Alabama Emergency Teacher Certification Requirements

Teacher shortages across Alabama have created alternative pathways for qualified individuals to enter the classroom quickly. One of the most common options is emergency teacher certification, which allows schools to staff critical vacancies while candidates work toward full licensure.

This guide explains Alabama Emergency Teacher Certification Requirements in clear, practical terms—who qualifies, what exams are required, how to apply, and what steps to take next. Whether you are a recent graduate, a career changer, or an out-of-state educator, this article will help you understand your options and move forward with confidence.

• What is an Alabama Emergency Teaching Certificate?
• Who Qualifies for Emergency Certification in Alabama?
• Alabama Emergency Teacher Certification Requirements
• Exams Needed (Praxis / Subject Tests)
• How to Apply Through the Alabama Department of Education
• Validity Period and Renewal Options
• Alternative Certification vs Emergency Certification
• FAQ: Can You Teach in Alabama Without Certification?
• Next Steps

What is an Alabama Emergency Teaching Certificate?

An Alabama emergency teaching certificate is a temporary credential issued by the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) when a local school system cannot find a fully certified teacher for a specific position. It allows individuals to teach in Alabama schools while they complete the necessary requirements for full certification.

This type of certificate is:

• Employer-driven (requested by a school system, not the individual alone)

• Temporary and conditional

• Designed to address teacher shortage areas

• Often used while the educator works toward meeting full Alabama teacher certification requirements

Emergency certification is not intended to replace standard licensure but to provide schools with flexibility during staffing emergencies.

This pathway is particularly useful for those who find themselves in Alabama teacher shortage areas or want to begin teaching quickly without going through the lengthy traditional certification process.

A classroom setting in Alabama where emergency teachers can make a difference.

Who Qualifies for Emergency Certification in Alabama?

Eligibility for emergency certification in Alabama depends on district needs and state approval, but candidates typically include:

• Individuals with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution

• Career professionals transitioning into education

• Out-of-state teachers who do not yet meet Alabama teaching license requirements

• Educators with incomplete Praxis or program requirements

• Candidates filling positions in high-need or shortage subject areas

It’s important to note that you cannot independently apply for emergency certification. A local Alabama school system must request it on your behalf.

Alabama Emergency Teacher Certification Requirements

The following are the primary requirements for obtaining an Alabama emergency teaching certificate:

• Bachelor’s Degree: You must have earned at least a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution at the time the degree was conferred. Provide official transcripts and documentation of your degree.

• Employment: An individual cannot request an Emergency Certificate for themselves. The request must be initiated by an employing Alabama county/city superintendent or an eligible nonpublic/private school administrator.

• Background Clearance: Applicants must pass a criminal background check through the Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency (ASLEA) and the FBI, which includes fingerprinting.

• Citizenship/Lawful Presence: You must submit Supplement CIT with supporting documentation to verify U.S. citizenship or lawful presence in the United States.

• Application Fee: A non-refundable $30.00 application fee is required.

Exams Needed (Praxis / Subject Tests)

To fulfill the Alabama teacher certification requirements, candidates may need to pass specific exams:

• Praxis Core: Assess basic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics.
• Praxis Subject Assessments: Evaluate knowledge in your specific teaching subject area.

Ensure to prepare thoroughly for these exams, as passing scores are often required to obtain your teaching certificate.

In many cases, Praxis exams may be temporarily waived for emergency certification. However:

• Praxis is usually required for a full Alabama educator certification

• Some districts may require candidates to register for Praxis as a condition of employment

• Emergency certification does not eliminate long-term testing obligations

Common Praxis Exams in Alabama

Depending on your role, you may eventually need:

• Praxis Core (for basic skills)

• Praxis Subject Assessments

• Content-specific Praxis exams aligned with your teaching field

Understanding Praxis Alabama teacher certification requirements early can help you plan and avoid delays later.

How to Apply Through the Alabama Department of Education

Applying for an emergency teaching certificate involves several steps:

• Secure a Job: Apply for a teaching position; the school district must hire you first to start the certification process.

• Employer Request: The superintendent submits Form EC (Application for the Emergency Certificate) on your behalf.

• Visit the Alabama Department of Education's certification website.

• Complete the online application form.

• Upload required documents, including transcripts and background check results.

• Pay the application fee.

• Submit the application and wait for processing.

Once your application is approved, you will receive your emergency teaching license.

Validity Period and Renewal Options

The Alabama emergency teaching certificate is typically valid for one year. During this time, you are expected to work towards full certification by completing the necessary coursework or assessments. Renewal may be possible under certain conditions, so it is critical to stay informed about your progress and requirements.

Renewal Considerations

• Renewals are not guaranteed

• Extensions usually require evidence of progress toward full certification

• Candidates may need to:

  • Pass the required Praxis exams

  • Enroll in an approved teacher preparation program

  • Transition into an Alabama provisional teaching certificate

Emergency certification is best viewed as a bridge, not a permanent solution.

Alternative Certification vs Emergency Certification

While both pathways allow for teaching in Alabama, there are key differences:

Understanding the difference between these pathways is critical.

Emergency Teaching Certificate

• Issued due to staffing shortages

• Requested by school systems

• Short-term and conditional

• Limited portability

Alabama Alternative Teacher Certification

• Structured pathway to full licensure

• Requires enrollment in an approved program

• Includes testing, coursework, and mentoring

• Designed for long-term teaching careers

If you plan to remain in education, transitioning from emergency certification to an Alabama alternative teacher certification program is often the most sustainable option.

Next Steps

Now that you have a better understanding of the Alabama Emergency Teacher Certification Requirements, here are your next steps:

• Research Alabama school districts that are hiring.

• Gather necessary documents and transcripts.

• Complete your application to the Alabama Department of Education.

• Prepare for any required Praxis exams.

• Stay informed about your certification progress and renewal options.

Alabama Emergency Teacher Certification: FAQs

What is an emergency teaching certificate in Alabama?

An Alabama emergency teaching certificate enables individuals to teach in public schools during periods of teacher shortage. It is typically issued to candidates who have a bachelor’s degree but have not yet completed a full teacher preparation program.

Who qualifies for Alabama emergency teacher certification?

To qualify, applicants usually need at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, pass required background checks, and meet subject-area competency requirements. Schools must also verify that the position is in a shortage area before certification is granted.

Can you teach in Alabama without a teaching certificate?

Yes — but only under specific circumstances. Alabama allows temporary or emergency certification for individuals who meet the minimum education and testing criteria, particularly in high-demand subjects such as math, science, and special education.

What exams are required for emergency teacher certification in Alabama?

Most applicants must pass the relevant Praxis subject-area exams and, in some cases, the Praxis Core Academic Skills test. These demonstrate subject knowledge and teaching readiness required by the Alabama Department of Education.

How long is an Alabama emergency teaching certificate valid?

An emergency teaching certificate in Alabama is typically valid for one school year and may be renewed while the teacher completes a state-approved alternative certification or educator preparation program.

What types of subjects are in shortage in Alabama?

Subjects like mathematics, science, and special education often face teacher shortages, making these areas critical for emergency certification candidates.

Can I teach in Alabama with an out-of-state certification?

Yes, Alabama offers certification pathways for out-of-state teachers, including potential waivers or alternative certification options.

Alabama Emergency Teacher Certification Requirements: Final Thoughts

Alabama’s emergency teacher certification pathway offers a practical solution for schools facing staffing shortages and for aspiring educators eager to step into the classroom quickly. While it provides immediate access to teaching opportunities, it is important to remember that emergency certification is temporary and conditional, not a substitute for full licensure.

If you are pursuing this route, the most successful candidates are those who treat emergency certification as a starting point—using the time wisely to prepare for required Praxis exams, meet Alabama teacher certification requirements, and transition into a provisional or alternative certification program. Planning ahead reduces stress, improves job security, and keeps your long-term teaching goals on track.

With the right preparation, clear expectations, and steady progress toward full Alabama educator certification, emergency certification can be a meaningful first step toward a stable and rewarding career in education.