Types of Certificates

Initial Certificate

The entry-level teaching certificate and is issued for a specific subject and grade level. It is valid for five years (with the possibility of a time extension if you are eligible). During this five-year period, you must obtain a Professional certificate, which requires a minimum of three years of experience and a Master’s degree.

Conditional Initial Certificate

This is the first-level certificate for teachers who hold a certificate in the same or equivalent title from another state, but who have not yet met the NYS testing requirement. The Conditional Initial certificate allows the holder up to two years to meet the testing requirements to qualify for an Initial certificate.

Professional Certificate

The second-level teaching certificate. A holder of an Initial certificate must apply to the New York State Department of Education for the Professional certificate upon completion of requirements. Note that there are new registration and continuing education requirements for Professional certificate holders.

Internship Certificate

To obtain this certificate, students must have a recommendation from a college/university, have completed 50% of an approved graduate teacher education program, and have a job commitment where they can serve their internship. Colleges may require one or more certification exams for this certificate. The Internship certificate is valid for two years and may not be renewed or extended; after two years, you are expected to have completed all requirements, and your college will recommend you for the Initial certificate. The Internship certificate becomes void if you leave or fail to graduate from the program.

Transitional B Certificate

This certificate is for individuals enrolled in an alternative certification program, such as New York City Teaching Fellows and Teach for America. This certificate is valid for three years, during which the teacher must meet all requirements for the Initial or Professional certificate through an approved university program. The Transitional B certificate is not transferable between districts and becomes void if you leave employment or do not maintain good standing or fail to graduate from the university program.

Transitional A Certificate

This certificate is available to career and technical education (CTE) teachers who are requested for a shortage area (in agriculture, health trades, or a trade subject) by a principal. The teacher must have the required educational and occupational experience to qualify for the certificate. Requirements for an Initial certificate must be completed within three years.

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