How to Become a Special Education Teacher in Florida 

Special education teachers play a vital role in helping students with disabilities reach their full potential. It’s a difficult job that requires dedication and expertise, but if you’re passionate about making a difference in the lives of students who need additional support, becoming a special education teacher in Florida could be the perfect career path for you. 

There is a high need for special education teachers as well. Florida projected 2,079 vacancies for special-ed teachers in the 2025-26 school year, more than a quarter of all teacher vacancies statewide. The state publishes a list each year of the highest need areas, and this year, Exceptional Student Education (ESE) was No. 1. 

There are specific requirements for special-ed teachers, but the process doesn’t have to be daunting or overwhelming. And this post will help you get started, walking you through the steps to earn a certification in Exceptional Student Education (ESE) in Florida.

Comprehensive Guide on How to Become a Teacher in Florida 

Many of the requirements for becoming a special education teacher in Florida mirror those for general teacher certification, but there are a few key differences. For example, special education teachers may need to complete additional coursework focused on teaching students with diverse learning needs, including instruction in areas like behavioral supports, assessment strategies, and/or language supports. 

For a complete overview of the general certification process in Florida, check out our how to become a teacher in Florida guide. This comprehensive resource covers everything from obtaining your Official Statement of Eligibility to passing the Florida Teacher Certification Exams. It provides detailed information about certification types, testing requirements, and the application process that applies to all Florida educators.

What Do You Need to Be a Special Education Teacher in Florida? 

Special education teachers in Florida need to meet several basic requirements (for more details, visit the Florida Department of Education’s certification page): 

• A bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution
• An Official Statement of Eligibility (SOE) from the Florida Department of Education
• Completion of an Educator Preparation Institute (EPI) program
• A major in a related field (i.e., exceptional student education) or 30 semester hours in exceptional student education focus areas
• Passing scores on the Florida Teacher Certification Examinations
• Completion of fingerprinting and background screening 

How long does it take to get a special education teaching certification? Well, if you’re starting from scratch, earning a bachelor’s degree in special education typically takes around four years. 

However, if you already have a bachelor’s degree in another field, you can enroll in an alternative Educator Preparation Institute (EPI) and earn your certification faster. Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program, for example, is an approved EPI in Florida and can be completed in as little as 9 months.

Steps to Becoming a Special Education Teacher in Florida

1. Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree 

Your first step is to earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. If you know you want to become a special education teacher, you can major in an area like exceptional student education or special education.  

If you already have your bachelor’s degree in another field, no problem — you don’t have to start over. You can complete an alternative EPI, like Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW program.  

2. Complete Your Initial Application and Obtain Your SOE 

Submit your initial application package to the Florida Department of Education. Once approved, you’ll receive your Official Statement of Eligibility (SOE), which allows you to seek employment as a teacher in Florida. 

3. Complete a Background Screening 

Submit your fingerprints for a comprehensive background check. This is a required step for all Florida educators and ensures the safety of students.

4. Pass the Florida Teacher Certification Examinations 

You’ll need to pass several exams: 

• General Knowledge Test: Includes an essay and covers English language skills, reading, and mathematics
• Professional Education Test: Focuses on professional conduct, curriculum, and teaching diverse learners
• Subject Area Examinations: These will vary based on the specific subjects and grades you want to teach. The Exceptional Student Education (ESE) exam is one of Florida’s Subject Area Examinations.  

5. Apply for Your Teaching Certificate 

Once you’ve met all the requirements, apply for your teaching certificate through the Florida Department of Education’s online system. Florida offers temporary certificates, valid for 5 years while you complete additional requirements, and professional certificates, renewable and also valid for five years.  

It’s important to note this is just one example of a potential path to certification in Florida. For more details, visit the state department of education website.

Can You Become a Special Education Teacher in Florida Without a Teaching Degree? 

Yes, you can become a special education teacher in Florida without a traditional teaching degree! If you have a bachelor’s degree in any field, you can pursue an alternative certification pathway through an approved EPI. 

Moreland University helps Florida teachers earn their certifications online while teaching full-time. Moreland’s TEACH-NOW program is fully accredited and can be completed in as little as 9 months. 

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Earn your Florida teacher certification online in as little as 9 months through Moreland University. Our TEACH-NOW program is fully accredited, with rolling admissions and monthly start dates. Apply for free, and you’ll hear back within 2 business days.