How to Get a Teacher License in Tennessee
Last updated: March 2, 2026
Tennessee is a rapidly growing market with Nashville leading as one of the hottest cities in the US, making it an excellent place to start a career as a teacher. Licensing in Tennessee is overseen by the Tennessee Department of Education. The process requires 3200 hours of pre-license education and costs between $33,500 and $34,500 in total. You'll need to pass the Praxis Core + Praxis Subject Assessment + edTPA (administered by Tennessee Department of Education) with a score of at least 70%.
At 3200 hours, Tennessee has one of the higher pre-license education requirements in the country. This is close to the national average of 3232 hours. Budget between $33,500 and $34,500 for the total licensing process, including education, application, and exam fees. Most aspiring teachers complete the entire process in 4-7 months, depending on how quickly they move through the coursework and exam preparation.
Tennessee Teacher License Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Pre-License Education | 3200 hours |
| Degree Required | No |
| Exam Required | Yes — Praxis Core + Praxis Subject Assessment + edTPA |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Background Check | Yes |
| Broker Sponsorship | Not required |
| Application Fee | $75 |
| Exam Fee | $650 |
| Governing Body | Tennessee Department of Education |
| License Reciprocity | Partial |
Reciprocity:
Steps to Get Your Teacher License in Tennessee
- 1
Earn a Bachelor's Degree
Complete a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Most aspiring teachers major in education or their teaching subject area.
Time: 4 years Cost: $350 - 2
Complete a Teacher Preparation Program
Complete a state-approved teacher preparation program that includes classroom methods coursework and supervised student teaching. Contact the Tennessee Department of Education for approved programs.
Time: 1-2 semesters - 3
Pass the Praxis Core + Praxis Subject Assessment + edTPA
Register and pass the required teaching certification exams administered by Tennessee Department of Education. Most states require both a content area test and a pedagogy test. The exam fee is $650.
Time: 2-4 weeks to schedule Cost: $650 - 4
Apply for Your Teaching Certificate
Submit your application to the Tennessee Department of Education. Include transcripts, exam scores, student teaching evaluations, and the application fee of $75.
Time: 4-8 weeks for processing Cost: $75 - 5
Find a Teaching Position
Apply to school districts in Tennessee. Many districts hire year-round, with peak hiring in spring for the following school year. New teachers typically receive a provisional/initial certificate that becomes standard after 1-3 years.
Time: 1-3 months
Key Things to Know
- Education requirement: . Many providers offer online options, giving you flexibility to study on your own schedule.
- The licensing exam: The Praxis Core + Praxis Subject Assessment + edTPA is administered by Tennessee Department of Education. You'll need to score at least 70% to pass. Study materials and practice exams are available from most education providers.
- Background check required: Tennessee requires a criminal background check as part of the application process. Plan for additional processing time and fees.
- Online application available: Tennessee accepts online applications, which can speed up processing time.
- Ongoing requirements: Once licensed, you'll need 6 hours of continuing education every 5 years. .
How Tennessee Compares
Tennessee requires 3200 hours of pre-license education for teachers. This is close to the national average of 3232 hours. The average total cost in Tennessee is around $34,000, compared to the national average of $35,760.
How Much Does a Teacher License Cost in Tennessee?
| Cost Item | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Pre-License Education | $300 - $700 |
| Application Fee | $75 |
| Exam Fee | $650 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $33,500 - $34,500 |
License Renewal
- Renewal Period: Every 5 years
- Continuing Education: 6 hours
- CE Details:
- Renewal Fee: $75
Tips for Success
- Choose your education provider carefully: Compare prices, format (online vs. in-person), and reviews. Some providers offer exam prep materials bundled with the course, which can save you money. Check the Tennessee Department of Education website for a list of approved providers.
- Don't rush the exam: With 3200 hours of required coursework, consider a structured schedule — completing one course at a time helps avoid burnout. Use practice exams to identify weak areas before scheduling your test date.
- Start student teaching connections early: Your student teaching placement is crucial — many new teachers get hired by their student teaching school. Request placements in districts where you want to work and treat it like a semester-long job interview.
- Look into alternative certification pathways: If you have a bachelor's degree in a non-education field, many states offer alternative routes to certification. Programs like Teach For America, TNTP, and state-specific alt-cert programs can get you in the classroom faster.
- Budget approximately $34,500 for your Tennessee license: This includes $75 in application fees, $650 for the exam, and education costs. Once licensed, plan for $75 in renewal fees every 5 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a teacher license in Tennessee?
Most people complete the process in 3-6 months total. The pre-license education (3200 hours) takes the longest. After completing education, the exam and application process typically adds 2-6 weeks.
How much does it cost to get a teacher license in Tennessee?
The total cost ranges from $33,500 to $34,500, including pre-license education, the application fee ($75), and the exam fee ($650).
Can I get a Tennessee teacher license with a criminal record?
The Tennessee Department of Education evaluates criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but certain offenses may affect your eligibility. Contact the Tennessee Department of Education for guidance before applying.
Do I need a college degree to become a teacher in Tennessee?
No. Tennessee does not require a college degree. You only need to complete the 3200 hours of approved pre-license courses.
Can I take the pre-license courses online in Tennessee?
Many approved education providers offer pre-license courses online, allowing you to study at your own pace. Check the Tennessee Department of Education website for a list of approved providers.
Sources
- Official website: Tennessee Department of Education