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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for K-12 Teacher in Texas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
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 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 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 6-24 months.
Median 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 | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $47,470 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $50,550 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $52,280 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Mexico | $65,510 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Texas Education Agency
See official licensing board website
Phone: N/A
Related Careers in Texas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Librarian | $64,910 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| School Counselor | $65,660 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $85,770 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $103,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a K-12 Teacher in Texas?
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 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. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. 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/.