Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NJ Board of Education
K-12 Teacher Licensing in New Jersey
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for k-12 teacher in New Jersey, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for K-12 Teacher in New Jersey
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Education • Office of Licensing and Credentials
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$77,150 median (24% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#7 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 New Jersey
With a median salary of 77,150, K-12 Teachers in New Jersey earn 24% above the national median of $62,340. New Jersey ranks #7 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$77,150Hourly estimate
$37.0924% above national median
Difference: +$14,810
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationK-12 Teacher Salary Ranking
#7 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | $77,150 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $82,480 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $74,160 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $66,390 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey | 60 | Medium | 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. |
| Pennsylvania | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 60 | Medium | 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
Department of Education • Office of Licensing and Credentials
PO Box 503, Trenton, NJ, 8625
Phone: 6092922070
Related Careers in New Jersey
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Librarian | $79,380 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| School Counselor | $77,940 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $97,980 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $103,510 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a K-12 Teacher in New Jersey?
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 New Jersey?
New Jersey lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for K-12 Teachers.
What education do you need to become a K-12 Teacher in New Jersey?
The board typically expects Specific course required for K-12 Teacher licensure in New Jersey.
What is the typical K-12 Teacher salary in New Jersey?
The median annual salary for K-12 Teachers in New Jersey is 77,150. Salaries range from $59,880 (10th percentile) to $102,920 (90th percentile).
How does the K-12 Teacher salary in New Jersey compare to the national average?
K-12 Teachers in New Jersey earn 24% above the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 77,150.
How many K-12 Teachers work in New Jersey?
New Jersey employs approximately 42,360 K-12 Teachers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my K-12 Teacher license to New Jersey 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 New Jersey?
The licensing agency is Department of Education / Office of Licensing and Credentials. Review agency details at https://www.nj.gov/education/license/.