How to Get Your Minnesota
Teacher License
Your Minnesota teaching license opens the door to a rewarding career in education, where you can make a lasting impact on students’ lives. Minnesota is dedicated to academic excellence and student success, offering a supportive and innovative environment for educators.
This guide outlines the steps to earning your Minnesota teaching license — from choosing an Educator Preparation Program (EPP) to passing the required assessments and submitting your licensure application in the Land of 10,000 Lakes.
Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board
The Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) oversees teacher licensure and provides essential resources for aspiring and current educators. PELSB offers comprehensive information on licensure requirements, pathways to obtaining a license, and employment opportunities throughout the state.
How to Become a Licensed Teacher in Minnesota
Minnesota offers multiple pathways to teacher licensure, depending on your education and experience level:
The Traditional Pathway
If you’re a high school graduate aiming to become a teacher, the standard route involves earning a bachelor’s degree in education from a state-approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP).
You’ll then need to:
- Pass the applicable licensure exams (or qualify for an exemption)
- Submit fingerprints and pass a background check
- Apply for licensure through the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB)
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The Alternative Pathway
If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than education, you can start teaching with a Tier 2 License while you complete your Educator Preparation Program (EPP).
Moreland’s TEACH-NOW program can be completed in as little as 9 months:
- Fully accredited
- 100% online
- Global cohort model
- Rolling admissions
- Monthly start dates
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In addition to traditional and alternative pathways, Minnesota offers 3 specialized licensure options to address the diverse needs of educators and students: the Portfolio Pathway, the Heritage Language and Culture Licensure Pathway Program, and the American Indian Educators Pathway. More information is available on the PELSB Pathways to Licensure page.
Benefits of Earning Your Minnesota Teaching License
Comprehensive
Perks
Minnesota provides competitive benefits for teachers, including health insurance options covering medical, dental, vision, and life insurance. Educators are also part of the Minnesota Teachers Retirement Association (TRA), which provides retirement and disability benefits, ensuring long-term financial security.
Diverse
Student Body
Minnesota’s K–12 student population reflects a rich cultural diversity. This diversity provides educators with opportunities to engage with students from a variety of cultural backgrounds, creating inclusive and dynamic learning environments.
Career Stability and Growth
Minnesota provides exceptional job stability for educators, supported by a strong commitment to education. The state projects 3,760 K-12 teaching positions open annually through 2032, ensuring steady opportunities for teachers.
Supportive
Community
Minnesota’s education system is built on collaboration, innovation, and a deep commitment to student success. Teachers benefit from strong professional networks, mentorship opportunities, and a culture that balances educational tradition with forward-thinking approaches.
Types of Minnesota Teacher Licenses
Minnesota has a 4-tiered teacher licensure system to accommodate varying qualifications and experiences:
Tier 1 License
The Tier 1 License is valid for 1 school year and renewable up to 3 times*. Designed for individuals who do not yet meet full licensure requirements but have been hired by a school district to fill a specific teaching position, the Tier 1 License is often used by career changers, those in high-need subject areas, or professionals with industry expertise. It is valid only within the hiring district and specific subject area.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (some exemptions for Career and Technical Education (CTE) teachers)
- A job offer from a Minnesota public school
- Background check and mentorship/professional development provided by school district
*Additional renewals may be available based on good cause. Special Education teachers can have up to three Tier 1 licenses (initial license plus 3 renewals).
Tier 2 License
The Tier 2 License is valid for 2 years and renewable up to 3 times. It is designed for those who have not completed a full teacher preparation program but have a strong background in their subject area or are currently enrolled in an educator preparation program. This license is only valid within the hiring district and specific subject area.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (or specific exemptions for CTE teachers)
- One of the following:
- Enrollment in a Minnesota-approved teacher preparation program
- Master’s degree in the content area
- 2 years of teaching experience in the content area
- Passing scores on all licensure exams
- A job offer from a Minnesota public school
- Background check and mentorship/professional development provided by school district
Tier 3 License
The Tier 3 License is valid for 3 years and can be renewed an unlimited number of times. It is designed for educators who have completed a teacher preparation program and passed all required exams. This is the first level of licensure that allows teachers to work statewide.
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Completion of an Educator Preparation Program (EPP)
- Completion of required human relations coursework
- Submission of fingerprints for state and federal background checks
Tier 4 License
The Tier 4 License is valid for 5 years and can be renewed an unlimited number of times. It is designed for experienced teachers who meet the highest standards for licensure in Minnesota and is typically held by educators seeking career advancement or leadership roles.
Requirements:
- Must meet all Tier 3 requirements
- 3 years of teaching experience in the licensure area
- Completion of a Minnesota-approved teacher mentorship and evaluation program
For comprehensive information on license types and requirements, visit the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board’s (PELSB) Educator Aspiring Educators page.
Minnesota Teacher Education Requirements
General Requirements
Minnesota teachers must hold at least a bachelor’s degree and:
- Complete an Educator Preparation Program (EPP)
- Complete required Human Relations coursework
- Fulfill a student teaching practicum
- Clear state and federal fingerprinting and background checks
- Submit all required application materials to the Minnesota PELSB Online Licensing System
Testing Requirements
Effective August 1, 2023, Minnesota revised its teacher licensure requirements concerning the Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations (MTLE) for Tier 3 and Tier 4 licenses. Under the new regulations, the following applicants are exempt from taking the MTLE content and pedagogy exams:
Graduates of Minnesota-Approved Teacher Preparation Programs
Individuals who have successfully completed a teacher preparation program approved by the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB).
Out-of-State Teachers
Teachers who have completed an approved teacher preparation program in another state and have passed the equivalent licensure exams required by that state.
Portfolio-Based Licensure Candidates:
Educators who have been recommended for licensure through Minnesota’s portfolio process, which allows candidates to demonstrate competency and experience as an alternative to traditional pathways.
These exemptions aim to streamline the licensure process for qualified educators by recognizing their prior preparation and assessments. It’s important to note that while these candidates are exempt from the MTLE content and pedagogy exams, they must still fulfill other licensure requirements. For more detailed information, please refer to the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board’s (PELSB) Testing page.
Education & Degree Requirements
Minnesota requires educators to have a minimum of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. university or college. If you have a bachelor’s in a subject other than education, you can become a teacher by completing an Educator Preparation Program (EPP), such as Moreland University’s 9-month TEACH-NOW program.
Minnesota Licensing Application Process
Once you’ve fulfilled the necessary requirements for teacher licensure in Minnesota, you can apply online through the Minnesota PELSB Online Licensing System. This process involves submitting essential documents, such as official transcripts, proof of program completion, a completed fingerprint card, and application fee. Detailed instructions and application forms are available on the PELSB’s Educator Licensure and Preparation page.
Minnesota Educator Preparation Programs (EPPs)
The Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board provides a list of approved Educator Preparation Programs (EPPs) in Minnesota. If you complete an out-of-state EPP, like Moreland University’s 100% online TEACH-NOW Teacher Preparation Certificate Program, you can simply apply through the Minnesota PELSB Online Licensing System.
TEACH-NOW:
- Fully accredited
- 100% online
- Global cohort model
- Rolling admissions
- Monthly start dates
- 9 months total
- Clinical learning (student teaching) included
FAQs
You have questions about becoming a licensed teacher in Minnesota. We have answers.
How do I become a Minnesota teacher?
Minnesota offers multiple pathways to teacher licensure, including the Traditional Pathway, through approved Educator Preparation Programs (EPPs), and Alternative Licensure Programs for those transitioning from other careers.
For a helpful overview of Minnesota’s 4-tiered teacher licensure system, refer to the Minnesota PELSB’s Educator Licensure infographic. For detailed information on license types and requirements, visit the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board’s Educator Aspiring Educators page.
Do I need a teaching license to teach in Minnesota?
Yes, a valid Minnesota teaching license is required to teach in public schools. Minnesota has a 4-tiered teacher licensure system to accommodate varying qualifications and experiences: Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3 and Tier 4 licenses.
For a helpful overview of Minnesota’s four-tiered teacher licensure system, refer to the Minnesota PELSB’s Educator Licensure infographic. For detailed information on license types and requirements, visit the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board’s Educator Aspiring Educators page.
What are the requirements for Minnesota teacher licensure?
The specific requirements for teacher licensure in Minnesota vary depending on the license type and the subject or grade level you wish to teach.
Minnesota teachers must hold at least a bachelor’s degree and:
- Complete an Educator Preparation Program (EPP)
- Complete required Human Relations coursework
- Fulfill a student teaching practicum
- Clear state and federal fingerprinting and background checks
- Submit all required application materials to the Minnesota PELSB Online Licensing System
How do I maintain my Minnesota teaching license?
Specific renewal requirements in Minnesota vary depending on the license type.
- Tier 1 and 2 Licenses: These licenses can be renewed up to 3 times*. The process requires a District Verification Form completed by the employing school district. Additionally, for Tier 1 license renewal, teachers are required to attempt the Minnesota Teacher Licensure Examinations (MTLEs) relevant to their teaching assignment, although passing these exams is not mandatory for renewal.
- Tier 3 Licenses: These licenses are valid for 3 years and can be renewed indefinitely through the Minnesota PELSB Online Licensing System. Renewals require 75 clock hours of professional development within the 3 years preceding renewal and completion of mandatory HR training programs.
- Tier 4 Licenses: These licenses are valid for 5 years and can be renewed indefinitely through the Minnesota PELSB Online Licensing System. Renewals require 125 clock hours of professional development within the 3 years preceding renewal and completion of mandatory HR training programs.
For an overview of renewal requirements, refer to the Renewal Requirements Chart. Full details are available on the Minnesota PELSB Renewals page.
*Additional renewals may be available based on good cause. Special Education teachers can have up to three Tier 1 licenses (initial license plus 2 renewals).
How long does it take to become a licensed teacher in Minnesota?
The timeline to become a licensed teacher in Minnesota can vary depending on your educational background and the specific pathway you choose.
- Traditional Pathway: Typically 4 years (bachelor’s degree with an EPP).
- Alternative Licensure Programs: Timeframes vary based on program structure, and candidates often teach under a Tier 2 License while completing licensure requirements. Moreland University’s TEACH-NOW program can be completed in as little as 9 months.
How much do Minnesota teachers make?
Minnesota teacher salaries depend on multiple factors, including experience, education, subject area, grade level, and school district. According to the National Education Association (NEA):
- The average annual salary for a Minnesota teacher is $70,005.
- The average starting salary is $43,181, varying by district and experience.
Those with advanced degrees, such as a master’s in education (M.Ed.), may earn higher salaries.
How can I learn more about becoming a licensed teacher in Minnesota?
The Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) is the best resource to learn more about teacher licensure and pathways to teaching.
You can also reach out to Moreland University at admissions@moreland.edu or 844-283-2246. We’d be happy to answer your questions about teacher licensure or our 9-month, 100% online Educator Preparation Program (EPP).