Ready to Teach in Indiana? Your Step-by-Step Guide to Out-of-State Licensure
Published: | by Hannah Sparling
There are plenty of reasons to become a teacher in Indiana: abundant job opportunities, strong job security, stable retirement options, a diverse student body that needs passionate teachers — the list goes on.
Let’s say you’ve already made your decision, and you’re committed to becoming a Hoosier State teacher. Well, what’s next? Indiana offers multiple pathways to teacher licensure; which one should you choose? What specific steps will you take to earn your license and advance your career?
This blog post focuses on the out-of-state, or reciprocity, path for Indiana teachers. Through reciprocity, you can choose an out-of-state Educator Preparation Program (EPP), earn a teaching certification in another state, and then transfer your license to Indiana.
License Options for Out-of-State Teachers
Indiana offers multiple license types to support teachers in different situations and at different stages of their careers. Understanding these options can help you map out your professional journey.
Initial Practitioner License
This is a two-year license for new teachers in Indiana. To qualify, you need a bachelor’s degree, completion of an EPP (including student teaching), and passing scores on the required Praxis exams. You must also hold a valid CPR certification, complete training on preventing suicide, human trafficking, and child abuse, and clear a background check.
Practitioner License
This is the next step for licensed teachers in Indiana. A Practitioner License is valid for five years and is renewable. This license requires at least two years of teaching experience along with completion of the Indiana Mentor and Assessment Program (IMAP), a Professional Growth Plan (PGP), or another approved license conversion option.
Emergency Permit
This is a temporary credential that allows a non-licensed individual to fill a teaching spot when a district is having trouble finding a licensed educator. An Emergency Permit is valid for one school year, giving the educator time to work on any outstanding licensure requirements.
For more comprehensive information on license types and requirements, visit the Indiana Department of Education’s page on Educator Licensing.
How to Earn Your Indiana Teaching License via Reciprocity
Indiana teachers can choose an in-state EPP, an out-of-state option, or one of Indiana’s alternative licensure paths. If you choose an out-of-state EPP, you’ll earn your teaching certification in another state or the District of Columbia and use reciprocity to get your Indiana license.
Here is an example of how the reciprocity process works if you route your credential through Washington, D.C.:
- Earn your bachelor’s degree. This degree does not necessarily have to be in education, so if you already have a bachelor’s degree, you can move on to the next step.
- Complete an EPP. Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program is a great out-of-state option. It’s 100% online and can be completed in just 9 months.
- Pass the required certification exams for D.C. Your specific tests will vary based on the subject and grades you wish to teach.
- Submit your fingerprints for a background check and apply for your D.C. teacher credential.
- Use reciprocity to apply for your Indiana license. Indiana makes this process easier for teachers who complete an EPP accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). Moreland University was the first online program to earn CAEP accreditation.
- Complete any additional requirements. This could include earning your CPR certification or taking training on preventing suicide, human trafficking, and child abuse/neglect. If you need to take any additional Praxis exams, you would complete those at this point as well.
It’s important to note this is just one example of a potential path for an out-of-state candidate in Indiana. For more detailed information, visit the IDOE’s page on Educator Licensing.
Why Reciprocity Might Be the Best Path for You
Reciprocity might make sense for you if:
- You’re already certified to teach in another state and want to move to Indiana.
- You simply prefer an out-of-state EPP.
Indiana offers multiple pathways to licensure because different educators have different priorities, goals, and needs. Some will prefer an in-state EPP while others may find a better match out-of-state. Switching careers to become a teacher is a major life decision, and finding a program that fits your lifestyle is crucial for your success.
If you want some help, Moreland University has a guide to finding your right-fit EPP. You’ll learn 10 factors to help you evaluate EPPs to find the right one for your situation.
How to Apply for Your Indiana Teaching License
Once you’re ready to apply, you will submit your application through Indiana’s License Verification and Information System (LVIS). This online portal managed by the Indiana Department of Education allows you to upload your required documents, track your application status, and pay any necessary application fees.
Why Teach in Indiana?
Demand for teachers is high in the Hoosier State. The U.S. Dept. of Labor projects more than 2% growth in jobs for elementary, middle, and secondary school teachers in Indiana by 2032, compared to 2022. That translates to an average of 4,000 open teaching jobs every single year, giving you excellent job security and plenty of options.
Indiana has a diverse student population, strong retirement options for teachers, and a low cost of living, which means your teacher salary will stretch further than in other areas of the country.
Finally, outside the classroom, Indiana is a great place to build a life. There’s the Lake Michigan coastline at the Indiana Dunes National Park and all-star sports teams like the Fever, Pacers, and Colts.
Teaching is a challenging career, but for those passionate about empowering students and supporting the next generation, the benefits can far outweigh any negatives. And Indiana is a great place to get started.
Ready to take the next step? You could earn your teaching license in as little as 9 months with Moreland University. Our programs are accredited and 100% online, with rolling admissions and monthly start dates.
Apply for free (takes less than 15 minutes), and you’ll hear back within 2 business days.
Questions? Reach out for a 1:1 chat. We’re happy to help.
