Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MA Board of Education
K-12 Teacher Licensing in Massachusetts
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for k-12 teacher in Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts
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
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Office of Educator Licensure
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$83,260 median (34% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#4 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 Massachusetts
With a median salary of 83,260, K-12 Teachers in Massachusetts earn 34% above the national median of $62,340. Massachusetts ranks #4 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,805Median annual salary
$83,260Hourly estimate
$40.0334% above national median
Difference: +$20,920
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationK-12 Teacher Salary Ranking
#4 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $83,260 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Hampshire | $64,430 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $61,270 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $82,480 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $78,740 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Rhode Island | $86,900 | Specific course required | No 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Hampshire | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Vermont | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 60 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Connecticut | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Rhode Island | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Office of Educator Licensure
75 Pleasant St, Malden, MA, 02148
Phone: 7813886600
Related Careers in Massachusetts
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Librarian | $75,790 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| School Counselor | $78,840 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $101,980 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $98,620 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a K-12 Teacher in Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts?
Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
The board typically expects Specific course required for K-12 Teacher licensure in Massachusetts.
What is the typical K-12 Teacher salary in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for K-12 Teachers in Massachusetts is 83,260. Salaries range from $57,680 (10th percentile) to $108,620 (90th percentile).
How does the K-12 Teacher salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
K-12 Teachers in Massachusetts earn 34% above the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 83,260.
How many K-12 Teachers work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employs approximately 32,100 K-12 Teachers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my K-12 Teacher license to Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
The licensing agency is Office of Educator Licensure. Review agency details at http://www.mass.gov/edu/government/departments-and-boards/ese/programs/educator-effectiveness/licensure/.