California authorizes departmentalized teaching, typically found in secondary/high schools, via the Single Subjects Teaching Credential.

Minimum Requirements

To qualify for this credential based on out-of-state preparation, you must submit the following minimum requirements:

  1. Individuals may submit their application packet through their employer or directly to the Commission through CTC Online. Visit Direct Application Submission for instructions on submitting your application online.
  2. Official transcripts verifying your Bachelor's degree (and any additional higher degrees).
    The transcripts must be the original college issued documents, not photocopies, but they do not have to be sealed in the original envelope.
  3. A copy of your professional-level out-of-state teaching license authorizing secondary school teaching.
    Be sure to include a copy of the back of the document if the back has any licensing information or authorizations printed on it.
  4. Evidence of fingerprint processing.
    See Credential Leaflet CL-271 regarding fingerprint requirements. 

Suggested for Submission

The following documentation is suggested, but not required, for initial certification. If you have any of the following additional information please include it with your application packet so that the Commission can clear you of future renewal requirements:

  1. If applicable, verification of two or more years of successful full-time out-of-state teaching experience.
    Experience verification must include an original letter from your out-of-state employer(s) AND two years of satisfactory performance evaluations. See the definitions for "Full-Time Teaching Experience" and "Satisfactory Performance Evaluations" on page 6 and 7 of Commission Leaflet CL-560 for detailed information on what your experience letters and evaluations MUST include.

California has a two-tier credential structure. A preliminary credential is the first document issued after an individual meets basic credential requirements. The preliminary credential is issued for a maximum of five years. A clear credential is issued when all credential requirements have been completed. If requirements for the clear credential are not completed before the expiration of the preliminary, the holder will be unable to teach in California's public schools with that credential until those requirements are met and the document is renewed.    

Updated March 11, 2026