Teacher Certification Types & Requirements in Minnesota for 2025

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Minnesota places a strong emphasis on qualified educators to maintain high standards in classrooms, making certification essential for those seeking long-term success. Pursuing certification can enhance your teaching skills, increase job opportunities, and contribute to community development.

This article will guide you through the various types of teacher certifications and the requirements in Minnesota, helping you make informed decisions for your career journey.

Key Points About Teacher Certification Types and Requirements in Minnesota

• Minnesota offers several teacher certification types including initial, professional, and substitute licenses, each requiring specific education credentials, background checks, and passing state-required exams.
• The job outlook for certified teachers in Minnesota is positive, with steady demand in both urban and rural districts, reflecting ongoing needs for qualified educators statewide.
• The average salary for certified teachers in Minnesota is approximately $63,000 annually, supported by competitive benefits and opportunities for advancement, making it a practical career choice.

Table of Contents

1. What are the different types of teaching certifications in Minnesota?
2. What are the education requirements to become a certified teacher in Minnesota?
3. What tests are required for teacher certification in Minnesota?
4. What are the best certification programs in Minnesota?
5. Are there alternative routes to teacher certification in Minnesota?
6. How much does it cost to get a teaching certification in Minnesota?
7. What is the most affordable path to teacher certification in Minnesota?
8. What professional development opportunities are available for certified teachers in Minnesota?
9. How long does it take to get certified as a teacher in Minnesota?
10. How do you renew Minnesota teaching certification?
11. Is teacher certification in Minnesota transferable to other states?
12. What are the benefits of having a teacher certification in Minnesota?
13. Other Things You Should Know About Teacher Certification Types and Requirements in Minnesota

What are the different types of teaching certifications in Minnesota?

Minnesota’s system includes several certification levels tailored to different experience stages and needs, from provisional to advanced professional licenses. Below is a clear breakdown of these licenses and their requirements to help you navigate your path effectively.

• Standard Professional Licenses: These are divided into four tiers, with Tier 3 as the common starting point after completing a state-approved preparation program. Advancement to Tier 4 is available for experienced educators seeking leadership roles or advanced credentials.
• Provisional or Temporary Licenses: Tier 1 and Tier 2 licenses serve as provisional pathways for individuals who have not met full requirements, often used by career changers or to address shortages. These licenses are limited in duration and may have subject or district restrictions.
• Substitute Teaching Licenses: Short-Call licenses require a bachelor’s degree and allow temporary teaching, while Long-Call licenses are for those who completed preparation programs or retired teachers with lifetime status. Both have limits on days taught per classroom.
• Special Permissions and Emergency Licenses: Issued when districts cannot fill positions with licensed teachers, these temporary permits address critical shortage areas and require district and state approval.
• Subject-Specific and Special Education Endorsements: These endorsements cover specific academic areas and special education fields like autism or behavioral disorders, designed for teachers focusing on particular populations or disciplines.
• Advanced Professional Licenses: Tier 4 licensure represents advanced certification reflecting expertise and commitment to professional growth, often required for mentorship or specialist positions.

For those starting out, completing a state-approved teacher preparation program is crucial. You might also consider exploring the best rated online associate in education program to help fulfill initial education requirements efficiently.

What are the education requirements to become a certified teacher in Minnesota?

To become a certified teacher in Minnesota, candidates must meet several academic and practical criteria set by the state. These requirements ensure that educators are well-prepared to handle diverse classroom environments and meet professional standards.

The core education requirements for teaching license in Minnesota include:

• Bachelor’s Degree: Most teaching positions require a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Certain career and technical education roles may accept an associate’s degree or relevant work experience instead.
• State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program: Completion of a Minnesota PELSB-approved teacher preparation program is essential for obtaining higher-tier licenses. This program can be completed concurrently with the bachelor’s degree or as a post-baccalaureate certification.
• Human Relations Coursework: Candidates must complete a course focused on teaching students from diverse cultural and social backgrounds. If this is not included in the teacher preparation curriculum, it must be taken separately to comply with state requirements.
• Student Teaching or Practicum: Practical experience through supervised student teaching or an equivalent practicum is mandatory. This hands-on training is coordinated through the teacher preparation program to develop real classroom skills.
• Additional Professional Development: For advanced tiers of licensure, new teachers often participate in mentorship and evaluation programs. Ongoing professional learning is encouraged and commonly required for license renewal.

Prospective educators interested in exploring flexible options can also consider an online college to become a teacher, which may provide accessible pathways to fulfill these education requirements for teaching license in Minnesota.

What tests are required for teacher certification in Minnesota?

If you are pursuing teacher certification in Minnesota, it’s important to understand the specific testing requirements that apply to your situation. Recent changes have simplified some of these steps, especially for those completing approved licensure programs.

Below is a practical overview of the key exams and assessments you may need to complete to become certified in the state.

• Basic Skills Exams: Before August 2023, candidates had to pass tests in reading, writing, and math with specific score thresholds. However, if you graduate from a Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB)-approved program, these exams are no longer required.
• Pedagogy and Content Area Exams: The Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations (MTLE) assess your knowledge of teaching methods and your specific subject area. Graduates of approved licensure programs are generally waived from these exams, but candidates outside these programs may still need to pass with scores above 240 on each subtest.
• Performance Assessment (edTPA): This portfolio-based assessment evaluates your skills in lesson planning, instruction, and assessment through practical demonstration. Passing scores typically include 13 for Planning, 13 for Instruction, and 12 for Assessment, ensuring you are classroom-ready beyond standardized tests.
• Student Teaching: A supervised student teaching experience of at least 12 weeks is mandatory, providing hands-on classroom experience under evaluation. This requirement emphasizes practical readiness and is a crucial part of certification.

These requirements highlight Minnesota’s focus on real-world readiness and competency, setting the stage for a closer look at the educational attainment of certified teachers not just across the state in the whole country.

What are the best certification programs in Minnesota?

For those pursuing the traditional path to teaching licensure in Minnesota, selecting an approved Educator Preparation Program is essential. These programs are structured to satisfy all state requirements, blending academic knowledge with hands-on experience to prepare competent educators.

Here are some of the best teaching certification programs in Minnesota:

• University-Based Educator Preparation Programs (EPPs): These programs are integrated within bachelor’s degree curricula and are approved by the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB). They provide comprehensive training that qualifies graduates for Tier 3 or Tier 4 licensure, enabling them to teach in public schools across the state.
• Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU): SMSU offers state-approved undergraduate routes focusing on high-demand fields such as Early Childhood Education (Birth-Grade 3), Elementary Education (K-6), and Special Education (K-12). The programs combine coursework with supervised student teaching, ensuring a clear path to licensure.
• Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota: The institute offers a state-approved undergraduate program that equips candidates with foundational teaching theories, subject-specific methodologies, and extensive practical teaching placements. Graduates are eligible for Tier 3 licensure and prepared to meet the evolving needs of Minnesota classrooms.

Prospective teachers should consider Minnesota teacher licensure programs for career changers carefully but note that traditional routes remain the most established. For those interested in advanced degrees or flexible options, resources like the list of most affordable online EdD programs offer further guidance beyond initial licensure.

Are there alternative routes to teacher certification in Minnesota?

For individuals interested in becoming teachers in Minnesota without following the traditional education degree path, several alternative certification routes offer practical and flexible options. These pathways cater especially to career-switchers and those with diverse professional backgrounds, providing structured yet adaptable means to enter the teaching profession.

Below is an overview of the main alternative route to become a certified teacher in Minnesota.

• Alternative Teacher Preparation Programs: State-approved programs such as LDA Minnesota and Teach Minnesota enable candidates to fulfill required coursework through nonprofit organizations rather than traditional universities. They often include mentorship, scholarship opportunities, and are designed to support diverse cohorts and career changers.
• Post-Baccalaureate and Residency-Based Programs: Institutions like St. Scholastica offer flexible online programs combined with short in-person residencies. These programs allow candidates holding bachelor’s degrees to complete licensure requirements in approximately two years while balancing work and study.
• Portfolio Pathway: This individualized route lets candidates with relevant experience or education submit a portfolio that demonstrates competency in state teaching standards, bypassing some conventional coursework.
• Special Pathways for Heritage Language and American Indian Educators: Recognizing cultural and linguistic diversity, Minnesota offers unique certification routes tailored for heritage language and American Indian teaching candidates.
• Eligibility Requirements: Generally, all alternative routes require a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, passing state content and pedagogy exams, and in some cases securing a teaching placement as part of training.
• Unique Features: Many programs offer immediate mentorship connections, financial aid opportunities, and emphasize recruiting candidates from underrepresented communities to diversify the educator workforce.

When I spoke with a teacher from Minnesota who pursued an alternative route, he described the process as challenging yet rewarding. “I was juggling a full-time job while completing online coursework and preparing my portfolio,” he shared. The mentorship component was invaluable, providing guidance and feedback that made the requirements feel manageable.

He recalled moments of self-doubt but emphasized how flexible program structures allowed him to progress at his own pace. “It wasn’t the traditional college experience, but it was tailored to my life and background, which made all the difference.” This firsthand insight highlights how Minnesota’s alternative pathways not only open doors but also support candidates through practical, personalized steps toward certification.

How much does it cost to get a teaching certification in Minnesota?

The cost to earn a teaching certification in Minnesota depends on the pathway you choose. Traditional undergraduate teacher preparation programs at public universities typically cost between $8,000 and $16,000 per year, while graduate programs range from $10,000 to $20,000 annually. Private universities may charge more, though accelerated master’s programs can reduce overall costs by shortening the time to completion.

Alternative certification programs are often geared toward career changers and usually cost between $5,000 and $15,000 in total. These programs often offer flexible options, such as online or evening classes, making them a practical choice for working adults.

In addition to tuition, several fees apply. The license application fee ranges from $90.25 to $91.95, and the Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations (MTLE) cost between $47 and $139 per exam. Fingerprinting and background checks add another $33 to $40. Renewal fees are typically around $90 every cycle.

Other potential expenses include textbooks, materials, and technology fees, which can add several hundred dollars per year. Fortunately, Minnesota provides financial aid options such as the Teacher Shortage Loan Repayment Program and TEACH Grants to help reduce out-of-pocket costs for eligible candidates.

Prospective teachers should also explore the list of most affordable online masters degrees in educational leadership as a cost-effective option for graduate certification pathways.

What is the most affordable path to teacher certification in Minnesota?

Evaluating cost-effective options is essential for candidates seeking a streamlined certification process. Explore accelerated programs, alternative licensure routes, and online education options that are designed to reduce tuition and associated fees while maintaining quality. Institutions may offer flexible payment plans and financial aid opportunities tailored for career changers and working professionals. For a detailed comparison and actionable insights on reducing certification expenses, refer to the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in Minnesota.

What professional development opportunities are available for certified teachers in Minnesota?

Minnesota offers a range of professional development resources designed to sustain teaching effectiveness and foster career advancement. State programs and school districts frequently sponsor continuing education workshops, mentoring initiatives, and leadership training focused on emerging pedagogical strategies and educational technology. Teacher networks and university partnerships also provide venues for collaborative learning and specialized instruction in fields such as arts and sciences. For educators aiming to refine skills in niche areas—for instance, music education—explore our guide on how to become a music teacher in Minnesota for targeted guidance and opportunities.

How long does it take to get certified as a teacher in Minnesota?

If you're considering a teaching career in Minnesota, one of your first questions is likely, “How long will it take to get certified?” The answer depends on your background, the pathway you choose, and how intensively you pursue your studies. Whether you’re just starting college, changing careers, or returning to the workforce, Minnesota offers multiple certification routes to fit your situation.

Below is a breakdown of the most common paths and the typical timelines for each.

Traditional Bachelor’s Degree Pathway

This most common route takes about four years of full-time study at a state-approved program, combining coursework with at least twelve weeks of full-time student teaching in a K-12 classroom. The student teaching experience is essential for hands-on practice under a licensed teacher’s supervision.

Post-Baccalaureate Certification

If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, post-baccalaureate or graduate certification programs typically require 1 to 2 years of full-time study. These include required coursework and a student teaching component similar to traditional programs.

Alternative Certification Routes

Designed for career changers or those seeking a faster path, alternative programs—such as portfolio assessments or specially tailored courses—can be completed in about one year for full-time, intensive candidates. Part-time options and extra requirements may extend this timeline.

Exam Preparation

Candidates completing approved teacher preparation programs often bypass additional licensure exams, shortening the process. However, out-of-state applicants or those using alternative routes may need extra months to prepare and pass required exams.

Accelerated and Flexible Options

Some Minnesota institutions, like Metropolitan State University and Minnesota State University, offer accelerated or online programs aimed at working adults. These can reduce certification time to 12–18 months by providing intensive, year-round study options.

Factors Affecting Timeline

Your certification timeline can shorten by transferring credits, enrolling full-time, or choosing accelerated programs. Conversely, part-time study, balancing other commitments, or needing to retake exams can extend the process.

Understanding how long it takes to become certified is just one part of the picture—once in the classroom, teachers also face questions about compensation and equity. The chart below highlights the gender pay gap among certified teachers in Minnesota and nationwide.

How do you renew Minnesota teaching certification?

Renewing a teaching certification in Minnesota involves a clear set of steps designed to ensure educators remain qualified and up to date with state requirements. If you are exploring the process of renewing your teaching license, understanding these requirements will help you plan effectively and maintain compliance.

Below is an outline of the essential points for Minnesota teaching license renewal requirements:

• Renewal Frequency: Teaching licenses in Minnesota must be renewed every five years for most full professional (Tier 4) licenses.
• Required Professional Development Hours: Educators are required to complete 125 clock hours of approved professional development activities within each five-year renewal period.
• Mandatory Training Topics: Mandatory training topics include Positive Behavioral Intervention Strategies (PBIS), Key Warning Signs for Early-Onset Mental Illness in Children and Adolescents, Reading Preparation, English Language Learners (ELL) strategies, Suicide Prevention Training, and Cultural Competency Training.
• Documentation of Clock Hours: Clock hours must be verified with official documentation such as certificates or written validation from the training provider.
• One-Time Credit per Renewal Cycle: Each course or session can only be claimed once per renewal period, regardless of how many times the teacher attends or teaches it.
• Eligible Activities for Clock Hours: Not all activities count toward renewal; only professionally relevant activities like conference presentations or professional learning communities qualify.
• Submission Process: Renewal applications and supporting documents must be submitted online through the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) portal, where teachers maintain an educator account.
• Background Check Requirement: A criminal background check may be required as part of the renewal process.
• Renewal Fees: Renewal fees vary and can be as high as $725 for 125 clock hours through some providers; the exact application fee should be checked directly via PELSB.
• Use of National Board Certification: If you hold a National Board Certification or an equivalent credential approved by PELSB, it can substitute for the clock hour requirements during its validity; prorated clock hours apply if the certification expires mid-cycle.
• Reinstating a Lapsed License: If a teaching license lapses, you must complete all renewal requirements, including mandatory training and clock hours, before reinstatement, which may involve additional fees or documentation.
• Stay Updated on Requirements: Consulting your local continuing education committee and regularly checking the Minnesota Department of Education or PELSB website is advisable, as renewal requirements may change due to legislative updates.

For those considering further education to meet these requirements or enhance their credentials, exploring an online masters degree in education cost can be a strategic investment in your career growth.

Is teacher certification in Minnesota transferable to other states?

Teacher certification in Minnesota is not automatically transferable to other states, but there are pathways that can ease the process. Minnesota participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which simplifies certification applications when moving to states like Wisconsin, North Dakota, California, Texas, and New York. This agreement allows educators to use their existing credentials and experience as a starting point.

However, full reciprocity is not guaranteed. Each state sets its own licensure standards and may require additional steps before granting certification. These often include passing state-specific content or pedagogy exams, completing coursework on local topics such as history or education law, and undergoing a background check.

Many states issue provisional or temporary licenses to qualified applicants so they can begin teaching while fulfilling these requirements. For instance, Maryland offers conditional certification upon securing a teaching position, and Massachusetts may waive some requirements for experienced educators. Contacting the target state’s licensing board early is essential to avoid delays.

One Minnesota teacher shared that she had to pass an additional pedagogy exam and complete a course on local education policy before gaining full certification in her new state. “It was frustrating,” she admitted, “but the provisional license let me get into the classroom right away.” Her experience underscores the importance of preparation and communication when transferring licensure across state lines.

What are the benefits of having a teacher certification in Minnesota?

Obtaining a teacher certification in Minnesota offers numerous advantages that can significantly impact your teaching career. Beyond meeting legal requirements to work in public schools, this credential expands your professional opportunities and provides valuable financial and developmental benefits.

Below are key ways certification can support and enhance your career in education.

• Expanded Career Options: Certified teachers can pursue positions in public and charter schools as well as specialized educational programs across Minnesota, allowing access to diverse student populations and varied teaching roles.
• Stronger Job Stability: With thousands of K–12 openings expected annually through 2032, certification ensures you’re well-positioned to secure and maintain a teaching role in Minnesota’s consistent job market.
• Higher Earnings and Leadership Paths: Certification unlocks access to structured salary scales that reward experience and education, with opportunities to advance into leadership roles such as instructional coaches or administrators.
• State Incentives: Minnesota offers benefits like loan forgiveness programs, stipends for teaching in shortage areas, and targeted professional development to support certified educators’ growth and financial wellbeing.
• Enhanced Teaching Effectiveness: The certification process emphasizes rigorous standards that improve classroom management and instructional skills, leading to better student achievement from day one.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Certified teachers gain eligibility for competitive healthcare plans and retirement benefits through state programs, supporting long-term financial security.
• Ongoing Professional Support: Access to mentorship, networking, and a tiered licensure system promotes continuous career advancement and skill development for certified teachers.

Certified teachers also play a critical role in addressing educator shortages, helping to fill vacancies in schools across the country and ensuring students have access to qualified, effective instructors.

What Teachers in Minnesota Say About Their Certification

• Getting my teaching certification in Minnesota has truly opened doors for me. The flexibility of work schedules combined with an average teacher salary that supports my family gives me peace of mind and the freedom to focus on my students. I feel valued both professionally and personally here. Elliot
• As a certified teacher in Minnesota, I've been able to advance my career steadily through various leadership roles within my school district. The state’s strong emphasis on professional growth and job stability has allowed me to take on new challenges confidently. It’s rewarding to see how certification can be a gateway to becoming an educational leader. Remy
• Minnesota offers incredible professional development opportunities for certified teachers like me, from workshops to specialized training programs. This ongoing learning keeps me inspired and equips me with the latest teaching strategies to better serve my students. Being part of such a supportive community makes all the difference. Alaina

Other Things You Should Know About Teacher Certification Types and Requirements in Minnesota

Can you get teacher certification in Minnesota with a non-teaching degree?

In Minnesota, it is possible to obtain teacher certification without holding a traditional teaching degree by pursuing alternative licensure routes. The Minnesota Department of Education offers pathways such as the Alternative Licensure Program, designed for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in a non-teaching field who demonstrate subject matter expertise and complete approved teacher preparation coursework.

Candidates must also pass required licensure exams, including the Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations (MTLE). This approach addresses teacher shortages and allows career changers to enter education while meeting rigorous state standards. According to recent data, alternative licensure candidates constitute a growing segment of new teachers in Minnesota schools.

Is there an age limit for teacher certification in Minnesota?

There is no age limit for obtaining teaching certification in Minnesota. The Minnesota Department of Education allows candidates of any age to pursue licensure as long as they meet the required educational and testing standards. This inclusive policy supports career changers, recent graduates, and individuals returning to the workforce.

According to the Minnesota Department of Education, certification requirements focus on academic qualifications, passing relevant exams, and completing background checks rather than age restrictions. This approach encourages a diverse teaching workforce and helps address teacher shortages throughout the state by allowing qualified individuals to enter the profession at any stage of life.

Can I teach while earning my certification in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, individuals pursuing teaching certification can often work in the classroom while completing their certification requirements through options like provisional licenses or intern credentials. These pathways allow candidates to gain practical teaching experience on the job, usually under the supervision of a licensed mentor teacher.

This approach supports new educators by combining real-world classroom practice with ongoing professional development, making it possible to earn a salary while finishing certification steps. Such arrangements are especially common in alternative certification programs designed to help career changers and others enter the teaching profession efficiently and effectively.

Does Minnesota accept international teaching credentials?

Yes, Minnesota accepts international teaching credentials, but candidates must meet several additional requirements to align with state standards. This includes having transcripts evaluated by a credential evaluation agency, demonstrating English proficiency through exams like TOEFL or IELTS (unless exempt), and potentially completing extra coursework or passing Minnesota-specific exams.

The Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) oversees this process and provides guidance, making it important for international applicants to start early and ensure all documents are accurately translated and authenticated.

References:

• All Education schools. (2025, June 10). Getting your teacher certification in Minnesota. AllEducationSchools.com. alleducationschools.com.
• Education Minnesota. (2025, July 15). Licensure and credentials - Education Minnesota. educationminnesota.org.
• Hamline University - Minnesota. (n.d.). Initial and additional teaching Licenses. hamline.edu.
• MTLE. (n.d.). Minnesota teacher licensure examinations. mtle.nesinc.com.
• Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (n.d.). Licensure Requirements / Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB). mn.gov.
• Southwest Minnesota State University. (n.d.). Teacher Licensure-Only. smsu.edu.
• Teacher Certification Degrees. (2025, March 20). Minnesota alternative teaching certification requirements. teachercertificationdegrees.com.
• TeacherCertification.com. (n.d.). Minnesota Teacher Licensing Guide | 2025 Minnesota Test Prep - Teacher Certification. teachercertification.com.
• University of Minnesota. (n.d.). Special education MEd and teacher licensures. Department of Educational Psychology. edpsych.umn.edu.
• University of Minnesota. (n.d.). Teacher licensure process. College of Education and Human Development. cehd.umn.edu.
• Zippia. (2025, January 8). Best colleges and degrees for certified Teachers. zippia.com.