Alabama Professional Educator Certificate License in Alabama
Quick Answer
To become a certified teacher in Alabama, you need a bachelor's degree from an approved teacher education program, passing Praxis exam scores, and a background check. Alabama issues a Professional Educator Certificate. Alternative certification pathways are available. Estimated costs are approximately $410 (excluding degree).
- Exam
- Praxis Exams
- Total Cost
- $410 (est.)
- Timeline
- 4-5 years (including degree)
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 5 years
Requirements
Alabama Professional Educator Certificate license in Alabama
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $30
- Exam Fee
- $200
- Renewal Fee
- $30
- Total Estimated Cost
- $410
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your Alabama Professional Educator Certificate license in Alabama. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.
Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program
Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the Alabama licensing board.
Alabama Professional Educator Certificate Salary in Alabama
Entry Level
$45,510
Median
$59,850
Experienced
$70,920
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Alabama Professional Educator Certificate in Alabama.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
Background check required
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
State exam required — Praxis Exams
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$30.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 4-5 years (including degree).
Alabama Professional Educator Certificate Licensing in Alabama: What to Know
Alabama uses the 'Professional Educator Certificate' rather than 'teacher license' in its COS data. The state requires a bachelor's degree from an approved teacher education program, passing Praxis scores, and a background check. Alabama also offers a Career & Technical Education Certificate. The Alabama State Department of Education handles certification. Alabama has adopted alternative certification pathways to address teacher shortages, particularly in rural and underserved areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a Alabama Professional Educator Certificate license cost in Alabama?
- The estimated total cost is $410, including application fees, exam fees ($200), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a Alabama Professional Educator Certificate license in Alabama?
- The process typically takes 4-5 years (including degree), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Alabama Professional Educator Certificate license in Alabama?
- You need to pass the Praxis Exams. State exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Alabama Professional Educator Certificate requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.