Clear Your Credential

Upgrading is a term typically used to describe moving from a preliminary level certification to the clear level certification. It may also refer to earning an advanced level permit, (e.g., Child Development Permit upgrades). Usually, upgrading requires the holder to have completed all necessary renewal requirements associated with the educator's preliminary credential. The terms "upgrading" and "renewing" are often confused when it comes to preliminary credentials, however, preliminary credentials are not renewable and must be upgraded to the clear level in order to remain valid. 

Renewal requirements are specific requirements associated with an educator's Preliminary or Level I credential that outline required extended preparation and professional development needed to upgrade to the Clear or Level II credential. The requirements are determined based on the educator's preparation pathway and documentation submitted with the initial application for certification. Requirements are designed to prepare educators to meet the academic learning or service needs of all P-12 students and must be completed prior to applying for the Clear or Level II credential. 

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You have the full term of your credential or permit to complete the requirements listed as renewal requirements. Requirements can vary depending on an educator's preparation pathway and/or experience. 

A Preliminary or Level I Credential is a teaching or service credential that is valid for five years. The preliminary/level I credential cannot be renewed. Preliminary/Level I credentials require the holder to complete additional specific requirements based on the preparation pathway and documentation submitted with the initial application for certification. Additional academic requirements must be completed to qualify for and upgrade to the Clear or Level II credential. 

The term "Clear" or "Level II" credential signifies that all education and program requirements for the credential have been met. Clear or Level II credentials are not held for professional growth requirements. Effective January 1, 2007, all clear and level II credentials must be renewed online. 

Life credentials were issued until September 1, 1985. Holders of Clear General, Standard and Ryan credentials were eligible for life documents until that date. Life documents are no longer initially issued, but previously issued life documents continue to be valid. These are valid for the lifetime of the holder, unless the document is revoked for cause. Life credentials do not need to be renewed.

• Upgrading a Multiple Subject Preliminary Credential
• Upgrading a Single Subject Preliminary Credential
• Upgrading an Education Specialist Preliminary/Level I Credential
• Upgrading a Career Technical Education Credential
• Upgrading a Designated Subjects Adult Education Teaching Credential

• Upgrading an Administrative Services Credential
• Upgrading a Speech-Language Pathologist Services Credential
• Upgrading a School Nurse Services Credential