Maryland Teacher Certification Requirements

Maryland’s public school teacher certification system is one of the most rigorously structured in the United States — and one of the most actively evolving. On April 1, 2024, Maryland implemented significant new licensure regulations under COMAR Title 13A, Subtitle 12, expanding pathways to certification, converting existing certificate designations to a new license framework, and establishing clearer requirements for each license type.

Effective July 1, 2025, all teacher candidates must complete a performance-based pedagogy assessment (edTPA or PPAT), replacing the previous Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) exam.

Maryland now offers eight distinct types of educator licenses — from the Initial Professional License (IPL) for newly certified teachers to the Advanced Professional License (APL) for experienced educators with additional credentials.

The system is designed to recognize multiple pathways to the classroom, including traditional university-based preparation, MSDE-approved alternative preparation programs (MAAPP), and several flexible pathways introduced by the 2024 regulations.

All data in this guide is drawn from primary sources: MSDE COMAR 13A.12, the MSDE Educator Licensure Overview documents, the TEACH portal guidance, HCPSS Educator Licensure page, Towson University MSDE Certification requirements, the MSEA Pathways to Educator Licensure explainers, and ETS Praxis Maryland overview.

This guide reflects the certification requirements in effect as of the April 1, 2024 COMAR update and the July 1, 2025 pedagogy assessment change.

Quick Summary: What It Takes to Become a Certified Maryland Teacher

1. Hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution

2. Complete an MSDE-approved educator preparation program (MAP) including a clinical internship

3. Meet the basic skills requirement: pass Praxis Core OR hold a 3.0+ GPA on most recently earned degree

4. Pass the Praxis II Subject Assessment for your certification area

5. Complete a performance-based pedagogy assessment: edTPA or PPAT (required from July 1, 2025)

6. Pass the reading instruction assessment (for Early Childhood, Elementary, Special Education, and ESOL)

7. Complete a criminal background check (upon hire)

8. Apply through the TEACH portal and develop an Individualized Professional Development Plan (IPDP)

9. Pay the $10 MSDE initial license fee

Sources: MSDE Educator Licensure Overview (April 1, 2024); HCPSS Educator Licensure page; ETS Praxis Maryland overview; MSEA Pathways explainers.

Maryland Teacher Certification: At a Glance

Min. Degree Required

Accredited institution; all pathways

Types of Educator Licenses

MSEA explainer; April 1, 2024 reform

Apr.1,24

New Licensure Regs Effective

COMAR 13A.12 updated April 1, 2024

July 2025

edTPA/PPAT Required

PLT no longer accepted after Jul 1, 2025

3.0 GPA

Exempts from Basic Skills Test

Most recently earned degree; Towson

$10

MSDE Initial License Fee

Per MSDE; certificate or renewal

$74,260

Avg. Teacher Salary (2024-25)

NEA 2025; Maryland ranks 9th nationally

9th

National Salary Ranking

NEA 2025 Rankings and Estimates

Sources: MSEA Pathways to Educator Licensure (marylandeducators.org, May 2024) — 8 license types; April 1, 2024 effective date; HCPSS Educator Licensure page — July 1, 2025 edTPA/PPAT; PLT not accepted after July 1, 2025; COMAR 13A.12.02-05; Towson University MSDE Certification — ‘3.0 GPA exempts from basic skills’; Montgomery County Schools RTC page — ‘$10 fee’; teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026) — $74,260 avg salary; 9th nationally.

Who Governs Certification: MSDE and COMAR 13A.12

All teacher certification in Maryland is administered by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE), Division of Educator Effectiveness — specifically through the Division of Educator Certification and Program Approval. Teacher licensure requirements are codified in the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) Title 13A, Subtitle 12.

MSDE Division of Educator Certification: marylandpublicschools.org/about/Pages/DEE/Certification/index.aspx
TEACH Portal (all applications): marylandpublicschools.org/TEACH (also accessible via mdcert.org)
MSDE Certification email: [email protected]
MSDE phone: 410-767-0412
Legal framework: COMAR 13A.12.02 (teachers and specialists); 13A.12.04 (administrators); 13A.12.05 (other educators)
April 2022: MSDE released the Educator Application and Credentialing Hub (TEACH), replacing the prior certification portal

Sources: HCPSS Educator Licensure page (hcpss.org/employees/certification/) — TEACH launched April 2022; COMAR 13A.12.02, 13A12.04, 13A.12.05; teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026).

The April 1, 2024 Licensure Regulation Overhaul

Effective April 1, 2024, the MSDE implemented the most comprehensive update to Maryland’s teacher licensure regulations in years. This change affects all existing and new educators. Key elements of the April 2024 reform include:

Certificate-to-License Conversion: All existing ‘certificates’ were converted to ‘licenses’ under the new regulatory language. MSEA explains the change through their Certificate-to-License Conversion chart, showing all eight licensure areas including duration, renewability, and education requirements.
Eight License Types Established: A new framework of eight educator license types replaced the prior four-certificate system (see Section 4).
Flexible Pathways Expanded: New pathways to initial licensure were created for non-traditional candidates (see Section 17).
Grandfathering Existing Certifications: ‘Certification Evaluations issued by MSDE or an LEA between January 1, 2020, and March 31, 2024, will be considered reissued on April 1, 2024, and remain valid for 3 years through March 31, 2027’ (MSDE Educator Licensure Overview, April 1, 2024).
Conditional Licenses: Conditional certificates may not be renewed after April 1, 2024, but local school systems may still request a new Conditional License for employees who have not yet met requirements.

Sources: MSDE Educator Licensure Overview for BTU/BCPSS (baltimoreteachers.org, June 2024); MSEA Pathways to Educator Licensure (marylandeducators.org, May 2024) — all eight license types; April 1, 2024 effective date; HCPSS Educator Licensure page.

Maryland’s Eight Types of Educator Licenses

Since April 1, 2024, Maryland operates an eight-license framework for educator credentialing. The MSEA explainer ‘Types of Educator Licenses’ describes these through a color wheel showing all eight licenses available to educators. For teacher certification, the most relevant licenses are:

License Type	Abbrev.	Who It’s For	Prior Certificate Equivalent	Key Features
Initial Professional License	IPL	New teachers who have met all initial certification requirements	Standard Professional Certificate I (SPC I)	Entry-level professional license; replaces SPC I; triggers IPDP development
Professional License	PL	Experienced teachers with IPL who meet renewal criteria	Standard Professional Certificate II (SPC II)	Advanced license after completing IPL period and requirements
Advanced Professional License	APL	Highly experienced educators; optional advancement	Advanced Professional Certificate (APC)	Optional; highest teacher license; requires additional credentials
Conditional License	CL	Candidates not yet meeting full requirements; must be requested by school system	Conditional Certificate (COND)	Issued at request of LSS; 2-year duration; cannot be renewed after April 1, 2024 but new ones can be issued
Resident Teacher License	RTC (now license)	MAAPP participants; career changers in school system alternative prep programs	Resident Teacher Certificate (RTC)	Issued at superintendent request; 2-3 years; not portable
Nonpublic School License	NSL	Teachers in Maryland nonpublic schools	Various prior types	Specific to nonpublic school employment
Substitute License	SL	Substitute teachers only	Substitute certificate	Subject to different requirements
Specialist Licenses (various)	—	School counselors, psychologists, other specialists	Various prior specialist certs	Subject to specialist-specific requirements

Sources: MSEA Pathways to Educator Licensure (marylandeducators.org, May 2024) — ‘Types of Educator Licenses uses a color wheel to show the eight licenses now available’; Maryland Educator Licensure Certificate-to-License Conversion chart (MSEA); teachercertification.com MD (2026); teachercertificationdegrees.com MD Alternative (Jan 2026).

Step 1: Education Requirements – Bachelor’s Degree

The foundational education requirement for all Maryland teacher certification is a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education. This is established in COMAR 13A.12 and confirmed across all certification frameworks:

Degree must be from a regionally accredited institution (accredited by a regional accrediting organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education)
The bachelor’s degree may be in any field for alternative route candidates; traditional route candidates must hold a degree from an approved teacher education program
A minimum overall GPA of 3.0 on the most recently earned degree exempts candidates from the basic skills assessment (Praxis Core)
Maryland does NOT require a master’s degree for initial certification (IPL); however, advancing to the Professional License (PL) or Advanced Professional License (APL) requires additional credentials

Sources: ETS Praxis Maryland Overview (praxis.ets.org/state-requirements/maryland-overview.html) — ‘Hold at least a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education’; Towson University MSDE Certification page — 3.0 GPA exemption; teachercertificationdegrees.com MD Alternative (Jan 2026).

Step 2: Approved Educator Preparation Program

All traditional route certification candidates in Maryland must complete an MSDE-approved educator preparation program — also called a Maryland Approved Program (MAP). Per the ETS Praxis Maryland overview: ‘Complete an approved educator preparation program OR complete the coursework and experience requirements outlined in the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR).’

What the MAP Includes

A Maryland Approved Program (MAP) at an accredited college or university includes:

Content area coursework in the subject(s) to be taught
Pedagogical coursework (classroom management, instructional strategies, learning theory, assessment)
Diversity and inclusion coursework
Field experiences (pre-student teaching observations and classroom work)
A clinical internship (student teaching) — see Section 7
Preparation for required assessments (Praxis Core, Praxis II, edTPA/PPAT)

Alternative to MAP: COMAR Coursework and Experience

For alternative route candidates who did not complete a traditional MAP, COMAR specifies the coursework and experience requirements that can substitute for MAP completion.

This is the pathway for MAAPP/RTC and post-baccalaureate ACP candidates — they complete COMAR-required coursework and experience through approved alternative preparation programs rather than a traditional university teacher education program.

Sources: ETS Praxis Maryland Overview; MSDE approved programs list at marylandpublicschools.org; teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026).

Step 3: Clinical Internship / Student Teaching

A clinical internship (student teaching) is a required component of all Maryland Approved Programs. Per the MSDE Educator Licensure Overview, the clinical internship is part of the ‘completion of a teacher preparation program, to include a clinical internship, approved to lead to licensure.’

The internship places candidates in a real classroom under the supervision of an experienced cooperating teacher.

Clinical Internship Requirements

Duration: Varies by program; typically one semester (approximately 14-16 weeks) of full-time student teaching
Grade level: Must be in the grade level(s) and subject area(s) corresponding to the certification area being sought
Supervision: Conducted under a cooperating teacher and university supervisor
Outcome: Satisfactory completion of the internship is required before the MAP program recommends the candidate for licensure

Clinical Internship in MAAPP Programs

For MAAPP/Resident Teacher Certificate candidates, the internship takes a different form. Teaching-certification.com describes the MAAPP internship as 4-8 weeks of pre-service internship prior to receiving the RTC, after which the candidate serves as the paid teacher of record — effectively extending the clinical experience into a full residency year.

This structure is recognized by MSDE as meeting the clinical internship requirement for certification purposes.

Sources: MSDE Educator Licensure Overview (April 1, 2024); teaching-certification.com MD alternative — 4-8 week internship.

Step 4: Basic Skills Assessment (Praxis Core or 3.0 GPA)

Maryland requires all teacher certification candidates to demonstrate mastery of basic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. There are two ways to meet this requirement:

Maryland Basic Skills Requirement — Meet ONE of Two Options

OPTION 1 — PRAXIS CORE: Pass the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (Reading, Writing, Mathematics). If you test in Maryland at a test center or at home with your Praxis profile address in Maryland, your score report will be sent automatically to MSDE.

OPTION 2 — GPA: Hold a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 on the most recently earned degree. Candidates who submit a 3.0+ GPA are not required to submit a basic skills assessment (per Towson University MSDE Certification page).

MAAPP NOTE: Per AACPS RTC requirements — ‘Applicants may be issued a Resident Teacher license if the GPA is 3.0 or higher on their most recently earned degree or achieve a passing score on the Praxis CORE.’ Same two-option rule applies.

PTE EXCEPTION: Professional and Technical Education candidates without a bachelor’s degree may be exempt from the basic skills test in certain circumstances (research.com MD 2026). Verify with MSDE directly.

Sources: Towson University MSDE Certification page; ETS Praxis Maryland Overview; AACPS RT/MAAPP SpEd Info Sheet (2025-2027); research.com MD 2026.

Sources: Towson University MSDE Certification (towson.edu/fcsm/departments/uteach/msdecertification.html) — ‘3.0 GPA not required to submit basic skills assessment’; ETS Praxis Maryland Overview (praxis.ets.org/state-requirements/maryland-overview.html) — automatic MSDE score reporting.

Step 5: Subject Area Content Test (Praxis II)

All Maryland teacher certification candidates must pass the required Praxis II Subject Assessment(s) for their desired licensure area. These are content knowledge tests that assess deep mastery of the subject matter to be taught — distinct from the basic skills Praxis Core.

Common Praxis II Tests for Maryland Certification

Teaching Area	Required Praxis II Test(s)	Notes
Early Childhood Education (PreK-3)	Praxis Early Childhood Education (5025) + Reading TRE (5205)	Reading TRE required for Early Childhood per HCPSS and MSDE
Elementary Education (1-6)	Praxis Elementary Education Multiple Subjects (7001) + Reading TRE (5205)	Reading TRE required; multiple subtests
Secondary English (7-12)	Praxis English Language Arts: Content Knowledge (5038)	ELA content knowledge
Secondary Mathematics (7-12)	Praxis Mathematics: Content Knowledge (5161)	Highly sought shortage area
Secondary Biology	Praxis Biology: Content Knowledge (5235)	Also in shortage
Secondary Chemistry	Praxis Chemistry: Content Knowledge (5245)	Shortage area
Secondary Physics	Praxis Physics: Content Knowledge (5265)	Shortage area
Secondary Social Studies	Praxis Social Studies: Content Knowledge (5081)	Broad content coverage
Special Education (PreK-12)	Praxis Special Education: Core Knowledge (5354) + TRE Assessment (5205)	Both tests required; SpEd is critical shortage area
ESOL (PreK-12)	Praxis ESOL (5362) + Reading TRE (5205)	ESOL is shortage area; reading required
World Languages	ACTFL OPI/WPT (oral and written proficiency tests) OR appropriate Praxis language test	ACTFL recognized by Maryland; applicable to French, Spanish, etc.

Sources: HCPSS Educator Licensure page (hcpss.org) — Reading TRE requirement; ETS Praxis Maryland Overview — ‘Praxis tests for their certification area or other national, state-approved tests’; MSDE Licensure Assessments page (marylandpublicschools.org/about/Pages/DEE/Certification/Assessments.aspx); UMES Maryland Teacher Certification page (wwwcp.umes.edu); AACPS RT Info Sheet 2025-2027.

Where to Find the Full Maryland Praxis Requirements List

The complete and up-to-date list of required Praxis tests for each Maryland certification area is maintained on the MSDE Licensure Assessments page. This is the definitive source — always verify current requirements before registering for any test. Per the ETS Praxis Maryland overview, if you test at a Maryland test center or at home with your Praxis profile address set to Maryland, scores are sent automatically to MSDE.

Source: MSDE Licensure Assessments page (marylandpublicschools.org/about/Pages/DEE/Certification/Assessments.aspx); ETS Praxis Maryland Overview (praxis.ets.org/state-requirements/maryland-overview.html).

Step 6: The Pedagogy Assessment

The pedagogy assessment requirement is one of the most significant recent changes to Maryland teacher certification. The July 1, 2025 shift from the Praxis PLT to performance-based assessments affects all new certification candidates.

Critical Change: July 1, 2025 — edTPA or PPAT Required; PLT No Longer Accepted

BEFORE July 1, 2025: Candidates could fulfill the pedagogy assessment by passing the Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) exam.

FROM July 1, 2025 ONWARD: ALL teacher candidates must present a passing score on a portfolio-based performance assessment — specifically the edTPA or PPAT.

Per HCPSS: ‘Effective July 1, 2025, teacher candidates must present the edTPA or PPAT to fulfill the pedagogy assessment requirement. The Praxis PLT will not be accepted after July 1, 2025.’

Per MSDE Educator Licensure Overview: ‘Beginning July 2025, ALL teacher candidates who graduate from a Maryland approved teacher preparation program will need to pass an assessment that measures proficiency in literacy instruction.’

FLEXIBLE PATHWAY EXCEPTION: For Maryland LEA-employed teachers, a year-end effective rating on a formal evaluation may be accepted in lieu of edTPA/PPAT per the flexible pathways framework (see Section 17).

NATIONAL BOARD CERTIFICATE: Holding a National Board Certification from NBPTS may also fulfill the pedagogy assessment requirement.

Sources: HCPSS Educator Licensure page; MSDE Educator Licensure Overview (April 1, 2024); research.com MD 2026; teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026).

What edTPA and PPAT Involve

edTPA (Education Teacher Performance Assessment): A portfolio-based assessment developed by Stanford Center for Assessment, Learning, and Equity (SCALE). Candidates document and analyze their teaching practice through written commentaries and video recordings across three tasks: planning, instruction, and assessment. Context-specific to the content area and grade level. Register at edtpa.com.
PPAT (Performance Assessment for Beginning Teachers): An ETS-developed alternative. Similar portfolio structure — planning, instruction, and assessment tasks. Register at ets.org/ppat.
Timeline consideration: Both assessments take 4-10 weeks to complete (dependent on the teaching cycle documented). Plan to begin well before your certification application deadline.

Sources: HCPSS Educator Licensure page; edtpa.com; ets.org/ppat; research.com MD 2026.

Reading Instruction Proficiency as Pedagogy (July 2025 Addition)

Per the MSDE Educator Licensure Overview: ‘Beginning July 2025, ALL teacher candidates who graduate from a Maryland approved teacher preparation program will need to pass an assessment that measures proficiency in literacy instruction (i.e., teaching literacy…).’ This reading proficiency requirement adds a literacy-focused dimension to the pedagogy assessment framework for all teacher candidates from July 2025 onward — not just elementary and special education candidates.

Step 7: Reading Instruction Assessment

Separate from the July 2025 reading proficiency requirement for all candidates, Maryland has required a specific reading instruction assessment for candidates in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, ESOL, and Special Education since September 1, 2019.

Reading Instruction Assessment Requirement — Who Is Affected

EFFECTIVE September 1, 2019: Candidates applying for initial licensure in Early Childhood Education (PreK-3), Elementary Education (grades 1-6), ESOL (PreK-12), and Generic Special Education (all grades) must present a passing score on the approved reading instruction test.

APPROVED ASSESSMENT: Praxis Science of Reading — TRE #5205 (Teaching Reading: Elementary, test number 5205).

ALTERNATIVE: Attestation of proficiency through observation completed by a Department-recognized assessor using a Department-provided observation tool.

RENEWAL NOTE: License holders seeking renewal who are employed in positions requiring licensure in Early Childhood, Elementary, Special Education, or ESOL must demonstrate proficiency in providing reading instruction aligned to the science of reading.

Reading Specialists and Reading Teachers must also demonstrate this proficiency when applying for initial licensure.

Sources: HCPSS Educator Licensure page — ‘Effective September 1, 2019, individuals applying for initial licensure in the areas of Early Childhood Education… must present a passing score on a reading instruction licensure test’; MSDE Educator Licensure Overview (April 1, 2024).

Step 8: Criminal Background Check

All individuals hired by a Maryland school system — public or nonpublic — must submit to a criminal history background check. This requirement applies to all teacher certification pathways.

Timing: Must be completed once hired by a Maryland school system; required before beginning regular classroom responsibilities
Process: Typically initiated through the hiring school system’s HR or licensure office. For HCPSS employees, the school system handles all licensure requests. For others, contact MSDE directly at 410-767-0412 or [email protected]
Cost: Varies by county; fingerprinting fees vary by vendor
Note: HCPSS explicitly states: ‘Once employed under contract, HCPSS will handle all licensure requests.’ This is typical of Maryland school systems — the employer manages the background check process for contracted staff

Sources: HCPSS Educator Licensure page (hcpss.org/employees/certification/) — employment process; teaching-certification.com MD alternative — ‘once hired by a Maryland school system, all prospective Maryland teachers must submit to a criminal history background check.’

Step 9: Applying Through the TEACH Portal

All Maryland teacher certification applications — initial, renewal, and license upgrades — are processed through the TEACH portal (marylandpublicschools.org/TEACH, also accessible via mdcert.org). The TEACH portal was launched in April 2022 and is the exclusive channel for all MSDE certification transactions.

What You Submit Through TEACH

Per teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026), along with your online application through TEACH, you submit:

Official transcripts: From all colleges and universities attended, showing degree conferral
Test scores: Praxis Core scores (if not meeting GPA exemption); Praxis II content test scores; edTPA or PPAT assessment results; Reading TRE scores (if applicable)
Program completion verification: Documentation from your MAP or MAAPP that you have completed the required preparation program
Background check results: Typically managed by the school system for employed candidates
Application fee: $10 for initial license issuance and for each renewal

Sources: teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026); Montgomery County Schools RTC page — ‘$10 fee charged by MSDE’; HCPSS Educator Licensure page.

The TEACH Applicant Guide

MSDE provides a TEACH Applicant Guide for navigation through the online application process. This guide is available through the MSDE TEACH portal. The guide walks through account creation, application completion, document upload, and payment. Review it thoroughly before beginning your application to ensure all required materials are gathered in advance.

Certification by Grade Level and Subject: What’s Required

Maryland’s certification system is organized by grade level range and content area. The requirements vary based on the combination of grade level and subject. Here are the most common certifications:

Early Childhood Education (PreK-3)

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Completion of approved MAP with Early Childhood specialization
Praxis Core OR 3.0 GPA
Praxis Early Childhood Education (5025) — content test
Reading TRE 5205 — REQUIRED (since September 1, 2019)
edTPA or PPAT — REQUIRED (from July 1, 2025)

Elementary Education (Grades 1-6)

Bachelor’s degree
Approved MAP with Elementary education specialization
Praxis Core OR 3.0 GPA
Praxis Elementary Education Multi-Subjects (7001) — content test
Reading TRE 5205 — REQUIRED
edTPA or PPAT — REQUIRED (from July 1, 2025)

Secondary Education (Grades 7-12) — Content Areas

Bachelor’s degree
Approved MAP with subject area specialization
Praxis Core OR 3.0 GPA
Praxis II Subject Assessment for the specific content area
edTPA or PPAT — REQUIRED (from July 1, 2025)
Reading TRE not required for most secondary academic content areas (unless also seeking elementary or SpEd endorsement)

Special Education (PreK-12 / All Grades)

Bachelor’s degree
Approved MAP with Special Education specialization
Praxis Core OR 3.0 GPA
Praxis Special Education Core Knowledge (5354) — content test
Praxis TRE Assessment 5205 — REQUIRED
edTPA or PPAT — REQUIRED (from July 1, 2025)
Note: SpEd is Maryland’s most critical shortage area; multiple MAAPP programs target SpEd specifically

Sources: HCPSS Educator Licensure page — all reading TRE requirements; AACPS RT Info Sheet 2025-2027 — SpEd specific tests; MSDE Licensure Assessments page; research.com MD 2026.

The Individualized Professional Development Plan (IPDP)

Per the MSDE Educator Licensure Overview: ‘An Individualized Professional Development Plan (IPDP) is developed at the issuance of every professional license.’ The IPDP is a required component of Maryland’s certification and renewal system — it is not merely optional professional development planning.

When developed: At the issuance of every professional license (both initial and renewal)
Approval: Approved by a supervisor or designee if the license holder is employed with a Maryland LEA
Purpose: Documents the educator’s professional growth goals aligned to their teaching context and career development objectives
Renewal connection: The IPDP guides professional development activities during the license period; completion of IPDP activities feeds into the renewal documentation process

Source: MSDE Educator Licensure Overview (April 1, 2024) — marylandpublicschools.org/about/Documents/DEE/Certification/training%20materials/Educator-Licensure-Overview-Generic-A.pdf.

License Renewal Requirements

Maryland teacher licenses must be renewed periodically. Renewal requirements vary by license type and have been updated under the April 2024 regulation changes.

General Renewal Structure

Validity period: Varies by license type; typically 3-5 years depending on the specific license. The MSDE Certificate-to-License Conversion chart (MSEA explainer) shows duration for each of the eight license types.
IPDP completion: The educator must have completed activities outlined in their IPDP during the license period
Reading instruction (renewal — selected areas): Per MSDE: ‘License holders seeking renewal who are employed in a position requiring licensure in early childhood education, elementary education, special education or ESOL must demonstrate proficiency in providing reading instruction aligned to the science of reading’
Transition year: ‘Professional certificate holders have one full validity period before having to meet the new renewal documentation’ during the 2024-25 school year per the MSDE Educator Licensure Overview
Reinstatement: ‘May reinstate an expired historic certificate by meeting the old OR [new requirements]’ per MSDE

Sources: MSDE Educator Licensure Overview (April 1, 2024); MSEA Certificate-to-License Conversion chart; Montgomery County Schools RTC page — $10 renewal fee.

Renewal Reading Proficiency for Selected License Areas

Starting with the 2025 requirement expansions, license holders in early childhood, elementary, special education, and ESOL areas must demonstrate reading instruction proficiency aligned to the science of reading at renewal.

This can be fulfilled through: passing score on the reading instruction test (TRE 5205); passing score on a portfolio-based reading instruction assessment; or an effective rating on a year-end evaluation if employed with a Maryland LEA.

Flexible Pathways to Licensure

One of the most significant elements of the April 1, 2024 COMAR revision was the introduction of expanded flexible pathways to initial licensure. MSEA’s ‘Flexible Pathways to Educator Licensure’ explainer lists these new options specifically for graduates of Maryland programs and teacher candidates.

Flexible Pedagogy Assessment Options

For the pedagogy assessment component, Maryland now recognizes multiple ways to demonstrate teaching competency — not just standardized assessments:

Passing score on a portfolio-based performance assessment (edTPA or PPAT) — standard pathway
National Board Certificate from NBPTS — recognized as meeting the pedagogy assessment requirement
Effective rating on a year-end evaluation — available only for teachers employed in a Maryland local education agency (LEA); this is the most significant new flexible pathway, allowing experienced teachers to use their classroom performance record in lieu of edTPA/PPAT

Sources: MSDE Educator Licensure Overview (marylandpublicschools.org, April 1, 2024) — ‘Beginning July 2025, a passing score on a portfolio-based performance assessment, a National Board Certificate, or an effective rating on a year-end evaluation (for Maryland local school system-employed teachers only)’; MSEA Flexible Pathways explainer.

Nonpublic School Experience Pathway

Per the MSDE Educator Licensure Overview, an additional flexible pathway allows candidates to pursue licensure through nonpublic school teaching experience: ‘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 Code of Maryland Regulations 13A.09.09 Educational Programs in Nonpublic Schools’ combined with a passing score on an approved reading instruction test (for applicable areas).

This pathway acknowledges the teaching experience of individuals who have been serving effectively in accredited Maryland nonpublic schools and want to transition to formal state licensure.

In-District Training Programs

Per the MSDE Educator Licensure Overview (April 1, 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.’ This emerging pathway would allow districts to run their own MSDE-approved training programs as a pathway to initial licensure — similar conceptually to the MAAPP system but with an even more localized structure.

Alternative Certification: MAAPP/RTC and Conditional License

For career changers and individuals without traditional teacher education backgrounds, Maryland’s alternative certification system provides structured pathways to the classroom. These are covered in detail in the companion guide ‘How to Become a Teacher in Maryland Without a Teaching Degree,’ but key elements are summarized here:

MAAPP/Resident Teacher License

What it is: A joint school system + university alternative preparation program. The Resident Teacher License (formerly Resident Teacher Certificate / RTC) is issued at the request of a local school superintendent.
Duration: 2-3 years (varies by program); not renewable; not portable to other Maryland school systems or other states
Outcome: Upon successful completion + required assessments, transition to Initial Professional License (IPL)
Assessment requirements: Same as for traditional route candidates (Praxis Core or 3.0 GPA; Praxis II; edTPA/PPAT from July 2025)
Program list: MSDE MAAPP Directory at marylandpublicschools.org; MAAPP Coordinator: 410-767-5654 or [email protected]

Conditional License

What it is: Issued by MSDE at the request of a local school system for an employee who has not yet met full licensure requirements
Duration: 2 years; may not be renewed after April 1, 2024, but local school systems may still request new conditional licenses
Initiated by: The school system, not the candidate individually

Sources: MSDE Educator Licensure Overview (April 1, 2024) — ‘Conditional licenses may not be renewed after April 1, 2024, but local school systems (LSS) may request a Conditional License’; teachercertificationdegrees.com MD Alternative (Jan 2026).

Out-of-State Teacher Certification in Maryland

Teachers certified in other states can obtain Maryland licensure through an evaluation process that compares their credentials to Maryland’s requirements.

Standard Out-of-State Application

TEACH account: Out-of-state teachers must create a TEACH account and submit an online application, just like Maryland-trained candidates
Documentation: Official transcripts from all institutions attended; copy of current valid out-of-state certificate; verification of teaching experience (if applicable)
MSDE evaluation: MSDE evaluates the out-of-state credentials against current COMAR 13A.12 requirements for the Maryland endorsement area sought
Assessment requirements: Maryland may require Praxis assessments if the out-of-state certification did not require equivalent testing. The edTPA/PPAT requirement applies from July 2025 for new initial applicants.
Experience not substitutable: Teaching experience generally does not substitute for required coursework gaps identified in the transcript evaluation

The Nonpublic School Experience Pathway (Out-of-State Teachers)

The flexible pathway allowing 5 years of verified effective teaching experience in a Maryland-approved nonpublic school may be available to out-of-state teachers who have taught in Maryland nonpublic schools. Contact MSDE ([email protected]) to confirm eligibility for your specific situation.

Sources: teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026) — ‘Out-of-state teachers must also create a TEACH account and submit’; MSDE Educator Licensure Overview — nonpublic school experience pathway.

Maryland Teacher Salary and Job Outlook

Maryland Teacher’s Salary

Metric	Amount	Ranking	Source
Average teacher salary (2024-25)	$74,260	9th nationally	NEA 2025; teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026)
National average (2024-25)	$72,030	—	NEA 2025
BLS median (Elementary, national)	$62,340	—	BLS OOH 2024
BLS median (High School, national)	$64,580	—	BLS OOH 2024
Maryland pension system	Maryland State Retirement and Pension System (MSRPS)	Defined benefit	MSDE; MSRPS.state.md.us

Sources: teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026) — $74,260 avg / 9th nationally; NEA 2025 Rankings and Estimates.

Maryland Teacher’s Job Outlook

Maryland’s teacher shortage creates favorable conditions for qualified candidates. Per the U.S. Department of Education Teacher Shortage Area report for 2023-2024, Maryland has identified shortages in: Special Education, Mathematics, Science, Computer Science, World Languages, English Language Learners, and Career and Technical Education. In 2021-22, Maryland had 1,616 unfilled teaching positions and 6,724 teachers considered underqualified for their positions.

BLS national projections for K-12 teachers show slight employment decline (2024-34 projections) due to declining school-age population, but annual openings remain very high (103,800+ for elementary alone) due to replacement demand. Maryland’s workforce dynamics, with an aging teacher workforce and sustained demand in shortage areas, suggest continued strong demand for newly certified teachers.

Sources: teachercertificationdegrees.com MD (March 2026) — shortage areas; 1,616 unfilled / 6,724 underqualified; BLS OOH 2024-34 projections.

Maryland Teacher Certification Requirements: FAQs

What are the basic requirements to become a certified teacher in Maryland?

To receive an Initial Professional License (IPL) in Maryland, you need: (1) a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution; (2) completion of an MSDE-approved educator preparation program (MAP) including a clinical internship; (3) basic skills demonstration — Praxis Core OR 3.0+ GPA on most recently earned degree; (4) passing score on the Praxis II Subject Assessment for your content area; (5) passing score on edTPA or PPAT performance assessment (required from July 1, 2025); (6) reading instruction assessment if pursuing Early Childhood, Elementary, ESOL, or Special Education certification; (7) criminal background check; and (8) application through the TEACH portal with a $10 fee.

Is the Praxis Core required in Maryland?

Not always. Maryland has a two-option basic skills requirement: pass the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators (Reading, Writing, Mathematics), OR hold a minimum 3.0 GPA on the most recently earned degree. Candidates who submit a transcript showing a 3.0+ GPA are not required to submit Praxis Core results. This same rule applies to MAAPP/RTC candidates (per AACPS requirements).

What is the July 2025 pedagogy assessment change?

Effective July 1, 2025, all Maryland teacher certification candidates must pass either the edTPA or the PPAT (Portfolio Assessment for Beginning Teachers) to fulfill the pedagogy assessment requirement. The Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) exam is no longer accepted after July 1, 2025. For Maryland LEA-employed teachers, an effective rating on a year-end evaluation or holding a National Board Certificate may also fulfill the requirement.

What is the difference between an IPL and a PL in Maryland?

Under the April 1, 2024 regulations, Maryland’s two main teacher licenses are the Initial Professional License (IPL, equivalent to the former SPC I) and the Professional License (PL, equivalent to the former SPC II). The IPL is the entry-level professional license issued to newly certified teachers who have met all initial certification requirements. After completing the IPL period and meeting advancement criteria, teachers may obtain the Professional License. Advancement to the PL is not required in Maryland — teachers may continue to renew the IPL if they choose. The Advanced Professional License (APL) is an optional highest-tier credential requiring additional credentials beyond the PL.

When did Maryland change its certification framework?

The most recent comprehensive update took effect April 1, 2024, when MSDE implemented new COMAR 13A.12 licensure regulations that expanded pathways to certification, converted existing ‘certificates’ to ‘licenses,’ and established a new eight-license framework. This change was developed in response to 2024 legislation and regulations. All certifications issued between January 1, 2020, and March 31, 2024, were automatically grandfathered as reissued on April 1, 2024, and remain valid for 3 years through March 31, 2027.

Do Maryland teachers need a master’s degree?

No, Maryland does not require a master’s degree for initial teacher certification. The Initial Professional License (IPL) is earned through a bachelor’s degree program and approved teacher preparation. However, advancing to the Professional License (PL) or the Advanced Professional License (APL) requires additional education and credentials beyond the bachelor’s level. Some districts also provide salary increases for graduate degrees through their salary schedules.

How do I apply for a Maryland teaching certificate?

All Maryland teacher certification applications are submitted through the TEACH portal at marylandpublicschools.org/TEACH (also accessible via mdcert.org). Create a TEACH account, complete the online application, upload required documents (transcripts, test scores, program completion verification), and pay the $10 application fee. If you are employed by a Maryland school system, contact your school system’s HR or licensure office — many systems handle the TEACH application process on your behalf. Contact MSDE at [email protected] or 410-767-0412 for questions.

Maryland Teacher Certification Requirements: Conclusion

Maryland teacher certification in 2025 is a system that combines high standards with genuine flexibility. The nine-step certification process — degree, approved program, clinical internship, basic skills, content assessment, pedagogy assessment, reading instruction (for selected areas), background check, and TEACH application — is comprehensive and demanding by design: Maryland consistently ranks among the top states for public education quality, and its certification standards reflect that commitment.

The two most important recent developments are the April 1, 2024 regulatory overhaul (introducing the eight-license framework, flexible pathways, and the grandfathering of existing certifications) and the July 1, 2025 mandatory shift from the Praxis PLT to the edTPA or PPAT performance-based pedagogy assessment.

Together, these changes make Maryland’s system both more flexible (through the year-end evaluation pathway and National Board Certificate option) and more rigorous (through authentic performance documentation rather than standardized exams).

Maryland’s 9th-place national salary ranking ($74,260 average in 2024-25) and documented shortage areas in special education, mathematics, science, and ESOL make Maryland a genuinely attractive destination for certified teachers — both those completing traditional programs and career changers pursuing the MAAPP/RTC pathway.

Begin your certification journey at marylandpublicschools.org, create your TEACH account, and contact [email protected] with questions about your specific situation. Maryland’s students are waiting.