Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MT Board of Education
K-12 Teacher Licensing in Montana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for k-12 teacher in Montana, 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 Montana
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Education Liscensure Unit • Office of Public Instruction
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$56,200 median (10% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#37 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 Montana
With a median salary of 56,200, K-12 Teachers in Montana earn 10% below the national median of $62,340. Montana ranks #37 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$56,200Hourly estimate
$27.0210% below national median
Difference: -$6,140
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationK-12 Teacher Salary Ranking
#37 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $56,200 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $57,820 | Degree required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $49,110 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $61,560 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Idaho | $59,620 | Degree required | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 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
Education Liscensure Unit • Office of Public Instruction
PO Box 202501, Helena, MT, 59620-2501
Phone: 4064443150
Related Careers in Montana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Librarian | $62,020 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| School Counselor | $59,480 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $82,670 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $82,350 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a K-12 Teacher in Montana?
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 Montana?
The median annual salary for K-12 Teachers in Montana is 56,200. Salaries range from $37,080 (10th percentile) to $80,100 (90th percentile).
How does the K-12 Teacher salary in Montana compare to the national average?
K-12 Teachers in Montana earn 10% below the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 56,200.
How many K-12 Teachers work in Montana?
Montana employs approximately 4,510 K-12 Teachers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my K-12 Teacher license to Montana 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 Montana?
The licensing agency is Education Liscensure Unit / Office of Public Instruction. Review agency details at https://opi.mt.gov/.