If you’re thinking about becoming a special education teacher, you might be asking: What are the requirements? The answer is not the same everywhere. While most states ask for a bachelor’s degree, teacher preparation, and exams, each state has its own rules.
In this guide, we’ll break down:
The basic requirements for all states.
A state-by-state overview (California, New York, Texas, Virginia, Arizona, Oregon).
How licensing exams work.
What to expect with student teaching and background checks.
Alternative routes if you’re changing careers.
Fast Checklist: How to Become a Special Education Teacher
Most states follow the same process:
Complete a state-approved teacher preparation program.
Gain student teaching or practicum experience.
Pass required licensing exams.
Clear a background and fingerprint check.
Apply for a state-issued teaching license.
Maintain certification with continuing education.
Special Education Teacher Requirements
1. Education
A bachelor’s degree is required in every state.
Some states accept any degree if combined with a teacher-prep program, while others want majors in education or special education.
2. Teacher Preparation Programs
Must be state-approved.
Alternative programs exist for career changers.
Programs cover teaching strategies, classroom management, and support needs instruction.
3. Student Teaching (Clinical Practice)
Candidates spend time in a classroom with a mentor teacher.
Length varies, but usually ranges from 1 semester to 1 year.
4. Exams
Tests vary by state, but common ones include:
Praxis Exams (used in many states).
TExES (Texas).
CBEST/RICA (California).
Exams cover general teaching skills and special education knowledge.
5. Background Checks
Fingerprinting and criminal background checks are required.
Some states also ask for health checks like TB tests.
6. Ongoing Requirements
Licenses must be renewed every few years.
Teachers usually complete professional development hours to stay current.
Special Education Teacher Requirements by State
Every U.S. state sets its own certification and licensing rules for special education teachers. While the general path involves earning a bachelor’s degree, completing a teacher preparation program, and passing exams, details like required coursework, tests, and renewal processes differ.
Below are state-specific requirements for popular regions.
California — Education Specialist Credential
Credential name: Education Specialist in California (different categories: Mild/Moderate, Severe Disabilities, DHH, etc.).
Key steps:
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Approved program.
- Student teaching.
- Exams: CBEST, CSET, and sometimes RICA.
- Fingerprinting.
New York — Students with Disabilities Certificate
Credential name: Students with Disabilities (All Grades).
Key steps:
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Approved program (with practicum).
- Exams: edTPA, EAS, and content specialty tests.
- Fingerprinting and background check.
- Progress from Initial to Professional certificate with experience and PD hours.
Texas — Special Education EC–12 Certification
Credential name: Special Education EC–12.
Key steps:
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Approved program (traditional or alternative).
- Student teaching or internship.
- Exams: TExES Special Education EC–12.
- Fingerprinting.
Virginia — Special Education Endorsements
Credential name: Varies (K–12 endorsements).
Key steps:
- Bachelor’s degree.
- State-approved program with practicum.
- Exams: Praxis Core, Praxis II (Special Education).
- Background checks.
Arizona — Special Education Certificate
Credential name: Mild/Moderate or Moderate/Severe.
Key steps:
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Approved program.
- Exams: AEPA/NES for Special Education.
- Fingerprint clearance card.
Oregon — TSPC Licensure
Credential name: Special Education License.
Key steps:
- Bachelor’s degree.
- Approved program.
- Exams: Praxis or state-specific.
- Fingerprinting.
- TSPC application process.
Special Education Teacher Requirements in Georgia
In Georgia, aspiring special education teachers must:
Earn a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field.
Complete an approved teacher preparation program.
Pass the Georgia Assessments for the Certification of Educators (GACE).
Apply for initial certification through the Georgia Professional Standards Commission.
Teachers can later pursue endorsements in specialized areas such as autism spectrum disorders or emotional/behavioral disorders.
Special Education Teacher Requirements in Ontario (Canada)
In Ontario, Canada, requirements differ slightly from U.S. states. Teachers must:
Hold a recognized bachelor’s degree.
Complete a teacher education program accredited by the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT).
Obtain certification through the OCT.
Complete Additional Qualification (AQ) courses for special education, which allow teachers to work in inclusive classrooms or specialized settings.
Special Education Teacher Requirements in Mississippi
Mississippi requires special education teachers to:
Earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
Complete a teacher preparation program.
Pass the Praxis Core and Praxis II exams for Special Education.
Apply for licensure through the Mississippi Department of Education.
Alternative route programs are also available for candidates with non-education degrees who wish to transition into teaching.
Special Education Teacher Requirements in Illinois
To teach special education in Illinois, candidates must:
Earn a bachelor’s degree and complete a state-approved teacher preparation program.
Pass the Illinois Licensure Testing System (ILTS) exams, including content-area tests in special education.
Apply for a Professional Educator License (PEL).
Illinois also requires ongoing professional development for license renewal, ensuring teachers stay updated on inclusive teaching practices.
Special Education Teacher Requirements in New Jersey (NJ)
In New Jersey, requirements include:
Earning a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field.
Completing a New Jersey-approved teacher preparation program.
Passing the Praxis exams relevant to special education.
Applying for the Certificate of Eligibility with Advanced Standing (CEAS) through the New Jersey Department of Education.
Once employed, teachers complete a mentorship and induction program before earning a standard certificate.
Alternative Routes and Reciprocity
Alternative programs: For career changers, residency-based models, or emergency certificates.
Reciprocity: Some states accept out-of-state licenses (check NASDTEC agreements).
Don’t miss knowing: How to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education?
Get a Master’s in Special Education?
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FAQs
How long does it take to become a special education teacher?
Usually 4–6 years (degree + preparation + exams).
Can I teach without a special education degree?
In some states, yes — but you’ll need a teacher-prep program and exams.
Can I transfer my license to another state?
Sometimes — reciprocity agreements may help, but extra exams may be required.
Conclusion
Becoming a special education teacher requires dedication and meeting your state’s rules. While all states share common steps — degree, program, exams, and background checks — each has unique details.
Whether you’re in California, New York, Texas, Virginia, Arizona, or Oregon, and also. This guide gives you the path forward. Check your state’s Department of Education website for the latest updates, as rules change often.