Teacher (K-12)

UPDATED FOR 2026

K-12 Teachers are licensed educators who work with children from kindergarten through 12th grade. They develop lesson plans, teach academic subjects, manage classrooms, assess student performance, and foster social and emotional growth. Teachers play a critical role in shaping future generations and supporting student success.

Category Education
State New Jersey (NJ)
Teacher (K-12)

In New Jersey, teachers must complete a bachelor’s degree and a state-approved teacher preparation program, pass required Praxis exams, and obtain state certification through NJDOE. New teachers usually start on a provisional certificate pathway; a Standard Certificate is permanent and does not expire.

Step-by-Step Guide

1

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

Complete a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Your degree should include coursework related to your intended subject area or grade level.
2

Complete a State-Approved Teacher Preparation Program

Enroll in and finish a New Jersey-approved teacher preparation program. This typically includes student teaching and supervised classroom experience.
Official NJDOE certification resources: Teachers Certification.
3

Pass Required Praxis Exams

Register for and pass the Praxis Core and Praxis Subject Assessments required for your teaching field in New Jersey.
Required tests list: NJ Praxis Requirements.
4

Complete a Criminal Background Check

Submit fingerprints and undergo a criminal background check as required by the New Jersey Department of Education.
5

Apply for a State Teaching Certificate

Submit your application, transcripts, Praxis scores, and all required documents to the New Jersey Department of Education to obtain your teaching certificate.
Application process: NJDOE Apply for Certification.
6

Understand Provisional and Standard Certificate Status

In New Jersey, beginning teachers commonly hold a Provisional Certificate while completing mentoring and evaluation requirements. The Standard Certificate is permanent and does not expire.