Thinking About Teaching in Virginia? A Step-by-Step Guide for Out-of-State Applicants

If you’re an educator planning a move to Virginia, navigating the licensure process doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Virginia offers a structured and accessible path for out-of-state teachers looking to continue their careers in the Old Dominion State. 

Virginia is part of the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which helps streamline licensure reciprocity with all 50 states and the District of Columbia. That said, reciprocity is not automatic. Out-of-state educators must still meet Virginia’s specific licensure requirements and submit documentation to demonstrate their qualifications. 

Read on to learn more.

Licensure Options for Out-of-State Educators

Out-of-state applicants seeking their first teaching license in Virginia may qualify for a Provisional or Collegiate Professional License.

Provisional License

This is a non-renewable, three-year license for individuals who have not yet met all licensure requirements but have been offered employment by a Virginia educational agency. It allows educators to teach while completing the necessary criteria for a full license.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree 
• Employment offer from a Virginia public or accredited non-public school 
• Plan development (includes collaborating with the employing school to outline a plan for completing all licensure requirements within the provisional period) 
• State and federal background checks

Collegiate Professional License

This is a 10-year, renewable teaching license for individuals who have fulfilled all licensure requirements, including education, assessments, and experiential components.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree  
• Educator Preparation Program completion, which may include student teaching or a comparable experience 
• Passing scores on the Virginia Communication and Literacy Assessment (VCLA) and any relevant Praxis Subject Assessments 
• Demonstrated proficiency in specific areas (i.e., child-abuse recognition and intervention, emergency first aid, CPR, and the use of automated external defibrillators) 
• State and federal background checks

To verify your out-of-state teaching license type, use the Educator Licensure State Comparison Tool, which includes direct links to each state education agency. This tool allows applicants to compare their current license with Virginia’s licensure requirements. 

If you have questions about eligibility or the reciprocity process, we recommend contacting the Virginia Department of Education’s Office of Licensure for personalized guidance.

Reciprocity Example for a New Teacher

Virginia offers a wide range of state-approved Educator Preparation Programs within the state. If you complete an out-of-state program, such as Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program, you can earn a teaching certification in another state and transfer the license to Virginia. 

Example of reciprocity via D.C.:

• Step 1: Earn your bachelor’s degree. This degree does not necessarily have to be in education. 
• Step 2: Complete an EPP, like Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW program. 
• Step 3: Pass the required certification exams in D.C. These will vary depending on the subject and grades you wish to teach. 
• Step 4: Submit fingerprints and pass a background check. 
• Step 5: Complete and submit your application for a D.C. teacher certification. 
• Step 6: Apply to transfer your license to Virginia. 

It’s important to note this is just one example of a potential path. For more detailed information, visit the VDOE Licensure Reciprocity page.

How to Apply for a Virginia License

The complete application packet and detailed instructions are available on the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) website. For more information, visit the VDOE’s Licensure Reciprocity page.

Why Teach in Virginia?

Virginia has a strong demand for qualified educators, with the number of secondary school teaching positions projected to grow by 11% between 2020 and 2030. The need is especially high in special education, STEM, and English as a Second Language (ESL). 

Virginia teachers receive comprehensive health insurance that includes medical, dental, prescription drug coverage, and behavioral health services. They also benefit from membership in the Virginia Retirement System, which provides long-term financial security through pension and retirement plans. 

Professional growth is a priority in Virginia. The VDOE supports ongoing development through initiatives like TeacherDirect, a resource hub for instructional tools, professional development opportunities, and available grants. 

Finally, educators in Virginia are part of a community known for its collaborative spirit. Teachers regularly engage with strong professional networks, local education associations, and community-driven initiatives that support career growth and classroom success.

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Earn your professional teaching license in just 9 months with Moreland University. Our TEACH-NOW program is fully accredited and 100% online, with rolling admissions and monthly start dates.  

Apply for free (only takes about 15 minutes), and you’ll hear back in about 2 business days.