Certification Process Frequently Asked Questions
I would like to become a certified teacher. How do I do this?
Traditionally, initial teacher certification in the state of Missouri requires the completion of a state-approved teacher education program. You will need to be evaluated by an official at an approved institution and complete the requirements of their approved program. Once you do this, the institution will send a recommendation for certification to our office, and we will issue the initial certificate based on that recommendation. You may access Missouri's minimum certification requirements or a listing of approved colleges/universities and programs on the DESE website.
Send all correspondence to Educator Certification, PO Box 480, Jefferson City, Missouri 65102. With any correspondence to this office, please be sure to include your name, social security number, home mailing address, and home phone number. Responses will be mailed to your home address.
Once I have applied or made a written inquiry, how long should I wait for a response?
Due to fluctuations in the volume of applications and inquiries received, it is often difficult to estimate processing time. During the months of April to October, processing time may be as long as six (6) weeks from the date of receipt. Processing time from October to April should be less than four (4) weeks. To expedite processing, please refrain from making calls or e-mail inquiries until this time has passed.
How, then, may I check on the status of my file?
You may check on the status of your application or file on our website. Please follow the instructions provided. Information displayed online is updated as soon as changes are made in the certification office.
What do I tell my school district if my file is still in process?
Missouri school districts understand the peak workloads of the certification office. It has always been our policy to expedite a file at the request of a superintendent or human resources director. The district should call or e-mail our office if the situation warrants an expeditious response.
I am a certified teacher from another state. How do I apply for a Missouri license?
There is an application on our website for certified teachers from another state at. http://www.dese.mo.gov/forms/divteachqual/MO500-1587.pdf
Does a teacher who is certified to teach in another state need to take the Praxis test in order to obtain a Missouri certificate?
No. After August 28, 2003, a teaching certificate issued by another state will be recognized by Missouri. The application form requests the Praxis test score if it was required by the original certifying state. If available, that information should be included. Upon receipt of the application packet, processing fee, and background clearance, an appropriate Missouri certificate of license to teach will be issued.
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