On this page, we’ll go over the steps to get certified to teach in Texas, plus answer some commonly asked questions about certification. Let’s dive in!
How to Earn Your Texas Teaching Certificate
- 1
Look for bachelor’s + teaching certificate programs.
Many teaching programs let you combine a bachelor’s degree and teaching certificate—so you can get certified while you finish your undergraduate coursework.
You’ll need a degree to teach most subjects. That said, for certain Career & Technical Education subjects, you may not need a degree if you have vocational work experience. Check out the FAQs for more info!
- 2
Apply to programs and enroll.
Once you’ve found a few programs that interest you and work with your lifestyle, you can start applying!
TEACH San Antonio can help you save money on teaching program applications! We’ll reimburse up to $100 for any required application expenses, like application and transcript fees. Get $100 back.
- 3
Decide what you want to teach.
Not sure what you want to teach? That’s okay! You can still start your teaching program. You’ll usually declare a major and choose your teaching subject partway through your program. It’s helpful if your major and future teaching subject match.
Getting certified in a shortage area subject—such as special education, science or bilingual education—provides more job opportunities! Explore your Texas teaching subject options.
- 4
Pass Texas certification tests.
Before you get certified, you’ll need to pass the TExES (a.k.a. Texas Examinations of Educator Standards). This test is meant to show you know your stuff well enough to teach it. It covers content in your subject area, as well as specific teaching strategies.
You’ll usually take the TExES around the time you finish your teaching program.
- 5
Complete a background check.
To get your teaching certificate in Texas, you'll need to complete a fingerprint background check. The Texas Education Agency will evaluate any criminal history on a case-by-case basis. (1)
- 6
Apply for your initial Texas teaching certificate.
Almost there! Your teaching program will need to confirm that you’re eligible to apply for your teaching certificate.
Once you get confirmation, you’ll create an account through the Texas Education Agency’s online portal. You’ll use this account to apply.
Get the Free Guide
The TEACH San Antonio Certification Guide covers everything you need to start your journey. Get details about teaching pathways, certification areas and steps to certification, all in one place!
It’s completely free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s next
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Read MoreReferences
- National Criminal History Checks FAQs. Texas Education Agency. https://tea.texas.gov/texas-educators/investigations/national-criminal-history-checks-faqs
- Staff Salary FTE Report_County_Bexar County_ 2024-25. https://rptsvr1.tea.texas.gov/adhocrpt/adpeb.html
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