises. The blueprint outlines the exam content, learning objectives, and cognitive levels, giving you a clear idea of what the test covers.
2. Study the categories—not just random problems.
“Certification exams like the Praxis are structured around specific content domains,” Robin explains. “Instead of randomly tackling questions, organize your study sessions by category (algebra, functions, statistics & probability, teaching tasks). This helps you recognize recurring patterns in questions, making the test feel more predictable.”
3. Think like a test maker.
“Examine the specifications in the blueprint and identify key words and phrases,” suggests Kathleen. “These terms often appear in the correct answer choices. Approaching the exam from the maker’s perspective rather than the test taker’s can be advantageous.”
4. Study incrementally.
Kathleen shares another tip: “Allocate just 20 minutes a day for study. Whether it involves reading a short section or completing part of a practice test, consistent daily practice over time is more effective than lengthy cram sessions.”
5. Focus on understanding, not just answers.
“These exams don’t just assess if you can find the right answer—they evaluate if you understand why,” emphasizes Robin. “Practice verbalizing your reasoning or writing a brief explanation. This is crucial for teaching-task questions, where your explanation is as important as your solution.”
6. Work backward from the answer choices.
“Look for ‘good words’ in answer choices and eliminate those with ‘bad words,” recommends Kathleen. “This technique is particularly useful for scenario-based questions. Test this strategy during your studies to determine its effectiveness before using it on test day.”
7. Practice like it’s the real test.
“Many people study passively and fail to build test-day endurance,” warns Robin. “Use a timer, complete a full set of questions without notes, and review your mistakes. Also, monitor your pacing. For instance, the middle school math exam consists of 66 questions in 180 minutes, equating to about 2.5 minutes per question. Practicing your timing in advance significantly boosts confidence.”
Dealing With Teacher Certification Test Anxiety
Struggling with a certification exam does NOT mean you’re a bad teacher. You will pass! Just keep trying and you will succeed!
—Robin Cornecki (@robin.cornecki)
Both Robin and Kathleen emphasize an important point: It’s fine if you don’t pass the first time!
“Many people attempt these exams multiple times before achieving certification; requiring several attempts is typical,” assures Kathleen. Robin notes that only 45% of candidates pass these exams on their first attempt!
“These tests evaluate a specific combination of content knowledge and test-taking strategy—and many capable educators need more than one try,” Robin observes. “Ultimately, passing isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about knowing enough of the right things.”
With this in mind, here are some tips from these experts to help ease your test anxiety:
- “Eliminate the fear of the unknown. Understanding the exam’s structure and specifications is the best way to alleviate anxiety,” suggests Kathleen. This is why downloading the test blueprint in advance is recommended.
- Use practice tests to familiarize yourself with the question format. Robin advises, “Much anxiety stems from uncertainty. The more you practice with exam-like questions, the less daunting it seems.”
- Avoid stressful study sessions. “Break studying into manageable, structured segments,” urges Robin. “Concentrate on one topic at a time rather than trying to cover everything at once. Small victories quickly build confidence.”
- Another tip from Robin: “Concentrate on progress, not perfection. You don’t have to know everything to pass. These exams allow for missed questions and still succeed. The goal is steady improvement—not perfection. Flagging a problem and revisiting it later can relieve the pressure of needing every answer correct.”
Find more general test-taking strategies here.
State-by-State Testing Requirements for 2026
Now, let’s explore the testing requirements by state! Remember, this information is based on state websites as of spring 2026. Always verify with your teacher prep program or state education department for the latest information applicable to your personal journey toward becoming a teacher.
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The Alabama Educator Certification Assessment Program (AECAP) mandates teachers to pass these exams:
Alaska requires two types of tests for teacher certification:
Arizona utilizes a mix of NES and AEPA assessments, collectively known as the Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessments.
Arkansas exam requirements are contingent on the age and subject(s) you intend to teach.
California administers its own set of teacher certification exams. Required tests differ by age and subject and include:
In Colorado, you might not need to take content knowledge tests if you complete an approved teacher prep college program. Some endorsements or other certification paths may require Praxis subject assessments. Learn more about Colorado licensing exams here.
Connecticut mandates content knowledge exams, primarily provided by Praxis and Pearson.
In Delaware, passing content knowledge exams is necessary.
Florida employs its own teacher certification exams program, known as FTCE (Florida Teacher Certification Examinations). Teachers must pass three types of tests:
- General Knowledge Test: This four-part test evaluates basic reading, writing, and math skills, and includes multiple-choice questions and an essay.
- Professional Education Test: This pedagogy and professional skills test consists of approximately 120 multiple-choice questions.
- Subject Area Examinations: Subject area exams might be multiple-choice only or include written and oral sections, depending on the subject and age. Some tests have several subtests.
Georgia has developed its own teaching testing program, GACE (Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators). Starting in 2025, these tests are administered by Evaluation Systems, Pearson. Tests include:
- Content Examinations: These test your subject matter knowledge. Different tests are required based on the age and subject(s) you plan to teach. See the full list of Georgia content exams here.
- Georgia Ethics Assessment: This assessment consists of training modules and scenario-based questions focused on ethical decision-making and the Georgia Code of Ethics for Educators. It’s mandatory for candidates seeking teacher certification in Georgia.
Hawaii allows candidates to demonstrate teaching competencies through approved preparation programs, Praxis exams, or other verification methods, depending on the certification path. See full details of Hawaii Praxis tests here.
- Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators: This test evaluates basic reading, writing, and math skills. Candidates can sometimes fulfill the basic skills requirement through SAT/ACT scores or other measures.
- Principles of Learning and Teaching: Several versions of the PLT test exist, based on the age level(s) you plan to teach.
- Praxis Subject Assessment Tests: You will take a different test or series of tests depending on the age and subject(s) you’ll be teaching.
Idaho requires the appropriate Praxis Subject Assessments for the area and subject(s) you plan to teach. Some tests include multiple subtests. Learn more about Idaho’s required Praxis tests here.
NOTE: Illinois previously mandated the edTPA. In 2025, this requirement was suspended and is currently waived through August 31, 2029.
- ILTS Content Knowledge Tests: Illinois requires candidates to pass the appropriate Illinois Licensure Testing System (ILTS) content-area test, administered by Pearson, for the subject and grade level they plan to teach.
Indiana uses Praxis to administer its teacher certification tests, listed below. Learn more about Indiana Praxis tests here.
- Principles of Learning and Teaching: Several versions of the PLT test exist, based on the age level(s) you plan to teach.
- Praxis Subject Assessments: The required content knowledge exams vary based on the certification you’re pursuing.
In Iowa, if you complete a state-approved teacher prep program, licensure exams are not required. You’ll receive your initial teaching license after completing the program and meeting state requirements.
If relocating to Iowa, teachers need to provide proof of completing an accredited out-of-state program, including transcript review. Learn more about Iowa’s out-of-state program here.
As of 2023, Kansas no longer requires the Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) Praxis exam. Kansas still requires Praxis Subject Assessments specific to the ages and subject(s) you’ll be teaching.
Kentucky has several teacher testing requirements. Learn more about Kentucky Praxis tests here.
- Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators: This test evaluates basic reading, writing, and math skills. Teacher prep programs require it for admission (minimum ACT and GRE scores may also be accepted).
- Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): Several versions of the Praxis PLT test exist, based on the age level(s) you plan to teach.
- Praxis Subject Assessments: These test your knowledge of the subject area(s) you intend to teach, depending on grade level. See the Kentucky required tests here.
Louisiana requires the following teacher exams. Find out more about Louisiana’s Praxis exams here.
- Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): Several versions of the Praxis PLT test exist, based on the age level(s) you plan to teach.
- Praxis Subject Assessments: These test your knowledge of the subject area(s) you intend to teach, depending on grade level. See the full list of required Louisiana tests here.
In 2022, Maine removed its Praxis testing requirements. Instead, teachers must complete an approved teacher prep college with an average GPA of 3.0 in required courses, OR undergo a portfolio review by the Maine Department of Education. Learn more about Maine’s teacher certification process here.
Maryland has several teacher testing requirements. Explore the Maryland Praxis assessments here.
- Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators: This test evaluates basic reading, writing, and math skills. You may waive this exam requirement with minimum scores on the ACT, SAT, or GRE.
- Praxis Subject Assessments: These test your knowledge of the subject area(s) you intend to teach, depending on grade level. See the Maryland required tests here.
- Pedagogy Performance Assessment: Maryland is in a transition period for this assessment category. Until August 31, 2026, the Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) exam, the edTPA, OR the Praxis PPAT (Praxis Performance Assessment of Teachers) are all acceptable options. Beginning September 1, 2026, candidates must take the edTPA to fulfill this requirement.
The Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure (MTEL) program oversees teacher testing in the state. Here’s an overview of the current test requirements for most teacher licensure candidates:
NOTE: In 2025, Massachusetts started accepting approved alternatives to the MTEL assessments for some candidates. Find out more about these alternatives for Massachusetts here.
You’ll need to pass the appropriate MTTC (Michigan Test for Teacher Certification) content exams. These Pearson-administered tests vary based on the ages and subject(s) you’ll be teaching. Some candidates must also pass the MTTC Professional Knowledge and Skills exam that evaluates teaching and pedagogical knowledge. Learn more about MTTC exams here.
As of 2023, Minnesota eliminated the statutory MTLE exam (Minnesota Teacher Licensure Exams) requirements for Tier 3 and 4 candidates who complete an approved licensure program. However, nearly all candidates do need to take the edTPA to meet Minnesota licensure requirements.
Mississippi has multiple testing requirements. See the Mississippi Praxis test details here.
In Missouri, teacher candidates must pass Praxis Subject Assessments, which vary based on the ages and subjects you plan to teach. Explore Missouri’s required Praxis exams here.
Montana candidates may take the Praxis Subject Assessments tests appropriate to the ages and subject(s) they’ll be teaching, or meet this requirement with a passing score on a student teaching portfolio verified by the appropriate college/university official from the EPP, OR a 3.00 or higher coursework GPA, as verified by the appropriate college/university official from the EPP.
In Nebraska, candidates who complete an approved teacher preparation program are no longer required to take Praxis exams. Some other pathways to teacher certification may still require these tests. Learn more about Nebraska’s teacher certification here.
Nevada uses Praxis exams—find the specific tests required for Nevada teachers here.
- Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators: This test evaluates basic reading, writing, and math skills. (You may be able to submit qualifying scores from other exams such as the ACT, SAT, or GRE to meet this requirement.)
- Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): Several versions of the Praxis PLT exist, based on the age level(s) you plan to teach. Elementary Education endorsement candidates are not required to take this test.
- Praxis Subject Assessment Tests: These test your knowledge of the subject area(s) you wish to teach, depending on grade level. See the Nevada required tests here.
New Hampshire’s teacher testing requirements include:
- Basic Academic Skills Assessment: To demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, and math, you have several options. You can take the Pearson Essential Academic Skills test, OR score at or above the 50th percentile in the ACT, SAT, GRE, and other tests, or use other options. Learn more here.
- Pearson Subject Area Tests: These test your content knowledge of the subject area(s) you intend to teach, depending on grade level. See the New Hampshire required tests here.
New Jersey uses Praxis Subject Assessments, which vary based on the subject(s) and ages you plan to teach. (The state no longer requires the Praxis Core Academic skills test.) Find out more about New Jersey’s Praxis tests here.
New Mexico uses a teaching portfolio assessment instead of standardized exams for many candidates. However, all elementary education candidates must take the Praxis Teaching Reading: Elementary Exam. Special education licenses require the Praxis: Special Education: Foundational Knowledge exam. See New Mexico’s Praxis exams here.
These Pearson exams are required in New York:
North Carolina requires several tests for teacher certification.
North Dakota uses Praxis exams for teacher licensure. See the full set of North Dakota Praxis exams here.
- Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators: This test evaluates basic reading, writing, and math skills. Teacher prep programs require it for admission.
- Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): Several versions of the Praxis PLT exist, based on the age level(s) you plan to teach.
- Praxis Subject Assessments: These test your knowledge of the subject area(s) you intend to teach, depending on grade level. See the North Dakota required tests here.
In Ohio, these are the testing requirements:
Oklahoma requires these tests:
Most candidates in Oregon take the appropriate Oregon Educator Licensure Assessments (ORELA), administered by Pearson. A few subject areas still require Praxis tests because Oregon has not adopted a corresponding ORELA exam.
Here are Pennsylvania’s teacher certification exam requirements:
Rhode Island uses Praxis tests for teacher certification. These tests include pedagogy and content knowledge assessment. See Rhode Island’s testing requirements here.
South Carolina teacher tests include:
South Dakota uses these tests:
Tennessee uses the following tests:
Teacher certification exams in Texas include:
In Utah, teacher candidates earning their teaching license in the areas of early childhood, elementary education, and special education must pass the Utah Foundations of Reading Assessment.
Vermont requires several Praxis tests. See the details for Vermont’s test requirements here.
In Virginia, testing requirements include:
Washington requires two types of teacher assessments:
West Virginia uses Praxis tests for teacher licensing. See the full list of West Virginia Praxis tests here.
- Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators: This test evaluates basic reading, writing, and math skills. It’s required for admission to teacher prep programs, but can be waived with minimum ACT/SAT scores or by meeting other requirements.
- Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): Several versions of the Praxis PLT exist, based on the age level(s) you plan to teach.
- Praxis Subject Assessments: These test your knowledge of the subject area(s) you intend to teach, depending on grade level.
Wisconsin teacher certification exams include:
Wyoming has only these requirements:
- Content Knowledge: Only two initial licensures require these Praxis tests—Early Childhood, Elementary Education, and Social Studies Composite.
- U.S. & Wyoming Constitution: You can meet this requirement by passing an approved college course or passing two 20-question multiple-choice tests.
Teacher Certification Exams FAQs
How do I know which exams to take?
Each state has its own teacher certification requirements, many of which involve standardized exams. If you’re enrolled in a teacher prep program in the state where you plan to teach, they will guide you on the local testing requirements. If you intend to teach in a different state after graduation, visit the individual state’s website (provided above) for detailed information.
How much does it cost to take teacher certification exams?
The total cost of exams varies by state and the tests required. For standardized tests from companies like Praxis, costs range from $90 to $200. Since most states require multiple tests, average costs may range from $400 to $650.
Important note: Some states offer free tests, reimburse teachers upon passing, or provide vouchers to reduce costs. Check with your state for complete details. If you’re struggling with testing fees, consult your teacher prep program advisor for potential financial aid options.
Where do you go to take teacher certification exams?
This varies from state to state. Many standardized tests are available in-person at testing centers, and some may be taken online from a remote location. Note that registration is required in advance—you cannot simply show up on test day.
What’s the best way to prepare for certification exams?
Download the test blueprint (search for your test name and number with the phrase “test blueprint”) to understand the specific content, learning objectives, and cognitive levels of an exam. Study in small increments over an extended period, rather than cramming. Take practice exams, replicating testing conditions as closely as possible (timing, setting, etc.). The better prepared you are, the more familiar the test will be on exam day—and the more relaxed you’ll feel.
I failed my teacher certification exam—now what?
Don’t worry! Many people don’t pass these challenging exams on their first try. Learn about your test’s specific retest policies (you’ll usually need to pay the fee again for retakes). Reflect on the parts of the test you found challenging, and review any feedback the test administrators provided about your performance. Focus on those areas before attempting a retake. Still struggling? Consider seeking help from a one-on-one tutor for personalized assistance.
Don’t forget to grab your free teaching portfolio templates before you go!
A strong teaching portfolio can help you land your first teaching job! Learn how to assemble one and access free customizable templates by clicking the button below and completing the form.
Looking for a place to ask more questions about teacher certification exams and other new-teacher topics? Join the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook!
Plus, check out 40 Philosophy of Education Examples for Job-Hunting Teachers.
