Florida Educator Certification Application

The State of Florida requires all prospective teachers to obtain a stateissued certification before entering a publicschool classroom. This guide walks you through the entire process, from eligibility checks to submitting your application and maintaining your credential.

1. Who Needs Certification?

Anyone who intends to teach in a Florida public K12 school must hold a valid Florida Educator Certificate (FEC). This includes:

• New teachers (firsttime applicants)
• Outofstate teachers seeking reciprocity
• Career changers moving into education
• Specialist and support staff who will be providing direct instruction (e.g., reading specialists, librarians)

2. Certification Types

Florida issues two primary categories of certificates:

• Standard Certificate for teachers of specific subjects and grade levels.
• Temporary Certificate valid for up to three years, often used while completing required coursework or exams.

Additional endorsements (ESOL, special education, etc.) can be added after the initial certification.

3. Eligibility Requirements

1. Educational Credentials A bachelors degree from a regionally accredited institution. For standard certificates, you must complete an approved teacher preparation program.
2. Standardized Exams Pass the Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) required for your area (General Knowledge, Subject Area, and Pedagogy.)
3. Background Screening Complete fingerprinting and a criminal history review through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).
4. Residency or Legal Work Status Provide proof of U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or a valid work visa.
5. Professional References Some certificate types require two professional references.

4. Preparing Your Documents

Gather the following items before you start the online application:

• Official transcripts (high school, college, and any graduate work)
• Certificate of completion for an approved teacher preparation program
• FTCE score reports (official copies from ETS)
• Fingerprint card or electronic fingerprint receipt (FDLE)
• Proof of identity (drivers license, passport, or state ID)
• Social Security Number and payment method for fees

5. Applying Online StepbyStep

6. After Submission What Happens Next?

The Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) will review your file in the following order:

1. Document Verification Transcripts and test scores are crosschecked with issuing institutions.
2. Background Check The FDLE result is matched to your application. Any disqualifying offenses will halt the process.
3. Eligibility Determination If all criteria are met, the system generates your certificate number.

Typical processing time is 1015 business days after all materials are received. You can monitor status through the portal using your tracking number.

7. Receiving Your Certificate

Once approved, you have two options:

• Digital Certificate Available instantly in your portal account. Print a copy for your records.
• Physical Card Request a mailed plastic card (additional $15 fee). Delivery takes 710 business days.

8. Maintaining and Renewing Certification

Florida certificates are valid for five years. To renew, you must:

• Complete 150 continuing education units (CEUs) through approved professional development.
• Submit a renewal application (no fee for the first renewal, then $25 for subsequent renewals).
• Maintain an unblemished background check; any new convictions must be reported within 30 days.

Renewal can be done entirely online through the same portal.

9. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I teach while waiting for my certificate?

Yes, if you have a valid temporary certificate or a Provisional status granted by the school district. Some districts allow intern status for candidates who have passed the FTCE but are still completing their preparation program.

What if I fail an FTCE component?

Retake the exam within 12 months of your first attempt. You do not need to repay the application fee, but the new score must meet the passing threshold before your certificate is issued.

Do I need to refingerprint for renewal?

Yes, a fresh fingerprinting session is required every five years, coinciding with the renewal cycle.

How do I add an endorsement?

Log in to the portal, select Add Endorsement, upload proof of additional coursework or exam scores, and pay the endorsement fee.

10. Helpful Resources

• Florida Teacher Certification Portal Main hub for applications, status tracking, and renewals.
• U.S. Department of Education Federal guidance on teacher preparation standards.
• ETS FTCE Information Exam registration, study guides, and score reporting.
• FDLE Fingerprinting Services Locations, fees, and scheduling.
• Florida Educator Certification Board (FECB) Policies, legislative updates, and contact information.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can navigate the Florida Educator Certification Application with confidence and begin your teaching career in the Sunshine State.