These Texas Certification Tests are About to Expire

A handful of Texas certification tests will soon be discontinued. 

If you’re currently working toward taking one of these exams, or you’re considering pursuing your Texas teaching license, it’s important to stay on top of updates that could impact your path toward certification.

Texas Certification Test Deadlines

To become licensed to teach in Texas, you must pass a certification test in the area and grade level you wish to teach. The Texas Education Agency maintains a list of required Texas certification tests. The Texas Education Agency, or TEA, is the state agency responsible for overseeing primary and secondary public education in Texas.

Certification tests vary across several subject areas and grade levels, from mathematics to history, science, special education and more.

Below is a list of certification tests that will be discontinued within the next year, along with the last date to apply for the certificate.

Why These Deadlines Are Important

For certificates and/or tests that are about to expire, you must complete all requirements (testing, coursework, student teaching, etc.) BEFORE the deadlines in the chart above. You must also apply and be recommended by your educator preparation program (EPP) for certification by these deadlines.

It’s important to note that with many of these certification tests, other tests are currently in the process of being developed to replace them. For example, for the expiring special education teacher certification exams, three additional certification areas are in process of being developed, including “186 Special Education Specialist: Early Childhood-Grade 12.”

What You Should Do Next

If you are currently enrolled in an educator preparation program or are considering one of the certification areas above, it’s important to work with your EPP to ensure you are on the right track so that you can earn your teaching license as soon as possible without any delays. 

Educator preparation programs play an important role in guiding you through the certification process, helping you prepare for the required exams and providing hands-on classroom experience through student teaching or internships. 

When evaluating an EPP, look for a program that offers strong academic support, experienced faculty, a clear roadmap to certification and a track record of success with exam pass rates.

Make sure the EPP is approved by the Texas Education Agency and offers preparation in the certification area and grade level you’re interested in. A good EPP will not only help you meet state requirements but also equip you with the tools and confidence to succeed in the classroom from day one.