Certification is required to work as a full-time, regular classroom teacher in Maryland. However, you do not require a teaching certificate to work as a substitute teacher. Aspiring educators can use substitute teaching as a way to build experience.
The main steps for the traditional path to teacher certification in Maryland are: Complete a bachelor's degree with a state-approved teacher preparation component. Complete a student teaching placement. Pass the required teacher certification exams. Apply for a teaching certificate or license.
Intern programs offer the fastest path to a teaching career. Candidates can serve as a teacher of record and earn a salary after completing 120 hours of pre-service requirements—far less than other pathway types require.
How long will it take to process my certification application? MSDE will process an application for licensure within 8 weeks of submission if all of the required documents have been provided. If there are deficiencies in the application, you will be notified through your TEACH Dashboard and via email.