Achieving Full Licensure: Steps for Minnesota Teachers with Temporary Licenses

If you’re currently teaching in Minnesota on a temporary Tier 1 or Tier 2 license, you’re already making a difference in the classroom — and you’re in good company. According to the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB)’s 2022-2023 Licensure Compliance Report, over 3,400 full-time equivalent (FTE) teachers held Tier 1 or Tier 2 credentials as of October 2022. These licenses serve as temporary pathways for individuals who have not yet met the requirements for full teacher certification. 

The next step is earning your full professional teaching license — a move that opens the door to greater job stability, long-term career advancement, and more teaching opportunities across the state. Continue reading below for more information about how to transition from a Tier 1 or Tier 2 license to a full teaching license in the Land of 10,000 Lakes. 

Understanding Temporary Teaching Licenses in Minnesota 

Minnesota offers two temporary teaching licenses to help individuals enter the profession while working toward full certification requirements.  

• A Tier 1 License is valid for 1 school year and renewable up to 3 times. Designed for individuals who do not yet meet full licensure requirements but have been hired by a school district to fill a specific teaching position, the Tier 1 License is often used by career changers, those in high-need subject areas, or professionals with industry expertise. It is valid only within the hiring district and specific subject area. 
• A Tier 2 License is valid for 2 years and renewable up to 3 times. It is designed for those who have not completed a full teacher preparation program but have a strong background in their subject area or are currently enrolled in an educator preparation program. This license is only valid within the hiring district and specific subject area. 

While these licenses allow you to teach, they are not permanent. To continue in the classroom long-term, you’ll need to transition to a Tier 3 License, which is Minnesota’s first level of licensure that allows teachers to work statewide and can be renewed an unlimited number of times. 

For the most up-to-date Minnesota licensure information, please visit the PELSB website. 

Steps to Achieve Full Licensure in Minnesota 

Step 1: Earn a bachelor’s degree  

In Minnesota, every teacher is required to hold a bachelor’s degree, including those with temporary licenses. The good news is that this bachelor’s degree doesn’t need to be in education. As long as your degree is from an accredited college or university, you’ve already fulfilled this requirement. 

Step 2: Complete an accepted Educator Preparation Program 

Choosing the right EPP is a key step toward earning your full teaching license. Here are the most important factors to consider: 

• Format – Is the program online, in-person, or hybrid? Will it fit your schedule and learning style? 
• Start Dates – Does the program offer rolling admissions or fixed start times? 
• Program Length – Some take 1–2 years; others, like Moreland’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program, can be completed in as little as 9 months. 
• Cost & Financial Aid – What’s the tuition? Are there scholarships, grants, or payment plans? 
• Student Teaching – What are the clinical practice requirements? Will the EPP provider help you find a student teaching placement? 
• Accreditation – Is the program recognized in Minnesota? 
• Licensure Exam Support – Does the program offer guidance and resources to help you prepare for required exams? 

Taking the time to evaluate these elements can help you choose the best path forward. For more ideas about what to consider when selecting an EPP, check out our complimentary right-fit EPP guide.

Step 3: Pass Required Exams 

Effective August 1, 2023, Minnesota revised its teacher licensure requirements regarding the Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations (MTLE) for Tier 3 and Tier 4 licenses. Under the new regulations, the following applicants are exempt from taking the MTLE content and pedagogy exams:  

• Individuals who have successfully completed a teacher preparation program approved by the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) 
• Teachers who have completed an approved teacher preparation program in another state and have passed the equivalent licensure exams required by that state 
• Educators who have been recommended for licensure through Minnesota’s portfolio process, which allows candidates to demonstrate competency and experience as an alternative to traditional pathways 

These exemptions were put in place to make the licensure process easier and faster for qualified educators by recognizing their prior preparation and assessments. 

Step 4: Complete a Background Check 

Minnesota requires all teachers to submit fingerprints and pass state and federal background checks before earning certification. Background checks are conducted through the Minnesota Department of Education (LDOE) Educator Licensure Portal.  

Step 5: Apply for a Tier 3 License 

Once you’ve completed your EPP and met background check requirements, you’re ready to apply for a Tier 3 License through the Minnesota PELSB Online Licensing System. 

Why Teach in Minnesota?  

Minnesota schools need passionate, prepared educators — and the demand is only growing. The state is projecting 3.8% growth in elementary and middle school teaching jobs by 2032. From special education to ESL and world languages, opportunities are available across a range of subjects and grade levels. 

Minnesota’s classrooms are rich with cultural and linguistic diversity, giving teachers the chance to connect with students from all walks of life. It’s a state where education is collaborative, student-centered, and forward-thinking. 

Whether you’re just starting your career or taking the next step, the Land of 10,000 Lakes is a great place to build a future in education. If you’re ready to earn your Tier 3 License in Minnesota, Moreland’s TEACH-NOW program can help you get there quickly and effectively. With a fully accredited, 100% online format, this program equips you with the skills, experience, and support needed to thrive as a certified educator in as little as 9 months. 

Complete your free application to get started today or download our complimentary guide to teacher certification in Minnesota for more information about the state’s teaching landscape and the importance of earning your Tier 3 license.