How to Become an Elementary School Teacher in North Carolina

Elementary school teachers have a unique opportunity to shape young minds during their most impressionable years. From teaching the fundamentals of reading and math to helping develop social and emotional skills, these educators lay the foundation for lifelong learning and success. If you’re considering becoming an elementary school teacher in North Carolina, this blog breaks down everything you need to know to earn your certification, including key steps and requirements as well as pathways into the classroom for new teachers and career changers.

Comprehensive Guide on How to Become a Teacher in North Carolina

While the process of becoming an elementary school teacher in North Carolina is similar to becoming a teacher for other grades, there are steps specific to teaching younger children in the Tar Heel State. These include earning a bachelor’s degree, passing licensure exams, and specializing in elementary education or early childhood development. 

For a detailed overview of teacher certification in North Carolina, check out our complimentary How to Become a Teacher in North Carolina Guide. This comprehensive resource includes everything you need to know, from certification requirements and pathways to benefits that teachers receive once employed.

What Do You Need to Be an Elementary School Teacher in North Carolina?

To start your teaching career in North Carolina, you must meet certain education and certification requirements. These include:

• Earning a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Completing an approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP) like Moreland University’s 100% online TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program, which can be finished in as little as 9 months
• Passing the required licensure exams, including general subject and pedagogy tests from the Praxis series
• Clearing a background check, which is mandatory for all teaching applicants

How Long Does It Take to Become an Elementary School Teacher in North Carolina?

On average, it takes about 4-5 years to become fully certified. This includes earning a bachelor’s degree as a full-time student and completing a teacher preparation program. The timeline may be shorter for those pursuing an alternative route — even less than a year — especially if you already have a bachelor’s degree.

Steps to Becoming an Elementary School Teacher in North Carolina

Approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP)

After earning a bachelor’s degree, the first major step to certification as an elementary school teacher in North Carolina is enrolling in an approved EPP. These programs equip you with the tools and practical experience needed to succeed in the classroom. If you don’t have a degree in education, this step is essential to gaining the basic instructional skills and practical experience to thrive as an educator.

Step 1 – Enroll in an EPP

When selecting the right EPP for you, consider the format that will best fit your schedule. Some programs may require you to take in-person classes one or more nights per week while other accredited programs like TEACH-NOW are available fully online to provide you with the flexibility to balance all of life’s responsibilities. 

A full list of approved EPPs for the Tar Heel State is available on the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NC DPI) website.

Step 2 – Complete Student Teaching or Clinical Experience

All aspiring teachers must complete a hands-on teaching practicum. This critical step gives you real-world classroom experience. All Moreland candidates receive dedicated mentorship and support throughout their 12-week clinical practice as well as the rest of their program.

Step 3 – Pass Required Examinations

To verify that they meet North Carolina elementary educators’ standards, all aspiring K-6 teachers must receive passing scores on required licensure exams including:

• Praxis tests (general and subject-specific content)
• Foundations of Reading and General Curriculum assessments

Step 4 – Apply for a Teaching License

Submit your application to for a teaching license through NC DPI’s Online Licensure System.

In-State Certification Process

Depending on which step you’re on in the North Carolina licensing process, you can either receive your certification while you are finishing an EPP or after you have completed your program by pursuing the license that best fits you:

Step 1 – Residency License

If you have a bachelor’s degree but are still completing your EPP, you can apply for a 1-year Residency License, which allows you to teach while meeting certification requirements.

Step 2 – Initial Professional License (IPL)

After completing your EPP and passing licensure exams, you’ll qualify for an IPL, a 3-year license intended for new teachers.

Step 3 – Continuing Professional License (CPL)

Once you’ve taught for 3 years and fulfilled additional professional development requirements, you can apply for a CPL, North Carolina’s standard renewable teaching license.

Can You Become an Elementary School Teacher in North Carolina Without a Teaching Degree?

Yes! Not only is it possible to teach in North Carolina without an education degree, it is common for aspiring teachers to enter the profession by pursuing an alternative certification pathway. If your bachelor’s degree is in a subject other than education, you can even earn a Residency License and work as a teacher while completing an approved EPP.

What Is the Fastest Way to Become an Elementary School Teacher?

For career changers, completing an accelerated program like Moreland’s TEACH-NOW program is the fastest route to certification. This fully online, 9-month course combines in-depth learning with a hands-on clinical practice module to prepare you to lead your own classroom with confidence. 

Visit our online North Carolina teacher certification program overview to get more valuable insights into flexible, efficient pathways tailored to your unique needs and teaching goals.

Moreland Supports North Carolina Elementary Teachers

Becoming an elementary school teacher in North Carolina is a big professional step, but with the right guidance and support, it’s achievable for new teachers and career changers alike. If you’re ready to start your journey toward a fulfilling career and making a meaningful impact on students’ lives, complete your free application to TEACH-NOW today and we’ll support you on the path to teacher certification in North Carolina.