How licensure works here
California teaching credentials are issued by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). You earn a preliminary credential first, then clear it to a professional (clear) credential. California is known for having several assessments — though it has been modernizing them, adding alternatives to some tests.
Which tests this state uses
California’s assessments (with recent changes — confirm current rules):
- CBESTBasic skills — though California now allows alternatives (like qualifying coursework or other test scores) to satisfy the basic-skills requirement
- CSETSubject-matter competence — or you can satisfy it through an approved subject-matter program
- Reading instructionA literacy performance assessment (which has replaced the former RICA) for multiple-subject and education-specialist candidates
- CalTPAA teaching performance assessment completed during your program
What you need to get licensed
The typical path to an initial teaching license in California:
- A bachelor’s degreeFrom an accredited college or university
- A state-approved teacher-preparation programCompleted at a college or through an approved alternative route
- Student teaching / clinical practiceSupervised classroom experience
- Pass the required examsSee the exams section above
- A background checkFingerprint-based criminal background check
- Apply to the stateSubmit your application and documents to the licensing agency
Other paths into teaching
Most states offer alternative routes for career-changers and those with a degree in another field. In California, these typically let you start teaching while completing licensure requirements — through district or university alternative-certification programs, residencies, or emergency/provisional permits. Requirements (and the exams) are generally the same in the end. Confirm current options with the state.
Reciprocity & out-of-state licenses
Moving a license into or out of California:
- Interstate agreementsMost states participate in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which eases (but doesn’t guarantee) recognition of an out-of-state license
- You may still owe examsStates often require you to meet their own testing (or coursework) requirements, sometimes within a grace period
- Check both statesConfirm the specific steps with Californias agency and your current state
Keeping your license current
Initial licenses are typically valid for a set number of years and renewed by completing continuing education / professional development (and sometimes advancing to a professional-level license). Confirm the renewal cycle and requirements with the state.
Tips for aspiring teachers
- Start with your prep programAn approved program will map the exact exams and steps for you
- Confirm the current testsStates revise required exams often — verify before you register
- Register for exams earlySeats and score-reporting timelines matter for your start date
- Budget for feesExams, fingerprinting, and application fees add up
- Keep your documentsTranscripts, scores, and verification forms speed up your application
Frequently asked questions
- What exams does California require to teach?California uses the CBEST (with alternatives), CSET, a reading/literacy performance assessment, and the CalTPA — confirm current requirements, which have been changing.
- Do I need a degree to teach in California?Yes — at least a bachelor’s degree, plus an approved preparation program.
- Can I teach while I finish licensure?Often yes, through an alternative route or provisional permit — confirm with the state.
- Can I transfer my license from another state?Usually with steps — see the reciprocity section.
- Where do I confirm the exact requirements?Your state licensing agency and your preparation program (see below).
At a glance
- AgencyCommission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC)
- Basic skillsCBEST (with alternatives)
- Subject matterCSET (or approved coursework)
- ReadingLiteracy performance assessment
- PerformanceCalTPA
Official sources
Confirm current requirements with the official sources: