Teacher Certification
The Office of Teacher Certification ensures that educators are properly credentialed and provides technical assistance to school districts, teachers, and college administrators regarding certification.
IMPORTANT ANNOUCEMENT AND UPDATES
NOTICE: Walk-In Policy: As of July 22, 2024, in an effort to deliver top-notch customer service, ALL visitors to the Teacher Certification Section must have a scheduled appointment.
- Those needing a fingerprint appointment, click here: HERE
- Appointments to speak with a certification specialist will only be accepted if the matter cannot be resolved via email or phone. This allows us to better serve you when processing certificate requests. To determine if your situation qualifies for an appointment, this form must be electronically submitted Certification Specialist Appointment Request
NOTICE: Many Praxis subject area exams are accepted in Oklahoma. Click here to find the list of approved Praxis exams for Oklahoma certification. The corresponding Oklahoma certification area/s will be noted on the left-hand side. The OSATs (Oklahoma Subject Area Tests) offered through Pearson are still accepted as well. Click here to find the list of OSATs.
NOTICE: As of September 18, 2023, the OSDE has gone digital with teaching certificates and advisement letters. Applicants will be able to view their digital certificates on a link via their dashboard (see the screenshot below) on the Oklahoma Educator Credentialing System (OECS). To obtain a hard copy, applicants can purchase one in their OECS account using the Duplicate Request button on the Credential tab.
Why Teach?
Here are some reasons why teachers say they choose this noblest of professions:
- Make a difference in the life of a child
- Ability to give endless possibilities for success
- Reap daily rewards of joy
- Opportunities to lead
- Build stronger communities
- Share a passion for learning
Take it from one of Oklahoma's best teachers:
"Teaching is one of the most challenging careers, yet it is one of the most important professions. Being a teacher is about making positive, lasting impressions and indelible marks. Creating the foundation for my students that will build the rest of their lives upon is an honor. Without teachers, there would be no other profession."
- Mara Richards
Durant Middle School
2014 Oklahoma Teacher of the Year finalist
Teacher Certification Quick Links
- Learn how to receive a Teacher Certification
- Learn how to receive a Background Check
- Oklahoma Educator Search Tool
- Download Certification Form & Applications
- Learn how to Renew your Certification
- Learn how to add a Teacher Credential Area
- Learn how to utilize an Out-of-State Certification
- Learn about Emergency Certification Guidance
Guidance
Additional Resources
- Highly Qualified Teacher (HOUSSE) - Resources regarding the requirements for teachers who teach a core academic subject.
- National Board Certification (NBPTS) - Learn how to become NBPTS certified.
- Miscellaneous Certification Resources - View a variety of resources on how teachers and administrators can become or remain certified.
- Educator Credentialing System (Sign-In-to-Single-Sign-On)
Contact Information
Office of Teacher Certification
2500 N. Lincoln Boulevard, #212
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73105-4599
Email: TeacherCertification@sde.ok.gov
Phone: (405) 521-3337
NOTE: Our phone line at (405) 521-3337 offers an automatic call-back feature. However, for that feature to work effectively, you must call from a phone that will dial you directly.