Want to become a teacher in the great state of Oregon? If so, you have come to the right place. Below you will find a short article that lists the steps to becoming a teacher in Oregon.

Step 1: Complete an Approved Teacher Preparation Program (optional)

To teach in the U.S., educators must hold at least an undergraduate degree. The state of Oregon also requires students to complete a state-approved teacher education program to receive certification. Some U.S. states require additional undergraduate courses, but Oregon does not. Teacher education programs in Oregon are sanctioned by the Teacher Standards and Practices Commission. In evaluating programs, the commission evaluates course syllabi, professors’ CVs, etc. To view a complete list of teacher education programs sanctioned by the state, see the Teacher Standards and Practices Commission of Oregon.

Step 2: Complete the Required Exams

Educators in Oregon must pass two exams. The initial exam is the Protecting Student and Civil Rights in the Education Environment Examination. The second is the Subject Matter Exam. The test may or may not be administered by Oregon Educator Licensure Assessments or ETS Praxis.

Oregon’s Teacher Standards and Practices Commission offers several different teaching licenses that are issued according to the candidate’s expertise level. The Preliminary Teaching License is only for new educators who have graduated from an approved teacher education program. It is good for 3 years and cannot be renewed. After the Preliminary Teaching License expires, educators must apply for the Professional Teaching License, which is valid for five years and can be renewed.

Step 3: Submit an Oregon Teaching Credential Application

When you are ready to apply for your first Oregon teaching license, request a first-time application packet here. You may also be asked to submit official transcripts from your college teacher preparation program, and a Program Completion Report filled out by officials from your college teacher preparation program recommending your licensure. Fill out the three-page application thoroughly, sign and date it within 60 days of sending it to the Oregon TSPC. Mail it to Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission, 250 Division St. NE, Salem, OR 97301. It may take up to two weeks for the TSPC to process your licensure application.