How much does a Teacher Credentials license cost in California?

The estimated total cost is $650, including application fees, exam fees ($300), and education costs.

How long does it take to get a Teacher Credentials license in California?

The process typically takes 4-5 years (including degree), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.

What exam do I need for a Teacher Credentials license in California?

You need to pass the CBEST & CSET Exams. N/A

Teacher Credentials License in California

To become a credentialed teacher in California, you need a bachelor's degree, completion of an approved teacher preparation program, and passing CBEST and CSET exam scores. California uses 'credentials' — Multiple Subject (elementary) or Single Subject (secondary). The CTC oversees credentialing. Estimated costs are approximately $650 (excluding degree).

Exam: CBEST & CSET Exams
Total Cost: $650 (est.)
Timeline: 4-5 years (including degree)
Renewal: Every 5 years

Requirements

Teacher Credentials license in California

gold

Veterans Benefits

N/A - Not displayed

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee: $100
Exam Fee: $300
Renewal Fee: $100
Total Estimated Cost: $650

Licensing Agency

California Commission on Teacher Credentialing~Certification Assignment and Waivers

Website 8889212682 Email

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Teacher Credentials license in California. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Application Fee

$100

Exam Fee

$300

Renewal Fee

$100

Total Estimated Cost

$650

Education / School Cost

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

Include first renewal fee ($100)

Application FeeEst.$100

Exam FeeEst.$300

Total Estimated Cost$400

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the California licensing board.

Teacher Credentials Salary in California

Entry Level

$60,330

Median

$98,190

Experienced

$126,440

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Teacher Credentials in California.

1

Submit Your Application

File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$100.
2

Receive Your License

Processing typically takes 4-5 years (including degree).

Teacher Credentials Licensing in California: What to Know

California uses a 'credential' system rather than 'license.' Multiple Subject Teaching Credential is for elementary/self-contained classrooms; Single Subject is for secondary/departmentalized classrooms. Additional credentials include Education Specialist (special education), Early Childhood Specialist, Reading Specialist, and Bilingual/Cross-Cultural. The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) oversees certification. California requires the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) and California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET). The state has significant teacher shortages, particularly in STEM, special education, and bilingual education.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Teacher Credentials license cost in California?: The estimated total cost is $650, including application fees, exam fees ($300), and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Teacher Credentials license in California?: The process typically takes 4-5 years (including degree), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Teacher Credentials license in California?: You need to pass the CBEST & CSET Exams. N/A