Teacher Certification Types & Requirements in Virginia for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Virginia, known for its strong focus on academic excellence and educator development, offers a well-structured certification process to prepare teachers for success in a variety of classroom settings.

This guide outlines the main types of teacher certifications available, the steps required to earn licensure, and the key requirements for both in-state and out-of-state applicants. Whether you're pursuing your first license or seeking advanced credentials, understanding Virginia’s certification pathway is essential to starting or advancing your teaching career in the Commonwealth.

Key Points About Teacher Certification Types and Requirements in Virginia

Virginia offers several certification types including initial, professional, and specialty certificates tailored to diverse teaching roles and experience levels.
The job outlook for certified teachers in Virginia remains positive, driven by steady demand in urban and rural districts alike.
With an average salary of around $66,404 and strong professional support, Virginia is an excellent state to launch and grow a teaching career.

What are the different types of teaching certifications in Virginia?
What are the education requirements to become a certified teacher in Virginia?
What tests are required for teacher certification in Virginia?
What are the best certification programs in Virginia?
Are there alternative routes to teacher certification in Virginia?
How much does it cost to get a teaching certification in Virginia?
How long does it take to get certified as a teacher in Virginia?
What is the most cost-effective approach to teacher certification in Virginia?
How can I pursue specialized certification for music education in Virginia?
How do you renew Virginia teaching certification?
Is teacher certification in Virginia transferable to other states?
What are the benefits of having a teacher certification in Virginia?
Other Things You Need to Know About Teacher Certification Types and Requirements in Virginia

What are the different types of teaching certifications in Virginia?

If you’re planning to teach in Virginia, it’s important to understand the different types of teaching certification available. Each license or permit is designed for specific qualifications and career stages—whether you’re a new graduate, switching careers, or already an experienced educator.

These certification categories help ensure that teachers meet the state’s standards based on their education and experience, making it easier to choose the right path and move forward in your teaching career.

Provisional License: Designed for individuals who have not yet met all licensure requirements but wish to begin teaching in Virginia public schools; typically issued for three years and non-renewable, this license suits career changers and recent graduates entering through alternative pathways.
Collegiate Professional License: A 10-year renewable license for educators who have completed all required teacher preparation coursework and assessments, primarily for those entering the profession with a bachelor’s degree.
Postgraduate Professional License: Also valid for 10 years and renewable, this license is for those who already qualify for the Collegiate Professional License and have earned a graduate degree, often pursued for career advancement or leadership roles.
Technical Professional License: Intended for candidates with extensive occupational experience in technical fields who may not have completed traditional preparation but have demonstrated expertise and completed specific professional studies; renewable every 10 years.
Emergency or Substitute Permits: Allow temporary teaching during critical staffing shortages or when licensed teachers are unavailable; commonly granted to substitute teachers or for short-term instructional needs.
Alternative Route Certification: Enables entry into the classroom for those without traditional preparation programs, often starting with a Provisional License, ideal for career changers with subject-matter expertise.
Subject-Specific or Special Education Endorsements: Added to standard licenses to authorize teaching in particular content areas or special populations, crucial for specialized student groups.
Advanced Professional Licenses: For educators with significant experience and advanced credentials, such as graduate degrees or National Board Certification, recognizing expertise and qualifying holders for leadership roles beyond classroom instruction.

For those exploring options beyond traditional classroom roles, it’s worth considering what can I do with an education degree that isn't teaching, which opens up additional career pathways leveraging your certification and skills.

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

Becoming a certified teacher in Virginia involves meeting a series of well-defined education requirements designed to prepare candidates thoroughly for classroom success. These standards reflect the state’s commitment to ensuring that educators possess both a solid academic foundation and practical teaching skills.

To satisfy the education requirements for Virginia teacher certification, candidates must:

Bachelor’s Degree: Obtain at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution that includes completion of a state-approved teacher education program, except for some technical or alternative licenses.
State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program: Complete a program sanctioned by the state which combines coursework in education theory and pedagogy with supervised teaching experiences tailored to the candidate’s intended endorsement area.
Professional Studies Coursework: Finish coursework focused on critical teaching skills such as classroom management, instructional strategies, child development, and educational technology, as required by the Virginia Board of Education.
Student Teaching Experience: Participate in a supervised practicum in a K-12 school, gaining hands-on experience under the mentorship of a licensed teacher—an essential component of traditional certification pathways.
Child Abuse Recognition Training: Successfully complete a Board of Education-approved course on recognizing and intervening in cases of child abuse, fulfilling a state law mandate prior to certification.
CPR and First Aid Certification: Provide proof of current certification in emergency first aid, CPR, and AED use, typically through approved state or district programs.
Additional Statutory Training: Depending on the endorsement, complete further modules such as dyslexia awareness, restraint and seclusion techniques, Virginia history or government, and cultural competency training.

For those considering advancing their expertise beyond initial certification, exploring options like a PhD higher education online can offer valuable opportunities for growth and leadership in the education field. Understanding these accredited teacher preparation programs in Virginia is crucial for anyone aiming to meet the rigorous standards that support effective teaching and student well-being.

The chart below shows the top majors among certified teachers:

What tests are required for teacher certification in Virginia?

Becoming a certified teacher in Virginia involves meeting a series of carefully designed testing requirements that assess both foundational skills and specialized knowledge. These tests ensure that candidates are well-equipped to support student learning effectively and uphold the state’s educational standards. Understanding each exam’s purpose helps prospective educators prepare thoroughly and approach the certification process with confidence.

Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA): This exam evaluates basic reading and writing skills essential for all teachers. Candidates must meet minimum passing scores on both subtests or achieve a combined score to demonstrate strong communication abilities.
Praxis Subject Assessments: These tests focus on subject-specific content knowledge tailored to the endorsement area a candidate seeks, such as mathematics or social studies. Passing scores vary depending on the grade level and subject specialization.
Reading for Virginia Educators (RVE): Required for those pursuing elementary or special education licensure, this assessment measures knowledge of reading instruction and literacy development critical for these teaching roles.
Additional Mandatory Training: Beyond exams, candidates must complete training in areas like Child Abuse Recognition, CPR, AED, Dyslexia Awareness, and Behavior Interventions, demonstrating readiness to handle diverse classroom needs.

What are the best certification programs in Virginia?

Virginia’s traditional teacher certification programs offer a well-established path for individuals with a bachelor’s degree seeking licensure through accredited educator preparation programs. These programs combine rigorous academic coursework with extensive practical experiences, ensuring candidates meet state standards and are ready to enter diverse classrooms across the state.

For those exploring the best teacher certification programs for career switchers in Virginia, understanding these foundational routes provides valuable context.

University of Virginia (UVA) School of Education and Human Development: UVA delivers comprehensive programs that lead directly to licensure, featuring a blend of pedagogical study, professional requirements, and multiple field experiences, including student teaching. State-mandated modules like child abuse awareness and dyslexia training are integral, with some programs offering flexible online options.
Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) School of Education: VCU is recognized for its strong emphasis on research-based instructional methods paired with supervised fieldwork, preparing teachers for Virginia’s diverse urban and suburban classrooms.
James Madison University (JMU) College of Education: JMU’s licensure track highlights both deep content knowledge and reflective practice, supported by extensive field placements and a full semester of student teaching to fulfill Virginia Department of Education requirements.
George Mason University College of Education and Human Development: This program focuses on meeting the unique needs of Virginia’s schools, emphasizing inclusivity and technology integration aligned with state standards.
Old Dominion University (ODU) Darden College of Education & Professional Studies: Offering a mix of on-campus and distance learning, ODU’s state-approved programs equip candidates with essential teaching skills through partnerships with local school divisions.

Graduates of these programs typically qualify for the 10-year renewable Virginia teaching license after passing required assessments and completing statutory training. For those seeking the most affordable elementary education online program options as part of their certification journey, exploring available online pathways can be beneficial. These traditional certification routes demonstrate consistently high employment and retention rates, reflecting their effectiveness in preparing educators for Virginia’s public schools.

The following image shows how many teaching jobs across the U.S. are held by certified teachers, highlighting the impact of formal certification on employment outcomes.

Are there alternative routes to teacher certification in Virginia?

Virginia provides thoughtful alternative routes to teacher certification designed for individuals who have not pursued a traditional education degree but bring valuable professional experience from other fields. These pathways are especially tailored for career changers eager to transition into teaching, offering flexible yet rigorous preparation aligned with state standards.

Key elements of these alternative certification options include:

Career Switcher Alternative Route to Licensure: Requires a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution and at least three years of full-time work experience in another profession.
Completion of Teaching Area Endorsement Requirements: This can be fulfilled through academic coursework or verifiable professional experience related to the subject area.
Successful Attainment of Qualifying Scores: Meeting the required scores on professional teacher assessments mandated by the Virginia Board of Education.
Program Structure: Typically delivered in a two-phase model—Phase I focuses on online coursework, classroom observation, and teaching methods, leading to eligibility for a one-year provisional license; Phase II involves securing a full-time teaching position while completing ongoing seminars and field experiences, culminating in a 10-year renewable license.
Additional Prerequisites: This includes submission of official transcripts, meeting a minimum undergraduate GPA (often 2.5 on a 4.0 scale), passing relevant Praxis exams, professional references, and completion of required VDOE training modules such as child abuse prevention and CPR certification.
Limitations: The Career Switcher route primarily targets middle and high school teaching (grades 6–12) and does not cover elementary education, special education, or add-on endorsements.

When I spoke with a Virginia-certified teacher who pursued this alternative path, he reflected on the journey with a blend of challenge and fulfillment. “At first, I wasn’t sure if my years in corporate management would count toward teaching,” he said. Navigating the dual phases tested his resolve—balancing online coursework with securing a teaching position was daunting.

He also described the provisional license phase as a critical period of growth, where the support from seminars and coaching was invaluable. “It wasn’t just about passing tests; it was about becoming a confident educator,” he explained. The structured yet flexible nature of the program allowed him to transition smoothly, turning previous professional skills into classroom strengths. His experience underscores that alternative certification in Virginia is not just a pathway but a thoughtful transformation for career changers willing to embrace a new calling.

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

Understanding the cost of teacher certification in Virginia involves considering several components beyond just tuition. For those pursuing a traditional path, undergraduate teacher preparation programs at public universities typically range from $10,000 to $15,000 per year for in-state students. Private institutions can be significantly more expensive, often charging between $20,000 and $35,000 annually.

Graduate programs, designed for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree, generally cost between $12,000 and $25,000 in public universities, with private options frequently exceeding $30,000. These figures represent a significant investment, so it’s important to weigh options carefully when planning for the cost of teacher certification in Virginia.

Alternative certification programs provide a more affordable and flexible route. For example, CAEP-accredited programs like iteach charge a $99 or $250 enrollment fee depending on payment plans, with a total program cost around $3,050. These programs typically include online coursework but do not cover state-mandated exam or fingerprinting fees, so candidates should budget for those separately.

Additional expenses include exam fees, such as the Praxis II Subject Tests which cost about $170 for elementary education, and the Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA), which ranges from $40 to $80 per test component. Background checks and fingerprinting fees usually fall between $50 and $100. The state charges a licensure application fee of $100 for in-state applicants, and renewing the five-year license requires a similar fee. Materials and test preparation resources can also add to costs, ranging from free online tools to paid courses costing several hundred dollars.

Virginia offers various forms of financial aid, scholarships, and loan forgiveness programs designed to alleviate some of these expenses for prospective teachers. Many state and federal initiatives support candidates, including merit- and need-based assistance, as well as federal programs such as Teacher Loan Forgiveness and TEACH Grants.

Prospective teachers might also explore related graduate options like a masters in library science to expand their educational credentials and career possibilities.

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

Understanding the timeline for earning teaching certification in Virginia is essential for planning your educational journey effectively. The duration varies significantly based on the pathway chosen and individual circumstances. Here are key insights into typical timelines and requirements:

Traditional Bachelor’s Degree Pathway: Completing a bachelor’s degree in education from an approved Educator Preparation Program generally takes about four years of full-time study. This includes coursework, field experiences, and a semester of student teaching.
Post-Baccalaureate or Master’s Certification: If you already hold a bachelor’s degree, pursuing certification through post-baccalaureate or master’s programs typically requires 12 to 24 months. Institutions like James Madison University and UVA offer streamlined options that accommodate full- or part-time attendance.
Alternative and Accelerated Programs: Designed for career changers or those seeking a faster route, some alternative certification programs—often online—can be completed in as little as 9 to 12 months. For example, the TEACH-NOW program, although not Virginia-specific, demonstrates how clinical teaching can be integrated within a nine-month timeframe.
Student Teaching or Internship: Across all routes, a supervised student teaching experience is required, usually lasting a full semester (about 15–16 weeks). Some alternative pathways may require a full academic year of supervised teaching.
Exam Preparation & Assessments: Passing the Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA) and Praxis II Subject Assessment is mandatory. Preparing for these exams can add several months depending on your background and scheduling.
Application and Licensure Processing: After fulfilling all requirements, application review by the Virginia Department of Education typically takes 2–4 weeks, though delays may occur during peak times.
Factors Impacting Timeline: Part-time study naturally extends program length, while transfer credits can shorten it. Accelerated programs and summer-intensive options also offer faster completion. Additionally, out-of-state teachers with experience may qualify for license reciprocity, potentially reducing requirements.

What is the most cost-effective approach to teacher certification in Virginia?

For budget-conscious educators, evaluating alternative certification pathways and financial support options is crucial. Several accredited programs offer online coursework and flexible enrollment plans, which may reduce ancillary costs typically associated with traditional routes. In addition, targeted financial aid, employer tuition reimbursement, and state-supported scholarships can significantly offset tuition, exam fees, and other related expenses. Prospective teachers are encouraged to explore opportunities that align academic integrity with financial efficiency; for instance, reviewing the cheapest way to get a teaching credential in Virginia can provide valuable guidance.

How can I pursue specialized certification for music education in Virginia?

Virginia offers tailored certification pathways for educators aiming to specialize in music, incorporating focused coursework in music pedagogy, performance skills, and curriculum design. These specialty programs are structured to address the unique challenges of music classrooms, ensuring candidates develop both artistic and instructional expertise. For detailed guidance on pursuing this focused track, refer to our guide on how to become a music teacher in Virginia.

How do you renew Virginia teaching certification?

Renewing a teaching certification in Virginia involves a structured process designed to ensure educators remain current with professional standards and instructional best practices. Understanding the specific requirements and steps can make the renewal smoother and help maintain continuous eligibility to teach within the state.

Below is an outline of the key components involved in Virginia teaching license renewal requirements, offering clear guidance for educators navigating this essential process.

License Duration: Most Virginia teaching licenses, including the Postgraduate Professional and Technical Professional licenses, must be renewed every ten years.
PD Requirements for 10-Year Licenses: To renew a ten-year renewable license, educators must complete 270 professional development points through sustained and quality activities aligned with an individualized professional development plan.
PD Requirements for 5-Year Licenses: Holders of the five-year renewable licenses (being phased out) need 180 professional development points, after which their license converts to the ten-year renewable type.
Mandatory Statutory Training: All statutory renewal requirements mandated by the Virginia Board of Education, including any required trainings or certifications, must be fulfilled within each renewal cycle.
Approval and Reciprocity: Professional development activities require pre-approval by the chief executive officer or designee of the employing Virginia educational agency, with reciprocity recognized for points earned across agencies.
Online Application Process: Renewal applications must be submitted using the Virginia Department of Education’s online licensure portal or educator account system, where teachers also track their renewal status.
Documentation Requirements: Documentation proving completion of required professional development points and statutory mandates must accompany the renewal application.
Renewal Fees: Applicants must pay the applicable renewal fee as specified by the Department of Education, with amounts accessible via official resources.
Background Check Updates: Some renewals may require updated background checks, particularly after employment gaps or service lapses.
Reinstatement After Lapse: If a certification lapses, the individual cannot teach in Virginia public schools until reinstated, which involves fulfilling all missed renewal requirements, submitting documentation, and paying reinstatement fees.

For educators considering their future career path, understanding how to renew a teaching certificate in Virginia is vital. Additionally, those exploring further qualifications may find it valuable to research if an is online masters degree in education worth it, which can contribute to professional growth and meet some renewal criteria.

To better understand how your educational investment may pay off, see the chart below showing differences in average salary based on certified teachers’ educational attainment.

Is teacher certification in Virginia transferable to other states?

Teacher certification in Virginia can often be transferred to other states through reciprocity agreements. Virginia participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which includes more than 40 states such as California, Texas, New York, Florida, and North Carolina. While these agreements simplify the process, they do not guarantee automatic licensure—each state still enforces its own certification requirements.

In most cases, reciprocity means that while a Virginia license is recognized, educators must meet additional criteria such as background checks, state-specific exams, or mandated training in areas like child abuse prevention or emergency care. Many states offer temporary or provisional licenses, allowing teachers to begin working while they fulfill remaining obligations.

Educators planning to move should research the destination state’s requirements and gather documents like transcripts, test scores, and verification of teaching experience.

One Virginia-certified teacher described her relocation experience as both encouraging and demanding. “Knowing my Virginia certification was recognized was reassuring,” she said, “but I quickly realized I needed to navigate extra exams and training I hadn’t anticipated.” She valued the temporary license that let her start teaching right away but found the paperwork and shifting standards challenging. Her story highlights the need for patience, persistence, and preparation when transferring credentials across state lines.

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

Obtaining a teaching certification in Virginia offers numerous advantages that can profoundly enhance your professional journey and classroom impact. Beyond meeting employment requirements, certification unlocks a variety of benefits that support career growth, financial well-being, and effective teaching.

Below are key reasons why earning this credential is a wise investment for aspiring and current educators in the state:

Broadened Employment Options: Certification is essential for teaching roles in Virginia’s public schools, charter schools, and specialized education programs, expanding your eligibility across diverse educational settings.
Enhanced Job Stability: Certified teachers benefit from greater job security supported by statewide educator shortages and protections like tenure, making the profession a more reliable long-term career choice.
Increased Earnings and Leadership Roles: Holding certification positions teachers for higher salary tiers, with planned state raises on the horizon, and opens pathways to leadership opportunities such as department chairs or instructional coaches, often accompanied by additional compensation.
Access to State and Federal Incentives: Virginia provides scholarships for candidates in critical shortage areas and participates in loan forgiveness programs for educators serving low-income communities, easing financial burdens associated with teacher preparation.
Comprehensive Benefits: Certified teachers gain eligibility for extensive health coverage and retirement plans through the Virginia Retirement System, offering both immediate and long-term financial security.
Professional Growth and Skill Development: Certification involves rigorous training that strengthens classroom management and instructional techniques, while also granting access to ongoing development and endorsements that refine teaching expertise.
Improved Student Outcomes: With evidence-based training, certified educators are better equipped to address diverse student needs and foster positive academic achievement across Virginia’s classrooms.

To further illustrate the value of professional credentials, the following image highlights how many teachers across the U.S. have earned National Board Certification.

What Teachers in Virginia Say About Their Certification

Getting my teaching certification in Virginia has truly transformed my career. The flexibility to teach in various school districts across the state allows me to balance work and family life seamlessly. Plus, the average salaries here are competitive, which makes all the effort worthwhile. – Lily
Having a Virginia teaching certification opened doors I hadn’t imagined before. The opportunities for advancement, from lead teacher roles to administrative positions, have given me a clear career path. It’s rewarding to know that my professional growth is supported and valued. – Lyca
The professional development programs available in Virginia for certified teachers are outstanding. They not only enhance my skills but also keep me passionate and engaged in my work. It’s inspiring to be part of a community that prioritizes continuous learning. – Rheanne

Other Things You Need to Know About Teacher Certification Types and Requirements in Virginia

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

In Virginia, individuals holding a non-teaching bachelor’s degree can obtain teacher certification through alternative routes approved by the Virginia Department of Education. These pathways typically involve completing a state-approved teacher preparation program, passing required licensure exams such as the Praxis assessments, and fulfilling supervised classroom experience.

The Alternative Route to Licensure program is designed specifically for career changers or degree holders outside education, allowing them to earn a provisional license while completing necessary pedagogical training. This approach addresses teacher shortages and expands access, reflecting Virginia’s commitment to diversifying the educator workforce and maintaining rigorous certification standards.

Is there an age limit for teacher certification in Virginia?

There is no age limit for obtaining teaching certification in Virginia. The Virginia Department of Education does not impose any maximum or minimum age restrictions on candidates seeking initial licensure. This inclusive approach allows individuals at various stages of life—whether recent graduates, mid-career changers, or retirees—to pursue a teaching career.

Candidates must meet all educational and testing requirements, including a bachelor’s degree and passing scores on required exams, regardless of age. This policy supports workforce diversity and addresses teacher shortages by enabling qualified applicants of any age to enter the profession in Virginia’s public schools.

Can I teach while earning my certification in Virginia?

In Virginia, prospective teachers can often teach while earning their certification by obtaining a provisional or intern license, which allows them to work in a classroom under the supervision of an experienced mentor teacher. These pathways, including alternative certification programs, enable candidates to gain practical teaching experience while completing state requirements, providing a valuable opportunity to develop skills on the job. This approach supports candidates in transitioning smoothly into full certification and teaching roles, making it feasible to balance work and certification progress simultaneously.

Does Virginia accept international teaching credentials?

Yes, Virginia accepts international teaching credentials, but applicants must undergo a thorough evaluation to ensure their qualifications meet state standards. This includes having academic and professional records reviewed by an approved credential evaluation agency, demonstrating English language proficiency (typically via TOEFL or IELTS unless exempt), and possibly completing additional coursework or passing required licensure exams like the Praxis.

The Virginia Department of Education provides guidance on documentation and steps, making the state a promising option for internationally trained teachers—particularly in high-demand subject areas.