Praxis Requirements in North Carolina: Test & Score Guide

Ready to start your teaching career in North Carolina? Understanding the Praxis Requirements in North Carolina is your first step toward licensure. These exams ensure you have the academic and subject-specific knowledge to succeed in the classroom. 

Passing the required Praxis tests proves your readiness to teach and your commitment to educational excellence. 

To boost your chances, prepare using trusted resources like Prepsaret. With focused practice and the right tools, you can confidently meet North Carolina’s teacher certification standards.

NC Praxis Certification Process

If you want to teach in North Carolina, you must go through the official certification process. This process ensures that you meet the state’s professional standards and are well-prepared to lead a classroom. 

Understanding the Praxis Requirements in North Carolina is a key step on your path to becoming a licensed educator.

Here is a step-by-step overview of the process:

Step 1: Meet Basic Academic Skills Requirements

First, you need to demonstrate basic academic proficiency by taking the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators. This test is made up of three separate exams:

• Reading – minimum score: 156
• Writing – minimum score: 162
• Mathematics – minimum score: 150

These exams test your foundational skills and are usually taken before entering an educator preparation program.

Step 2: Complete an Approved Educator Preparation Program

Next, you must enroll in and complete a North Carolina–approved educator preparation program. These programs include coursework and field experience designed to prepare you for the classroom.

If you already have a bachelor’s degree, you can enter an alternative licensure path, such as a residency license or lateral entry (if applicable).

Step 3: Pass the Required Praxis Subject Assessments

Then, depending on what subject and grade level you want to teach, you will need to take one or more Praxis Subject Assessments. These tests measure your content knowledge and understanding of effective teaching methods in a specific subject area.

Your educator preparation program or the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) will tell you which specific tests you need.

Step 4: Take the Praxis Performance Assessment for Teachers (PPAT)

After that, most candidates are required to complete the Praxis Performance Assessment for Teachers (PPAT). This test evaluates your ability to:

• Plan lessons
• Assess student learning
• Adjust instruction
• Reflect on your teaching practice

In some cases, North Carolina may allow a state-approved alternative performance assessment instead of the PPAT.

Step 5: Apply for a North Carolina Teaching License

Finally, after passing all the necessary exams and completing your preparation program, you can apply for your North Carolina teaching license through the NCDPI online licensure system.

Make sure to gather the following:

• Your official Praxis score reports
• Completion verification from your educator preparation program
• Transcripts
• Background check results
• Application fee payment

You can take the required Praxis exams:

• At a designated testing center in North Carolina
• At home with online proctoring (ETS provides this option)

Both options are approved by the state and accepted by the Department of Public Instruction.

How to become a certified teacher in North Carolina using Praxis
You must complete an educator preparation program, pass the Praxis Core and required Subject Assessments, complete the PPAT (or state-approved alternative), and then apply for licensure.

Do you need Praxis to teach in North Carolina?
Yes. Most teaching licenses in North Carolina require passing the Praxis exams. However, there may be exceptions for experienced teachers from out of state under licensure reciprocity.

What Praxis Tests Are Required for North Carolina Teachers?

If you want to teach in North Carolina, knowing exactly which Praxis exams you need is essential. The state uses a combination of tests to make sure teachers meet strong academic and professional standards. 

Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators

To start, most candidates must take the Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators, especially if they do not meet exemption requirements based on SAT or ACT scores. This test measures basic proficiency in:

• Reading
• Writing
• Mathematics

The Praxis Core is designed to confirm that you have the essential academic skills needed for classroom success.

Praxis Subject Assessments 

In addition to the Core, you’ll likely need to take one or more Praxis subject assessments depending on your teaching area. These tests evaluate your knowledge in the specific content area you want to teach. Here’s how it usually breaks down:

• Elementary Education (Grades K–6)
  • Praxis Elementary Education: Content Knowledge for Teaching (CKT)
  • Includes subtests in Reading, Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies 
• Middle School Teachers (Grades 6–9)
  • Praxis tests for subject-specific areas like:
    • Mathematics
    • English Language Arts
    • Social Studies
    • Science 
• High School Teachers (Grades 9–12)
  • Praxis Subject Assessments aligned with your chosen discipline:
    • Biology
    • Chemistry
    • Physics
    • Mathematics
    • English, and more 
• Special Education Teachers
  • Special Education: Core Knowledge and Applications
• English as a Second Language (ESL) Teachers
  • English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Praxis exam

So, if you’ve been wondering, what Praxis tests are required for North Carolina teachers, the answer depends on:

• Your subject area
• The grade levels you want to teach
• Whether you qualify for Praxis Core exemptions

NC Praxis Requirements for Elementary Education

To become a certified elementary school teacher, you must meet NC Praxis requirements for elementary education as defined by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. These requirements ensure all elementary educators possess strong foundational knowledge across core subjects.

Required Praxis Exams for Elementary Licensure in North Carolina

North Carolina requires candidates to pass both Praxis Core Academic Skills exams and a specific subject assessment tailored for elementary education:

• Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators
  • Reading (5713) – Passing score: 156
  • Writing (5723) – Passing score: 162
  • Mathematics (5733) – Passing score: 150
• Praxis 7813: Elementary Education – Content Knowledge for Teaching Mathematics CKT
  • Praxis 7813 passing score NC: 150

This assessment is designed to test an educator’s ability to teach elementary-level reading/language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. It does not include separate subtests; all subjects are integrated into the single 7813 test.

The Praxis score requirements for elementary education in North Carolina are straightforward:

• You must pass all three Core Academic Skills tests
• You must achieve a minimum score of 150 on the Praxis 7813 exam

These requirements form a crucial part of the broader Praxis Requirements in North Carolina for teacher licensure. Meeting them demonstrates that you have the content knowledge needed to succeed in the elementary classroom.

North Carolina Praxis Passing Scores Explained

The North Carolina Praxis passing scores vary by test but are essential thresholds that every candidate must meet. 

Here are the official test codes and passing scores required in North Carolina:

• Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators
  • Reading (Test Code 5713): Minimum score 156
  • Writing (Test Code 5723): Minimum score 162
  • Mathematics (Test Code 5733): Minimum score 150 
• Praxis 7813: Elementary Education – Content Knowledge for Teaching Mathematics CKT
  • Minimum score 150 
• Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) Grades 7–12
  • Passing score generally around 157 (for secondary licensure applicants), per NCDPI guidelines

These test codes and passing scores represent North Carolina’s specific benchmarks designed to ensure that future educators are well-prepared. Achieving or exceeding these minimums satisfies key components of the Praxis requirements in North Carolina.

Find Out: How Praxis Scoring Works

Praxis Test Dates and Locations in NC

When planning your exam schedule, it’s important to know the available Praxis test dates NC and where you can take them. North Carolina provides multiple options to accommodate various schedules and preferences.

Praxis Available Testing Options

You can take Praxis exams through either:

• In-person test centers located throughout North Carolina
• Online at-home testing, proctored remotely by ETS

How to Schedule Praxis Exam

• Visit the official ETS site to view available ETS Praxis exams and select Praxis test dates NC.
• Choose a location or online testing option that fits your needs.
• Check test center availability well in advance, especially before licensing deadlines.
• Confirm that the correct test code is associated with your exam selection to avoid delays or registration errors.

Key Praxis Registration Tips

• Always use your legal name and identification when registering.
• Add the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction as a score recipient during registration.
• Review exam policies, cancellation rules, and rescheduling fees before finalizing your registration.

Selecting the right date and location is an essential part of satisfying the state’s licensing process. 

Check Out: Praxis Score Release Dates

Step-by-Step Guide to Praxis Registration in North Carolina

Registering for the Praxis exams is a key step toward earning your teaching certification. If you’re preparing for your career in education, follow this guide to complete your NC Praxis registration efficiently and accurately.

Steps to Register for the Praxis Exam in NC

1. Create an ETS Account 
   • Go to www.ets.org/praxis
   • Set up a free account using your full legal name (must match your ID)
2. Select Your Test
   • Choose the correct exam based on your licensure area (e.g., Core, Elementary Education, CKT, PLT)
   • Confirm the test code and ensure it’s accepted by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI)
3. Choose Test Format
   • Select whether you want to test at a center or at home
     Available options vary by exam
4. Schedule Your Exam
   • Pick a date and time that fits your schedule
   • Refer to Praxis test dates NC to plan ahead
5. Add Score Recipients
   • Ensure NCDPI is listed to receive your scores automatically
6. Pay and Confirm Registration
   • Fees vary by test
   • Save your confirmation email and receipt for your records

Meeting the Praxis Requirements in North Carolina begins with proper registration. Follow these steps carefully to stay on track toward certification.

NC Praxis Practice and Study Resources

Preparation is crucial for passing the Praxis exams. With the right approach and materials, you can increase your chances of success and pass the test on your first attempt.

Start with the ETS Official Praxis Study Companions, which provide:

• Free downloadable guides
• Test content outlines
• Sample questions
• Scoring explanations

You can also use Prepsaret NC Praxis Practice Test Packages, which include:

• Full-length practice exams that reflect the actual testing experience
• Subject-specific options, including Elementary Education, Core Math, Reading, and PLT

Why Choose Prepsaret for Online Praxis Test Prep in North Carolina?

Prepsaret offers several advantages for NC educators:

• Realistic Practice Questions: Our questions mirror actual Praxis exams, giving you authentic test experience.
• Detailed Explanations: Every question includes thorough answer explanations to help you understand concepts.
• Study Notes with Quizzes: Each lesson ends with quizzes to reinforce learning and track progress.
• Flexible Access: Study anytime, anywhere with our online platform designed for busy professionals.
• Up-to-Date Materials: Our content reflects the latest North Carolina Praxis test dates and certification standards.
• Affordable Options: Quality prep doesn’t have to break the bank.

With Prepsaret, you’re not just prepping—you’re preparing to succeed!

Out-of-State Teachers and Reciprocity in North Carolina

Educators moving to North Carolina from another state must still meet all certification and testing requirements set by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. While North Carolina does participate in reciprocity agreements, licensure is not automatic.

Depending on your state’s credentials and teaching experience, you may still be required to take Praxis exams. 

You’ll need to submit:

• Verification of current out-of-state licensure
• Proof of teaching experience, if applicable
• Transcripts and test scores for review

Once the North Carolina board evaluates your application, they will inform you of any outstanding testing or coursework required to complete your licensure.

Continue Reading: How to Pass the Paraprofessional Test

Praxis Requirements in North Carolina: FAQs

Praxis Requirements in North Carolina: Conclusion

Becoming a certified teacher in North Carolina starts with understanding the Praxis Requirements in North Carolina and knowing which Praxis exam you need for North Carolina teacher licensure. From selecting the right test to preparing thoroughly, each step plays a crucial role in your success. 

Don’t leave your exam readiness to chance—start early, use trusted study materials, and practice consistently. For the best results, prepare using Prepsaret’s comprehensive Praxis prep tools, designed specifically to help you pass on your first try. Your journey to teaching in North Carolina begins with smart preparation