Teacher Certification Types & Requirements in North Dakota for 2025

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As a certified teacher in North Dakota, you can expect a stable and fulfilling career, with opportunities to impact the state’s diverse student population. Pursuing teacher certification here not only enhances job prospects but also aligns with the state’s emphasis on quality education and professional development.

This article will give you a clear, comprehensive overview of North Dakota’s certification types and criteria. It will help you make informed decision as you navigate your path toward a teaching career in the state.

Key Points About Teacher Certification Types and Requirements in North Dakota

North Dakota requires candidates to complete a state-approved educator preparation program and pass relevant exams, with certifications available for elementary, secondary, and special education fields.
The job outlook for certified teachers in North Dakota is positive, driven by steady student enrollment and regional demand, though rural areas may offer more opportunities than urban centers.
Certified teachers in North Dakota earn an average salary around $55,000 annually, with cost of living and community support making it a practical choice to begin a teaching career.

What are the different types of teaching certifications in North Dakota?
What are the education requirements to become a certified teacher in North Dakota?
What tests are required for teacher certification in North Dakota?
What are the best certification programs in North Dakota?
Are there alternative routes to teacher certification in North Dakota?
How much does it cost to get a teaching certification in North Dakota?
How long does it take to get certified as a teacher in North Dakota?
How can you pursue subject-specific teacher certifications in North Dakota?
How do you renew North Dakota teaching certification?
Is teacher certification in North Dakota transferable to other states?
What are the benefits of having a teacher certification in North Dakota?
What is the teacher job outlook in North Dakota?
Other Things You Should Know About Teacher Certification in North Dakota

What are the different types of teaching certifications in North Dakota?

North Dakota offers a range of certifications tailored to different experience levels and professional goals, reflecting a structured approach to teacher development while accommodating alternative routes into the profession. These certification types are:

Initial In-State License: This foundational certificate is for new educators who have met all standard licensure requirements and plan to teach in the public K–12 system. It is valid for approximately two years, allowing time to gain classroom experience.
Two-Year License: Intended for teachers with less than 18 months of experience under a North Dakota license, this transitional credential supports early-career educators before advancing to longer-term certification.
Five-Year License: Available to those with at least 18 months of teaching experience in North Dakota, this standard long-term license is renewable and encourages ongoing professional development.
30-Year Life License: Awarded to educators with at least 30 years of teaching in the state, this permanent license recognizes extensive service and removes renewal obligations.
Provisional or Temporary Licenses: Designed for individuals who have not yet fulfilled all licensure requirements, these licenses allow for temporary teaching assignments, often to address staffing shortages.
Emergency or Substitute Permits: These permits enable short-term classroom coverage during teacher absences and do not require full licensure, offering flexibility for districts.
Alternative Route Certifications: For those holding a bachelor’s degree but lacking traditional teacher preparation, alternative certifications provide a pathway into teaching, particularly in high-need subject areas.
Subject-Specific and Special Education Endorsements: Additional endorsements in fields like special education or school counseling require extra training and are necessary for specialized roles.
Advanced Professional and Administrative Credentials: Beyond teaching, these credentials support career advancement into administrative or specialized leadership positions and require prior standard licensure.

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

Becoming a certified teacher in North Dakota involves meeting a series of academic standards designed to ensure educators are well-prepared for the classroom. These requirements reflect the state's commitment to quality education and align with the North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board’s guidelines.

Bachelor’s Degree: Candidates must obtain a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university. This degree should include completion of a state-approved teacher education program alongside a teachable major or specialized subject area, a fundamental criterion within North Dakota teacher education requirements.
GPA Threshold: A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 is necessary for both admission to and graduation from an approved teacher preparation program, ensuring that candidates demonstrate sufficient academic competence throughout their studies.
State-Approved Teacher Preparation: Completion of an approved teacher preparation program is mandatory. This program integrates both theoretical and practical elements of teaching, equipping candidates with essential instructional skills either as part of the bachelor’s degree or through a post-baccalaureate pathway.
Relevant Coursework: Programs must include coursework covering pedagogy, instructional methods, educational psychology, and subject-specific teaching strategies. These courses are aligned with North Dakota’s teaching standards and often incorporate training in diversity, classroom management, and special education.
Student Teaching Requirement: Prospective teachers are required to complete a minimum of 10 weeks of supervised, full-time student teaching. This hands-on experience must be related to the candidate’s intended license area and grade level, providing vital classroom exposure.
Alternative Pathways: For candidates pursuing nontraditional routes, such as the American Board program, a clinical experience lasting a full academic year may be required. This allows new teachers to gain practical classroom experience while under ongoing evaluation and mentorship.

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What tests are required for teacher certification in North Dakota?

To become a certified teacher in North Dakota, you have to pass a series of standardized tests designed to verify essential skills and subject knowledge. These assessments are mandated by the North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB) to ensure educators are well-prepared to meet classroom demands.

Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators: This set includes three tests covering reading, writing, and mathematics, which evaluate fundamental academic abilities. All teacher candidates must pass these exams, often taken before or during their teacher preparation program.
Praxis Subject Assessments (Praxis II): Candidates must pass at least one subject-specific test aligned with their intended teaching area, such as math, English, or science. These assessments confirm mastery of the content knowledge needed for effective instruction at various grade levels, with passing scores determined by the ESPB.
Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): Required for secondary licensure applicants, this exam focuses on instructional strategies, classroom management, and student development relevant to Grades 7–12. Notably, special education candidates are exempt from the PLT requirement in North Dakota.
Test Score Submission: Candidates are responsible for uploading their official test scores to their licensure applications, as the ESPB does not automatically receive results from testing agencies.

To put these requirements into perspective, the image below shows how many certified teachers are currently employed across the United States.

How many certified teachers are there in the US?

What are the best certification programs in North Dakota?

For those pursuing the traditional route to teaching certification in North Dakota, selecting a state-approved educator preparation program is essential. These programs typically require completing a bachelor’s degree with an embedded teacher preparation curriculum, student teaching experiences, and passing state certification exams. And while there are alternative teacher certification paths here, traditional programs remain the foundation for thorough preparation and licensure.

University of North Dakota (UND) – Teacher Education Program: Recognized as one of the largest and most established programs, UND delivers a comprehensive curriculum with various specialization options. It emphasizes rigorous coursework and extensive student teaching placements across North Dakota, aligning with standards set by the Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB).
North Dakota State University (NDSU) – School of Education: Renowned for integrating research-driven instructional strategies with practical classroom experience, NDSU’s program stresses early and ongoing fieldwork. Strong collaborations with local school districts support graduates in securing teaching roles.
Minot State University – Teacher Education and Human Performance: This program is notable for its supportive faculty and focus on both rural and urban education needs. It aligns closely with ESPB criteria and prepares candidates for the Initial In-State License, boasting high certification exam pass rates.
Mayville State University – Division of Education: Mayville State emphasizes foundational teaching skills and classroom management, offering personalized instruction. Its curriculum spans PreK-12 and meets all requirements for traditional certification with a strong record of placing graduates in North Dakota schools.

Professionals exploring North Dakota teacher programs for career changers should note that these traditional pathways remain highly respected for their solid preparation and licensure success. For those interested in advanced degrees related to education, options among the cheapest EdD programs may provide further career development opportunities.

Are there alternative routes to teacher certification in North Dakota?

For those interested in entering the teaching profession in North Dakota without following the traditional route of an education degree, several alternative certification pathways exist. These options accommodate individuals such as career changers or those holding subject-matter expertise but lacking formal teacher preparation.

Below is an overview of the main alternative routes and their typical requirements:

Graduate-Level Teacher Preparation Programs: Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in the subject they intend to teach and enroll in a two-year graduate program, which results in a graduate certificate or master’s degree. Often, securing an employment offer from a public North Dakota school is a prerequisite for applying for licensure through this pathway.
Alternate Access License: Designed for those without a teaching degree but with a bachelor’s in a subject experiencing teacher shortages. This license requires a school administrator’s request due to lack of qualified candidates, completion of an online application, and ongoing progress toward a teaching degree. The license is renewable annually for up to three years contingent on satisfactory program progress.
American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE): This online, self-paced program suits career changers by allowing flexible study. Candidates must pass content and professional knowledge exams and complete a year-long mentored clinical experience as the teacher of record. Successful completion leads to a five-year renewable certificate.

Alternative teacher certification pathways in North Dakota are designed to address teacher shortages while supporting working professionals. Overseen by the Education Standards and Practices Board, these programs maintain compliance with state standards and offer flexibility through features like online coursework and self-paced learning.

One North Dakota teacher who transitioned careers through an alternative route shared that although balancing a full-time job and training was difficult, the program’s design made the journey manageable. He found the clinical placement demanding but essential, stating, “It wasn’t easy managing everything, but knowing the program was designed to support someone like me made a huge difference.”

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

Costs for obtaining a teaching certification in North Dakota vary depending on the pathway chosen and the type of program. For those pursuing certification through a traditional undergraduate route, tuition at public universities typically ranges from $8,000 to $11,000 per year for in-state students. Out-of-state tuition may be higher, so prospective teachers should carefully evaluate their residency status and institution choice.

Graduate and certificate programs offer alternative routes for those who already hold a bachelor’s degree. For example, the University of North Dakota charges about $370 to $380 per credit for its graduate certificate programs, including the Para-to-Teacher program, which offers up to $20,000 in scholarship aid. Alternative certification programs generally have comparable costs to these graduate-level options but can differ by institution and specific program design.

Additional required expenses often include application and licensing fees, with the initial teaching license application costing $30 and the substitute license application around $80 for two years. Praxis exam fees, which candidates must pass to qualify, typically range from $90 to $150 per test. Fingerprinting and background checks are also mandatory and usually cost between $44 and $50.

License renewal fees apply after the initial two-year period, and renewal may require continuing education credits, which can increase overall expenses. Students should also budget for materials such as textbooks and technology, which can add $500 to $1,000 annually depending on course requirements.

Financial aid options in North Dakota include scholarships, grants, and federal loan forgiveness programs, particularly for those willing to teach in high-need or rural areas. The state’s Para-to-Teacher program is a notable example providing substantial scholarship support. Prospective teachers may also consider exploring the most affordable online library science masters degrees and similar programs to supplement their credentials in cost-effective ways.

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

When considering the timeline for earning your teacher certification in North Dakota, these are the things you need to note:

Traditional Bachelor’s Degree Pathway: Completing a state-approved bachelor’s degree in education typically requires four years of full-time study. This includes all required coursework and a 10-week full-time supervised student teaching placement, usually completed in the final undergraduate year. This hands-on experience is essential before applying for licensure.
Post-Baccalaureate Certification: For those holding a bachelor’s degree in another field, post-baccalaureate teacher preparation programs generally take one to two years. The duration depends on prerequisites, part- or full-time enrollment, and any transferable credits from previous studies, which can shorten this timeline.
Alternative Certification Programs: North Dakota offers self-paced options like the American Board certification. Candidates complete online coursework and exams at their own pace, often finishing within one to two years. This route includes a year-long clinical experience as the teacher of record, replacing traditional student teaching.
Exam Preparation: All pathways require passing Praxis Core Academic Skills and Subject Assessments. Candidates usually spend a few months preparing for these exams, either before or after coursework completion.
Factors Influencing Timeline: Accelerated programs can reduce total time, while part-time study or balancing work responsibilities may extend it. Transfer credits and prior teaching experience may shorten the process. Conversely, remedial coursework, breaks, or retaking exams can cause delays.

To better understand the range of qualifications teachers bring into North Dakota classrooms, refer to the chart below showing the different types of certifications currently held by educators.

How can you pursue subject-specific teacher certifications in North Dakota?

Educators seeking to deepen their expertise in a particular subject can opt for specialized certification tracks that complement the core licensure process. These programs typically involve additional coursework, discipline-focused assessments, and practical experiences that sharpen subject-specific teaching skills. For example, pathways exist for those aiming to advance their proficiency in music education, as detailed in our guide on how to become a music teacher in North Dakota. Such certifications not only enhance classroom effectiveness but also broaden career opportunities within niche educational areas.

How do you renew North Dakota teaching certification?

Renewing a teaching certification in North Dakota involves several steps and requirements that vary depending on the type of license held. The process is designed to ensure teachers remain current in their professional knowledge and comply with state standards.

Below is an outline that clarifies the renewal requirements, documentation, and procedures.

Standard Renewal Cycle: Regular professional licenses must be renewed every five years, with six semester hours of education-related college coursework required within each cycle from a regionally accredited institution.
Two-Year License Renewal: Teachers holding a two-year license—typically those early in their careers—may renew up to three times without additional coursework; thereafter, eight semester hours of re-education credits are needed if a teaching contract is signed.
Probationary and Re-entry Licenses: Probationary licenses require eight semester hours of graduate credit for renewal, while Re-entry Licenses demand either four or eight graduate credits depending on the contract length, or none if no contract is signed.
Transcript Requirements: Documentation of continuing education credits must be submitted as official transcripts and verified through a regionally accredited college or university.
Online Renewal Process: The renewal application process is conducted online via the ND Teach portal, where educators log into their account, select "Renew License," and upload necessary transcripts or documents as requested.
License Renewal Fees: Renewal fees vary by license type and are paid through the online system during application submission.
Background Check Requirements: Background checks may be required for some applicants, particularly those returning after a lapse in licensure.
Lapsed License Reinstatement: If a license lapses for over five years, the teacher must apply for re-entry and complete at least four semester hours of professional development credit within the past five years before regaining eligibility.

Applicants interested in advancing their qualifications may also consider EdD programs online to fulfill education-related requirements efficiently. It is advisable to consult the North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board for the most current policies, as these requirements can evolve.

Is teacher certification in North Dakota transferable to other states?

Teachers holding certification from North Dakota have the opportunity to transfer their credentials to many other states through established reciprocity agreements. North Dakota is part of the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which facilitates licensure mobility among numerous states including Minnesota, Montana, South Dakota, and Texas. However, this transfer is not automatic or unconditional. Most states issue a temporary or provisional license initially, allowing educators to teach while they fulfill any additional requirements imposed by the receiving state.

Common extra steps often involve passing state-specific exams, completing supplementary coursework, or undergoing a new background check. For instance, teachers relocating to states like California or New York may need to demonstrate competency through specialized content or pedagogy tests, even though their North Dakota certification is acknowledged under reciprocity. Additionally, most states require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree and completion of a state-approved teacher preparation program.

Because requirements can vary widely, it is essential for teachers to research the destination state’s licensure board early, maintain thorough documentation of their credentials, transcripts, and test results, and clarify provisional licensing options and timelines.

When discussing this topic with a teacher certified in North Dakota, she reflected on her own experience navigating certification transfer. “I knew my North Dakota license was recognized in several states, but I didn’t realize how many extra steps I would face,” she explained. “Applying for the provisional license helped me start teaching right away, but passing the new state’s pedagogy exam was challenging and time-consuming.”

She also emphasized the importance of early preparation and staying organized, noting, “Keeping all my records accessible made the process smoother, though the uncertainty at first was stressful.” Her journey highlights both the opportunities and complexities inherent in transferring teacher certification across state lines.

Where do certified teachers prefer to work?

What are the benefits of having a teacher certification in North Dakota?

Obtaining a teacher certification in North Dakota provides multiple advantages that can significantly influence your professional path and effectiveness as an educator. Certification not only fulfills state licensing requirements for teaching in public schools, charter schools, and specialized programs but also offers several practical and financial benefits.

Below are key reasons why earning this credential can be a valuable step in your teaching career:

Broader Employment Opportunities: Certified teachers meet the state’s standards, making them eligible for a wider range of teaching positions across various districts and educational settings.
Enhanced Job Stability: Licensure under North Dakota’s Education Standards and Practices Board promotes adherence to professional standards and supports long-term employment through renewal and continuing education mandates.
Access to Higher Pay and Leadership Roles: Advanced certifications like National Board Certification can lead to salary increases and leadership positions, including department head or curriculum coordinator roles. North Dakota awards a $1,000 annual stipend to National Board Certified Teachers, funded by federal and state sources.
State-Specific Incentives: Participation in the Federal Teacher Cancellation Low Income Loan Forgiveness program helps reduce student debt for certified teachers working in eligible schools, with some districts also providing local financial incentives.
Retirement Benefits: Certified educators gain access to the Teachers’ Fund for Retirement, offering a pension that can replace up to 70% of their final salary, supporting financial security post-retirement.
Ongoing Professional Growth: Certification requires continuous professional development, helping teachers stay current with educational best practices and curriculum updates.
Improved Teaching Effectiveness: Certification processes emphasize classroom management and instructional skills, which contribute to better student engagement and academic results.

What is the teacher job outlook in North Dakota?

North Dakota’s education sector exhibits stable growth, supported by consistent retirements, rural teacher shortages, and targeted initiatives aimed at enhancing instructional quality. Data-backed workforce trends indicate that newly certified educators are entering a competitive job market with district-specific incentives, competitive starting salaries, and opportunities for accelerated career advancement. Proactive engagement in cost-saving certification routes, such as the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in North Dakota, can further streamline entry into these dynamic opportunities. Regular review of local labor market data and district forecasts is recommended to identify emerging trends and long-term career prospects.

What Teachers in North Dakota Say About Their Certification

Obtaining my teaching certification in North Dakota has truly transformed my career. The flexibility offered by many school districts here allows me to balance work and family life seamlessly, while the average salaries are competitive enough to provide financial stability. I feel valued and motivated every day. Tamara
After becoming certified in North Dakota, I discovered numerous opportunities for advancement that I hadn’t anticipated. From leadership roles to curriculum development positions, the state supports growth and encourages teachers to expand their impact. This journey has deepened my passion for education. Nate
The professional development programs available for certified teachers in North Dakota are outstanding. Regular workshops and training sessions keep me updated with the latest teaching strategies and technology, which enhances my effectiveness in the classroom. It’s rewarding to see continuous growth in my skills and confidence. Vera

Other Things You Should Know About Teacher Certification in North Dakota

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

In North Dakota, it is possible to obtain teacher certification without holding a traditional teaching degree. The North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board offers alternative routes for candidates with non-teaching bachelor's degrees, provided they complete an approved teacher preparation program and pass required assessments such as the Praxis exams. These pathways address the state's demand for qualified teachers, especially in high-need subject areas.

Candidates must also fulfill background checks and complete a minimum number of student teaching hours. This flexibility allows career changers and graduates from other fields to enter the teaching profession while meeting state standards for certification and classroom readiness.

Is there an age limit for teacher certification in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, there is no maximum age limit for obtaining a teaching certification. The North Dakota Department of Public Instruction focuses on meeting educational and testing requirements rather than age restrictions. Candidates must complete an approved educator preparation program, pass relevant exams, and fulfill background checks, regardless of their age.

This inclusive approach allows career changers, recent graduates, and individuals returning to the workforce to pursue certification without age-related barriers. According to state labor data, the demand for qualified teachers remains steady, making North Dakota’s certification process accessible to a diverse range of applicants across different life stages.

Can I teach while earning my certification in North Dakota?

In North Dakota, prospective teachers can work in the classroom while completing their certification requirements through options like provisional or intern licenses. These credentials allow candidates to gain practical teaching experience under the supervision of a licensed mentor teacher, providing valuable hands-on learning while fulfilling state guidelines.

This approach supports those pursuing certification by enabling them to earn a salary and develop classroom skills simultaneously, making the path to full certification more accessible and practical.

Does North Dakota accept international teaching credentials?

North Dakota accepts international teaching credentials, but educators must first have their foreign qualifications evaluated by an approved credential evaluation agency to ensure they meet U.S. and state standards. Applicants are also required to demonstrate English language proficiency, typically through exams like the TOEFL or IELTS, and may need to complete additional coursework or assessments to align with state requirements.

The North Dakota Department of Public Instruction (NDDPI) oversees the certification process and provides guidance to international candidates on documentation and next steps, offering a pathway for qualified teachers to work in the state’s public schools.

References:

All Education Schools. (n.d.). Learn How to Earn Your Teacher Certification in North Dakota. alleducationschools.com.
American Board. (n.d.). North Dakota Teacher Certification. americanboard.org.
McPherson, L. (n.d.). North Dakota Alternative Teacher Certification Process and Programs. Teacher Certification Degrees.
North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board. (n.d.). Alternate Access License. NDESPB.
Teach.com. (n.d.). Become a Teacher in North Dakota. teach.com.
Teacher Certification. (n.d.). How to Become a Teacher in North Dakota. teachercertification.com.