Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MN Board of Education
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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for K-12 Teacher in Minnesota
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
Minnesota Department of Public Safety
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$63,120 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#18 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Minnesota 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 Minnesota Department of Public Safety and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,407Median annual salary
$63,120Hourly estimate
$30.351% above national median
Difference: +$780
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationK-12 Teacher Salary Ranking
#18 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | $63,120 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $60,690 | Degree required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $55,540 | Degree required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $49,110 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $57,820 | Degree required | No exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Iowa | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Dakota | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Minnesota Department of Public Safety
444 Cedar Street, Town Square, St. Paul, MN, 55101
Phone: 6512826565
Related Careers in Minnesota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $76,540 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $84,310 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Business Teachers, Postsecondary | $83,360 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $75,750 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a K-12 Teacher in Minnesota?
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 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. 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.
How often do you renew a K-12 Teacher license in Minnesota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.