You’ve worked hard, completed every step and passed every examination to earn your teaching license. The Texas Education Agency will not mail this to you, so the next step is learning how to get a copy of your teaching certificate.

This article covers everything you need to know, including:

  • Why you need a copy of your certificate
  • How to get a copy of your certificate
  • Teacher license expiration dates
  • Teacher certification renewal
  • How to earn your teaching certificate

Why do I need a copy of my teaching certificate?

A teaching certificate demonstrates your credentials as an educator. It is proof that you have the necessary experience, expertise and determination to work in a classroom.

Seeing your certificate makes all the hard work and time put into becoming a teacher worthwhile. This is the pass you need to start your dream job. 

When applying for a teaching position, it’s important that you have a copy of your educator certificate in hand as they may ask for documented proof of your right to teach. Fortunately, once you’re qualified, it’s very easy to access your official certificate.

How to get a copy of my teaching certificate

If you’ve already obtained your alternative teaching license and want to see your certificate, follow these five simple steps:

  1. Access your Texas Education Agency Login (TEAL)
  2. Select “Access Applications” in the left-hand menu
  3. Click “View My Educator Certification Account” 
  4. Check your profile information and, if everything is still correct, press “Continue”
  5. Select “View Certificates”

From here, you can download or print your certificate, ready to hang proudly on your office wall or bring to a job interview.

Do teaching licenses have an expiration date?

Teaching certification expires after five years. Find out how to renew a standard certificate below.

Texas teacher certification renewal

If your certificate expires, you can only renew it if you have completed a minimum of 150 CPE hours. Those of you with an admin and/or student services certificate must complete 200 hours. 

CPE activities include workshops, conferences, coursework, staff development, distance learning and more. Find out who can offer CPE hours by checking TEA’s approved provider list.

As per CPE requirements, if you fail to renew your license after its expiration, it will be set to “inactive”. However, you’ll be reminded to renew six months before the expiration date.

How to renew your Texas teaching certificate in four simple steps:

  1. Login to your TEAL account
  2. Click “View my Educator Certification Account” and login to your Educator Certification Online System profile
  3. Select “Applications” in the left menu and press “Renew a Standard Certificate”
  4. Follow the instructions

Renewing your certificate on time costs $22. Renewals that occur within the first six months cost $32. After six months, this will cost $42. 

For more information and guidance on Texas teacher certification renewal, we recommend reading TEA’s FAQ section.

How to obtain teacher certification in Texas

Not yet earned your teaching certificate? Don’t worry – we have plenty of guides and information to aid your professional development.

How to obtain teacher certification in Texas

Not yet earned your teaching certificate? Don’t worry – we have plenty of guides and information to aid your professional development.

Ready to start the journey to becoming a certified teacher in Texas? Learn all about the Teachworthy process and apply today!