How do I obtain a CA teaching license?

Question

Hello. I am working towards my Childhood Developement Bachelors (BS) right now to become a kindergarten teacher and I was wondering how long it takes to get a teaching license in CA and what the requirements are. Thanks

Answer 1

It depends weather your going to community college or an advance training program. Community college's license would probably take a year or so and more advance programs would take about 2 years or so.

Answer 2

There are many requirements you will have to address. I may have listed too many tests, so double check that part.

1. Take the CBEST (do that as soon as possible) it is a test of basic knowledge of all the subjects you will teach.

2. Take the RICA this is a test of your ability to teach language arts

3. Take the CSET this is another test of knowledge of subject matter.

4. Complete a 1 to 1 1/2 year credentialing program (depends how many units you take), sometimes you can be an intern while you do this.

5. Complete a teacher induction program after you become a teacher (usually 2 years) where a mentor will work with you to learn the skills for a "clear" or No Child Left Behind compliant credential.

You can get detailed answers at the California Dept. Of Ed. website and usually your university will have this information available as a hard copy.

Answer 3

Everything you will need to know is covered here.

http://www.ctc.ca.gov/