Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TN Board of Education
K-12 Teacher Licensing in Tennessee
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for k-12 teacher in Tennessee, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for K-12 Teacher in Tennessee
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Education • Division of Teachers and Leaders • Office of Education Licensure and Preparation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$52,690 median (15% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#41 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 Tennessee
With a median salary of 52,690, K-12 Teachers in Tennessee earn 15% below the national median of $62,340. Tennessee ranks #41 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$52,690Hourly estimate
$25.3315% below national median
Difference: -$9,650
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationK-12 Teacher Salary Ranking
#41 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $52,690 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $57,980 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $62,270 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $49,400 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $63,490 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $59,850 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $48,440 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $50,550 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $48,250 | Specific course 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Kentucky | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 66 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 33 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Alabama | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Education • Division of Teachers and Leaders • Office of Education Licensure and Preparation
Andrew Johnson Tower 12th Floor, 710 James Robertson Pkwy, Nashville, TN, 37243
Phone: 6155324885
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
Related Careers in Tennessee
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Librarian | $59,710 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| School Counselor | $59,090 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $85,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $89,670 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a K-12 Teacher in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee?
Tennessee lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for K-12 Teachers.
What education do you need to become a K-12 Teacher in Tennessee?
The board typically expects Specific course required for K-12 Teacher licensure in Tennessee.
What is the typical K-12 Teacher salary in Tennessee?
The median annual salary for K-12 Teachers in Tennessee is 52,690. Salaries range from $46,100 (10th percentile) to $71,180 (90th percentile).
How does the K-12 Teacher salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
K-12 Teachers in Tennessee earn 15% below the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 52,690.
How many K-12 Teachers work in Tennessee?
Tennessee employs approximately 28,880 K-12 Teachers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my K-12 Teacher license to Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
The licensing agency is Department of Education / Division of Teachers and Leaders / Office of Education Licensure and Preparation.