Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Education
K-12 Teacher Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for k-12 teacher in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for K-12 Teacher in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Division of Certification • Education Professional Standards Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$57,980 median (7% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#35 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 Kentucky
With a median salary of 57,980, K-12 Teachers in Kentucky earn 7% below the national median of $62,340. Kentucky ranks #35 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$57,980Hourly estimate
$27.887% below national median
Difference: -$4,360
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationK-12 Teacher Salary Ranking
#35 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $57,980 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $58,370 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $65,380 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $55,550 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $62,270 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $52,690 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $48,250 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $64,160 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 68 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| West Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 66 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Division of Certification • Education Professional Standards Board
300 Sower Blvd., 3rd Floor, Frankfort, KY, 40601
Phone: 5025644606
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Librarian | $63,460 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| School Counselor | $64,390 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $93,230 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $90,950 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a K-12 Teacher in Kentucky?
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 exams are required for K-12 Teachers in Kentucky?
Kentucky lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for K-12 Teachers.
What education do you need to become a K-12 Teacher in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Specific course required for K-12 Teacher licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical K-12 Teacher salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for K-12 Teachers in Kentucky is 57,980. Salaries range from $40,830 (10th percentile) to $77,250 (90th percentile).
How does the K-12 Teacher salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
K-12 Teachers in Kentucky earn 7% below the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 57,980.
How many K-12 Teachers work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 18,680 K-12 Teachers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my K-12 Teacher license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Division of Certification / Education Professional Standards Board. Review agency details at http://www.epsb.ky.gov/.