HowToGetLicensed

Teacher License: California vs North Carolina

Thinking about getting your teacher license? Here's how California and North Carolina compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.

Requirement California North Carolina
Education Hours 3500 hours 3200 hours
Exam CBEST + CSET (California Subject Examinations for Teachers) Praxis Core + Praxis Subject Assessment
Application Fee $100 $55
Exam Fee $400 $350
Total Estimated Cost $44,500 - $45,500 $32,500 - $33,500
Renewal Period Every 5 years Every 5 years
CE Hours 150 hours 80 hours
Renewal Fee $100 $55

Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?

Lower cost: North Carolina is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $32,500-$33,500 compared to $44,500-$45,500.

Fewer education hours: North Carolina requires 3200 hours of pre-license education, compared to 3500 hours in California.

Full State Guides

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