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Maryland Teacher Certification Reciprocity

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Maryland Teacher Certification Reciprocity

Maryland operates a structured, COMAR-governed teacher certification reciprocity system that is notable for several distinctive features: it is explicitly welcoming to out-of-state licensed teachers through the state’s official Teach Maryland portal, it provides a bridge credential (the Temporary Professional Teacher License) for teachers who need time to complete Maryland’s specific assessment requirements, and it is grounded in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement that facilitates reciprocity across the nation.

Table of contents

At its core, Maryland’s reciprocity approach is anchored in COMAR 13A.12.02.03 — the Pathways to Teacher Licensure regulation — which, since April 1, 2024, offers nine pathways to initial professional licensure. 

One of these pathways is specifically designed for teachers who ‘completed an out-of-state teacher preparation program or held a valid out-of-state professional license.’ 

This pathway provides out-of-state teachers with a direct route to the Maryland Initial Professional License (IPL), subject to meeting Maryland’s own specific assessment and documentation requirements.

Maryland’s approach is also shaped by a pressing need: with 1,619 teacher vacancies at the start of 2024-25 and 28 designated shortage areas, Maryland has strong policy incentives to make inbound reciprocity as accessible as possible for qualified out-of-state teachers. 

At the same time, Maryland maintains its assessment standards — particularly the July 2025 mandate for portfolio-based pedagogy assessments (edTPA or PPAT) — to ensure that reciprocity does not mean bypassing meaningful quality benchmarks.

This Prepsaret guide covers every aspect of Maryland teacher certification reciprocity from primary sources: COMAR 13A.12.02.03, COMAR 13A.12.02.02 (the Temporary Professional License provision), the MSDE Educator Licensure Overview (April 2024), the MSDE Licensure Assessments document (July 2025), Teach Maryland, and key institutions like Salisbury University and HCPSS. Both directions of reciprocity — inbound (how to get Maryland certification with an out-of-state license) and outbound (how to use your Maryland license in other states) — are covered.

Quick Summary: Maryland Teacher Certification Reciprocity
INBOUND (Getting a Maryland License with an Out-of-State License):
  If you have a valid out-of-state license OR completed an out-of-state teacher preparation program, you have a ‘direct route to Maryland licensure’ (Teach Maryland).
  You must still: pass Maryland’s required content licensure test (Praxis II); meet the basic skills requirement (Praxis Core, 3.0 GPA, or 3 years of effective MD evaluations); complete a pedagogy assessment (edTPA or PPAT from July 2025); and pass the reading instruction test if seeking Elementary, Early Childhood, SpEd, or ESOL licensure.
  If you haven’t yet passed Maryland’s tests, you may be eligible for a 2-year Temporary Professional Teacher License while you complete them.
OUTBOUND (Using Your Maryland License in Other States):
  Maryland issues portable 5-year professional licenses (IPL, PL, APL) that are recognized through the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement.
  A complete list of states that recognize Maryland certification is at nasdtec.net (Salisbury University guidance).
  Apply for your Maryland certificate ‘right after graduation’ even if moving out of state — having it makes getting certified elsewhere ‘much, much easier’ (Salisbury University).
Sources: Teach Maryland (teach.maryland.gov); COMAR 13A.12.02.02A and 13A.12.02.03 (Cornell LII; regs.maryland.gov); Salisbury University (salisbury.edu); MSDE Licensure Assessments PDF (July 2025).

Maryland Teacher Certification Reciprocity: Key Facts 

Direct

Route for Out-of-State Teachers

Teach Maryland: direct route via prep program or license

 9

Pathways to MD Licensure

MSDE: 9 pathways effective April 1, 2024

 NASDTEC

Interstate Agreement

Salisbury U.: nasdtec.net for all reciprocity states

 Temp.Prof

Bridge License Available

COMAR 13A.12.02.02A — 2-yr while passing MD tests

 

5 yrs

MD IPL/PL Validity (Outbound)

Portable to other states via NASDTEC

 3.0 GPA

Exempt from Basic Skills Test

Or: 3 years effective MD evaluations

 July 25

edTPA/PPAT for Out-of-State Too

MSDE Assessments doc July 2025

 $10

MSDE License Issuance Fee

Per TEACH portal

Sources: Teach Maryland (teach.maryland.gov/Pages/Certified-Out-of-State-Teacher.aspx) — ‘direct route to Maryland licensure’; MSDE Teacher Workforce Report (May 2024) — 9 pathways effective April 1, 2024; Salisbury University (salisbury.edu) — NASDTEC; COMAR 13A.12.02.02A (Cornell LII) — Temporary Professional 2-year; Cornell LII COMAR 13A.12.02.03 — 3.0 GPA / 3 years evaluations; MSDE Licensure Assessments PDF (July 29, 2025) — out-of-state applicants must pass pedagogy; $10 fee (TEACH portal).

Maryland teacher certification reciprocity is grounded in COMAR Title 13A, Subtitle 12, Chapter 13A.12.02 — Teachers. The specific pathway for out-of-state teachers is codified in COMAR 13A.12.02.03 — Pathways to Teacher Licensure. This regulation was substantially updated effective April 1, 2024, expanding the number of pathways and adding new flexible options.

Primary Regulatory Sources

Sources: regs.maryland.gov (Maryland DSD primary regulatory database); law.cornell.edu/regulations/maryland (Cornell LII authenticated copies); MSDE Educator Licensure Overview Generic (April 1, 2024); MSDE Licensure Assessments PDF (July 29, 2025).

The April 2024 Significance for Reciprocity

The April 1, 2024 COMAR overhaul expanded pathways to Maryland licensure from the prior framework to nine pathways. For out-of-state applicants, key changes included:

  • Elimination of the ‘transcript analysis or credit count pathway’ to licensure — effective April 1, 2024. Out-of-state teachers who had certification evaluations issued between January 1, 2020 and March 31, 2024 have until March 31, 2027 to complete that pathway. After that date, those individuals must use one of the nine new pathways.
  • Expansion of flexible pathways, including the nonpublic school 5-year teaching experience pathway and in-district training program pathway — which may be accessible to some out-of-state candidates in Maryland settings.
  • Clarification that the pedagogy assessment requirement (edTPA/PPAT from July 2025) applies to out-of-state applicants as well as Maryland-trained candidates.

Two Directions of Reciprocity: Inbound and Outbound

Direction Meaning Key Mechanism Primary Source
Inbound Out-of-state licensed teachers coming to Maryland COMAR 13A.12.02.03 out-of-state pathway + Temporary Professional License if needed COMAR 13A.12.02.03; Teach Maryland; MSDE
Outbound Maryland-licensed teachers moving to other states NASDTEC Interstate Agreement; state-by-state reciprocity processes Salisbury University — ‘apply for Maryland certificate; makes getting certified elsewhere much easier’; nasdtec.net

Sources: Teach Maryland (teach.maryland.gov/Pages/Certified-Out-of-State-Teacher.aspx) — inbound; Salisbury University (salisbury.edu) — outbound NASDTEC guidance. 

Inbound Reciprocity: How Out-of-State Teachers Get Maryland Certification

The official Maryland state government guidance for out-of-state teachers is clear and welcoming. Per the Teach Maryland website (teach.maryland.gov), operated by the MSDE: ‘If you have a valid license or completed an educator preparation program in another state or country, you have a direct route to Maryland licensure. Check out the MSDE Pathways to Licensure webpage for details.’

This ‘direct route’ language is significant — it signals that Maryland does not treat out-of-state licensure as creating additional barriers beyond meeting Maryland’s own specific licensure requirements. 

The out-of-state teacher who holds a valid professional license from another state or who completed an approved teacher preparation program in another state qualifies to apply for Maryland licensure through the designated pathway in COMAR 13A.12.02.03.

However, ‘direct route’ does not mean automatic recognition. Maryland requires out-of-state applicants to meet the same assessment and documentation requirements as any other licensure candidate — including passing Maryland’s required Praxis content test, demonstrating basic skills, and completing a pedagogy assessment. 

The bridge mechanism for those who haven’t yet met all Maryland requirements is the Temporary Professional Teacher License.

Source: Teach Maryland (teach.maryland.gov/Pages/Certified-Out-of-State-Teacher.aspx) — ‘direct route to Maryland licensure’ quote. 

The Direct Route: Out-of-State Licensed Teacher Pathway

The ‘direct route’ for out-of-state teachers is formalized in COMAR 13A.12.02.03, which establishes the out-of-state pathway as one of the nine Maryland teacher licensure pathways effective April 1, 2024. This pathway applies to teachers who have:

  • A valid out-of-state professional license: A current, valid teaching certificate or license from another U.S. state, DC, U.S. territory, or another country
  • OR completion of an out-of-state teacher preparation program: Graduated from an accredited educator preparation program in another state, even if a current professional license from that state is not held

For both categories, COMAR establishes specific requirements that must be met to receive the Maryland Initial Professional License (IPL). These requirements are covered in detail in Section 6.

Per teachercertificationdegrees.com Maryland (March 2026): ‘Out-of-state teachers must also create a TEACH account and submit an application similar to in-state teachers. You will submit official transcripts and a copy of your current license, along with test scores.’ 

This operational description confirms that the process closely parallels the in-state application process — same TEACH portal, same documentation framework.

Sources: Teach Maryland (teach.maryland.gov); COMAR 13A.12.02.03 (regs.maryland.gov; law.cornell.edu); teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026). 

The COMAR 13A.12.02.03 Out-of-State Pathway: Full Requirements

COMAR 13A.12.02.03 establishes the specific requirements for out-of-state teachers seeking Maryland licensure. Based on the text available from the Maryland DSD, Cornell LII, and the regs.maryland.gov database (current through 2025), the out-of-state pathway requires:

COMAR 13A.12.02.03 — Out-of-State Teacher Pathway Requirements
FOUNDATION REQUIREMENT: Completion of an out-of-state teacher preparation program OR holding a valid out-of-state professional license.
BACHELOR’S DEGREE: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required for all Maryland licensure pathways.
BASIC SKILLS REQUIREMENT (meet ONE of the following three):
  (i) Passing score on a basic literacy skills assessment approved by the State Board of Education (Praxis Core);
  (ii) Minimum overall cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale on the most recently earned degree; OR
  (iii) Three years of effective evaluations from a local school system in Maryland (for those already employed in MD).
CONTENT LICENSURE TEST: Passing scores on a content licensure test approved by the State Board of Education (Praxis II Subject Assessment for your specific teaching area).
PEDAGOGY ASSESSMENT (from July 1, 2025): A passing score on a portfolio-based performance assessment (edTPA or PPAT), or: an effective/comparable year-end evaluation rating (if employed by an MD LEA), or: completion of a comprehensive induction program (if employed by an MD local school system), or: holding a National Board Certificate.
READING INSTRUCTION TEST: For candidates seeking licensure in elementary education, early childhood education, special education, and ESOL — a passing score on a reading instruction test (Praxis TRE #5205), or attestation of proficiency through observation by a Department-recognized assessor.
ADDITIONAL PROVISION: Candidates who are prepared and licensed outside of Maryland must also pass a test of teaching ability (pedagogy) per MSDE Licensure Assessments document (July 29, 2025).
Sources: COMAR 13A.12.02.03 (regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/13A.12.02.03; law.cornell.edu/regulations/maryland/COMAR-13A-12-02-03); MSDE Licensure Assessments PDF (July 29, 2025).

The Temporary Professional Teacher License

One of the most practically important tools in Maryland’s reciprocity framework is the Temporary Professional Teacher License (TPL). This 2-year, non-renewable credential is specifically designed to provide a bridge for out-of-state licensed teachers who have not yet passed Maryland’s specific assessment requirements.

Temporary Professional Teacher License — Key Facts for Out-of-State Teachers
STATUTORY AUTHORITY: COMAR 13A.12.02.02A (Cornell LII; regs.maryland.gov — current through March 21, 2025).
ELIGIBILITY — Specifically for out-of-state applicants:
  COMAR A(2)(a): A local school system, State-operated school, or approved nonpublic school may request a TPL for an employee ‘who has completed an out-of-State teacher preparation program or holds a valid out-of-State professional license but has not submitted passing scores on Maryland teacher licensure tests.’
VALIDITY: 2 years. Non-renewable.
WHO REQUESTS IT: The employing school system (LEA), not the individual applicant. Same process as the Conditional License — the employer must initiate through TEACH.
PURPOSE: Provides 2 years to complete Maryland’s required testing (Praxis II content test; edTPA or PPAT from July 2025) while teaching in a Maryland school.
WHAT IT PROVIDES: Full teaching authority in the school system that requested it for the duration of the 2-year validity period.
AFTER 2 YEARS: Must have passed all required Maryland assessments and transitioned to the Initial Professional License (IPL). The TPL cannot be renewed — if requirements are not met within 2 years, the individual is no longer authorized to teach under this bridge credential.
Sources: COMAR 13A.12.02.02A (law.cornell.edu/regulations/maryland/COMAR-13A-12-02-02; regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/13A.12.02.02) — current through March 21, 2025.

When the TPL Is the Right Choice

The Temporary Professional License is the right bridge credential when:

  • You hold a valid out-of-state professional teaching license in a comparable content area
  • You have been hired (or are about to be hired) by a Maryland school system
  • You have not yet passed one or more of Maryland’s required licensure tests (Praxis II, edTPA/PPAT, or reading instruction test)
  • You need 2 years to complete those testing requirements while earning a full Maryland teacher’s salary

The TPL is NOT appropriate if: you are not yet employed by a Maryland school system (the school system must request it); you have already passed all required Maryland tests (apply directly for the IPL); or you do not hold a valid out-of-state professional license or have completed an out-of-state preparation program.

Source: COMAR 13A.12.02.02A (law.cornell.edu/regulations/maryland/COMAR-13A-12-02-02).

The Pedagogy Assessment Requirement for Out-of-State Applicants

One of the most significant — and most frequently overlooked — requirements for out-of-state teachers applying for Maryland licensure is the pedagogy assessment. 

The MSDE Licensure Assessments document (July 29, 2025) makes this explicit: ‘Additionally, applicants who are prepared and licensed outside of Maryland must pass a test of teaching ability (i.e., pedagogy).’

This means that even if you hold a fully valid professional license from another state — and even if that state did not require you to pass a pedagogy assessment — you must complete Maryland’s required pedagogy assessment to receive the Maryland IPL.

The July 2025 Change: edTPA or PPAT Required

Effective July 1, 2025, all teacher certification candidates — including out-of-state applicants — must fulfill the pedagogy assessment requirement through either:

  • edTPA: Education Teacher Performance Assessment — a portfolio-based assessment documenting planning, instruction, and assessment of student learning through written commentaries and video recordings. Register at edtpa.com.
  • PPAT: Performance Assessment for Beginning Teachers from ETS — similar portfolio structure. Register at ets.org/ppat.

Before July 1, 2025, the Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) exam was also accepted. After July 1, 2025, only edTPA or PPAT — along with the flexible alternatives (effective year-end evaluation from an MD LEA, comprehensive induction program, or National Board Certificate) — fulfill this requirement.

Sources: MSDE Licensure Assessments PDF (July 29, 2025) — ‘applicants who are prepared and licensed outside of Maryland must pass a test of teaching ability’; HCPSS Educator Licensure page — PLT not accepted after July 1, 2025; COMAR 13A.12.02.03 — flexible alternatives.

Flexible Pedagogy Assessment Alternatives

Per COMAR 13A.12.02.03, out-of-state teachers who are employed by a Maryland school system have additional options for fulfilling the pedagogy assessment requirement:

  • Effective year-end evaluation: An effective, or comparable, rating on a year-end evaluation if the individual is employed by a Maryland LEA, State-operated school, or approved nonpublic school
  • Comprehensive induction program: Completion of a comprehensive induction program under COMAR 13A.07.01 if employed by a Maryland local school system
  • National Board Certificate: Holding a National Board Certificate from NBPTS fulfills the pedagogy assessment requirement

Source: COMAR 13A.12.02.03 — out-of-state pathway subsection; MSDE Educator Licensure Overview (April 2024).

Basic Skills Assessment Options for Out-of-State Teachers

All Maryland licensure applicants — including out-of-state teachers — must demonstrate basic skills competency. COMAR 13A.12.02.03 provides three options for meeting this requirement, which is particularly favorable for experienced out-of-state teachers:

Three Options to Meet the Basic Skills Requirement

  • Option 1 — Praxis Core: Pass the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (Reading, Writing, Mathematics). If you test at a Maryland test center or with a Maryland address in your Praxis profile, your score is automatically sent to MSDE.
  • Option 2 — 3.0 GPA: Hold a minimum overall cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale on the most recently earned degree. Submit an official transcript demonstrating the GPA. No Praxis Core required.
  • Option 3 — 3 Years of Effective MD Evaluations: Three years of effective evaluations from a local school system in Maryland. Per COMAR 13A.12.02.03(d)(iii): this option applies to teachers already employed and evaluated in Maryland — meaning it’s most relevant for out-of-state teachers who have been working in Maryland on a Temporary Professional License and have accumulated evaluation history.

The 3-years-of-evaluations option is particularly valuable for experienced out-of-state teachers who have been teaching in Maryland on a Temporary Professional License: their classroom performance record in Maryland becomes the evidence of basic skills competency, eliminating the need for standardized testing.

Sources: COMAR 13A.12.02.03 (law.cornell.edu/regulations/maryland/COMAR-13A-12-02-03) — three options; Towson University MSDE Certification page — 3.0 GPA exemption context. 

Content Knowledge Test Requirements

All Maryland licensure candidates — including out-of-state applicants — must pass the required Praxis II Subject Assessment for their specific teaching area. This is a content knowledge test, not a basic skills test, and there is no GPA or experience substitute for it.

Key points for out-of-state applicants:

  • Same tests as Maryland-trained candidates: Out-of-state teachers must pass the same Praxis II content tests required of Maryland-trained candidates. There is no modified or reduced requirement based on holding an out-of-state license.
  • Prior state test scores may not transfer: Just because your prior state required and you passed a similar content test does not mean Maryland will automatically accept those scores. Maryland’s Praxis II tests and required passing scores may differ from your prior state’s requirements.
  • Check the MSDE Licensure Assessments page: The full current list of required tests for each Maryland certification area is at marylandpublicschools.org/about/Pages/DEE/Certification/Assessments.aspx — verify your specific content area’s required tests before registering.
  • Score reporting: Designate MSDE as a Praxis score recipient when registering for your tests. Per Salisbury University: ‘MSDE also needs to receive scores for required PRAXIS testing (or ACTFL for foreign language educators). If you designated MSDE as a PRAXIS score recipient, they will have your scores.’

Sources: MSDE Licensure Assessments page (marylandpublicschools.org); Salisbury University MSDE Certification page (salisbury.edu) — ACTFL note for foreign language educators; teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026) — same tests required.

Reading Instruction Test: Who Must Submit It

A specific additional assessment is required for out-of-state teachers seeking Maryland licensure in certain content areas. Per COMAR 13A.12.02.03: candidates seeking licensure in the areas of elementary education, early childhood education, special education, and English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) must submit a passing score on a reading instruction test approved by the State Board of Education.

  • Required for: Elementary Education, Early Childhood Education (Pre-K-3), Special Education (all grades), and ESOL (Pre-K-12)
  • Test: Praxis Science of Reading — TRE #5205 (Teaching Reading: Elementary) — the MSDE-approved reading instruction test
  • Alternative: Attestation of proficiency through observation completed by a Department-recognized assessor using a Department-provided observation tool
  • Effective date: This requirement has been in place since September 1, 2019, per HCPSS Educator Licensure page — it is not new for the April 2024 regulatory cycle
  • Renewal implication: This requirement also applies at license renewal — educators seeking renewal who are employed in Elementary, Early Childhood, SpEd, or ESOL positions must demonstrate science of reading proficiency

Out-of-state teachers seeking licensure in these areas who completed their preparation in a state that did not require an equivalent reading instruction assessment must still pass Praxis TRE #5205 (or provide the observation attestation) before Maryland will issue the IPL.

Sources: COMAR 13A.12.02.03 (regs.maryland.gov) — reading instruction provision; HCPSS Educator Licensure page — September 1, 2019 effective date; MSDE Licensure Assessments PDF.

The Experience-Based Pathway for Out-of-State Teachers

COMAR 13A.12.02.03 includes a pathway specifically relevant to experienced out-of-state teachers: the 5-year effective teaching experience pathway. While this pathway is framed in terms of Maryland nonpublic school experience, it has implications for experienced teachers with substantial out-of-state backgrounds.

The Nonpublic School Experience Pathway

Per COMAR 13A.12.02.03(b): applicants may qualify for Maryland professional licensure through ‘Verification of 5 years of effective teaching experience in the field and at the grade level of the license sought at a Maryland nonpublic school approved under COMAR 13A.09.09.’

This pathway specifically requires 5 years at a Maryland-approved nonpublic school — not equivalent experience at public schools or schools in other states. However, for an out-of-state teacher who has been teaching at a Maryland-approved nonpublic school, this provides an experience-based route to licensure that may allow bypassing some academic preparation requirements.

✔ Practical Note for Catholic and Private School Teachers: Many Maryland Catholic schools, independent private schools, and other accredited nonpublic schools are approved under COMAR 13A.09.09. If you have been teaching at such a school in Maryland for 5 or more years effectively, you may qualify for the nonpublic school experience pathway. Contact MSDE at [email protected] to verify your specific school’s status and your eligibility under this pathway. 

Secondary Content Transcript Analysis Pathway

COMAR 13A.12.02.03 also includes a ‘Secondary Content Transcript Analysis’ pathway specifically for 7-12 grade band licenses. 

The regulation establishes that individuals with secondary content expertise can qualify through a degree in the field OR having a minimum of 24 semester hours of content coursework OR 3 years of content-related occupational experience combined with a passing content assessment. 

This pathway may benefit out-of-state professionals who have deep subject matter expertise from their non-education career rather than from a formal teacher preparation program.

Sources: COMAR 13A.12.02.03 (regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/13A.12.02.03) — both pathways; COMAR COMAR-13A.12.02.03 Pathways to Teacher Licensure Public Comments document (Jan 2026) — community support for transcript analysis pathway. 

The Flexible Pathways: New Options Since April 2024

The April 1, 2024 COMAR overhaul introduced several new flexible pathways that are directly relevant to out-of-state teachers and candidates with non-traditional backgrounds. These are in addition to the standard out-of-state licensure pathway:

  • Nonpublic school experience (5 years): Verification of 5 years of effective teaching in the field and at the grade level of the license sought at a Maryland-approved nonpublic school. Discussed in Section 12.
  • In-district training programs: MSDE anticipated approving in-district training programs beginning in 2024-25. These would allow districts to run MSDE-approved training as a pathway to initial licensure — potentially accessible to out-of-state teachers hired on a Conditional License or TPL who enroll in their district’s training program.
  • Effective year-end evaluation for pedagogy: An out-of-state teacher employed in a Maryland LEA can use their year-end evaluation (effective or comparable rating) to fulfill the pedagogy assessment requirement — potentially eliminating the need for edTPA or PPAT.
  • Comprehensive induction program: Completing a Maryland-approved comprehensive induction program (COMAR 13A.07.01) while employed in a Maryland school system fulfills the pedagogy assessment requirement.

Per the MSDE Educator Licensure Overview (April 2024): ‘MSDE anticipates the approval of in-district training programs beginning in the 2024-2025 school year, but note that this pathway will only be available if a district opts to offer it.’ Always check with your specific district and with MSDE on current availability.

Sources: MSDE Educator Licensure Overview Generic PDF (April 1, 2024); COMAR 13A.12.02.03 (regs.maryland.gov) — comprehensive induction program provision.

International Teachers: Pathway to Maryland Licensure

The Teach Maryland website explicitly includes international teachers in its reciprocity framework: ‘If you have a valid license or completed an educator preparation program in another state or country, you have a direct route to Maryland licensure.’ This ‘another country’ language mirrors the provision in COMAR and extends Maryland’s reciprocity framework beyond U.S. states.

Additional Requirements for International Applicants

  • Credential evaluation: International applicants must submit a course-by-course credential evaluation from an approved credential evaluation service. Contact MSDE at [email protected] for the current list of approved evaluators. The NACES (National Association of Credential Evaluation Services) framework applies.
  • Same Maryland assessments: International teachers must still meet all Maryland assessment requirements: content test (Praxis II), basic skills (Praxis Core, 3.0 GPA, or 3 years of MD evaluations), pedagogy assessment (edTPA/PPAT from July 2025), and reading instruction test (if applicable).
  • Transcript evaluation: Official transcripts from all institutions attended, with certified English translations if applicable.
  • Language testing: For world language teachers, Maryland recognizes ACTFL (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages) proficiency testing. Per Salisbury University: ‘MSDE also needs to receive scores for required PRAXIS testing (or ACTFL for foreign language educators).’
  • National Board Certificate: International teachers who hold NBPTS certification may use it to fulfill the pedagogy assessment requirement.

The Temporary Professional License is also available for international teachers employed by a Maryland school system who have not yet passed Maryland’s tests — same mechanism as for U.S. out-of-state applicants.

Sources: Teach Maryland (teach.maryland.gov) — ‘another country’ quote; Salisbury University (salisbury.edu) — ACTFL reference; COMAR 13A.12.02.03.

Required Documents for the TEACH Application

Per teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026) and HCPSS guidance, out-of-state teachers applying for Maryland licensure submit the following through the TEACH portal:

Document Notes How to Submit
Official transcripts from all colleges/universities All institutions attended; must be official (not student copies); HCPSS: ‘Unofficial transcripts submitted during the hiring process cannot be used’ Sent directly from institution’s registrar to MSDE, or uploaded through TEACH as official certified copies
Copy of current valid out-of-state license Demonstrates valid professional licensure from prior state or country Scan/upload of current license; may also submit license verification from prior state’s DOE
Praxis II content test scores Required for all applicants; passed scores in required content area(s) for Maryland endorsement Submit ETS score report to MSDE; Salisbury U.: designate MSDE as score recipient when registering
Basic skills documentation Praxis Core scores (if using test option) OR official transcript showing 3.0+ GPA (if using GPA option) OR MD evaluation documentation (if using 3-year experience option) ETS score report or transcript
Pedagogy assessment results edTPA or PPAT passing score (from July 1, 2025); OR documentation of alternative (year-end evaluation, induction program, NBPTS certificate) Upload to TEACH; edTPA via Pearson; PPAT via ETS
Reading instruction test (if applicable) Praxis TRE #5205 passing score for EC, Elementary, SpEd, ESOL applicants; OR observation attestation ETS score report; or MSDE assessor attestation form
Criminal background check Required upon hire by a Maryland school system; typically handled by the employing school system’s HR office Initiated by school system
Application fee $10 for license issuance TEACH portal online payment

Sources: teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026) — ‘submit official transcripts and copy of current license, along with test scores’; HCPSS Educator Licensure page — unofficial transcripts note; Salisbury University — PRAXIS score recipient; MSDE TEACH portal. 

The TEACH Portal Application Process: Step by Step

  1. Create your TEACH account. Access certificationhub.msde.maryland.gov (also via mdcert.org or marylandpublicschools.org/TEACH). Create your account. All Maryland licensure transactions occur through this portal. Note: TEACH was launched in April 2022 and is the only channel for MSDE certification actions.
  2. Review the Pathways to Licensure page. Visit MSDE’s Pathways to Licensure webpage (marylandpublicschools.org/about/Pages/DEE/Certification/index.aspx) to confirm you qualify under the out-of-state pathway and identify any specific documentation requirements for your certification area.
  3. Order official transcripts. Request official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. Allow 2-4 weeks for processing. Unofficial transcripts — even those submitted for hiring purposes — are not accepted for licensure.
  4. Order your prior state’s license verification. Contact your prior state’s Department of Education to request an official license verification letter or use the NASDTEC Educator Information Clearing House (EICH) if available for your state.
  5. Register for and take required Praxis tests. Identify the specific Praxis II content test required for your Maryland endorsement area (MSDE Licensure Assessments page). Register at praxis.ets.org. Designate MSDE as a score recipient. For world language educators, also arrange ACTFL testing if applicable.
  6. Complete basic skills documentation. Either register for and take Praxis Core (if not meeting the 3.0 GPA threshold), or request an official transcript showing your 3.0+ GPA. If using the 3-year Maryland evaluations option, gather evaluation documentation.
  7. Complete pedagogy assessment. Register for edTPA (edtpa.com) or PPAT (ets.org/ppat). Both require a teaching cycle to complete — plan at minimum 4-8 weeks. Alternatively, if employed in an MD LEA, explore whether your year-end evaluation or induction program can fulfill this requirement.
  8. If in Elementary/EC/SpEd/ESOL: take the reading instruction test. Register for Praxis TRE #5205 at ets.org. Send scores to MSDE.
  9. Submit your TEACH application. Complete the online application in TEACH, upload all required documents, and pay the $10 MSDE fee. If employed by an HCPSS school: ‘HCPSS will handle all licensure requests’ for contracted employees — check with your school system’s HR to confirm their role in the process.
  10. Receive your Maryland Initial Professional License. MSDE reviews and issues the IPL electronically through TEACH. Access, download, and save your license from your TEACH account.

Sources: teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026); HCPSS Educator Licensure page — contracted employees handled by HCPSS; Salisbury University — transcripts and PRAXIS; MSDE TEACH portal guidance; certificationhub.msde.maryland.gov.

Maryland’s Assessment Rules: What Changes for Out-of-State Teachers

Several assessment-related rules are specifically noted for out-of-state applicants versus Maryland-trained candidates. Understanding these distinctions prevents unexpected requirements during the application process.

Assessment Rule Maryland-Trained Candidates Out-of-State Applicants
Basic skills test (Praxis Core) Required unless 3.0 GPA exemption applies Same — Praxis Core, 3.0 GPA, or 3 years MD evaluations
Content test (Praxis II) Required for all endorsement areas Required — same tests; no exemption for prior state passing equivalent test
Pedagogy assessment edTPA/PPAT from July 2025 (PLT no longer accepted) Same — edTPA/PPAT required from July 2025; MSDE Assessments PDF explicitly states out-of-state applicants ‘must pass a test of teaching ability’
Reading instruction (TRE 5205) Required for EC, Elementary, SpEd, ESOL Same — no exemption based on out-of-state completion without this test
Prior state assessment scores N/A NOT automatically accepted — Maryland’s specific tests are required regardless of what the prior state required
Automatic score reporting If testing at MD test center or MD profile address Same — designate MSDE as score recipient when registering

Sources: MSDE Licensure Assessments PDF (July 29, 2025) — explicit out-of-state pedagogy requirement; HCPSS Educator Licensure page — July 1, 2025 edTPA/PPAT; COMAR 13A.12.02.03 — out-of-state pathway requirements. 

NASDTEC Interstate Agreement and Maryland

Maryland participates in the NASDTEC (National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification) Interstate Agreement — the primary legal framework for teacher certification reciprocity between states. The NASDTEC Interstate Agreement facilitates the recognition of teaching certificates and preparation programs across all participating states, DC, and U.S. territories.

  • Maryland’s participation: Per Salisbury University’s MSDE Certification guidance: ‘Apply for Maryland certification to take advantage of inter-state reciprocity. A complete list of states that recognize Maryland certification is available at www.nasdtec.net.’
  • NASDTEC Educator Information Clearing House (EICH): NASDTEC maintains an Educator Information Clearing House that enables rapid license verification across states. Maryland participates in EICH, allowing other states to quickly verify Maryland licenses and allowing Maryland to verify out-of-state licens.
  • Maryland’s out-of-state acceptance: The NASDTEC Agreement is the framework under which Maryland recognizes out-of-state preparation programs and licenses as qualifying for the direct route to Maryland licensure described in COMAR 13A.12.02.03.
  • Outbound significance: Maryland’s participation in NASDTEC means that when a Maryland-licensed teacher moves to another NASDTEC state, that state can recognize the Maryland credential through their own NASDTEC-based reciprocity process.

Sources: Salisbury University (salisbury.edu) — NASDTEC quotes; nasdtec.net — NASDTEC Interstate Agreement information; MSDE licensure framework.

Outbound Reciprocity: Using Your Maryland License in Other States

Maryland issues portable, professionally recognized teacher licenses that facilitate certification in other states through the NASDTEC framework. The Maryland Initial Professional License (IPL), Professional License (PL), and Advanced Professional License (APL) are all 5-year renewable credentials issued under the April 2024 COMAR framework.

Why Maryland Certification Is Valuable for Outbound Portability

  • NASDTEC participation: Maryland is a NASDTEC member; the credential is recognized in the NASDTEC network of states
  • Rigorous standard: Maryland’s certification requirements — including Praxis II content tests, the edTPA/PPAT pedagogy assessment, and the reading instruction test — meet or exceed many states’ own requirements, making Maryland credentials well-regarded for reciprocity purposes
  • Blueprint recognition: The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future’s NBCT incentives, career ladder, and professional development structure enhance the professional standing of Maryland teachers in interstate markets

The Salisbury University Strategic Advice

Salisbury University’s teacher certification guidance provides the clearest strategic advice for Maryland teachers who may relocate: ‘Apply for your certificate right after graduation. 

Having your Maryland certificate in hand will make getting certified out of state much, much easier.’ And: ‘Be prepared to provide official transcripts from all institutions attended.’

This advice applies beyond new graduates — current Maryland teachers who anticipate potential relocation should ensure their Maryland license is current and in good standing, keep copies of all official transcripts, and have their Praxis score reports saved and accessible. These documents are the foundation of any out-of-state reciprocity application.

Source: Salisbury University MSDE Certification page (salisbury.edu/academic-offices/education/secondary-and-physical-education/md-certification.aspx) — all quotes. 

Maryland Teachers Moving to Other States

When a Maryland-certified teacher moves to another state, the process for obtaining the destination state’s certification varies. The general framework:

  • Contact the destination state’s Department of Education. Each state has its own reciprocity process. Contact the destination state’s DOE certification office to understand their specific requirements.
  • Gather your Maryland credentials. Your Maryland IPL/PL/APL; official transcripts from all institutions attended; Praxis score reports; Praxis TRE score (if applicable); edTPA/PPAT completion documentation.
  • Request official license verification. The destination state will likely request verification of your Maryland license from MSDE. Maryland’s participation in NASDTEC EICH facilitates this verification electronically.
  • Check NASDTEC member status. Visit nasdtec.net to confirm both Maryland and the destination state are NASDTEC members and to understand the general reciprocity framework.
  • Be prepared for additional requirements. Even with Maryland’s strong certification, the destination state may require: additional state-specific assessments; additional coursework (if their requirements exceed Maryland’s); a waiting period or conditional certification while requirements are met; application fees.
  • NBTS holders have an advantage. National Board Certification is nationally recognized and often simplifies reciprocity processes across states, especially in states that recognize NBPTS as meeting certification requirements.

Sources: Salisbury University (salisbury.edu); nasdtec.net; MSDE — license verification through NASDTEC EICH.

Inbound vs. Outbound Reciprocity

Feature Inbound (Out-of-State to Maryland) Outbound (Maryland to Another State)
Framework COMAR 13A.12.02.03; NASDTEC NASDTEC Interstate Agreement; destination state’s process
Direct route? Yes — valid out-of-state license or completed out-of-state prep program = direct route (Teach Maryland) Depends on destination state; generally yes for NASDTEC members
Assessment still required? YES — Maryland’s own Praxis II, basic skills, and edTPA/PPAT required regardless of out-of-state license Depends on destination state; may require their specific state tests
Bridge credential? YES — Temporary Professional License (2 years) if haven’t passed MD tests yet Some states offer conditional licensure while completing additional requirements
International applicants? YES — ‘another country’ explicitly included (Teach Maryland) Depends on destination country/state’s rules
Key advantage Strong vacancy demand; direct route; TPL bridge available Maryland certification is NASDTEC-recognized; rigorous standards respected
Key limitation Must still pass ALL Maryland-specific tests; no automatic recognition Destination state sets requirements; Maryland doesn’t control acceptance

Common Questions and Pitfalls for Reciprocity Applicants

Question/Pitfall The Answer
‘I have a valid license from State X — does Maryland automatically accept it?’ No. You have a ‘direct route’ to application, but must still pass Maryland’s required content test (Praxis II), basic skills requirement, and edTPA/PPAT. Maryland does not automatically accept another state’s license as meeting all Maryland requirements.
‘My prior state required me to pass a content test. Does Maryland accept those scores?’ Probably not automatically. Maryland requires its specific Praxis II content tests with MSDE-established passing scores. Even if your prior state required a comparable test, you must take and pass Maryland’s designated test unless you contact MSDE to confirm score equivalency.
‘I have been teaching for 20 years in another state. Do I need to take any tests?’ Yes. Experience does not exempt you from Maryland’s assessment requirements. However: (1) Your 3.0+ GPA may exempt you from Praxis Core; (2) If employed in Maryland for 3+ years with effective evaluations, that can substitute for Praxis Core; (3) The year-end evaluation or induction program can substitute for edTPA/PPAT if employed in an MD LEA.
‘I can’t get a TPL by myself — my school system has to request it’ Correct. The Temporary Professional License must be requested by the employing school system through TEACH — the individual applicant cannot request it independently. Contact your school system’s HR or licensure office.
‘The PLT exam I passed in 2024 — does it still count?’ If you completed all licensure requirements before July 1, 2025 and the PLT was part of that complete application, contact MSDE to confirm. For applications submitted or completed after July 1, 2025, edTPA or PPAT (or the flexible alternatives) is required — the PLT is no longer accepted.
‘I’m an international teacher — is there any special pathway for me?’ Teach Maryland explicitly includes ‘another country’ in its direct route language. You’ll need credential evaluation, same Maryland assessments, and may use ACTFL testing (if a foreign language teacher) instead of the PRAXIS language tests. Contact MSDE for guidance.
‘What’s the fastest way to start teaching in Maryland with an out-of-state license?’ Fastest path: get hired by a Maryland school system, have them request a Temporary Professional License on your behalf, begin teaching while taking required Maryland Praxis II tests, and complete edTPA/PPAT (or use your year-end evaluation if employed in MD). This can get you in a classroom within weeks while completing test requirements over 2 years.

Maryland Teacher Certification Reciprocity: FAQs

Does Maryland have teacher certification reciprocity with other states?

Yes. Maryland participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement and recognizes out-of-state teacher preparation programs and professional licenses as a ‘direct route to Maryland licensure’ (Teach Maryland). 

However, reciprocity is not automatic recognition — out-of-state teachers must still pass Maryland’s required content licensure test (Praxis II), meet the basic skills requirement (Praxis Core, 3.0 GPA, or 3 years of effective Maryland evaluations), complete a pedagogy assessment (edTPA or PPAT from July 2025), and pass the reading instruction test if seeking elementary, early childhood, special education, or ESOL certification.

I have a valid teaching license from another state. How do I get a Maryland teaching license?

If your prior state license is in a comparable teaching area: (1) Create a TEACH account at certificationhub.msde.maryland.gov; (2) Submit official transcripts, a copy of your current out-of-state license, and passing Praxis II scores for the Maryland content area; (3) Complete a pedagogy assessment (edTPA or PPAT from July 2025) or qualify for a flexible alternative if employed in an MD LEA; (4) If seeking Elementary/Early Childhood/SpEd/ESOL: also pass Praxis TRE #5205; (5) Submit the application through TEACH and pay the $10 fee. If you haven’t yet passed Maryland’s tests, your employing school system can request a 2-year Temporary Professional License while you complete them.

What is the Temporary Professional Teacher License and how does it help out-of-state teachers?

The Temporary Professional Teacher License (COMAR 13A.12.02.02A) is a 2-year, non-renewable credential that a Maryland school system can request for an employee who has completed an out-of-state preparation program or holds a valid out-of-state professional license but has not yet passed Maryland’s required licensure tests. 

It provides 2 years to complete Maryland’s Praxis II content test and edTPA/PPAT (from July 2025) while teaching and earning a full teacher’s salary. The school system — not the individual teacher — must initiate the request through TEACH.

Do I need to take the Praxis in Maryland if I already passed my prior state’s teacher exams?

Yes. Maryland requires its specific Praxis II Subject Assessments with MSDE-established passing scores, regardless of what tests you passed in your prior state. Prior state test scores are not automatically transferable. 

Check the MSDE Licensure Assessments page for the specific required test for your content area. For basic skills, however, a 3.0 GPA on your most recently earned degree or 3 years of effective evaluations from a Maryland school system can exempt you from the Praxis Core basic skills test.

If I get my Maryland teaching certificate, which states will recognize it?

Maryland participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, and its certifications are recognized through the NASDTEC framework in participating states. Salisbury University’s guidance directs candidates to nasdtec.net for the complete list of states that recognize Maryland certification. 

Having a Maryland certificate ‘will make getting certified out of state much, much easier’ (Salisbury University). Each destination state still has its own additional requirements that may apply — contact the destination state’s DOE for specifics.

Is edTPA required for out-of-state teachers applying for Maryland certification?

Yes, for applicants completing their Maryland licensure process after July 1, 2025. The MSDE Licensure Assessments document (July 29, 2025) explicitly states that ‘applicants who are prepared and licensed outside of Maryland must pass a test of teaching ability (i.e., pedagogy).’ From July 1, 2025, this means edTPA or PPAT. 

However, out-of-state teachers employed in a Maryland LEA may qualify for alternative fulfillment: an effective year-end evaluation rating, completion of a comprehensive induction program, or holding a National Board Certificate.

How does Maryland handle teachers from other countries?

The Teach Maryland website explicitly extends the ‘direct route to Maryland licensure’ to teachers who have ‘a valid license or completed an educator preparation program in another state or country.’ International teachers must: have their foreign credentials evaluated by an approved credential evaluation service; pass all required Maryland assessments (Praxis II content test, basic skills, edTPA/PPAT, and TRE if applicable); submit certified English translations of transcripts; and apply through TEACH. 

World language teachers may use ACTFL proficiency testing instead of Praxis language tests. The Temporary Professional License bridge is available for international teachers employed in Maryland schools who need time to complete testing requirements.

Maryland Teacher Certification Reciprocity: Conclusion

Maryland’s teacher certification reciprocity system is structured, welcoming to qualified out-of-state teachers, and grounded in a clear legal framework — COMAR 13A.12.02.03, the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, and the practical bridge of the Temporary Professional Teacher License. 

The official position, per the state’s own Teach Maryland portal, is clear: if you have a valid license or have completed a preparation program in another state or country, you have a direct route to Maryland licensure.

That direct route still requires passing Maryland’s specific assessments: the Praxis II content test for your area, the basic skills requirement (waivable by 3.0 GPA or 3 years of effective Maryland evaluations), the edTPA or PPAT pedagogy assessment (from July 2025), and the reading instruction test for Elementary, Early Childhood, SpEd, and ESOL. 

The Temporary Professional License provides a 2-year bridge for out-of-state teachers who need time to complete Maryland’s testing requirements while teaching — a generous accommodation that recognizes the value of experienced, licensed educators from other states.

Maryland’s urgent need for qualified teachers — 1,619 vacancies at the start of 2024-25, 28 designated shortage areas, and 10% of the workforce on conditional licenses — creates a genuine recruitment environment that favors qualified out-of-state teachers. 

The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future’s $60,000 minimum salary (July 2026), $17,000 NBCT bonus, and career ladder create increasingly competitive compensation. For qualified out-of-state teachers, now may be the best time in a generation to make the move to Maryland’s classrooms.

Start at teach.maryland.gov, create your TEACH account, review MSDE’s Pathways to Licensure, and contact [email protected] with questions about your specific situation. The process is accessible, the welcome is genuine, and Maryland’s students need qualified teachers. 

MSDE  |  marylandpublicschools.org  |  [email protected]  |  TEACH: certificationhub.msde.maryland.gov  |  Teach Maryland: teach.maryland.gov  |  410-767-0412  |  Data current as of June 2025

Official Sources and Further Reading

Primary Regulatory Sources

  •       COMAR 13A.12.02.03 — Pathways to Teacher Licensure (Maryland DSD, primary): regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/13A.12.02.03
  •       COMAR 13A.12.02.03 (Cornell LII, authenticated): law.cornell.edu/regulations/maryland/COMAR-13A-12-02-03
  •       COMAR 13A.12.02.02 — Licenses for Teachers (Maryland DSD): regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/13A.12.02.02
  •       COMAR 13A.12.02.02 (Cornell LII): law.cornell.edu/regulations/maryland/COMAR-13A-12-02-02 — Temporary Professional License: Subsection A
  •       COMAR 13A.12.02.03 Public Comments Document (Jan 2026): marylandpublicschools.org/stateboard/Documents/EdPolicyCommittee/20260115/COMAR-13A.12.02.03-Pathways-to-Teacher-Licensure-A.pdf

MSDE Official Sources

  •       Teach Maryland — Licensed Out-of-State Teacher page: teach.maryland.gov/Pages/Certified-Out-of-State-Teacher.aspx — ‘direct route to Maryland licensure’
  •       MSDE Licensure Assessments PDF (July 29, 2025): marylandpublicschools.org/stateboard/Documents/2025/0729/Maryland-State-Board-of-Education-Approved-Maryland-Licensure-Assessments-A.pdf — ‘out-of-state applicants must pass a test of teaching ability’
  •       MSDE Educator Licensure Overview Generic (April 1, 2024): marylandpublicschools.org/about/Documents/DEE/Certification/training%20materials/Educator-Licensure-Overview-Generic-A.pdf
  •       MSDE Division of Educator Certification: marylandpublicschools.org/about/Pages/DEE/Certification/index.aspx
  •       TEACH Portal: certificationhub.msde.maryland.gov (also mdcert.org and marylandpublicschools.org/TEACH)
  •       MSDE Licensure Assessments page: marylandpublicschools.org/about/Pages/DEE/Certification/Assessments.aspx
  •       MSDE Email: [email protected]
  •       MSDE Phone: 410-767-0412

Key Reference Sources