Whether you are becoming certified for the first time, adding a certification area, renewing an existing certificate, or seeking assignment guidance, this page provides resources for Texas educators, school districts, educator preparation programs, and certification applicants. Use the sections below to find information about certification requirements, testing, certificate renewal, educator preparation programs, assignment requirements, and staffing flexibility options.
Stay current by reviewing certification announcements and updates.
Need help setting up your educator account? Visit the Educator Certification Online System (ECOS) page for account setup instructions, step-by-step guides, and other certification system resources. If you experience difficulty creating or accessing your account, contact your regional Education Service Center (ESC) representative for assistance.
Educator Certification Resources
Resources related to certification pathways, testing, certificate issuance, renewal, and educator preparation programs.
Approved Texas Educator Preparation Programs
Becoming a Texas Teacher
Military Community & First Responder Information
Out-of-State/Country Certified Educators Seeking Texas Certification - Review of Credentials
Renewing a Standard Certificate and Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Requirements
Additional Certification by Examination (CBE) Information
Additional Certification by Examination Requiring Work Experience
Principal and Superintendent Certification
Student Services Certification
Educational Aide Certification
Revalidating a Lifetime Certificate
Educator Testing Information
Virtual Certificate Information (Certificate Lookup)
Visiting International Teachers
Assignment Requirements and Flexibility
Resources related to educator assignments, staffing requirements, permits, waivers, and certification flexibility options for school districts.
Certificate Issuance Update
Due to recent legislative changes, TEA has implemented a more comprehensive background check process for certification applicants. These enhanced reviews help ensure the safety of Texas students but may increase the time required for certificate issuance.
We understand that applicants are eager to receive their certificates and recognize that these delays can be frustrating. Unfortunately, TEA is unable to estimate how long an individual review will take and cannot provide a timeline for certificate issuance while these checks are pending.
We appreciate your patience and understanding as we complete these required reviews and issue certificates as quickly as possible while maintaining these important safeguards.
