The items below are required to apply for a Single Subject Teaching Credential based on preparation outside of the United States. The Single Subject Teaching Credential authorizes the holder to teach the specific subject(s) named on the credential and is most frequently used in secondary school settings, which includes middle schools and high schools. Please note that this checklist is ONLY for submission of an online application, and details regarding certain items may differ from what is required to submit a paper application. To submit a paper application, please refer to Single Subject Teaching Credential Requirements for Individuals Prepared Outside of the United States (CL-870).

Before You Apply

You will need to obtain your fingerprint clearance. Please see below for information regarding how to complete fingerprinting depending on your situation.

  • Current credential holders: If you already have valid fingerprints on file with the Commission, it is not necessary to fingerprint each time you apply for a credential or permit. However, if your fingerprints are expired then you must re-establish fingerprints through one of the methods below. Details on how to check your fingerprint status can be found on CTC Online - Your Educator Account under the section Check the Status.
  • California residents and non-residents who reside in or are visiting California: Complete Live Scan with 41-LS form. Applicants may upload a copy of their Live Scan form to facilitate tracking if issues arise, but this is not required.
  • Non-residents who are unable to complete a California Live Scan: If you are unable to complete the Live Scan process then you cannot submit your applications online. You must instead request fingerprint cards (FD-258) using this online portal and submit the completed cards, along with a paper application and processing fees ($49 for fingerprint cards and $100 for the credential application).
  • NOTE: Fingerprints are not transferable between agencies, so fingerprinting completed for credentialing purposes and fingerprinting completed for employment purposes are separate.

Checklist for Online Application

RequirementItemImportant Details and Tips
Out-of-country teaching credential
  • Be sure that when you request your foreign transcript evaluation, you provide the agency with your out-of-country teaching credential as well.
Foreign transcript evaluation from an approved agency

 Must show completion of a bachelor's or higher degree from an institution equivalent to a regionally accredited institution in the U.S.

 Must show completion of a professional preparation program in secondary education, including student teaching, at an institution equivalent to a regionally accredited institution in the U.S.

  • For paper foreign transcript evaluations, upload an electronic scan of the original, official paper foreign transcript evaluation. All pages must be scanned and uploaded. Clear photo images will also be accepted but must include all pages.
  • For electronic foreign transcript evaluations, upload the original file sent to you by the foreign transcript evaluation agency.
  • The Commission reserves the right to request the original foreign transcript evaluation by mail to ensure authenticity.
  • Unofficial foreign transcript evaluations are not acceptable.
  • NOTE: California does not issue a generic secondary education credential. You should request the Single Subject area that best aligns with the grade and content area of the pedagogy, methodology, and student teaching in your teacher preparation program. If grade and content area are not listed on your foreign transcript evaluation, then you can request the area that is closest to your degree major. However, if your foreign transcript evaluation does not indicate what subject you are qualified to teach, you may request the Single Subject area that you believe to be the best fit to your teacher preparation. The final determination of eligibility will be made when your application is reviewed.

 

Updated May 01, 2024