Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AZ Board of Education
K-12 Teacher Licensing in Arizona
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for k-12 teacher in Arizona, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for K-12 Teacher in Arizona
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Transportation • Commercial Programs
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$50,980 median (18% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#43 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Arizona eligibility requirements for K-12 Teacher licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Transportation~Commercial Programs and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Arizona
With a median salary of $50,980, K-12 Teachers in Arizona earn 18% below the national median of $62,340. Arizona ranks #43 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
-1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,369Median annual salary
$50,980Hourly estimate
$24.5118% below national median
Difference: -$11,360
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationK-12 Teacher Salary Ranking
#43 of 50 statesfor K-12 Teacher median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | $99,110 |
| #2 | California | $98,190 |
| #3 | Rhode Island | $86,900 |
| #4 | Massachusetts | $83,260 |
| #5 | New York | $82,480 |
Nearby States Comparison
K-12 Teacher licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | $50,980 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Utah | $61,710 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Colorado | $61,550 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New Mexico | $65,510 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Nevada | $62,420 | Degree required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| California | $98,190 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Utah | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Colorado | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Mexico | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Nevada | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Transportation • Commercial Programs
1655 W Jackson St, MD 126F, Phoenix, AZ, 85007
Phone: 6027127355
Related Careers in Arizona
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $68,350 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $77,650 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Business Teachers, Postsecondary | $89,690 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $68,350 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a K-12 Teacher in Arizona?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical K-12 Teacher salary in Arizona?
The median annual salary for K-12 Teachers in Arizona is $50,980. Salaries range from $40,100 (10th percentile) to $80,010 (90th percentile).
How does the K-12 Teacher salary in Arizona compare to the national average?
K-12 Teachers in Arizona earn 18% below the national median of $62,340, with a state median of $50,980.
How many K-12 Teachers work in Arizona?
Arizona employs approximately 23,250 K-12 Teachers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my K-12 Teacher license to Arizona from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for K-12 Teachers in Arizona?
The licensing agency is Department of Transportation / Commercial Programs. Review agency details at https://www.azdot.gov/.
How often do you renew a K-12 Teacher license in Arizona?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.