Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TX Board of Education
K-12 Teacher Licensing in Texas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for k-12 teacher in Texas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for K-12 Teacher in Texas
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Texas Education Agency
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$61,380 median (2% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#27 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Texas eligibility requirements for K-12 Teacher licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Texas Education Agency and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Texas
With a median salary of $61,380, K-12 Teachers in Texas earn 2% below the national median of $62,340. Texas ranks #27 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,420Median annual salary
$61,380Hourly estimate
$29.512% below national median
Difference: -$960
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationK-12 Teacher Salary Ranking
#27 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $61,380 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Oklahoma | $47,470 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Arkansas | $50,550 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Louisiana | $52,280 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| New Mexico | $65,510 | Degree required | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Oklahoma | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Arkansas | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Louisiana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Mexico | 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
Texas Education Agency
See official licensing board website
Phone: N/A
Related Careers in Texas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary | $76,290 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | $83,760 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Business Teachers, Postsecondary | $99,480 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Education Teachers, Postsecondary | $75,650 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a K-12 Teacher in Texas?
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 exams are required for K-12 Teachers in Texas?
Texas 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 Texas?
The board typically expects Degree required for K-12 Teacher licensure in Texas.
What is the typical K-12 Teacher salary in Texas?
The median annual salary for K-12 Teachers in Texas is $61,380. Salaries range from $48,140 (10th percentile) to $72,370 (90th percentile).
How does the K-12 Teacher salary in Texas compare to the national average?
K-12 Teachers in Texas earn 2% below the national median of $62,340, with a state median of $61,380.
How many K-12 Teachers work in Texas?
Texas employs approximately 124,430 K-12 Teachers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my K-12 Teacher license to Texas 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 Texas?
The licensing agency is Texas Education Agency. Review agency details at https://tea.texas.gov/.
How often do you renew a K-12 Teacher license in Texas?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.