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K-12 Teacher Licensing in Minnesota

Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for k-12 teacher in Minnesota, including See agency and board contact links.

Last verified: Feb 12, 2026

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

State-approved exam

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for K-12 Teacher in Minnesota

Estimated timeline: 6-24 months

Core Requirements

  • License Type: Register with licensing agency
  • Education: Varies by state board
  • Examination: State-approved exam
  • Application Fee: See agency

Application Snapshot

  1. Licensing Authority

    Minnesota Department of Public Safety

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $63,120 median (1% above national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #18 of 50 states

Step-by-Step Process (4)

  1. 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
  2. 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
  3. 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
  4. 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.

Salary Insights in Minnesota

With a median salary of 63,120, K-12 Teachers in Minnesota earn 1% above the national median of $62,340. Minnesota ranks #18 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.

Median annual salary

$63,120

Hourly estimate

$30.35
1% above national median

Difference: +$780

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentile$47,180
  • P2525th percentile$49,970
  • P50Median$63,120
  • P7575th percentile$79,820
  • P9090th percentile$97,670

State vs National Median

State: $63,120
National: $62,340

Total employment: 24,320 | Annual openings: N/A

K-12 Teacher Salary Ranking

#18 of 50 statesfor K-12 Teacher median salary
RankStateMedian Salary
#1Washington99,110
#2California98,190
#3Rhode Island86,900
#4Massachusetts83,260
#5New York82,480

Nearby States Comparison

K-12 Teacher licensing across the region
StateMedian SalaryEducationExamTimeline
Minnesota$63,120Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
Wisconsin$60,690Degree requiredState-approved exam6-24 months
Iowa$55,540Degree requiredNo exam required6-24 months
South Dakota$49,110Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
North Dakota$57,820Degree requiredNo exam required6-24 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.

StateReciprocity ScoreTierNotes
Minnesota78HighBoard-specific review required.
Wisconsin72MediumBackground check or criminal history review is indicated.
Iowa54LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
South Dakota78HighBoard-specific review required.
North Dakota50LowState-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

Minnesota Department of Public Safety

444 Cedar Street, Town Square, St. Paul, MN, 55101

Phone: 6512826565

Visit Official WebsiteCall BoardOpen in Maps

Related Careers in Minnesota

ProfessionMedian SalaryEducationTimeline
Librarian$75,260Varies by state board6-24 months
School Counselor$63,230Varies by state board6-24 months
Architect$95,380Varies by state board6-24 months
Audiologist$98,410Varies by state board6-24 months

FAQ

How long does it take to become a K-12 Teacher in Minnesota?

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 Minnesota?

The median annual salary for K-12 Teachers in Minnesota is 63,120. Salaries range from $47,180 (10th percentile) to $97,670 (90th percentile).

How does the K-12 Teacher salary in Minnesota compare to the national average?

K-12 Teachers in Minnesota earn 1% above the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 63,120.

How many K-12 Teachers work in Minnesota?

Minnesota employs approximately 24,320 K-12 Teachers according to BLS data.

Can I transfer my K-12 Teacher license to Minnesota 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 Minnesota?

The licensing agency is Minnesota Department of Public Safety. Review agency details at https://dps.mn.gov/Pages/default.aspx.