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A Temporary License is granted to an educator who holds an out-of-state license and has taught for three years. The license is valid for one year. The educator must complete application requirements to obtain a Massachusetts license after one year of employment under a temporary license.

Nearly all educators in Massachusetts are required to be licensed. Requirements for licensure vary by the type of position you are interested in and where you are on your career path.

License Validity by Type: Temporary license ? valid for one year of employment (cannot be extended; must advance to Provisional or Initial) Provisional ? valid for five years of employment (cannot be extended, must advance to initial).

Candidates who hold a bachelor's degree may also obtain Massachusetts teacher certification by completing an approved post-graduate program that includes teacher preparation. Alternative programs such as these can be completed in as little as one year as a certificate.

The Initial license is valid for five years of employment and may be renewed (extended) at the discretion of the Commissioner for an additional five years. The Initial license is equivalent to a provisional educator certificate with advanced standing as defined in M. G. L. c. 71, § 38G.

The Four Types of Educator Licenses. Learn more about the pathways toward an Emergency License, Provisional License, Initial License, and Professional License. If you are an aspiring educator, we recommend that you start with an approved master's degree program leading to an Initial License.

To get an Initial License, you must: Hold or earn a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. Pass the appropriate Massachusetts Tests for Educator License (MTELs) or other MA ESE-approved tests (see our MTEL resources and support) Complete an approved program of study for an Initial License.

Aspiring teachers can earn teaching certification by filling out an application, passing the required MTEL examinations, and paying a fee. Teachers also need to show proof of a bachelor's degree by sending in official transcripts with their application. Additionally, they must complete 150 student teaching hours.

Yes. You have until November 7, 2023 to apply for a first Emergency license as an academic teacher, specialist teacher, professional support personnel or administrator Emergency license. Existing Emergency licenses will be eligible for extension one calendar year from the date of issue.

Massachusetts has a structured, tiered system for teachers. Meaning to earn a professional license, teachers must earn a master's degree and pass the pertinent parts of the Massachusetts Test for Educator Licensure (MTEL). A master's degree is not required to begin a career as a high school teacher in Massachusetts.