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Official website

of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

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    Educators

    Certification Services

    The Division of Certification Services is a division within the Bureau of School Leadership and Teacher Quality that oversees educator certification within the commonwealth providing information and support to educators and schools. Certification Services reviews applications for many credential types including initial certification, permanent (Level II) certification, and emergency permits to name a few. Certification Services also provides information and support to public school educators and school entities regarding appropriate certification and certificate validity for staffing. This page provides information and resources for becoming a certified educator and maintaining certification in Pennsylvania.

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    Current Processing times (once your application reaches "awaiting eva​luation" status):

    Testing Requirements

    Background Checks/ Clearances

    New Educators

    Current PA Educators

    Out-of-State Educators

    Certification Staffing

    Certification Types

    Substitute Teaching

    Resources for Educators

    Career Opportunities

    PDE maintains general contact information for Pennsylvania’s public and charter schools, career and technology centers, and intermediate units, as well as a link to their associated employment opportunities (where available).

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    Contact Information

    Do you still need assistance with the Pennsylvania Teacher Certification process?

     

    We are here to help!

    Contact the Bureau of School Leadership and Teacher Quality

    ​Information and Updates

    Information and updates are specific to certification in Pennsylvania, and from time to time will include copies of email messages to the field, presentations, and other helpful resources. Be sure to check this page often to stay up-to-date. Contact the Certification Services team if you need additional assistance.