TEACHER License in Massachusetts
Quick Answer
To become a licensed teacher in Massachusetts, you must hold a license from DESE. Requirements include a bachelor's degree, approved preparation program, passing MTEL scores, and a background check. Massachusetts has among the highest educational standards nationally. Estimated costs are approximately $550 (excluding degree).
- Exam
- MTEL (Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure)
- Total Cost
- $550 (est.)
- Timeline
- 4-5 years (including degree)
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every 5 years
Requirements
TEACHER license in Massachusetts
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $100
- Exam Fee
- $200
- Renewal Fee
- $100
- Total Estimated Cost
- $550
Cost Breakdown
Estimated costs for getting your TEACHER license in Massachusetts. 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 Massachusetts licensing board.
TEACHER Salary in Massachusetts
Entry Level
$57,680
Median
$83,260
Experienced
$108,620
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 in Massachusetts.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Specific course required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
No exam required — MTEL (Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure)
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$100.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 4-5 years (including degree).
TEACHER Licensing in Massachusetts: What to Know
Massachusetts requires educators (teachers, support personnel, and administrators) to hold a license from the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to teach in public schools. Specific coursework is required but no exam is listed in COS, though Massachusetts actually requires the MTEL. The Office of Educator Licensure handles certification. Massachusetts is known for having some of the highest educational standards in the nation and correspondingly higher teacher requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does a TEACHER license cost in Massachusetts?
- The estimated total cost is $550, including application fees, exam fees ($200), and education costs.
- How long does it take to get a TEACHER license in Massachusetts?
- The process typically takes 4-5 years (including degree), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a TEACHER license in Massachusetts?
- You need to pass the MTEL (Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure). No exam required
Considering another state?
Compare TEACHER requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.