How to Transition from a Florida Temporary Teaching Certificate to Full Certification 

In Florida, dedicated educators can begin their teaching careers with a temporary teaching certificate — stepping up to meet the challenges of teacher shortages and bring their passion for education into the classroom.  

For those committed to a long-term career in teaching, the next step is obtaining a full professional teaching certification. This journey not only solidifies their role as educators but also opens doors to greater opportunities and stability in their profession. 

The good news is you can achieve full certification while continuing your current teaching role, thanks to flexible programs like those offered by Moreland University. These programs support educators every step of the way, making the transition to full certification both attainable and rewarding. 

How Educators with a Florida Temporary Teaching Certificate Can Achieve Full Certification  

There are many pathways from a temporary teaching certificate to professional licensure in Florida.  

While the process of obtaining full teaching certification in Florida involves multiple steps, it is navigable with the aid of comprehensive resources provided by the Florida Department of Education (FLDOE).  

As part of your temporary certification process, you should already have obtained a Statement of Eligibility (SOE) from the Bureau of Educator Certification and hold a bachelor’s degree.  

To get a full teaching license in Florida, you’ll need to take a few additional steps defined below. You’ll also want to ensure that you’ve completed a background check as school employees who have direct contact with students must have a valid background screening on file.   

Steps to go from a Florida Temporary Teaching Certificate to Full Certification 

1. Complete a Florida-approved educator preparation institute (EPI) program 

Educator Preparation Institute (EPI) programs are developed for those without degrees in education to become eligible and state-approved teachers through alternative certification pathways. 

One such pathway is Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program, which can be completed in 9 months entirely online. This state-approved EPI is led by expert faculty (many of whom are current or former K-12 teachers) and focuses on practical coursework that candidates can immediately use in their own classrooms.  

Plus, Moreland’s program includes 12 weeks of clinical learning (student teaching) that can be completed in your current classroom — allowing you to prioritize your education while staying active and present in your daily activities as a teacher.  

2. Pass the required Florida exams for your professional teaching license 

Individuals with a Florida temporary teaching certificate must demonstrate their content knowledge and teaching abilities by passing the Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) or the Florida Educational Leadership Examination (FELE). These tests cover basic skills and subject-specific content relevant to the desired certification area. 

Depending on the teaching certification area you are pursuing, there may be additional requirements or exams. 

At Moreland University, we provide robust support to our candidates as they prepare for state licensure exams like those needed to get a full teaching certificate in Florida. Test prep is embedded into our program, and we partner with outside test prep organizations to help ensure you feel confident and prepared for your certification exams.  

3. Apply for and obtain your professional teaching license in Florida 

To go from a temporary to full teaching certification in Florida, you’ll need to apply for your professional teaching license.  

Applying for full teaching licensure in Florida involves submitting an official application packet to the FLDOE, which typically includes your SOE, official transcripts, exam scores, proof you’ve completed an EPI, and a processing fee.  

For more information about what to include in this packet and the requirements for becoming a certified teacher in Florida, visit Moreland University’s comprehensive resource page for becoming a Florida educator. 

Moreland University Supports Florida Teachers 

Being an educator in Florida is a rewarding career, and getting your full professional teaching license can help ensure a long and fruitful career in the state.  

At Moreland, we’ve designed our programs with the working teacher in mind — helping ensure educators can complete certification requirements or uplevel their careers even while working full time.   

Get Fully Certified in Florida on Your Timeline  

Our TEACH-NOW program is an accelerated, Florida-approved EPI that can be completed in 9 months with 100% online learning. The program also includes 12 weeks of clinical learning (student teaching) that can be completed in your current classroom, ensuring you satisfy the EPI requirements in your SOE without having to leave your classroom.  

Plus, with rolling admissions and monthly start dates, you can apply now, select the cohort that works best for your schedule, and complete your EPI requirements in 9 months from there.  

Ready to go from a Florida temporary teaching certificate to full certification?  

Moreland can support you on your pathway to a professional teaching license in Florida. Discover how Moreland empowers and supports Florida teachers, and then apply to Moreland in less than 15 minutes.