Option 1a: I want to begin working before completing a teacher preparation program

  1. I want to substitute
  2. Apply for a substitute teaching permit

Option 1b: I want to begin working before completing a teacher preparation program

  1. I want to teach
  2. You may qualify for a 1-year emergency permit called the Emergency Specialist Teaching Permit in Early Childhood Education (ETK Permit). It can only be renewed once, and then you must enroll in a program.
  3. When you complete your program, you will be issued your Preliminary credential, valid for 5 years. During that time, you will need to complete the requirements to clear your credential.
  4. When you have completed your requirements, congratulations on your Clear credential! It is valid for 5 years and can be renewed.

Option 1c: I want to begin working before completing a teacher preparation program

  1. I want to teach
  2. You may qualify for a 1-year emergency permit called the Emergency Specialist Teaching Permit in Early Childhood Education (ETK Permit). It can only be renewed once, and then you must enroll in a program.
  3. If your program has an Intern credential option, you can be employed as a teacher and earn a teacher's salary while completing your program within 2 years.
  4. When you complete your program, you will be issued your Preliminary credential, valid for 5 years. During that time, you will need to complete the requirements to clear your credential.
  5. When you have completed your requirements, congratulations on your Clear credential! It is valid for 5 years and can be renewed.

Option 2a: I want to teach during or after completing a teacher preparation program

  1. If your program has an Intern credential option, you can be employed as a teacher and earn a teacher's salary while completing your program within 2 years.
  2. When you complete your program, you will be issued your Preliminary credential, valid for 5 years. During that time, you will need to complete the requirements to clear your credential.
  3. When you have completed your requirements, congratulations on your Clear credential! It is valid for 5 years and can be renewed.

Option 2b: I want to teach during or after completing a teacher preparation program

  1. When you complete your program, you will be issued your Preliminary credential, valid for 5 years. During that time, you will need to complete the requirements to clear your credential.
  2. When you have completed your requirements, congratulations on your Clear credential! It is valid for 5 years and can be renewed.


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Updated July 18, 2025