How to Become a Teacher in Arizona: Teacher Certification

These are the usual steps a person interested in teaching might take to become certified to teach in the state of Arizona. Please check with your state to make sure you have the most up-to-date information about the certification process.

For more information on teaching salaries in Arizona, see here.

Traditional Approach for the Arizona Teacher Certification

1. You must have a bachelor's degree or higher to receive the Arizona Teacher Certification. It is recommended to earn your master’s degree as well.
2. Teacher Preparations: This will include teacher prep courses, student teaching, and other types of internships.
3. Complete the Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessments (AEPA).
4. Submit the following:
   • Completed Application
   • $60 check payable to Arizona State Department of Education
   • Official Transcripts of all degrees and credits you have earned
   • Fingerprint card
   • Copies of your AEPA test scores (Verify scores by emailing: certification@ade.az.gov)
   • Mail To:
     Arizona Department of Education – Certification Unit
     P.O. Box 6490
     Phoenix, AZ 85005-6490
     (602) 542-5393
5. Do you want to renew your Arizona Teacher Certification?
   • Apply for your renewal

Alternative Approach for the Arizona Teacher Certification

1. You must have a bachelor's degree or higher to receive the Arizona Teacher Certification. It is recommended to earn your master’s degree as well.
2. Complete the Request Form for Emergency Teacher Certification and have it signed by your employing school district’s superintendent. The school can provide you with this form.
3. Submit the following:
   • Completed Application (http://www.azed.gov/educator-certification/certforms.asp)
   • $60 check payable to Arizona State Department of Education
   • Official Transcripts of all degrees and credits you have earned
   • Fingerprint clearance card
   • Hand the form to the employing school district and you're all done!

Sources:

1. Arizona Educator Proficiency Assessments, http://www.aepa.nesinc.com/
2. Educator Certification, Arizona Department of Education, http://www.azed.gov/educator-certification/certforms.asp
3. Forms and Information, Arizona Department of Education, http://www.azed.gov/educator-certification/forms-and-information/