Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Education
K-12 Teacher Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for k-12 teacher in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for K-12 Teacher in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
California Commission on Teacher Credentialing • Certification Assignment and Waivers
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$98,190 median (58% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#2 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of 98,190, K-12 Teachers in California earn 58% above the national median of $62,340. California ranks #2 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$98,190Hourly estimate
$47.2158% above national median
Difference: +$35,850
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationK-12 Teacher Salary Ranking
#2 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 regionLicense 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
California Commission on Teacher Credentialing • Certification Assignment and Waivers
1900 Capitol Ave, Sacramento, CA, 95811
Phone: 8889212682
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Librarian | $86,590 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| School Counselor | $94,320 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $105,840 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a K-12 Teacher in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical K-12 Teacher salary in California?
The median annual salary for K-12 Teachers in California is 98,190. Salaries range from $60,330 (10th percentile) to $126,440 (90th percentile).
How does the K-12 Teacher salary in California compare to the national average?
K-12 Teachers in California earn 58% above the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 98,190.
How many K-12 Teachers work in California?
California employs approximately 141,650 K-12 Teachers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my K-12 Teacher license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for K-12 Teachers in California?
The licensing agency is California Commission on Teacher Credentialing / Certification Assignment and Waivers. Review agency details at https://www.ctc.ca.gov/.