Please note: This information was last updated in 2023. Check with your state for the most recent information.
West Virginia
Contact Information
West Virginia Department of Education
1900 Kanawha Blvd. East
Charleston, WV 25305
Certification Requirements
Criteria for eligible individuals:
An Initial Professional Teaching Certificate may be issued to a person who has completed:
- The general requirements for teacher licensure
- A minimum of a bachelor's degree (or a master's degree if required) through a regionally accredited institution of higher education
- Completed all state required praxis exams
Conditions for issuance (individuals must have completed and show evidence of the following):
- Must have completed an institution of higher education's state approved program which includes the recommendation of the designated official at school
OR
- Must meet all requirements for out-of-state-applicants
OR
- Meet all guidelines for alternative routes to certification
The Initial Professional Teaching Certificate shall be valid for no more than three years.
- hold a valid teaching certificate or a certificate of eligibility issued by another state,
- have graduated from a state-approved educator preparation program* at a regionally accredited institution of higher education;
AND
- have successfully completed a student teaching experience or equivalent in the state in which the approved program was completed.