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Delaware Teacher Certification Requirements

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Delaware Teacher Certification Requirements

Delaware Teacher Certification Requirements

Becoming a certified teacher in Delaware involves a series of steps that ensure you meet the state’s educational and competency standards. The Delaware Department of Education (DDOE) oversees the certification process, which typically includes obtaining a bachelor's degree, completing a teacher preparation program, passing the required exams, and submitting an application for certification. This article will guide you through the Delaware teacher certification requirements, helping you understand what it takes to kickstart your teaching career.

Table of contents

The pathway to becoming a certified educator in Delaware is structured yet flexible, offering options for both traditional and alternative certification routes. By understanding the necessary steps, including educational requirements, exams, and application processes, you can navigate your journey with confidence.

Overview of Delaware Teacher Certification

The Delaware teacher certification process ensures that educators possess the necessary qualifications to effectively teach in classrooms across the state. Certification is a formal recognition that an educator has met the state’s requirements to teach in public schools, while licensure refers to the permission granted by the state to practice teaching. The DDOE is responsible for regulating both certification and licensure in Delaware.

Types of Teacher Certifications in Delaware

Initial Teacher Certification

This certification is intended for new teachers entering the profession. To qualify, candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree and complete an approved teacher preparation program. The initial certification is valid for up to five years.

Standard Teacher Certification

After completing the initial certification, teachers can apply for the standard certification. This requires at least three years of teaching experience and evidence of professional development during that time.

Emergency & Limited Certifications

These certifications are available for individuals who have not yet met standard certification requirements but are employed as teachers. Emergency certifications are typically granted for specific subject areas with teacher shortages.

Delaware Teacher Certification Requirements

To become a teacher in Delaware, you need a bachelor's degree, completion of a state-approved teacher prep program (including student teaching), passing scores on required Praxis exams, and a background check, leading to an Initial License.

The process involves completing coursework, passing specific subject/grade-level Praxis tests (like Praxis II), and gaining practical experience through student teaching, after which you apply to the Delaware Department of Education for licensure.

Educational Requirements

To become a certified teacher in Delaware, candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Additionally, completion of an approved teacher preparation program in Delaware is essential.

Student Teaching Requirements

Prospective teachers must complete a supervised student teaching experience, aligning with the grade level they intend to teach. This hands-on training is crucial for developing practical teaching skills.

Background Check & Fingerprinting

All teacher candidates must complete a criminal background check and state and federal fingerprinting before certification. The purpose is to ensure the safety and integrity of Delaware’s schools. Applicants should begin this process early, as fingerprinting results may take time to be processed by the DDOE.Praxis Exams Required for Delaware Teacher Certification

Praxis Core Requirements

Delaware requires the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators exams in Reading, Writing, and Mathematics to assess fundamental academic skills. Some candidates may qualify for exemptions if they have competitive SAT, ACT, or GRE scores that meet DDOE-approved thresholds.

Praxis Subject Assessments

After completing the Core, aspiring teachers must take Praxis Subject Assessments relevant to their teaching field—such as Elementary Education, Secondary English, or Science. Each test measures specialized content knowledge and pedagogical understanding. Candidates are responsible for meeting the DDOE’s minimum passing scores for their area.

Praxis Exam Exemptions

Candidates with qualifying scores on the SAT, ACT, or GRE may be exempt from taking certain Core exams. Official score reporting to the DDOE is required for verification. Always confirm current exemption policies before applying.

Delaware Teacher Certification Application Process

Step-by-Step Application Guide

  1. Create a DDOE account.
  2. Submit your transcripts from your degree and teacher preparation program.
  3. Upload your Praxis test scores.
  4. Complete the background check process.
  5. Pay the application fees.

Delaware teacher certification is managed online through the DEEDS 3.0 system, requiring a bachelor’s degree, an approved teacher preparation program, student teaching, and passing Praxis scores. Applicants must pay a $100 fee, submit official transcripts, and pass relevant tests. An Initial License is valid for four years while finishing mentorship. 

Key Steps in the Delaware Application Process

  • Create a DEEDS Account: Access the Delaware Department of Education's DEEDS system via the EdAccess login page.

  • Submit Application: Apply for the appropriate Initial License and Standard Certificate(s) for your specific subject area/grade level.

  • Submit Required Documentation:

    • Official Transcripts: Degree-conferred transcripts for all degrees.

    • Test Scores: Praxis II or ACTFL scores must be sent directly to the Delaware Department of Education (DDOE).

    • Student Teaching: Proof of completion, usually found on transcripts.

    • Out-of-State License: If applicable, submit a copy of your current license.

  • Pay Fee: A non-refundable $100 application fee is required, which may be reimbursed upon hiring in a Delaware public or charter school.

  • Monitor Progress: Track your application status using the "View My Applications" button in the DEEDS dashboard. 

Application Fees & Processing Time

The application fees may vary, but candidates should expect to pay between $75 and $150. Approval timelines can range from a few weeks to several months, depending on the completeness of the application.

Alternative Routes to Teacher Certification in Delaware

Delaware offers alternative certification routes for individuals who possess a bachelor’s degree in a non-education field but wish to transition into teaching. Approved programs allow candidates to work as teachers while completing certification requirements.

Delaware Teacher Certification Reciprocity

Delaware participates in interstate reciprocity agreements, allowing out-of-state licensed teachers to apply for certification without repeating all local requirements. Educators may need to provide verification of experience, Praxis scores, and transcripts. In some cases, additional coursework or assessments may be required to meet DDOE standards.

Endorsements & Specializations in Delaware

Teachers in Delaware can pursue various endorsements to specialize in areas such as special education, English as a Second Language (ESL), or reading specialist. These endorsements can be added to an existing certificate to enhance teaching credentials.

Teachers can enhance their credentials by earning endorsements in additional subject or grade areas:

  • Elementary Education (K–6)

  • Secondary Subject Endorsements (7–12)

  • Special Education

  • English as a Second Language (ESL)

  • Reading Specialist

Adding endorsements typically requires completing specific coursework and passing related Praxis exams.

How Long Does It Take to Get Teacher Certification in Delaware?

Teacher certification in Delaware typically takes 4–5 Years through traditional routes, which include earning a bachelor’s degree and completing a state-approved teacher preparation program with student teaching. Accelerated or alternative routes, such as Alternative Routes to Certification (ARTC), can reduce this time to roughly 1–2 years for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree. 

Here is a breakdown of the timelines based on the route to certification:

  • Traditional Route (4–5 Years):

    • Bachelor’s Degree: 4 years of study.

    • Teacher Prep & Testing: Completion of a state-approved program (including student teaching) and passing the Praxis subject assessments.

    • Student Teaching: Candidates must complete a minimum of 91 days of student teaching or equivalent experience.

  • Alternative Route to Certification (1–2 Years):

    • For candidates with a bachelor's degree (and at least 24 credits in the subject area or a passed Praxis test), this route allows individuals to teach while finishing certification requirements.

    • Program obligations generally take 2 years to complete.

  • Post-Baccalaureate/Master’s Route (12–24 Months):

  • "91 Days" Alternative (Approx. 6 Months – 1 Year):

    • A unique Delaware option where a candidate with a bachelor's degree and passed Praxis II exams works as a long-term substitute for at least 91 days in one assignment, allowing them to bypass traditional student teaching to qualify for an Initial License.

Cost of Delaware Teacher Certification

Delaware teacher certification requires a one-time, non-refundable $100 application fee for the initial license, payable via the DEEDS online system. This fee is often reimbursed upon employment in a Delaware public or charter school. Additional costs include testing fees (e.g., Praxis) and potential program costs for alternative routes. 

Key Costs and Fees:

  • Initial License/Certificate Fee: $100 (one-time).

  • Additional Certifications: No additional fee, though requirements must be met.

  • Praxis Exams: Approximately $130 – $170 per test.

  • Alternative Routes to Certification (ARTC): Can include costs like $1,000 for seminars or over $2,500 for specific courses.

  • Background Check/Fingerprinting: Required for licensure (costs vary by location).

  • Reimbursement: Teachers hired in Delaware public/charter schools may be reimbursed for the $100 application fee. 

Costs associated with Delaware teacher certification include application fees, exam fees for the Praxis tests, and renewal expenses. Candidates should budget accordingly, as these costs can accumulate.

Maintaining & Renewing Your Delaware Teaching License

Delaware Continuing Licenses are valid for five years and require 90 clock hours of approved professional development, with at least 45 hours focused on student or staff work, for renewal. Educators must document these hours in the DEEDS Educator Dashboard and may need to complete a mentoring program if they have been out of the profession. 

Key Renewal Requirements & Process

  • Validity Period: A Continuing License is valid for five years.

  • Clock Hours: 90 total hours of professional development (PD) are required, with at least 45 hours relating directly to work with students or staff.

  • Documentation: All hours must be logged, and supporting documentation (e.g., certificates) must be uploaded to the DEEDS system.

  • Approval: Certain activities must be pre-approved by the employer (district or charter school).

  • Submission: Renewals are submitted online via the DEEDS 3.0 portal. 

Special Circumstances and Considerations

  • Inactive/Expired License: If the license has expired for less than five years, it may be reinstated; if more than five years, a new initial license application is required.

  • Mentoring: If an educator has been out of the profession for more than three years, they must complete an approved mentoring program within their first year of re-employment.

  • National Board Certification: Obtaining or renewing National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) certification can count toward professional development hours.

  • Exigent Circumstances: If a license expires during the school year, it may be extended to the end of that school year. 

For detailed regulations, refer to the Delaware Department of Education's guide on Continuing Licenses.

Can You Teach in Delaware Without Certification?

Yes, you can teach in Delaware without holding a traditional teaching certificate by using an Alternative Routes to Certification (ARTC) program. These programs allow individuals with a bachelor’s degree to be hired as a full-time teacher of record while completing certification requirements within 2–3 years. 

Key Pathways to Teach Without Initial Certification:

  • Alternative Routes to Certification (ARTC): If you have a bachelor's degree and 24 credits in a content area (or pass the Praxis II), you can be hired while you work toward your standard license.

  • Emergency Certificates: These may be issued by school districts in, specifically, "critical needs" areas, allowing you to teach while completing requirements.

  • Career and Technical Education (CTE): Specific industry experience can qualify you for CTE teaching roles.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the requirements to become a teacher in Delaware?

To become a teacher in Delaware, you must have a bachelor's degree, complete a teacher preparation program, pass required Praxis exams, and undergo background checks.

What Praxis exams are required in Delaware?

Candidates need to pass the Praxis Core exams and relevant Praxis Subject Assessments for their teaching area.

How much does Delaware teacher certification cost?

The cost can range from $75 to $150 for application fees, plus additional costs for Praxis exams.

How long does teacher certification take in Delaware?

The certification process can take several months to a few years, depending on the type and individual circumstances.

Can out-of-state teachers get certified in Delaware?

Yes, Delaware accepts out-of-state licenses through reciprocity agreements, but additional requirements may apply.

Does Delaware offer alternative teacher certification?

Yes, Delaware has alternative routes for individuals with non-education degrees to become certified educators.

Delaware Teacher Certification ProcessAn overview of the steps involved in obtaining a Delaware teacher certification.

Final Thoughts on Delaware Teacher Certification Requirements

Understanding Delaware Teacher Certification Requirements is the first step toward a confident, successful teaching career. With the right preparation, timely Praxis exam planning, and careful application submission, the process becomes far more manageable.

Earning your Delaware teaching license is a structured but achievable process. By meeting educational, testing, and background criteria set by the Delaware Department of Education, you can begin your teaching journey with confidence. For detailed Praxis exam preparation and study resources tailored to Delaware standards, explore the Praxis practice tests and study guides available on prepsaret.com.