Mississippi Teaching Certificate Renewal

Mississippi’s teaching certificate renewal system is governed by the Mississippi Department of Education (MDE) Office of Educator Licensure, and its requirements are drawn from the Guidelines for Mississippi Educator Licensure K-12.

The framework is designed to be flexible: Mississippi offers five distinct renewal options — ranging from college coursework to CEU professional development to National Board Certification to retirement documentation — so teachers can renew in the way that best fits their professional development activities and career stage.

Per teachercertificationdegrees.com MS (March 2026): ‘Mississippi teachers must renew their Standard Teaching License every five years, and licenses expire on June 30 of each year. To renew, you must complete 10 continuing education units (CEUs) or the equivalent. One CEU credit is equal to 10 contact or clock hours of professional learning.’

The core renewal structure for Class A (bachelor’s degree level) license holders offers a choice between several combinations of semester hours, CEUs, and SEMI credits. Class AA, AAA, and AAAA (master’s, specialist, and doctoral levels) have a simplified renewal requirement of either 3 semester hours OR 5 CEUs. All renewal activities must be in a content or job/skill related area — a category that includes both direct subject matter and professional pedagogy skills.

All renewal applications are submitted through the ELMS (Educator Licensure Management System) at mdek12.org. Per the Mississippi Secretary of State Licensure Guidelines PDF: ‘Through the Educator Licensure Management System (ELMS), educators currently employed by a Mississippi public school district can renew electronically online. CEUs, coursework or National Board used for renewal can be verified by the district administrator.’

Mississippi Teaching Certificate Renewal: Key Numbers at a Glance

5 yrs

License Validity Period

All standard classes; expire June 30 each year

CEUs Required (Class A)

teachercertificationdegrees.com: ’10 CEUs or equivalent’

10 hrs

Contact Hours per 1 CEU

‘Ten contact hours of PD = one CEU credit’

6 hrs

Semester Hours (One Option)

6 semester hours in content/job-skill area (Class A)

ELMS

Renewal Application Portal

District admin verifies CEUs/coursework/NB in ELMS

Grade C

Min. Coursework Grade

C or higher on all renewal coursework

June 30

Annual License Expiration

All MS licenses expire June 30 of the 5th year

PERS

Retirement Option (Final Year)

1-800-444-7377; submitted in final year only

Sources: teachercertificationdegrees.com MS (March 2026) — ’10 CEUs or the equivalent; one CEU = 10 contact hours; licenses expire June 30′; MDE Licensure Renewal page (mdek12.org) — Option 2 (3 hrs + 5 CEUs), Option 3 (6 hrs), Option 4 (National Board), Option 5 (retirement PERS 1-800-444-7377); MS SOS Licensure Guidelines PDF — ELMS renewal; district admin verifies; Grade C requirement; teaching-certification.com MS renewal.

Mississippi’s Teaching License Renewal Framework

Mississippi Teaching License Renewal — Quick Reference

WHO MUST RENEW: All holders of five-year standard Mississippi teaching licenses (Class A, AA, AAA, AAAA).

HOW OFTEN: Every 5 years. Licenses expire on June 30 of the year indicated on the license.

HOW TO APPLY: Through ELMS (Educator Licensure Management System) — log in at mdek12.org/licensure/.

CLASS A RENEWAL OPTIONS: (1) 3 semester hours + 5 CEUs; OR (2) 6 semester hours; OR (3) 3 semester hours + 35 SEMI credits; OR (4) National Board Certification process; OR (5) Retirement documentation (final year only).

CLASS AA, AAA, AAAA RENEWAL OPTIONS: (1) 3 semester hours in content/job-skill area; OR (2) 5 CEUs in content/job-skill area; OR (3) National Board; OR (4) Retirement documentation (final year only).

CONTENT REQUIREMENT: All coursework and CEUs must be in a ‘content or job/skill related area’ — which includes pedagogy, subject matter, and professional teaching skills.

GRADE REQUIREMENT: All college coursework used for renewal must be completed with a grade of C or higher.

TIMING: Only credits earned during the current 5-year license cycle count toward renewal.

TRANSCRIPT SUBMISSION: Official sealed transcripts must be submitted electronically directly from the college or university to MDE.

Sources: MDE (mdek12.org/licensure/licensure-renewal-reinstatement-options/); MDE Guidelines Aug 2024; teaching-certification.com MS renewal; teachercertificationdegrees.com MS (March 2026).

Who Governs Renewal: MDE and the Guidelines for Educator Licensure K-12

Mississippi teaching certificate renewal is governed by:

MDE Licensure Renewal/Reinstatement Options page (primary): mdek12.org/licensure/licensure-renewal-reinstatement-options/ — the official MDE page listing all renewal options for all license classes. This page is the operational implementation of the Guidelines and is updated as policies change.
Guidelines for Mississippi Educator Licensure K-12 (August 2024): The comprehensive MDE regulatory document; the section on renewal details all options, requirements, and documentation standards. Available at mdek12.org.
Mississippi Secretary of State Licensure Guidelines PDFs: The formal regulatory code published through the Mississippi Secretary of State — these PDFs represent the formal codification of MDE’s renewal requirements. Available at sos.ms.gov.
ELMS (Educator Licensure Management System): The online portal for all renewal applications; district administrators verify renewal documentation within ELMS. Access at: sso.mde.ms.gov/Login/Login.aspx or through mdek12.org/licensure/
MDE contacts: 601-359-3483 (Educator Licensure); 601-359-3513 (General Information); mdek12.org/licensure/

Sources: MDE (mdek12.org/licensure/); MS SOS Licensure Guidelines PDF (sos.ms.gov) — ELMS renewal process; MDE Guidelines Aug 2024.

License Validity: Five Years, Expiring June 30

All Mississippi standard teaching licenses (Class A through AAAA) are valid for five years. Per teachercertificationdegrees.com MS (March 2026): ‘Mississippi teachers must renew their Standard Teaching License every five years, and licenses expire on June 30 of each year.’

The June 30 expiration date applies uniformly: regardless of when a teacher’s license was originally issued during the school year, it expires on June 30 of the fifth year.

This standardized expiration structure is intentional — it aligns license expiration with the academic calendar, so that teachers’ licenses don’t lapse mid-year. A license issued in October 2022 and a license issued in February 2023 both expire on June 30, 2027 (if the 5 years map to that year).

Check your expiration date: Log into your ELMS account (mdek12.org) to view your current license details, including the expiration date. Your license should clearly show the expiration date as June 30 of the appropriate year.
Renewal timing: Begin renewal activities at the start of your 5-year cycle, not in the final year. Activities must be within the license cycle — credits earned before the cycle started do not count.
Final year submission: Some renewal options (retirement documentation, out-of-state license verification) can only be submitted during the final year of the license. For most options, earlier submission is always better.

✔ Proactive Renewal: Do not wait until the final year of your license cycle to complete renewal requirements. Begin earning semester hours, CEUs, or pursuing National Board Certification in Year 1 of your new license cycle. Spreading activities over five years is far more manageable than attempting to complete all requirements in Year 4 or Year 5.

Sources: teachercertificationdegrees.com MS (March 2026) — ‘expire June 30’; MDE Renewal page — timing requirements.

Which Licenses Must Be Renewed

Renewal requirements apply to all holders of five-year standard Mississippi teaching licenses. Understanding which license types require renewal — and which don’t — helps avoid confusion.

Class A (Standard — Bachelor’s): Must be renewed every 5 years. Specific renewal options are described in Sections 6-10.
Class AA (Standard — Master’s): Must be renewed every 5 years. Simplified renewal requirement (3 hours or 5 CEUs).
Class AAA (Standard — Specialist/JD/MFA): Must be renewed every 5 years. Same simplified requirement as Class AA.
Class AAAA (Standard — Doctorate): Must be renewed every 5 years. Same simplified requirement as Class AA.
Provisional / Alternate Route licenses: Provisional (non-standard) licenses are non-renewable — they must be converted to a five-year standard license rather than renewed. This applies to alternate route provisional licenses issued during the TMI or other alternate route internship periods.
Pre-service licenses: Pre-service licenses are not renewed — they are superseded by a standard license upon EPP completion and certification.

Sources: teaching-certification.com MS renewal — renewal applies to standard 5-yr license; MDE (mdek12.org); teachercertificationdegrees.com MS.

All Five Renewal Options

Mississippi’s renewal framework is organized into five distinct options. Each option satisfies the renewal requirement independently — you select the option (or combination for Class A) that best fits your professional activities. The five options are sourced directly from the MDE Licensure Renewal/Reinstatement Options page (mdek12.org/licensure/licensure-renewal-reinstatement-options/) and the MDE Guidelines for Mississippi Educator Licensure K-12 (August 2024):

Option	Description	Class A Eligible?	Class AA/AAA/AAAA Eligible?	Notes
Option 1	3 semester hours in content/job-skill area AND 5 CEUs in content/job-skill area	YES	NO — not listed as an option for Class AA+	The combination option; teaches can split between coursework and CEUs
Option 2	6 semester hours in content/job-skill area	YES	YES (as 3 semester hours)	Class A needs 6 hrs; Class AA+ needs only 3 hrs; all from accredited institution; grade C+
Option 3 (Class A)	3 semester hours in content/job-skill area AND 35 SEMI credits	YES (Class A only)	NO	SEMI = Mississippi Educator Mentoring Involvement credits; Class A only
Option 4	Completion of the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards process	YES	YES	National Board Certification (NBPTS) satisfies renewal for all classes
Option 5 (Final Year)	Official documentation of retirement from Mississippi public schools (PERS letter)	YES (final year only)	YES (final year only)	PERS: 1-800-444-7377; letter must be dated current year; submitted only in final year of valid license

Sources: MDE Licensure Renewal/Reinstatement Options (mdek12.org/licensure/licensure-renewal-reinstatement-options/) — Options 1-5 directly sourced; renewateachinglicense.com MS (June 2025) — Class A and Class AA+ breakdown; Teaching Channel MS (Nov 2024) — SEMI credits 3 hrs + 35 SEMI; teaching-certification.com MS renewal.

Option 1 (Class A Only): Three Semester Hours + Five CEUs

Option 1 is the combination renewal pathway available to Class A (bachelor’s degree) license holders. It combines college credit hours with continuing education units (CEUs) to satisfy the renewal requirement.

Option 1 — Three Semester Hours + Five CEUs (Class A Only)

REQUIREMENT: Complete Three (3) semester hours in content or job/skill related area AND Five (5) continuing education units (CEUs) in content or job/skill related area.

WHO CAN USE IT: Class A license holders only. Class AA, AAA, and AAAA have different renewal requirements.

SEMESTER HOURS: Must be completed at a regionally or nationally accredited senior college, university, or community college. Grade of C or higher required.

CEUs: Five CEUs = 50 contact hours of professional development (at 10 contact hours per CEU). Must be in content or job/skill related area.

CONTENT AREA REQUIREMENT: Both the semester hours and CEUs must be ‘in content or job/skill related area’ — this includes subject matter knowledge AND pedagogy AND professional teaching skills (see Section 12).

DOCUMENTATION: Official sealed transcripts submitted electronically from the institution to MDE + original CEU certificates with the appropriate number of hours noted.

ELMS: Upload documentation and apply for renewal through your ELMS account. If employed by a Mississippi public school district, your district administrator can verify through ELMS.

Sources: MDE Licensure Renewal page (mdek12.org/licensure/licensure-renewal-reinstatement-options/) — Option 2 (listed as Option 2 on MDE page); renewateachinglicense.com MS (June 2025) — ‘Three (3) semester hours AND Five (5) CEUs.’

Option 2 (All Classes): Six Semester Hours

The six-semester-hour option is the simplest coursework-only renewal pathway and is available to all license classes — though the specific number of hours required differs by class.

Class A: Six (6) semester hours in content or job/skill related area. Per MDE Renewal page: ‘Option 3: Six (6) semester hours in content or job/skill related area.’
Class AA, AAA, AAAA: Three (3) semester hours in content or job/skill related area. Per renewateachinglicense.com MS (June 2025): ‘Class AA, AAA, or AAAA can choose from the following PD options: Three (3) semester hours in content or job/skill related area.’
Per Walden University: ‘Educators may renew a Class A Standard License by completing 6 semester credits or 10 CEUs in the content or job/skill related area’ — confirming 6 semester hours = 10 CEUs for Class A.
Grade requirement: A grade of C or higher on all coursework. Per MS SOS Licensure Guidelines: ‘A grade of C or higher must be obtained on all coursework taken for renewal of license, reinstatement of license or the adding of supplemental endorsements.’
Accreditation requirement: Courses must be completed at regionally or nationally accredited senior colleges, universities, or community colleges. Per MDE Renewal page: ‘The college credit courses may be completed on the undergraduate or graduate level with a grade of C or higher at regionally/nationally accredited senior colleges, universities, or community colleges.’
Transcript submission: ‘Official academic transcripts must be submitted directly to the Division of Educator Licensure by the university or college electronically in a secure electronic format via National Student Clearinghouse, Parchment, or any other transcript exchange service provider.’ (MDE Renewal page)

✔ Graduate Courses Preferred: While undergraduate coursework qualifies for renewal, graduate-level courses earn the same renewal credit AND may count toward a master’s degree (Class AA advancement). A teacher pursuing a master’s degree can simultaneously advance their license class and satisfy renewal requirements — a highly efficient approach.

Sources: MDE Licensure Renewal page (mdek12.org) — Options 2 and 3; renewateachinglicense.com MS (June 2025) — Class A: 6 hrs; Class AA/AAA/AAAA: 3 hrs; Walden University — ‘6 semester credits or 10 CEUs’; MS SOS Licensure Guidelines PDFs — Grade C requirement; transcript submission electronically.

Option 3 (Class A Only): Three Semester Hours + 35 SEMI Credits

The SEMI option is a Class A-specific renewal pathway that combines semester hours with SEMI (Mississippi Educator Mentoring Involvement) credits. This option recognizes the professional learning value of mentoring activities alongside traditional coursework.

Per Teaching Channel MS (November 2024): ‘A combination of official sealed transcripts and SEMI certificates showing three (3) semester hours in content or job/skill related area AND thirty-five (35) SEMI credits.’

SEMI — What it stands for: Mississippi Educator Mentoring Involvement. SEMI credits are earned through specific mentoring, coaching, and educator development activities recognized by the Mississippi Department of Education.
35 SEMI credits: A substantial commitment to mentoring or professional learning activities within the SEMI framework. Per the MDE Guidelines for Mississippi Educator Licensure K-12: ‘must be in content or job/skill related area.
Plus 3 semester hours: The SEMI option still requires 3 semester hours of college coursework alongside the 35 SEMI credits — it is not a replacement for all coursework.
Who benefits: Teachers who are serving as mentors, instructional coaches, or in other educator leadership roles that generate SEMI credits may find this option efficient for combining their leadership work with coursework.
Documentation: Official sealed transcripts (3 hours) plus SEMI certificates bearing the appropriate credit total.

⚠ SEMI Availability: Contact MDE Educator Licensure (601-359-3483) to confirm current availability and structure of the SEMI credits option, as program details may have evolved since source data was published. The Teaching Channel and MDE Guidelines references confirm the 35-SEMI option exists, but verify current SEMI provider lists at mdek12.org.

Sources: Teaching Channel MS (Nov 2024) — ‘3 semester hours AND 35 SEMI credits’; MDE Guidelines Aug 2024 — SEMI/CEU provider list at mdek12.org; MDE Renewal page.

Option 4 (All Classes): National Board for Professional Teaching Standards

National Board Certification through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) is an accepted renewal option for all Mississippi license classes. This option recognizes that pursuing or holding NBPTS certification is a rigorous professional accomplishment that fully satisfies the 5-year renewal requirement.

Per MDE Renewal page: ‘Option 4: Completion of the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards process.’ Per praxisexam.org MS and teaching-certification.com MS: National Board Certification or its completion process satisfies Mississippi’s renewal requirement.

How National Board Certification Satisfies Renewal

For current NBPTS candidates: The ‘completion of the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards process’ — meaning actively pursuing National Board Certification during the license cycle — satisfies the renewal requirement. Candidates do not need to have received the certificate; completing the process qualifies.
For current NBCT holders: Holding a valid National Board Certificate or completing the National Board renewal process also satisfies the Mississippi license renewal requirement.
Documentation: Official documentation from NBPTS confirming completion of the process or active candidate status during the relevant cycle. Upload into ELMS or submit to MDE.
Per teaching-certification.com MS: ‘five-year certification — one-year teaching/mentoring internship by National Board-Certified teacher or MDE trained mentor, completion of MS Public Broadcasting (MPB) E-Learning online professional development course, or six hours graduate university courses by approved Mississippi alternate program’ — this language refers to the full set of renewal options.

Financial Benefits of National Board Certification in Mississippi

Mississippi provides financial incentives for National Board Certified Teachers (NBCTs) beyond the license renewal benefit. National Board Certification may qualify teachers for salary advancement and recognition in their district. Contact your district HR office and MDE to verify current financial incentives available for NBCT holders in Mississippi.

Sources: MDE Renewal page (mdek12.org) — Option 4; praxisexam.org MS — National Board as renewal; teaching-certification.com MS renewal — National Board process.

Option 5 (All Classes, Final Year Only): Retirement Documentation

The retirement option is a final-year-only renewal pathway for Mississippi teachers who are retiring from Mississippi public school service. It does not require any professional development — instead, it requires official documentation of retirement.

Per MDE Renewal page: ‘Option 5: Official documentation of retirement from service in Mississippi public schools (Official letter shall be obtained from the Public Employees’ Retirement System of Mississippi by calling 1-800-444-7377).

Documentation for use of this option shall only be submitted for renewal during the final year of the valid license. The official letter must bear a date that reflects the current year the documentation is submitted for licensure renewal.’

Option 5 — Retirement Documentation (Final Year Only)

WHAT IT IS: Renewal by documenting retirement from Mississippi public school service — no PD hours or coursework required.

WHEN AVAILABLE: ONLY during the final year of the valid license. Submit only in Year 5.

WHAT TO OBTAIN: An official letter from the Public Employees’ Retirement System of Mississippi (PERS).

HOW TO GET THE PERS LETTER: Call PERS at 1-800-444-7377.

LETTER DATE REQUIREMENT: ‘The official letter must bear a date that reflects the current year the documentation is submitted for licensure renewal.’ A letter dated from a prior year is not acceptable.

WHO USES THIS: Teachers who are in their final year of teaching before retirement. Having a current, valid license upon retirement is sometimes needed for re-employment as a substitute teacher, adjunct, or other part-time educator role.

VALID FOR ALL CLASSES: Class A, AA, AAA, and AAAA — all are eligible for the retirement option in their final year.

Sources: MDE Licensure Renewal page (mdek12.org/licensure/licensure-renewal-reinstatement-options/) — Option 5 verbatim; teaching-certification.com MS renewal — ‘documentation from PERS if you are a retired teacher.’

The CEU: What It Is and How It Converts

The Continuing Education Unit (CEU) is a standardized measure of professional development participation. Understanding the CEU — its definition, conversion rate, and how it accumulates toward renewal — is fundamental to planning a Mississippi license renewal strategy.

Definition: Per teachercertificationdegrees.com MS (March 2026): ‘One CEU credit is equal to 10 contact or clock hours of professional learning.’ This is the standard national CEU definition. Ten hours of professional development = 1 CEU.
Contact hours: ‘Ten contact hours of professional development is equal to one CEU credit.’ (renewateachinglicense.com MS, June 2025) — contact hours are hours spent in actual professional learning activity, not including travel, breaks, or administrative time.
Clock hours: Same as contact hours for CEU purposes — 10 clock hours = 1 CEU.

CEU conversion math for Class A renewal:

Option 1 (3 hrs + 5 CEUs): 5 CEUs x 10 contact hours = 50 contact hours of PD required alongside 3 semester hours of coursework
Total Class A equivalent: 10 CEUs = 100 contact hours (per Walden: ‘6 semester credits or 10 CEUs’; therefore 10 CEUs = 6 semester hours equivalent)
Class AA+ (5 CEUs option): 5 CEUs x 10 contact hours = 50 contact hours of PD

What You Complete	CEU Equivalent	Contact Hours	Renewal Credit
1 graduate credit hour	1 CEU approximate (by Walden: 6 credits = 10 CEUs; so ~1.67 CEUs per credit hour)	16-17 contact hours (typical credit hour contact time)	Varies; counts as credit hours OR toward credit-hour options
10 contact hours of PD	1 CEU	10 hours	1 CEU credit toward renewal
50 contact hours of PD	5 CEUs	50 hours	5 CEU credit — satisfies Option 1 CEU portion (Class A) or Class AA+ full requirement
100 contact hours of PD	10 CEUs	100 hours	10 CEU credit — equals Class A full CEU-only renewal (if that were an option)
3-credit graduate course	~5 CEUs (approx.)	48 contact hours in class	Satisfies 3-hour semester credit portion of renewal
6-credit graduate program	~10 CEUs (approx.)	96 contact hours in class	Satisfies Option 2 (Class A: 6 semester hours) or Option 2 (Class AA+: 3 semester hours)

Sources: teachercertificationdegrees.com MS (March 2026) — ’10 CEUs or equivalent; 1 CEU = 10 contact hours’; renewateachinglicense.com MS (June 2025) — ’10 contact hours = 1 CEU’; Walden University — ‘6 semester credits or 10 CEUs.’

All Mississippi renewal activities — whether semester hours, CEUs, or SEMI credits — must be in a ‘content or job/skill related area.’ This qualification is essential: not all professional development activities or courses qualify for renewal. Understanding what qualifies prevents wasted effort.

Per renewateachinglicense.com MS (June 2025): ‘References to job/skill related area include pedagogy and skills for effective teaching and leadership (e.g., computer technology, cooperative learning, learning styles, methodology, etc.)’ — this guidance is from the Guidelines for Mississippi Educator Licensure K-12.

Content area (subject matter): Coursework or PD directly in the subject you teach. A biology teacher completing a course in ecology; a mathematics teacher completing a course in statistics; an English teacher completing a literature course. These are clearly content-area qualifying activities.
Pedagogy and teaching methodology: Coursework or PD on how to teach — instructional strategies, classroom management, differentiated instruction, assessment practices, learning styles, cooperative learning. Per the Guidelines: ‘pedagogy and skills for effective teaching and leadership.’
Technology for teaching: ‘Computer technology’ is explicitly cited as an example of job/skill related area. Courses or PD on educational technology, integrating digital tools, online learning platforms, data systems for instruction.
Leadership and school improvement: Coursework or PD in instructional leadership, curriculum development, professional learning communities, school improvement planning — these fall within ‘skills for effective teaching and leadership.’
What does NOT qualify: Activities unrelated to professional education — personal enrichment courses not connected to teaching practice, general business or management courses without application to education, recreational activities. If an activity is not connected to improving your teaching competency or content knowledge, it is unlikely to qualify.

✔ When in Doubt, Ask MDE: If you are uncertain whether a specific course or PD activity qualifies for Mississippi renewal, contact MDE Educator Licensure at 601-359-3483 before enrolling. This prevents wasting time and money on activities that won’t be accepted.

Sources: renewateachinglicense.com MS (June 2025) — ‘References to job/skill related area include pedagogy and skills for effective teaching and leadership (e.g., computer technology, cooperative learning, learning styles, methodology)’; MDE Guidelines Aug 2024 — content and job/skill requirement.

Coursework Requirements: Grade, Accreditation, and Submission

When using college coursework (semester hours) for Mississippi license renewal, three requirements must be met: academic grade, institutional accreditation, and document submission method.

Grade Requirement

Per MS SOS Licensure Guidelines (sos.ms.gov PDF): ‘A grade of C or higher must be obtained on all coursework taken for renewal of license, reinstatement of license or the adding of supplemental endorsements. This includes all coursework outlined on planned programs required to convert a special license to a standard license.’

This C-or-higher requirement is universal and non-negotiable: it applies to all renewal coursework regardless of when it was taken during the cycle, whether it’s graduate or undergraduate, and whether it’s the minimum required or additional credit. A grade of D, even in an otherwise qualifying course from an accredited institution, does not count toward renewal.

Accreditation Requirement

Per MDE Renewal page: courses must be completed at ‘regionally/nationally accredited senior colleges, universities, or community colleges.’ The accrediting agencies that satisfy this requirement include the regional accreditors (HLC, SACSCOC, NECHE, NWCCU, WSCUC) and nationally recognized accreditors.

For education-focused graduate courses, Teaching Channel with Learners Edge notes: ‘Teaching Channel with Learners Edge University Partners are accredited by various agencies including: CAEP/TEAC/NCATE, HLC, NECHE, NWCCU, WSCUC.’

Community colleges are explicitly mentioned as eligible — community college courses at the undergraduate level with a grade of C or higher count for renewal purposes. This significantly broadens the affordable course options available to Mississippi teachers.

Transcript Submission Requirements

Per MDE Renewal page: ‘Official academic transcripts must be submitted directly to the Division of Educator Licensure by the university or college electronically in a secure electronic format via National Student Clearinghouse, Parchment, or any other transcript exchange service provider.’

Key aspects of this requirement:

Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution — student-carried or student-submitted transcripts are not accepted
Electronic submission is the current standard — institutions use National Student Clearinghouse, Parchment, or equivalent electronic transcript services
The MDE address for electronic transcripts or other documentation is the Division of Educator Licensure; verify the current submission portal through ELMS or by contacting MDE

Sources: MS SOS Licensure Guidelines (sos.ms.gov/ACProposed/00019784b.pdf) — Grade C requirement; MDE Renewal page — accreditation; transcript submission; National Student Clearinghouse; Parchment.

The SEMI Credits (Mississippi Educator Mentoring Involvement)

SEMI credits are a Mississippi-specific professional development recognition tied to educator mentoring and involvement activities. The SEMI option (Option 3 for Class A: 3 semester hours + 35 SEMI credits) recognizes that teachers who engage in mentoring, coaching, and structured educator development activities are engaged in meaningful professional learning.

What generates SEMI credits: Specific mentoring and involvement activities recognized by MDE under the Mississippi Educator Mentoring Involvement framework. Per MDE Guidelines: ‘For a list of CEU professional learning providers, go to: https://www.mdek12.org/OEL/Renew-or-Reinstate-My-License. Please note that the list referenced herein is not intended to be all inclusive; rather, it is to be viewed as a starting point.’
35 SEMI credits: This is a substantial commitment — one full semester-equivalent of SEMI activity — reflecting the intensity of mentoring engagement required.
SEMI + 3 semester hours: Unlike the CEU option, the SEMI option requires both SEMI credits (35) and semester hours (3) — there is no SEMI-only renewal pathway.
Documentation: Original SEMI certificates (or equivalent documentation) must be submitted alongside transcripts for the 3-hour coursework component.
Class A only: The SEMI credit option is not listed among the simplified renewal options for Class AA, AAA, or AAAA holders.

Contact MDE at 601-359-3483 or visit mdek12.org/OEL/Renew-or-Reinstate-My-License for the current list of approved SEMI providers and activities. Verify your specific SEMI activities with MDE before relying on them for renewal.

Sources: Teaching Channel MS (Nov 2024) — ‘3 semester hours AND 35 SEMI credits’; MDE Guidelines Aug 2024 — SEMI provider list at mdek12.org.

National Board Certification and Renewal

Pursuing or holding National Board Certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) is perhaps the most professionally meaningful renewal option — it demonstrates advanced teaching competency recognized nationally and satisfies Mississippi’s renewal requirement for all license classes.

Who Benefits Most from the National Board Option

Teachers pursuing National Board Certification: The NBPTs process involves intensive portfolio development, student work analysis, and content knowledge assessment. The process alone — regardless of whether certification is achieved on the first attempt — satisfies Mississippi’s renewal requirement.
Current NBCTs renewing: National Board Certificates are valid for 10 years. NBCT holders in their first Mississippi renewal cycle can use their NBPT credential or renewal process to satisfy their Mississippi license renewal.
Financially motivated teachers: Mississippi may offer salary benefits for NBCT holders — contact your district HR office and MDE for current NBCT salary incentives. The national average NBCT salary premium is approximately $4,000-$10,000 per year depending on state; check Mississippi’s specific current incentive program.

National Board Documentation for Renewal

Documentation from NBPTS confirming completion of the National Board process must be uploaded into ELMS as part of the renewal application.

Per the MDE Guidelines for Educator Licensure: ‘original CEU certificates and/or National Board documentation to be used for renewal via his/her educator licensure management account.’ National Board documentation is treated similarly to CEU certificates in the submission process.

Sources: MDE Renewal page — Option 4 National Board; MDE Guidelines Aug 2024 — ‘National Board documentation to be used for renewal via educator licensure management account.’

Renewal Requirements by License Class

The following table provides the complete, side-by-side renewal requirements for all four Mississippi license classes:

Requirement	Class A	Class AA	Class AAA	Class AAAA
License validity	5 years	5 years	5 years	5 years
License expiration	June 30 (5th year)	June 30 (5th year)	June 30 (5th year)	June 30 (5th year)
Option 1	3 semester hrs + 5 CEUs in content/job-skill area	NOT available (Class AA+ simplified)	NOT available	NOT available
Option 2 — Semester Hours Only	6 semester hrs in content/job-skill area	3 semester hrs in content/job-skill area	3 semester hrs	3 semester hrs
Option 3 — CEU Only	NOT available (CEUs always combined with hrs)	5 CEUs in content/job-skill area	5 CEUs	5 CEUs
Option 4 — SEMI (Class A Only)	3 semester hrs + 35 SEMI credits	NOT available	NOT available	NOT available
Option 5 — National Board	YES — satisfies renewal	YES — satisfies renewal	YES	YES
Option 6 — Retirement	YES — final year only (PERS letter)	YES — final year only	YES — final year only	YES — final year only
Grade requirement on coursework	C or higher	C or higher	C or higher	C or higher
Timing restriction	Only within-cycle credits count	Only within-cycle credits count	Same	Same

Sources: MDE Licensure Renewal page (mdek12.org/licensure/licensure-renewal-reinstatement-options/) — all options; renewateachinglicense.com MS (June 2025) — ‘Class A: 3 hrs + 5 CEUs or 6 hrs; Class AA/AAA/AAAA: 3 hrs or 5 CEUs’; Walden — 6 credits or 10 CEUs for Class A; teaching-certification.com MS renewal.

The ELMS Renewal Process: Step by Step

All Mississippi teaching license renewals are processed through the ELMS (Educator Licensure Management System). Per teaching-certification.com MS renewal: ‘You may renew your teaching license online through the Educator Licensure Management System (ELMS).’

Log into ELMS. Access ELMS at sso.mde.ms.gov/Login/Login.aspx or through mdek12.org/licensure/. Use your established ELMS credentials
Review your current license details. Confirm your license class (A, AA, AAA, AAAA), expiration date, and the renewal requirements that apply to your class.
Select your renewal option. Determine which of the five renewal options you are using (3 hrs + 5 CEUs; 6 hrs; 3 hrs + 35 SEMI; National Board; or retirement documentation).
Upload renewal documentation. Per MDE Guidelines: ‘the educator can upload original CEU certificates and/or National Board documentation to be used for renewal via his/her educator licensure management account.’
Ensure transcript submission. If using semester hours: your college or university must submit official transcripts electronically via National Student Clearinghouse, Parchment, or equivalent directly to the MDE Division of Educator Licensure. You cannot submit these yourself.
District administrator verification (if employed). Per MS SOS Licensure Guidelines PDF: ‘CEUs, coursework or National Board used for renewal can be verified by the district administrator’ through ELMS. If employed by a Mississippi public school district, your district administrator’s role is to verify your renewal documentation within ELMS.
Submit renewal application. Complete and submit the renewal application through ELMS. Monitor your application status.
Receive renewed license. Upon approval, your renewed license will be issued electronically through ELMS. The new license will be valid for another 5 years from the expiration date of the previous license.

Sources: teaching-certification.com MS renewal — ‘renew through ELMS’; MS SOS Licensure Guidelines PDF (sos.ms.gov) — ELMS process; district administrator verification; MDE Guidelines Aug 2024 — upload documentation via ELMS account.

What to Submit for Renewal

Depending on the renewal option selected, you will submit different documentation. Per the MDE Guidelines for Educator Licensure K-12 and the MDE Renewal page:

For semester hours (any class): ‘Official academic transcripts must be submitted directly to the Division of Educator Licensure by the university or college electronically in a secure electronic format via National Student Clearinghouse, Parchment, or any other transcript exchange service provider.’ (MDE Renewal page) — You cannot submit transcripts yourself; they must come directly from the institution.
For CEUs: ‘Original professional learning certificate(s) bearing the appropriate number of continuing education unit (CEU), contact hours, or clock hours’ (MDE Renewal page). The certificate must show the specific number of CEU, contact hour, or clock hour credits earned.
For SEMI credits: Original SEMI certificates bearing the appropriate credit total, alongside transcripts for the required 3 semester hours.
For National Board: Official documentation from NBPTS confirming completion of the National Board process or active certification status. Upload into ELMS.
For retirement (Option 5): Official letter from the Public Employees’ Retirement System of Mississippi (PERS). Call 1-800-444-7377 to obtain. Letter must be dated the current year; submitted only in the final year of the license.

⚠ Transcripts MUST Come from the Institution: The most common renewal submission error is submitting student copies of transcripts rather than having the institution submit them directly. Mississippi requires transcripts to be submitted ‘directly to the Division of Educator Licensure by the university or college electronically.’ Student copies in unsealed envelopes are not accepted. Plan transcript ordering well in advance — allow 2-4 weeks for institutional processing.

Sources: MDE Renewal page (mdek12.org) — all documentation requirements; transcript electronic submission; MDE Guidelines Aug 2024.

District Administrator Verification in ELMS

A distinctive feature of Mississippi’s renewal process is the role of the district administrator in verifying renewal documentation. Per the Mississippi Secretary of State Licensure Guidelines PDF: ‘Through the Educator Licensure Management System (ELMS), educators currently employed by a Mississippi public school district can renew electronically online. CEUs, coursework or National Board used for renewal can be verified by the district administrator.’

This district administrator verification process means:

For employed teachers: If you are currently employed by a Mississippi public school district, your district administrator (typically the HR director or superintendent’s designee) can verify your renewal documentation directly within ELMS — potentially expediting the review process.
For teachers not currently employed: Teachers who are not currently employed by a Mississippi public school district must submit renewal documentation directly to MDE through ELMS without district verification — documentation goes through MDE review directly.
What districts verify: CEU certificates, coursework, National Board documentation — all of these can be verified by the district administrator within ELMS. The district administrator’s verification is not a second approval but a confirmation that the documentation matches the claims in the application.
Communication with your administrator: If employed, communicate your renewal plans to your district HR office early in the cycle. Districts may have their own professional development requirements that align with (or can satisfy) MDE renewal requirements — coordinating can be efficient.

Sources: MS SOS Licensure Guidelines PDF (sos.ms.gov) — district administrator ELMS verification; MDE Guidelines Aug 2024.

Reinstatement: Renewing an Expired Mississippi License

If a Mississippi teaching license has already expired, the process is reinstatement rather than standard renewal. Per teaching-certification.com MS renewal: ‘If your five-year teaching license has expired, you may reinstate it by completing one of the following options: 6 semester hours of college coursework in your content area, OR Hold a valid out-of-state teaching license or certificate, OR Show documentation from PERS if you are a retired teacher, OR Complete the correct number of CEUs for your licensure class.’

Reinstatement Options — For Expired Mississippi Teaching Licenses

OPTION A: 6 semester hours of college coursework in content area (Class A) OR 3 semester hours (Class AA+). Grade of C or higher required. Submitted electronically by institution.

OPTION B: Hold a valid out-of-state teaching license or certificate. Per MDE Guidelines: ‘Valid standard out-of-state license submitted for renewal during the final year of the valid standard Mississippi license.’ This option is available for Mississippi teachers who continued teaching under a valid out-of-state license after their Mississippi license expired.

OPTION C: PERS retirement documentation. ‘Show documentation from PERS if you are a retired teacher.’ Call PERS at 1-800-444-7377.

OPTION D: Complete the correct number of CEUs for your licensure class. 5 CEUs (Class A: may need to combine with hours; Class AA+ can use CEUs only).

APPLICATION: Apply for reinstatement through ELMS. Per MDE: ‘Here is an online application to reinstate an educator’s license in Mississippi.’ (renewateachinglicense.com) — online through ELMS account.

IMPORTANT: Credits and CEUs for reinstatement must also meet the content/job-skill related area requirement and the Grade C or higher standard.

Sources: teaching-certification.com MS renewal; renewateachinglicense.com MS (June 2025); MDE Guidelines Aug 2024; MDE Renewal page.

Per MDE Guidelines Aug 2024: CEU professional learning providers are listed at mdek12.org/OEL/Renew-or-Reinstate-My-License — the same list applies to both renewal and reinstatement.

The CEU provider list is ‘not intended to be all inclusive rather, it is to be viewed as a starting point’ — meaning other providers may qualify if their activities meet the content/job-skill requirement.

Sources: teaching-certification.com MS renewal — reinstatement options verbatim; MDE Guidelines Aug 2024 — CEU provider list.

Within-Cycle Credits: The Timing Rule

One of the most important and frequently misunderstood aspects of Mississippi license renewal is the within-cycle timing requirement. Per the Guidelines for Mississippi Educator Licensure K-12 (cited in renewateachinglicense.com MS): ‘Only credits earned within the renewal cycle indicated on the educator’s official Mississippi educator license may be used for licensure renewal.’

What this means in practice:

Start date of credit eligibility: The renewal cycle begins when your current license was issued (or when the previous renewal cycle ended). Credits earned before your current license was issued cannot count toward renewal, even if they occurred during the same school year.
End date: Credits must be earned before the expiration date (June 30 of the 5th year). Credits earned after expiration count toward reinstatement rather than renewal.
Common mistake: Teachers who completed coursework during a previous license cycle thinking it would count toward the next renewal are incorrect. MDE will not accept credits from prior cycles for the current renewal.
Planning implication: Begin earning renewal credits as soon as your new license period starts. Waiting until Year 4 or Year 5 to begin creates time pressure and may result in inadequate credits.
Confirming your cycle dates: Log into ELMS to view the exact dates of your current license period. Your license document should show the start and end dates of the current 5-year cycle.

⚠ Prior-Cycle Credits Are Excluded: ‘Only credits earned within the renewal cycle may be used.’ A course completed in January 2022 cannot be used to renew a license that runs from September 2022 to June 2027 — even though it was recent. Plan your PD activities within your current cycle.

Sources: renewateachinglicense.com MS (June 2025) — ‘Only credits earned within the renewal cycle indicated on the educator’s official Mississippi educator license may be used’; MDE Guidelines Aug 2024.

License Upgrade vs. Renewal: Adding a Degree

Mississippi teachers sometimes confuse license renewal (maintaining the current class) with license upgrade (advancing to a higher class). These are distinct processes, though they can be pursued simultaneously.

Renewal: Satisfying the PD/coursework requirement to extend your current license class for another 5 years. This does not change your class level.
Upgrade (Class Advancement): Advancing from Class A to Class AA by earning a master’s degree; from Class AA to Class AAA by earning a specialist degree or JD/MFA; from Class AAA to Class AAAA by earning a doctorate. Per Walden University: ‘Educators may be eligible to upgrade to a different class of license by completion of a graduate degree program.’
Adding endorsements: Separately from renewal or upgrade, teachers can add endorsement areas to their existing license class. Per Walden: ‘There are some endorsements that can be added to a license that require 18 credit hours of coursework or a Praxis exam.’
Simultaneous strategy: A teacher pursuing a master’s degree can simultaneously satisfy their Class A renewal requirement (using graduate credits earned during the cycle) AND qualify for Class AA advancement upon degree completion. This is an efficient approach that maximizes the investment in graduate education.

For upgrade applications, use the same ELMS system. Per Walden: ‘Educators should use the online ELMS account to confirm renewal requirements’ — both renewal and upgrade applications go through ELMS.

Sources: Walden University Mississippi licensure renewal page — ‘eligible to upgrade by completion of graduate degree; some endorsements require 18 credit hours or Praxis exam; ELMS to confirm’; MDE (mdek12.org/licensure/).

Adding Endorsements During or After Renewal

Endorsements expand a teacher’s authorization to teach additional subject areas or grade levels. Per teachms.org: ‘Endorsements can be added by coursework, an approved program, or passing a subject test.’ Understanding the endorsement addition process helps teachers plan their professional development efficiently alongside renewal.

Coursework route: Complete required coursework in the endorsement area (often 18 credit hours per Walden, or a specified number of courses) and submit transcripts to MDE through ELMS.
Approved program route: Complete an MDE-approved program specifically for that endorsement area.
Praxis test route: In some cases, passing the appropriate Praxis Subject Assessment is sufficient to add an endorsement — verify with MDE which endorsements qualify for this route.
ESL endorsement: Per alleducationschools.com MS: ‘To add an ESL endorsement you will need to complete coursework specific to ESL.’ — demonstrating that some endorsements require coursework even when a test route might be available for others.
Timing with renewal: If completing coursework for an endorsement during your renewal cycle, confirm with MDE whether that coursework can simultaneously satisfy your renewal requirement. In most cases, it can — if the coursework is in a qualifying content or job/skill area.

Apply for endorsement additions through ELMS alongside or separately from renewal applications. There is typically no additional fee for endorsement additions when applying during an active renewal process, but verify current fee schedules through ELMS.

Sources: teachms.org (Nov 2025) — ‘endorsements by coursework, approved program, or subject test’; Walden — ’18 credit hours or Praxis exam’; alleducationschools.com MS (Feb 2026) — ESL endorsement coursework.

Name and Address Changes

If your name or address changes during your license cycle, you can update this information in ELMS without waiting for renewal. Per the Mississippi Secretary of State Licensure Guidelines: ‘To do so, the educator can log into the Educator Licensure Management System (ELMS) and edit personal information as needed.

Name or address changes can also be submitted in writing and mailed to the Mississippi Department of Education; Office of Educator Licensure; P.O. Box 771; Jackson, MS 39205.’

If you want a physical copy of your license reflecting the updated name or address: ‘If a copy of the license with the new updated information is desired, the applicant must apply for a duplicate license following the process outlined below.’ (MS SOS Licensure Guidelines) — apply for a duplicate license through ELMS to receive an updated physical copy.

Source: MS SOS Licensure Guidelines PDF (sos.ms.gov) — ELMS personal information update; mailing address; duplicate license process.

Common Renewal Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Mistake	Why It Happens	How to Avoid
Using credits from the prior license cycle	Not tracking cycle start dates; assuming recent credits count	Log into ELMS; note your license issue date; only earn renewal credits after that date
Submitting student-copy transcripts	Not knowing transcripts must come from the institution directly	Order official electronic transcripts from your institution via NSC, Parchment, or equivalent — directed to MDE
Completing coursework with a grade below C	Attempting difficult courses without adequate preparation	Ensure you earn at least a C in every course used for renewal; a D does not count
CEU activities not in content/job-skill area	Enrolling in any available PD without checking qualification	Verify qualification with MDE or your district before enrolling; use the approved provider list at mdek12.org
Waiting until the final year to start renewal activities	Procrastination; unawareness of cycle rules	Begin renewal activities in Year 1 of the new cycle; spread across all 5 years
Using Option 5 (retirement/out-of-state) before the final year	Misconception that these can be used anytime	Options 5 and the out-of-state license option are ONLY available in the final year of the license
Not informing district HR of renewal plans	Working in isolation; missing district PD that could count toward renewal	Discuss renewal plans with HR in Year 1 of each cycle; align district PD opportunities with renewal requirements
Submitting wrong number of hours for license class	Confusing Class A requirements with Class AA/AAA/AAAA requirements	Know your class: Class A = 6 semester hours or 3+5 CEUs or 3+35 SEMI; Class AA+ = 3 semester hours or 5 CEUs
Not verifying SEMI activity qualification	Assuming mentor activities automatically generate SEMI credits	Confirm SEMI activity qualification with MDE before relying on it; get proper SEMI documentation certificates

Mississippi Teaching Certificate Renewal: FAQs

How do I renew my Mississippi teaching license?

Renew through ELMS (Educator Licensure Management System) at mdek12.org/licensure/. Log in and select the renewal option that applies to your license class. For Class A holders: complete 3 semester hours + 5 CEUs, OR 6 semester hours, OR 3 semester hours + 35 SEMI credits, OR complete National Board Certification, OR (final year only) submit PERS retirement documentation. For Class AA, AAA, and AAAA: complete 3 semester hours OR 5 CEUs, OR National Board, OR (final year only) retirement documentation. Upload CEU certificates and have transcripts submitted directly from the institution to MDE electronically.

When does my Mississippi teaching license expire?

All Mississippi standard teaching licenses expire on June 30 of the fifth year of the license period. Per teachercertificationdegrees.com, MS: ‘licenses expire on June 30 of each year.’ Log in to your ELMS account to verify your specific expiration date. Begin renewal activities at the start of your license period — do not wait until the final year.

How many CEUs do I need for Mississippi teaching license renewal?

The CEU requirement varies by license class. For Class A holders using the combination option: 5 CEUs (= 50 contact hours) in content/job-skill area PLUS 3 semester hours of coursework. Alternatively, Class A holders can complete 6 semester hours with no CEU requirement, or 10 CEUs (= 100 contact hours) equivalent (per Walden’s summary of the 6-credit = 10-CEU equivalence). For Class AA, AAA, and AAAA: 5 CEUs in content/job-skill area is one complete renewal option. One CEU = 10 contact hours of professional development.

Can I use courses taken before my license cycle started for renewal?

No. Per the Guidelines for Mississippi Educator Licensure K-12: ‘Only credits earned within the renewal cycle indicated on the educator’s official Mississippi educator license may be used for licensure renewal.’ Courses completed before your current license was issued — even if recent — cannot count toward the current renewal. Log into ELMS to confirm your license issue date and plan your renewal activities accordingly.

What happens if my Mississippi teaching license has already expired?

An expired license requires reinstatement, not standard renewal. Per teaching-certification.com MS: you can reinstate by completing ‘6 semester hours of college coursework in your content area, OR holding a valid out-of-state teaching license or certificate, OR showing documentation from PERS if you are a retired teacher, OR completing the correct number of CEUs for your licensure class.’ Apply for reinstatement through ELMS. Contact MDE at 601-359-3483 for specific reinstatement guidance.

Does my district have to approve my renewal activities?

For teachers employed by Mississippi public school districts, the district administrator can verify renewal documentation through ELMS — this is a verification function, not a prior approval requirement per se. Per the MS SOS Licensure Guidelines: ‘CEUs, coursework or National Board used for renewal can be verified by the district administrator.’ However, your district may have its own PD approval requirements for activities that will count toward district requirements. Check with your HR office about any district pre-approval process for PD activities you intend to use for renewal.

Mississippi Teaching Certificate Renewal: Conclusion

Mississippi teaching certificate renewal is a well-defined, five-option process governed by the MDE Guidelines for Mississippi Educator Licensure K-12 and administered through ELMS.

The framework is designed to be flexible — Class A holders can choose from combinations of semester hours, CEUs, and SEMI credits, or complete the National Board Certification process; Class AA, AAA, and AAAA holders have a simpler choice between 3 semester hours or 5 CEUs; and retiring teachers in their final year can use PERS retirement documentation.

The most important practical principles for successful renewal are: start early (begin earning renewal credits in Year 1 of each cycle, not Year 5); track your within-cycle dates carefully (only credits earned during the current cycle count); ensure coursework is from accredited institutions with a grade of C or higher; submit transcripts through the official electronic process (not student copies); and verify that CEU activities qualify as content or job/skill related before completing them.

For current renewal requirements, visit mdek12.org/licensure/licensure-renewal-reinstatement-options/ and download the MDE Guidelines for Mississippi Educator Licensure K-12 (August 2024). Log into your ELMS account to check your expiration date and begin your renewal application. Contact MDE at 601-359-3483 for guidance specific to your license class and situation.