GTTP: German Teacher Transfer Station
(Beta Testing)
Where Can Your German Teaching License Take You?
A state-by-state guide to transferring a K–12 teaching license — reciprocity, the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact, and requirements for incoming teachers.
Three routes to a new state’s license:
1. Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact (ITMC) — the easiest. A full, unencumbered license in any member state converts to an equivalent license in another member state with no extra tests or coursework. Members (July 2026): Alabama (2023), Colorado (2023), Delaware (2024), Florida (2023), Kansas (2023), Kentucky (2023), Mississippi (2024), Nebraska (2023), Nevada (2023), Oklahoma (2023), Oregon (2023), Pennsylvania (2023), Utah (2023), Virginia (2026), Washington (2024).
2. NASDTEC Interstate Agreement — signed by 48 of 51 jurisdictions (all but NM, NY, SD); it eases transfers but each state may still add conditions.
3. Each state’s own reciprocity rules — eight states grant full reciprocity by statute (AZ, FL, HI, IL, MS, MO, NV, OK), and most others waive testing after 2–3 years of experience.
Find your destination state
Click the state where the teacher wants to teach:
Alabama Compact member (joined 2023) NASDTEC: Yes
Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact
Teachers holding an unencumbered full license from any of these member states receive the equivalent Alabama license with no additional coursework, testing, or experience requirements (background check still applies): Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, Washington.
Alabama participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Pass the Alabama content test, OR verify a content test was passed for the sending-state license, OR request a review of professional work experience instead.
Additional coursework
None required.
Experience-based fast track
3 years of full-time professional educational work in the certification area within the past 10 years exempts candidates from assessment requirements.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Alabama State Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Alaska NASDTEC: Yes
Alaska participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Basic competency exam required to extend an initial out-of-state certificate past one year or apply for a professional license.
Additional coursework
Alaska studies and multicultural education/cross-cultural communications coursework required to extend an initial certificate to a third year or earn a professional certificate.
Experience-based fast track
2 years of certified public-school employment required for a professional certificate.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Alaska Department of Education & Early Development · ECS policy profile
Arizona Full reciprocity by statute NASDTEC: Yes
Full reciprocity by statute
By statute: out-of-state applicants in good standing with a comparable valid certificate and fingerprint clearance card receive a standard certificate with no other requirements.
Arizona participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
None if reciprocity-qualified; otherwise professional/subject knowledge tests with broad exemptions (equivalent exam, 3 years teaching, or demonstrated proficiency).
Additional coursework
Arizona Constitution and U.S. Constitution courses within 3 years (1 year if teaching related subjects); exam test-out available.
Experience-based fast track
Full reciprocity regardless of experience.
German / world-language testing
Uses its own test system: AEPA/NES (Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessments). If no German test is offered, states typically accept an equivalent out-of-state exam, ACTFL OPI/WPT scores, or a transcript review — confirm with the licensing office.
Apply & verify: Arizona Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Arkansas NASDTEC: Yes
Arkansas participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
State licensure exams required before a standard 5-year license unless the candidate holds a valid license and 3 years of teaching experience.
Additional coursework
Arkansas History course required for certain certification areas (provisional license available meanwhile).
Experience-based fast track
Valid license + 3 years of teaching experience exempts candidates from testing.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education · ECS policy profile
California NASDTEC: Yes
California participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Basic skills requirement unless an equivalent exam was passed in the sending state; English-learner exams may apply.
Additional coursework
Subject-matter knowledge requirements plus English-learner requirements (including second-language and human-relations coursework) for a clear credential.
Experience-based fast track
Professional-level out-of-state credential required; 2+ years of successful teaching (with evaluations) needed for a clear credential, otherwise induction required.
German / world-language testing
Uses its own test system: CSET (California Subject Examinations for Teachers) - CSET: German available for world-language authorization. If no German test is offered, states typically accept an equivalent out-of-state exam, ACTFL OPI/WPT scores, or a transcript review — confirm with the licensing office.
Apply & verify: California Commission on Teacher Credentialing · ECS policy profile
Colorado Compact member (joined 2023) NASDTEC: Yes
Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact
Teachers holding an unencumbered full license from any of these member states receive the equivalent Colorado license with no additional coursework, testing, or experience requirements (background check still applies): Alabama, Delaware, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, Washington.
Colorado participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Waived for applicants with a valid out-of-state license and 3+ years of recent experience in a matching content area; others get a 1-year interim authorization while testing.
Additional coursework
None required.
Experience-based fast track
Valid license + 3 years of recent experience leads straight to a Professional License.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Colorado Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Connecticut NASDTEC: Yes
Connecticut participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Only for certain endorsements; equivalent out-of-state exams accepted. 3 successful years in the past 10 can exempt candidates entirely; interim certificate with testing deferral available.
Additional coursework
Required only for applicants who do not meet NASDTEC agreement conditions; 30 months of recent relevant teaching or an approved prep program can waive coursework.
Experience-based fast track
30 months of successful service qualifies for a Provisional License; 3 of past 10 years can waive testing.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Connecticut State Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Delaware Compact member (joined 2024) NASDTEC: Yes
Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact
Teachers holding an unencumbered full license from any of these member states receive the equivalent Delaware license with no additional coursework, testing, or experience requirements (background check still applies): Alabama, Colorado, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, Washington.
Delaware participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Performance assessment within first 2 years for candidates with under 1 year of experience; subject-matter tests only if credentials are not accepted under reciprocity.
Additional coursework
None required.
Experience-based fast track
4+ years of licensed teaching leads to a Continuing License; under 4 years receives an Initial License.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Delaware Department of Education · ECS policy profile
District of Columbia NASDTEC: Yes
District of Columbia participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
DC licensure exams required only for areas where the sending state did not require an equivalent assessment.
Additional coursework
None required.
Experience-based fast track
2 years of effective (or equivalent) performance ratings qualifies for a standard license; others receive an initial license.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) · ECS policy profile
Florida Compact member (joined 2023) Full reciprocity by statute NASDTEC: Yes
Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact
Teachers holding an unencumbered full license from any of these member states receive the equivalent Florida license with no additional coursework, testing, or experience requirements (background check still applies): Alabama, Colorado, Delaware, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, Washington.
Full reciprocity by statute
By statute: reciprocity for a valid standard out-of-state license in a comparable area, or current National Board Certification.
Florida participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
None for reciprocity-qualified candidates.
Additional coursework
None required.
Experience-based fast track
Professional Certificate available directly with a valid professional standard certificate or National Board Certification.
German / world-language testing
Uses its own test system: FTCE (Florida Teacher Certification Examinations) - German K-12 subject exam available. If no German test is offered, states typically accept an equivalent out-of-state exam, ACTFL OPI/WPT scores, or a transcript review — confirm with the licensing office.
Apply & verify: Florida Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Georgia NASDTEC: Yes
Georgia participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Content assessment required unless: 5 years full-time in field, content test already required by sending state, National Board Certification, or no approved test exists. Ethics assessment may apply.
Additional coursework
Special education course required of all applicants (waivable with comparable prior course, National Board Certification, or 5 years of experience).
Experience-based fast track
3+ years with a comparable professional certificate qualifies for a Professional Certificate; 5+ years waives most special requirements.
German / world-language testing
Uses its own test system: GACE (Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators) - German test available. If no German test is offered, states typically accept an equivalent out-of-state exam, ACTFL OPI/WPT scores, or a transcript review — confirm with the licensing office.
Apply & verify: Georgia Professional Standards Commission · ECS policy profile
Hawaii Full reciprocity by statute NASDTEC: Yes
Full reciprocity by statute
Full reciprocity for applicants whose first license was awarded on or after July 1, 2006.
Hawaii participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
None required; assessments may be used voluntarily to demonstrate basic skills/content knowledge.
Additional coursework
None required for licensed applicants.
Experience-based fast track
3 of the last 5 years of satisfactory full-time teaching qualifies for a Standard License; otherwise a 3-year Provisional License.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Hawaii Teacher Standards Board · ECS policy profile
Idaho NASDTEC: Yes
Idaho participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Content-area test required unless already passed or the candidate holds National Board Certification; 3-year interim license available while completing.
Additional coursework
Math instruction and comprehensive literacy courses required for some endorsement areas before a Standard Certificate (literacy assessment test-out available); 3-year interim certificate issued meanwhile.
Experience-based fast track
No separate experience track; interim-to-standard route for all.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Idaho State Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Illinois Full reciprocity by statute NASDTEC: Yes
Full reciprocity by statute
By statute: a bachelor's degree plus a comparable, valid out-of-state license meets minimum requirements for a Professional Educator License.
Illinois participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Proof of sending-state content/performance tests accepted; edTPA waived with 1 year of experience and a proficient-or-higher evaluation.
Additional coursework
Only for candidates without a valid comparable license (exceptional child, reading, EL methods coursework).
Experience-based fast track
Full reciprocity with valid comparable license.
German / world-language testing
Uses its own test system: ILTS (Illinois Licensure Testing System) - German content test available. If no German test is offered, states typically accept an equivalent out-of-state exam, ACTFL OPI/WPT scores, or a transcript review — confirm with the licensing office.
Apply & verify: Illinois State Board of Education · ECS policy profile
Indiana NASDTEC: Yes
Indiana participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Content test required; sending-state content tests accepted. Candidates who never passed one must do so before licensure.
Additional coursework
Possible additional coursework in some content areas; CPR/AED certification and suicide-prevention training required within 1 year for all.
Experience-based fast track
3+ years full-time experience leads to a Practitioner license; under 3 years an Initial Practitioner license.
German / world-language testing
Uses its own test system: Indiana CORE Assessments - World Language: German available. If no German test is offered, states typically accept an equivalent out-of-state exam, ACTFL OPI/WPT scores, or a transcript review — confirm with the licensing office.
Apply & verify: Indiana Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Iowa NASDTEC: Yes
Iowa participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Required only for candidates with under 3 years of experience whose prep program was completed after Jan 1, 2013.
Additional coursework
Transcript review; 2-year Regional Exchange License issued to cover coursework deficiencies.
Experience-based fast track
3+ years on a valid license qualifies for a Standard License (absent coursework deficiencies); 5 yrs + master's or 10 yrs waives subject coursework deficiencies.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Iowa Board of Educational Examiners · ECS policy profile
Kansas Compact member (joined 2023) NASDTEC: Yes
Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact
Teachers holding an unencumbered full license from any of these member states receive the equivalent Kansas license with no additional coursework, testing, or experience requirements (background check still applies): Alabama, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, Washington.
Kansas participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Waived with 3 years of experience in the past 6 (or 5 years total); comparable out-of-state assessments accepted; employable license available while testing.
Additional coursework
None, but candidates need 1 year of experience or 8 recent semester credits for a full license.
Experience-based fast track
3 years in past 6 or 5 years total leads to a Professional License and test exemption.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Kansas State Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Kentucky Compact member (joined 2023) NASDTEC: Yes
Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact
Teachers holding an unencumbered full license from any of these member states receive the equivalent Kentucky license with no additional coursework, testing, or experience requirements (background check still applies): Alabama, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Kansas, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, Washington.
Kentucky participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Waived with a valid certificate + 2 years of full-time teaching in the subject/grade of the certificate; otherwise Kentucky Praxis requirements apply.
Additional coursework
Case-by-case; content literacy course(s) required for certain licenses.
Experience-based fast track
2 years full-time in-field experience exempts from testing.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board · ECS policy profile
Louisiana NASDTEC: Yes
Louisiana participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Level 1 Professional Certificate if assessments met; otherwise a 3-year Out-of-State Certificate while completing. 3 years of successful evaluated experience removes testing after 1 year of teaching in LA.
Additional coursework
6 semester credits in the teaching field if the candidate has not taught in the past 5 years.
Experience-based fast track
Valid certificate + 3 years successful experience (verified by evaluations) waives testing after one year in state.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Louisiana Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Maine NASDTEC: Yes
Maine participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Content assessments required; same-endorsement candidates skip basic-skills and pedagogy exams. Conditional license available meanwhile.
Additional coursework
Possible after transcript analysis; CLEP tests can substitute up to 6 semester hours.
Experience-based fast track
Approved program + 3 successful years in past 5 under a comparable certificate (NASDTEC state) qualifies for a Professional Certificate.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Maine Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Maryland NASDTEC: Yes
Maryland participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Waived with a professional certificate + 3 satisfactory years in past 7 (or 2 years + approved program, or qualifying sending-state scores).
Additional coursework
Transcript analysis for candidates without experience or an approved program; reading credits at renewal for some certificates (test-out available).
Experience-based fast track
Professional certificate + 3 years in past 7 exempts from assessments.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Maryland State Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Massachusetts NASDTEC: Yes
Massachusetts participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
MTEL Communication & Literacy plus subject-matter test(s) required; 3 years under a valid out-of-state license allows a Temporary License while completing (unless a test was failed).
Additional coursework
Sheltered English Immersion (SEI) endorsement required for core academic teachers; temporary license available with 3 years of experience.
Experience-based fast track
3 years under a valid license buys time via Temporary License; tests still required.
German / world-language testing
Uses its own test system: MTEL (Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure) - German subject test available. If no German test is offered, states typically accept an equivalent out-of-state exam, ACTFL OPI/WPT scores, or a transcript review — confirm with the licensing office.
Apply & verify: Massachusetts Department of Elementary & Secondary Education · ECS policy profile
Michigan NASDTEC: Yes
Michigan participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Waived with 3 years of successful matching experience + 18 semester hours since initial certificate + comparable valid certificate; all others take subject-area tests. 1-year temporary authorization available.
Additional coursework
None required (CPR course with limited waiver).
Experience-based fast track
3 successful years leads to a Professional License without additional tests (with coursework condition).
German / world-language testing
Uses its own test system: MTTC (Michigan Test for Teacher Certification) - German test available. If no German test is offered, states typically accept an equivalent out-of-state exam, ACTFL OPI/WPT scores, or a transcript review — confirm with the licensing office.
Apply & verify: Michigan Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Minnesota NASDTEC: Yes
Minnesota participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
MTLE pedagogy and content exams required; Tier 2 license available before testing with a district job offer.
Additional coursework
Tiered licensure: requirements depend on tier; comparable bachelor's + student teaching can qualify.
Experience-based fast track
2+ years in a similar licensure area waives field-specific methods/student-teaching requirements for Tier 3.
German / world-language testing
Uses its own test system: MTLE (Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations); world-language content may use ACTFL proficiency evidence. If no German test is offered, states typically accept an equivalent out-of-state exam, ACTFL OPI/WPT scores, or a transcript review — confirm with the licensing office.
Apply & verify: Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) · ECS policy profile
Mississippi Compact member (joined 2024) Full reciprocity by statute NASDTEC: Yes
Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact
Teachers holding an unencumbered full license from any of these member states receive the equivalent Mississippi license with no additional coursework, testing, or experience requirements (background check still applies): Alabama, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Nebraska, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, Washington.
Full reciprocity by statute
By statute: standard license granted to holders of a valid standard out-of-state license meeting minimum equivalent requirements.
Mississippi participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Only if the candidate cannot document a passing core-subject test (or equivalent licensure path); such candidates get a 2-year reciprocity license while completing.
Additional coursework
None required.
Experience-based fast track
5-year Standard Reciprocity License for qualified license holders.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Mississippi Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Missouri Full reciprocity by statute NASDTEC: Yes
Full reciprocity by statute
By statute: comparable Missouri certificate issued to holders of a valid out-of-state certificate after background check, commensurate with experience.
Missouri participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
None required.
Additional coursework
None required.
Experience-based fast track
Experience determines Initial vs. Career Continuous Professional license level.
German / world-language testing
Uses its own test system: MoCA (Missouri Content Assessments) - German test available (for in-state route; transfers exempt). If no German test is offered, states typically accept an equivalent out-of-state exam, ACTFL OPI/WPT scores, or a transcript review — confirm with the licensing office.
Apply & verify: Missouri Department of Elementary & Secondary Education · ECS policy profile
Montana NASDTEC: Yes
Montana participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Proof of a passing content-knowledge test for the requested endorsement required for Provisional/Standard/Professional licenses.
Additional coursework
'An Introduction to Indian Education for All in Montana' online course required; recency credits (6 semester hours in past 5 years) if degree is older and no current license.
Experience-based fast track
Experience determines license class; 5 successful years required for non-traditional program completers.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Montana Office of Public Instruction · ECS policy profile
Nebraska Compact member (joined 2023) NASDTEC: Yes
Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact
Teachers holding an unencumbered full license from any of these member states receive the equivalent Nebraska license with no additional coursework, testing, or experience requirements (background check still applies): Alabama, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, Washington.
Nebraska participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Basic skills and content assessments required; Provisional License available while completing.
Additional coursework
Special education and human relations training (documented employment experience can substitute); recency requirement (recent credits or employment within 5 years).
Experience-based fast track
2 years as a contractual teacher required for Standard/Professional licenses.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Nebraska Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Nevada Compact member (joined 2023) Full reciprocity by statute NASDTEC: Yes
Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact
Teachers holding an unencumbered full license from any of these member states receive the equivalent Nevada license with no additional coursework, testing, or experience requirements (background check still applies): Alabama, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, Washington.
Full reciprocity by statute
By statute: regulations provide for reciprocal licensure of out-of-state educators; most valid unexpired licenses transfer directly.
Nevada participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Exempt if exams were passed in the sending state; most valid licenses transfer without re-verification.
Additional coursework
Nevada course requirements must eventually be met; provisional license (up to 3 years) available meanwhile.
Experience-based fast track
Reciprocal license holders are eligible for a Professional License.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Nevada Department of Education · ECS policy profile
New Hampshire NASDTEC: Yes
New Hampshire participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Basic skills assessment (or equivalent) required; some endorsements also require a content assessment or equivalent.
Additional coursework
None required.
Experience-based fast track
Approved-program completers need no experience; alternative-route candidates need 3 full-time years in the past 7. 3+ years (incl. 2 consecutive effective years) qualifies for the Experienced Educator Certificate.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: New Hampshire Department of Education · ECS policy profile
New Jersey NASDTEC: Yes
New Jersey participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
NJ subject-matter tests required unless the sending state's equivalent was passed; performance-assessment exemptions for approved out-of-state assessments or National Board Certification.
Additional coursework
None required.
Experience-based fast track
Valid standard certificate + 2 effective years within 3 consecutive of the last 4 qualifies for a Standard Certificate.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: New Jersey Department of Education · ECS policy profile
New Mexico NASDTEC: No
New Mexico is not a NASDTEC Interstate Agreement signatory — its own statutes and regulations fully govern transfers.
Additional testing
Reading test for elementary applicants; credit hours, coursework, or teaching experience can substitute for content assessments depending on license level.
Additional coursework
None required.
Experience-based fast track
Licensure level assigned by experience: <3 yrs Level 1; 3-5 yrs Level 2; 6+ yrs Level 3 (with evidence of satisfactory teaching).
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: New Mexico Public Education Department · ECS policy profile
New York NASDTEC: No
New York is not a NASDTEC Interstate Agreement signatory — its own statutes and regulations fully govern transfers.
Additional testing
Certification exams required unless the candidate has 3 years of effective public-school teaching in the title within the last 7 years, an equivalent valid license, and a bachelor's with 2.5+ GPA. Conditional initial certificate available for program completers finishing the performance assessment.
Additional coursework
Required workshops: child abuse identification, school violence prevention, and harassment/bullying/discrimination prevention (DASA), from NYSED-approved providers.
Experience-based fast track
3 effective years in past 7 + valid equivalent license exempts from exams (evaluation-rating evidence required).
German / world-language testing
Uses its own test system: NYSTCE (New York State Teacher Certification Examinations) - German CST available. If no German test is offered, states typically accept an equivalent out-of-state exam, ACTFL OPI/WPT scores, or a transcript review — confirm with the licensing office.
Apply & verify: New York State Education Department, Office of Teaching Initiatives · ECS policy profile
North Carolina NASDTEC: Yes
North Carolina participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Exempt if fully licensed + 3 years of experience + comparable testing met in another state, or National Board Certification. Under 3 years: Initial Professional License, additional exams may be required within set timelines.
Additional coursework
Reading/math course evidence required only for Elementary and Exceptional Children licenses (test-out available).
Experience-based fast track
3+ years + evidence of effectiveness qualifies for a Continuing Professional License.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: North Carolina Department of Public Instruction · ECS policy profile
North Dakota NASDTEC: Yes
North Dakota participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
ND state tests required within 2-4 years unless the candidate completed an approved program, holds a license, and met testing in the sending state (then no additional requirements).
Additional coursework
Native American studies, cultural diversity, human relations, and diverse-learners coursework required for an Initial License (Out-of-State Reciprocal License available meanwhile); re-entry rules if not taught in 5 years.
Experience-based fast track
Licensed 18+ months may qualify for a 5-year other-state educator license.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: North Dakota Education Standards & Practices Board · ECS policy profile
Ohio NASDTEC: Yes
Ohio participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Content and pedagogy assessments required unless completed for the issuing state's license; reading exam for certain areas.
Additional coursework
Reading/phonics coursework for certain licensure areas; standard license with limitation available at half completion.
Experience-based fast track
3+ years under a standard credential qualifies for a Professional Educator license; under 3 years: Resident Educator or 1-year Out-of-State license.
German / world-language testing
Uses its own test system: OAE (Ohio Assessments for Educators) - German test available. If no German test is offered, states typically accept an equivalent out-of-state exam, ACTFL OPI/WPT scores, or a transcript review — confirm with the licensing office.
Apply & verify: Ohio Department of Education & Workforce · ECS policy profile
Oklahoma Compact member (joined 2023) Full reciprocity by statute NASDTEC: Yes
Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact
Teachers holding an unencumbered full license from any of these member states receive the equivalent Oklahoma license with no additional coursework, testing, or experience requirements (background check still applies): Alabama, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, Washington.
Full reciprocity by statute
By statute: valid out-of-state certificate holders are issued a certificate for the most closely aligned subjects/grades, exempt from the competency exam.
Oklahoma participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
None - exempt from competency exam with a valid out-of-state certificate.
Additional coursework
None required.
Experience-based fast track
Full reciprocity regardless of experience.
German / world-language testing
Uses its own test system: OSAT/CEOE (Oklahoma Subject Area Tests) - German test available (transfers exempt). If no German test is offered, states typically accept an equivalent out-of-state exam, ACTFL OPI/WPT scores, or a transcript review — confirm with the licensing office.
Apply & verify: Oklahoma State Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Oregon Compact member (joined 2023) NASDTEC: Yes
Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact
Teachers holding an unencumbered full license from any of these member states receive the equivalent Oregon license with no additional coursework, testing, or experience requirements (background check still applies): Alabama, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia, Washington.
Oregon participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Civil rights exam required for preliminary/professional license; subject-matter tests unless waived (passing score in another NASDTEC jurisdiction, or 5 years of licensed in-field experience). 1-year Reciprocal Teaching License issued to NASDTEC-jurisdiction license holders.
Additional coursework
None required.
Experience-based fast track
5 years of half-time+ licensed in-field experience can waive subject testing; qualified applicants can go straight to a Preliminary/Professional license.
German / world-language testing
Uses its own test system: ORELA/NES; world-language subject tests may use ACTFL-linked options. If no German test is offered, states typically accept an equivalent out-of-state exam, ACTFL OPI/WPT scores, or a transcript review — confirm with the licensing office.
Apply & verify: Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission · ECS policy profile
Pennsylvania Compact member (joined 2023) NASDTEC: Yes
Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact
Teachers holding an unencumbered full license from any of these member states receive the equivalent Pennsylvania license with no additional coursework, testing, or experience requirements (background check still applies): Alabama, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, Utah, Virginia, Washington.
Pennsylvania participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
PA content test required for all (including experienced candidates); 2+ years of verified satisfactory experience exempts from all other tests; National Board Certified teachers exempt from content tests.
Additional coursework
Additional requirements prescribed only if the Department's evaluation finds deficiencies.
Experience-based fast track
2+ years satisfactory experience: comparable licensure with only the content test required.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Pennsylvania Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Rhode Island NASDTEC: Yes
Rhode Island participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
RI testing requirements in the certification area(s) must be met (equivalents accepted); 1-year Temporary Initial Certificate available while testing.
Additional coursework
None required.
Experience-based fast track
CT/MA full certification transfers with no additional requirements.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Rhode Island Department of Education · ECS policy profile
South Carolina NASDTEC: Yes
South Carolina participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Evidence of passing content and pedagogy tests in the sending state required; if none were required there, the SC content assessment must be passed.
Additional coursework
None required.
Experience-based fast track
27+ months of successful teaching in the past 7 years allows immediate advancement to a professional certificate; less requires the pedagogy exam to advance.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: South Carolina Department of Education · ECS policy profile
South Dakota NASDTEC: No
South Dakota is not a NASDTEC Interstate Agreement signatory — its own statutes and regulations fully govern transfers.
Additional testing
None for candidates meeting reciprocity requirements (special education endorsements excepted).
Additional coursework
3-credit South Dakota Indian Studies course and 1 hour of suicide awareness training (1-year provisional available meanwhile).
Experience-based fast track
Alternative-certification completers need 3 years of experience within the last 5 for reciprocity.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: South Dakota Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Tennessee NASDTEC: Yes
Tennessee participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
None with a bachelor's degree + valid professional-level out-of-state license; program completers without a professional license must submit qualifying scores.
Additional coursework
None required.
Experience-based fast track
Professional-level license transfers without testing; National Board Certification earns a professional-level license.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Tennessee Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Texas NASDTEC: Yes
Texas participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Candidates with less than one year of experience may be issued a one-year certificate or required to complete Texas certification exams; review of out-of-state exams for equivalency.
Additional coursework
Credentials review required.
Experience-based fast track
Experienced teachers with comparable exams may have Texas tests waived after credentials review.
German / world-language testing
Uses its own test system: TExES (Texas Examinations of Educator Standards) - LOTE German exam; verify current requirements with TEA. If no German test is offered, states typically accept an equivalent out-of-state exam, ACTFL OPI/WPT scores, or a transcript review — confirm with the licensing office.
Apply & verify: Texas Education Agency · ECS policy profile
Utah Compact member (joined 2023) NASDTEC: Yes
Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact
Teachers holding an unencumbered full license from any of these member states receive the equivalent Utah license with no additional coursework, testing, or experience requirements (background check still applies): Alabama, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington.
Utah participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Content-knowledge test and pedagogical performance assessment required, or evidence of passing a reasonably equivalent assessment.
Additional coursework
None required.
Experience-based fast track
Equivalent out-of-state assessments accepted in lieu of Utah tests.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Utah State Board of Education · ECS policy profile
Vermont NASDTEC: Yes
Vermont participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Level I Professional Educator's License issued to NASDTEC-state professional license holders meeting requirements.
Additional coursework
Transcript review may apply for non-qualifying candidates.
Experience-based fast track
NASDTEC professional license is the main pathway.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Vermont Agency of Education · ECS policy profile
Virginia Compact member (joined 2026) NASDTEC: Yes
Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact
Teachers holding an unencumbered full license from any of these member states receive the equivalent Virginia license with no additional coursework, testing, or experience requirements (background check still applies): Alabama, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Washington.
Virginia participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
All Board-prescribed licensure assessments required for applicants with under 3 years of full-time successful experience; 3+ years exempts.
Additional coursework
Virginia-specific training requirements (e.g., child abuse recognition, emergency first aid/CPR/AED) apply.
Experience-based fast track
3 years of full-time successful teaching in a public or accredited nonpublic school exempts from assessments.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Virginia Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Washington Compact member (joined 2024) NASDTEC: Yes
Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact
Teachers holding an unencumbered full license from any of these member states receive the equivalent Washington license with no additional coursework, testing, or experience requirements (background check still applies): Alabama, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Kansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, Nebraska, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Utah, Virginia.
Washington participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Sending-state certification exam scores accepted for basic-skills and content-knowledge requirements.
Additional coursework
None required initially; residency-certificate renewal requirements apply later.
Experience-based fast track
Out-of-state certificated teachers receive a residency certificate; professional-certificate route tied to experience.
German / world-language testing
Uses its own test system: WEST/NES; world-language endorsement uses ACTFL OPI + WPT proficiency tests (German available). If no German test is offered, states typically accept an equivalent out-of-state exam, ACTFL OPI/WPT scores, or a transcript review — confirm with the licensing office.
Apply & verify: Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) · ECS policy profile
West Virginia NASDTEC: Yes
West Virginia participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Praxis requirements may apply if not fully licensed; valid out-of-state license holders apply via reciprocity (Form 20R).
Additional coursework
None beyond standard requirements; approved program + student teaching (or equivalent) required.
Experience-based fast track
5 years of out-of-state teaching experience exempts from the beginning-educator internship and supports permanent certification.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: West Virginia Department of Education · ECS policy profile
Wisconsin NASDTEC: Yes
Wisconsin participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Reciprocity-pathway licensees complete remaining requirements while teaching on Tier II.
Additional coursework
Minority group relations / American Indian tribal sovereignty coursework normally required - but waived under the License Based on Reciprocity Pathway (provisional Tier II) for valid out-of-state license holders.
Experience-based fast track
License Based on Reciprocity Pathway: valid out-of-state license leads to a provisional Tier II license without additional coursework.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction · ECS policy profile
Wyoming NASDTEC: Yes
Wyoming participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which streamlines acceptance of out-of-state credentials — but the state-specific conditions below still apply.
Additional testing
Out-of-state exams accepted; certain licenses may require additional exams.
Additional coursework
U.S. and Wyoming constitutions course or exam required (test-out available).
Experience-based fast track
Out-of-state exam acceptance is the main flexibility.
German / world-language testing
Praxis state: the standard German content test, where testing applies, is Praxis German: World Language (5183). Scores from other Praxis states usually transfer.
Apply & verify: Wyoming Professional Teaching Standards Board · ECS policy profile
All states at a glance
| State | ITMC | NASDTEC | Full reciprocity | Testing for incoming teachers | Experience fast track |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama Alabama State Department of Education |
Yes 2023 | Yes | No | Pass the Alabama content test, OR verify a content test was passed for the sending-state license, OR request a review of professional work experience instead. | 3 years of full-time professional educational work in the certification area within the past 10 years exempts candidates from assessment requirements. |
| Alaska Alaska Department of Education & Early Development |
No | Yes | No | Basic competency exam required to extend an initial out-of-state certificate past one year or apply for a professional license. | 2 years of certified public-school employment required for a professional certificate. |
| Arizona Arizona Department of Education |
No | Yes | By statute | None if reciprocity-qualified; otherwise professional/subject knowledge tests with broad exemptions (equivalent exam, 3 years teaching, or demonstrated proficiency). | Full reciprocity regardless of experience. |
| Arkansas Arkansas Division of Elementary & Secondary Education |
No | Yes | No | State licensure exams required before a standard 5-year license unless the candidate holds a valid license and 3 years of teaching experience. | Valid license + 3 years of teaching experience exempts candidates from testing. |
| California California Commission on Teacher Credentialing |
No | Yes | No | Basic skills requirement unless an equivalent exam was passed in the sending state; English-learner exams may apply. | Professional-level out-of-state credential required; 2+ years of successful teaching (with evaluations) needed for a clear credential, otherwise induction required. |
| Colorado Colorado Department of Education |
Yes 2023 | Yes | No | Waived for applicants with a valid out-of-state license and 3+ years of recent experience in a matching content area; others get a 1-year interim authorization while testing. | Valid license + 3 years of recent experience leads straight to a Professional License. |
| Connecticut Connecticut State Department of Education |
No | Yes | No | Only for certain endorsements; equivalent out-of-state exams accepted. 3 successful years in the past 10 can exempt candidates entirely; interim certificate with testing deferral available. | 30 months of successful service qualifies for a Provisional License; 3 of past 10 years can waive testing. |
| Delaware Delaware Department of Education |
Yes 2024 | Yes | No | Performance assessment within first 2 years for candidates with under 1 year of experience; subject-matter tests only if credentials are not accepted under reciprocity. | 4+ years of licensed teaching leads to a Continuing License; under 4 years receives an Initial License. |
| District of Columbia Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) |
No | Yes | No | DC licensure exams required only for areas where the sending state did not require an equivalent assessment. | 2 years of effective (or equivalent) performance ratings qualifies for a standard license; others receive an initial license. |
| Florida Florida Department of Education |
Yes 2023 | Yes | By statute | None for reciprocity-qualified candidates. | Professional Certificate available directly with a valid professional standard certificate or National Board Certification. |
| Georgia Georgia Professional Standards Commission |
No | Yes | No | Content assessment required unless: 5 years full-time in field, content test already required by sending state, National Board Certification, or no approved test exists. Ethics assessment may apply. | 3+ years with a comparable professional certificate qualifies for a Professional Certificate; 5+ years waives most special requirements. |
| Hawaii Hawaii Teacher Standards Board |
No | Yes | By statute | None required; assessments may be used voluntarily to demonstrate basic skills/content knowledge. | 3 of the last 5 years of satisfactory full-time teaching qualifies for a Standard License; otherwise a 3-year Provisional License. |
| Idaho Idaho State Department of Education |
No | Yes | No | Content-area test required unless already passed or the candidate holds National Board Certification; 3-year interim license available while completing. | No separate experience track; interim-to-standard route for all. |
| Illinois Illinois State Board of Education |
No | Yes | By statute | Proof of sending-state content/performance tests accepted; edTPA waived with 1 year of experience and a proficient-or-higher evaluation. | Full reciprocity with valid comparable license. |
| Indiana Indiana Department of Education |
No | Yes | No | Content test required; sending-state content tests accepted. Candidates who never passed one must do so before licensure. | 3+ years full-time experience leads to a Practitioner license; under 3 years an Initial Practitioner license. |
| Iowa Iowa Board of Educational Examiners |
No | Yes | No | Required only for candidates with under 3 years of experience whose prep program was completed after Jan 1, 2013. | 3+ years on a valid license qualifies for a Standard License (absent coursework deficiencies); 5 yrs + master's or 10 yrs waives subject coursework deficiencies. |
| Kansas Kansas State Department of Education |
Yes 2023 | Yes | No | Waived with 3 years of experience in the past 6 (or 5 years total); comparable out-of-state assessments accepted; employable license available while testing. | 3 years in past 6 or 5 years total leads to a Professional License and test exemption. |
| Kentucky Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board |
Yes 2023 | Yes | No | Waived with a valid certificate + 2 years of full-time teaching in the subject/grade of the certificate; otherwise Kentucky Praxis requirements apply. | 2 years full-time in-field experience exempts from testing. |
| Louisiana Louisiana Department of Education |
No | Yes | No | Level 1 Professional Certificate if assessments met; otherwise a 3-year Out-of-State Certificate while completing. 3 years of successful evaluated experience removes testing after 1 year of teaching in LA. | Valid certificate + 3 years successful experience (verified by evaluations) waives testing after one year in state. |
| Maine Maine Department of Education |
No | Yes | No | Content assessments required; same-endorsement candidates skip basic-skills and pedagogy exams. Conditional license available meanwhile. | Approved program + 3 successful years in past 5 under a comparable certificate (NASDTEC state) qualifies for a Professional Certificate. |
| Maryland Maryland State Department of Education |
No | Yes | No | Waived with a professional certificate + 3 satisfactory years in past 7 (or 2 years + approved program, or qualifying sending-state scores). | Professional certificate + 3 years in past 7 exempts from assessments. |
| Massachusetts Massachusetts Department of Elementary & Secondary Education |
No | Yes | No | MTEL Communication & Literacy plus subject-matter test(s) required; 3 years under a valid out-of-state license allows a Temporary License while completing (unless a test was failed). | 3 years under a valid license buys time via Temporary License; tests still required. |
| Michigan Michigan Department of Education |
No | Yes | No | Waived with 3 years of successful matching experience + 18 semester hours since initial certificate + comparable valid certificate; all others take subject-area tests. 1-year temporary authorization available. | 3 successful years leads to a Professional License without additional tests (with coursework condition). |
| Minnesota Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) |
No | Yes | No | MTLE pedagogy and content exams required; Tier 2 license available before testing with a district job offer. | 2+ years in a similar licensure area waives field-specific methods/student-teaching requirements for Tier 3. |
| Mississippi Mississippi Department of Education |
Yes 2024 | Yes | By statute | Only if the candidate cannot document a passing core-subject test (or equivalent licensure path); such candidates get a 2-year reciprocity license while completing. | 5-year Standard Reciprocity License for qualified license holders. |
| Missouri Missouri Department of Elementary & Secondary Education |
No | Yes | By statute | None required. | Experience determines Initial vs. Career Continuous Professional license level. |
| Montana Montana Office of Public Instruction |
No | Yes | No | Proof of a passing content-knowledge test for the requested endorsement required for Provisional/Standard/Professional licenses. | Experience determines license class; 5 successful years required for non-traditional program completers. |
| Nebraska Nebraska Department of Education |
Yes 2023 | Yes | No | Basic skills and content assessments required; Provisional License available while completing. | 2 years as a contractual teacher required for Standard/Professional licenses. |
| Nevada Nevada Department of Education |
Yes 2023 | Yes | By statute | Exempt if exams were passed in the sending state; most valid licenses transfer without re-verification. | Reciprocal license holders are eligible for a Professional License. |
| New Hampshire New Hampshire Department of Education |
No | Yes | No | Basic skills assessment (or equivalent) required; some endorsements also require a content assessment or equivalent. | Approved-program completers need no experience; alternative-route candidates need 3 full-time years in the past 7. 3+ years (incl. 2 consecutive effective years) qualifies for the Experienced Educator Certificate. |
| New Jersey New Jersey Department of Education |
No | Yes | No | NJ subject-matter tests required unless the sending state's equivalent was passed; performance-assessment exemptions for approved out-of-state assessments or National Board Certification. | Valid standard certificate + 2 effective years within 3 consecutive of the last 4 qualifies for a Standard Certificate. |
| New Mexico New Mexico Public Education Department |
No | No | No | Reading test for elementary applicants; credit hours, coursework, or teaching experience can substitute for content assessments depending on license level. | Licensure level assigned by experience: <3 yrs Level 1; 3-5 yrs Level 2; 6+ yrs Level 3 (with evidence of satisfactory teaching). |
| New York New York State Education Department, Office of Teaching Initiatives |
No | No | No | Certification exams required unless the candidate has 3 years of effective public-school teaching in the title within the last 7 years, an equivalent valid license, and a bachelor's with 2.5+ GPA. Conditional initial certificate available for program completers finishing the performance assessment. | 3 effective years in past 7 + valid equivalent license exempts from exams (evaluation-rating evidence required). |
| North Carolina North Carolina Department of Public Instruction |
No | Yes | No | Exempt if fully licensed + 3 years of experience + comparable testing met in another state, or National Board Certification. Under 3 years: Initial Professional License, additional exams may be required within set timelines. | 3+ years + evidence of effectiveness qualifies for a Continuing Professional License. |
| North Dakota North Dakota Education Standards & Practices Board |
No | Yes | No | ND state tests required within 2-4 years unless the candidate completed an approved program, holds a license, and met testing in the sending state (then no additional requirements). | Licensed 18+ months may qualify for a 5-year other-state educator license. |
| Ohio Ohio Department of Education & Workforce |
No | Yes | No | Content and pedagogy assessments required unless completed for the issuing state's license; reading exam for certain areas. | 3+ years under a standard credential qualifies for a Professional Educator license; under 3 years: Resident Educator or 1-year Out-of-State license. |
| Oklahoma Oklahoma State Department of Education |
Yes 2023 | Yes | By statute | None - exempt from competency exam with a valid out-of-state certificate. | Full reciprocity regardless of experience. |
| Oregon Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission |
Yes 2023 | Yes | No | Civil rights exam required for preliminary/professional license; subject-matter tests unless waived (passing score in another NASDTEC jurisdiction, or 5 years of licensed in-field experience). 1-year Reciprocal Teaching License issued to NASDTEC-jurisdiction license holders. | 5 years of half-time+ licensed in-field experience can waive subject testing; qualified applicants can go straight to a Preliminary/Professional license. |
| Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Department of Education |
Yes 2023 | Yes | No | PA content test required for all (including experienced candidates); 2+ years of verified satisfactory experience exempts from all other tests; National Board Certified teachers exempt from content tests. | 2+ years satisfactory experience: comparable licensure with only the content test required. |
| Rhode Island Rhode Island Department of Education |
No | Yes | No | RI testing requirements in the certification area(s) must be met (equivalents accepted); 1-year Temporary Initial Certificate available while testing. | CT/MA full certification transfers with no additional requirements. |
| South Carolina South Carolina Department of Education |
No | Yes | No | Evidence of passing content and pedagogy tests in the sending state required; if none were required there, the SC content assessment must be passed. | 27+ months of successful teaching in the past 7 years allows immediate advancement to a professional certificate; less requires the pedagogy exam to advance. |
| South Dakota South Dakota Department of Education |
No | No | No | None for candidates meeting reciprocity requirements (special education endorsements excepted). | Alternative-certification completers need 3 years of experience within the last 5 for reciprocity. |
| Tennessee Tennessee Department of Education |
No | Yes | No | None with a bachelor's degree + valid professional-level out-of-state license; program completers without a professional license must submit qualifying scores. | Professional-level license transfers without testing; National Board Certification earns a professional-level license. |
| Texas Texas Education Agency |
No | Yes | No | Candidates with less than one year of experience may be issued a one-year certificate or required to complete Texas certification exams; review of out-of-state exams for equivalency. | Experienced teachers with comparable exams may have Texas tests waived after credentials review. |
| Utah Utah State Board of Education |
Yes 2023 | Yes | No | Content-knowledge test and pedagogical performance assessment required, or evidence of passing a reasonably equivalent assessment. | Equivalent out-of-state assessments accepted in lieu of Utah tests. |
| Vermont Vermont Agency of Education |
No | Yes | No | Level I Professional Educator's License issued to NASDTEC-state professional license holders meeting requirements. | NASDTEC professional license is the main pathway. |
| Virginia Virginia Department of Education |
Yes 2026 | Yes | No | All Board-prescribed licensure assessments required for applicants with under 3 years of full-time successful experience; 3+ years exempts. | 3 years of full-time successful teaching in a public or accredited nonpublic school exempts from assessments. |
| Washington Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) |
Yes 2024 | Yes | No | Sending-state certification exam scores accepted for basic-skills and content-knowledge requirements. | Out-of-state certificated teachers receive a residency certificate; professional-certificate route tied to experience. |
| West Virginia West Virginia Department of Education |
No | Yes | No | Praxis requirements may apply if not fully licensed; valid out-of-state license holders apply via reciprocity (Form 20R). | 5 years of out-of-state teaching experience exempts from the beginning-educator internship and supports permanent certification. |
| Wisconsin Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction |
No | Yes | No | Reciprocity-pathway licensees complete remaining requirements while teaching on Tier II. | License Based on Reciprocity Pathway: valid out-of-state license leads to a provisional Tier II license without additional coursework. |
| Wyoming Wyoming Professional Teaching Standards Board |
No | Yes | No | Out-of-state exams accepted; certain licenses may require additional exams. | Out-of-state exam acceptance is the main flexibility. |
About this guide. Compiled from the Education Commission of the States 50-State Comparison: Teacher License Reciprocity, the CSG National Center for Interstate Compacts (ITMC membership, 2026), and NASDTEC. Licensure rules change often — always confirm with the receiving state’s licensing office. Where a German content test is required, most states use ETS Praxis German: World Language (5183); states with their own test systems are noted. Created by the American Association of Teachers of German (AATG) 2026.