Testing Requirements

Initially licensed educators are required to ATTEMPT State required test(s) during the first year of licensure and PASS required tests by the end of the third year of licensure. If all State required tests are not passed by the third year of the initial license, the license can not be converted to a continuing license. Also, if State required testing does not occur as directed, the initial license will expire and can't be reissued until all State required testing is completed.

The Praxis Series tests are still used for all licensure areas with the exception of Elementary Education and Special Education. Go to the Praxis Website for required testing for NC educators and test prep materials as well as to register. Elementary Education and Special Education require the Pearson Reading test and also the math subtest for those that wish to take that instead of the Praxis math test. Go to the Pearson Website for required testing for NC educators and test prep materials as well as to register.

Employed educator's seeking to add an area to their teaching license should contact the Certified Licensure Specialist that is assigned to their location. Adding an area requires a $60 licensure application processing fee. This fee must be paid by credit card (MasterCard or VISA). Educator's not employed by a N.C. school system, must make an application through the NCDPI Online Licensure System along with an uploaded copy of their test scores and the licensure processing fee.

Click on the link below to view the State Board Policy on testing requirements. The Policy includes the tests required for each licensure area as well as the scores required.

State Board Licensure Testing Requirements Policy