The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing extends our compassion and concern to the many educators, students, families, and schools impacted by the devastating Los Angeles area wildfires.

We understand that during this unprecedented time many questions may arise regarding credentials, permits, documents, and more. A series of FAQs below have been developed in an effort to provide answers and reassurance. If you have additional Commission-related concerns, please use this form to contact us.

Information and Resources for Those Affected by Los Angeles Area Wildfires

May I get an extension on my permit/credential if it expired and I cannot renew due to the fires? Is there any penalty for letting it lapse?

The Commission does not issue a penalty for letting your document(s) expire. You may renew them at a later time, or you can look into the possibility of an extension. For more information on extensions please see our website.

Note that Provisional Internship Permits (PIP) and Short-Term Staff Permits (STSP) and waivers are not able to be extended or renewed. If you hold one of these permits and require additional guidance on possible next steps, please contact the Certification division.

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I received a request for additional information from the Commission related to my application and am not able to meet the deadline due to the fires. What can I do?

An applicant impacted by the fire who is not able to return requested materials within the timeline provided should reach out to the Certification division via our contact form and we will do all we can to assist.
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Schools in my county are currently closed due to the fires. Can I work with my substitute permit in other counties?

Yes. Emergency 30-Day Substitute Permits are valid for employment as a substitute anywhere in the state.
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Will I have to redo my teacher preparation program if it's impacted by the evacuations?

Please speak with your program sponsor for information on disruptions from the disaster.
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I had a printed copy of my credential which is now lost due to the fires. How can I prove I have a credential?

The information found on the Commission’s online lookup page is the official record of any document issued by our office. You may use our website to confirm your credential(s), as well as receive a new copy suitable for printing.
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I am a Credential Analyst at a charter school, state special school, school district, or county office and am not able to complete assignment monitoring due to a fire. What can I do?

County(s) or LEAs impacted by natural disasters may request extensions during assignment monitoring if necessary. If you work at a district, please coordinate with your county office. County offices may contact the Assignment Monitoring Program directly using the dedicated email address.
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I am an educator not located in the areas affected by the fires. Is there any way I can help teachers impacted by this disaster?

The California Department of Education has initiated a fundraising campaign for educators and students. Additional information can be found on the Department of Education’s website.
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The wildfires in Southern California have interrupted the operations at some testing centers. What should I do?

For the safety of the candidates and those who work in the test centers, some testing centers have had to close temporarily. Appointment cancellations have already taken place with email notifications to candidates. For the most current updates on testing center closures and examination cancellations, please refer to the following website: California Educator Credentialing Examinations.
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Updated January 10, 2025