Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Education
K-12 Teacher Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for k-12 teacher in West Virginia, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for K-12 Teacher in West Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE)
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$55,550 median (11% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#39 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 West Virginia
With a median salary of 55,550, K-12 Teachers in West Virginia earn 11% below the national median of $62,340. West Virginia ranks #39 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$55,550Hourly estimate
$26.7111% below national median
Difference: -$6,790
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationK-12 Teacher Salary Ranking
#39 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $55,550 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $74,160 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $74,720 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $62,270 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $57,980 | Specific course required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $65,380 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Virginia | 66 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Kentucky | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 68 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. Continuing education compliance is required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE)
See official licensing board website
Phone: N/A
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Librarian | $48,640 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| School Counselor | $55,420 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $86,530 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $87,980 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a K-12 Teacher in West Virginia?
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 West Virginia?
West Virginia lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for K-12 Teachers.
What education do you need to become a K-12 Teacher in West Virginia?
The board typically expects Specific course required for K-12 Teacher licensure in West Virginia.
What is the typical K-12 Teacher salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for K-12 Teachers in West Virginia is 55,550. Salaries range from $45,710 (10th percentile) to $60,310 (90th percentile).
How does the K-12 Teacher salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
K-12 Teachers in West Virginia earn 11% below the national median of $62,340, with a state median of 55,550.
How many K-12 Teachers work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 6,680 K-12 Teachers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my K-12 Teacher license to West Virginia 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 West Virginia?
The licensing agency is West Virginia Department of Education (WVDE). Review agency details at https://wvde.us/certification/certification-info/.