If you plan to become a licensed teacher in Tennessee, understanding the Praxis Test Tennessee is essential. This standardized exam is required for many teaching licenses and assesses the subject knowledge and teaching skills needed for today’s classrooms.
To earn certification, you must meet Tennessee’s testing requirements set by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), which administers all Praxis exams. Success requires focused preparation and reliable study tools.
Using trusted resources, such as those from Prepsaret, can boost your chances of passing on the first try. This article covers all key details about the Praxis Test Tennessee to help you prepare confidently.
Tennessee Praxis Requirements and Eligibility
If you’re planning to take the Praxis Test Tennessee, it’s essential to understand what exams are required based on your subject area and the grade level you intend to teach.
The Tennessee Praxis requirements are determined by the Tennessee Department of Education and vary depending on your intended endorsement area.
What Praxis Tests are Required for Tennessee Teachers?
Most teaching candidates in Tennessee must take Praxis Subject Assessments, which measure your knowledge of specific subjects. For example:
- If you’re pursuing an elementary teaching license, you’ll need to take the Praxis Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects (5001) exam.
- This test includes subtests in reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social studies.
Each subject area has its own minimum score requirement. The Praxis 5001 passing scores TN are set by the state and may vary by endorsement area.
Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) Praxis Exam
In addition to the required content knowledge test, many candidates must also complete the Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) exam.
This test evaluates your understanding of pedagogy and instructional strategies and is usually required based on the grade level you plan to teach.
However, some specialized roles—like school counselors or psychologists—may be exempt.
Praxis scores Tennessee
Your Praxis scores Tennessee are a key part of the licensure process. To qualify for certification, you must meet or exceed the minimum passing scores set by the state. If you don’t achieve these benchmarks, you cannot move forward with teacher licensure.
Check Out: How Praxis Scoring Works
NOTE: The Praxis Core is not a licensure requirement in Tennessee. However, some educator preparation programs may require it for admission. You might also be exempt from the Praxis Core if you have qualifying ACT/SAT scores or an advanced degree.
How to Become a Teacher in TN
Here’s how to become a teacher in TN:
Step 1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
Before anything else, all candidates must have at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Your degree should align with the subject or grade level you wish to teach.
This is a fundamental requirement for teacher licensure Tennessee and applies to both traditional and alternative certification paths.
Step 2. Complete a State-Approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP)
Next, you’ll need to complete a state-approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP). These programs combine academic coursework with field experiences like student teaching. Most candidates finish their EPP during or after earning their bachelor’s degree.
However, Tennessee also offers alternative licensure pathways for those who already hold a degree in another field.
Step 3. Pass Required Praxis Exams
To demonstrate your qualifications, you’ll need to pass the appropriate Praxis exams for your endorsement area.
For example, elementary education candidates must take the Praxis Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects (5001) exam.
In addition to the content exam, most candidates must also complete a pedagogical assessment—typically the Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) or edTPA.
These exams are required components of the teacher licensure Tennessee process and are regulated by the Tennessee Department of Education.
Step 4. Complete a Background Check
All teaching candidates must undergo a state and federal fingerprint-based background check. This step ensures the safety and well-being of Tennessee students and is required before your license can be issued.
Step 5. Apply for Licensure
Once you’ve completed your degree, passed your exams, and fulfilled your background check, you can submit your application through the Tennessee Department of Education’s TNCompass online portal. This application must include:
- Official transcripts
- Praxis and PLT test scores
- Proof of EPP completion
- Background check confirmation
The Tennessee Department of Education provides detailed instructions through TNCompass to guide applicants at each stage.
Step 6. Receive and Maintain Your Practitioner License
New teachers in Tennessee start with a Practitioner License, which is valid for three years and can be renewed once. During this time, you’ll be gaining classroom experience and undergoing performance evaluations.
Step 7. Upgrade to a Professional License
After gaining experience and meeting evaluation benchmarks, you can apply to upgrade your Practitioner License to a Professional License, which is renewable every six years.
To maintain this license, you’ll need to complete required continuing education and professional development hours.
How to Register for Praxis Test in Tennessee
Praxis registration Tennessee is handled through the official ETS website. The process is straightforward, but you should plan ahead to secure your preferred test date and location.
Praxis Registration Steps
Here’s how to complete your Praxis test Tennessee registration:
- Create an ETS Praxis account online
- Select your test type and date
- Choose your test center location
- Pay the registration fee
- Print your admission ticket
Important Registration Tips:
- Register at least 6 weeks before your desired test date
- Have your identification ready during registration
- Double-check all personal information for accuracy
- Keep your confirmation number for future reference
The ETS Praxis system allows you to modify your registration if needed, though fees may apply for changes made close to the test date.
Praxis Test Dates and Deadlines in Tennessee 2025
Planning ahead is crucial when preparing for the Praxis Test Tennessee. Understanding the available test dates and deadlines ensures you can schedule your exam without unnecessary stress.
TN Praxis Test Dates
The Praxis test dates Tennessee for 2025 are generally available throughout the year. Most Praxis exams, including the Praxis 5001 for elementary education, are offered daily at various testing centers across the state. Specific test dates may vary by subject area and location.
For instance, the Praxis 5001 is available daily, while other subject-specific exams may have scheduled dates such as September, November, December, February, March, April, May, and July .
Praxis Registration Deadlines
It’s important to register for your exam well in advance. While exact deadlines can vary, it’s recommended to register at least 3–4 weeks before your desired test date.
This allows ample time to secure your preferred testing location and date.
Where to Take Praxis Test in Tennessee
Choosing where to take the Praxis Test Tennessee is an important decision that can impact your test-day experience. Tennessee offers several convenient options for candidates.
There are many Praxis test centers in Tennessee located in major cities including:
- Nashville
- Memphis
- Knoxville
- Chattanooga
- Johnson City
These centers provide a professional testing environment with on-site staff to assist you.
Can You Take the Praxis Test Online in Tennessee?
Yes, for some exams, Tennessee allows you to take the Praxis test online from home. To do this, you must meet certain requirements, including:
- A reliable internet connection
- A private, quiet space free from interruptions
- A computer with a webcam and microphone
Not all exams are available for online testing, so check your eligibility during the Praxis registration Tennessee process.
If you prefer taking the test in person, it’s best to register early to secure a spot at your preferred test center.
Otherwise, if your exam qualifies, online testing offers the comfort of taking the exam in a familiar setting. Either way, understanding the procedures beforehand will help you feel confident on exam day.
Praxis Test Cost and Payment Options in Tennessee
Understanding the Praxis test cost Tennessee is essential for budgeting your path to teacher certification. Here’s the most current fee information as of 2025:
Praxis Test Fees
- Core Academic Skills for Educators: $150 total if taken as a combined test (covering Reading, Writing, and Math), or $90 per individual subtest.
- Subject Assessments: Typically range between $120 and $156 per test. Some, like Praxis II exams, may cost $130 or more depending on the subject.
- Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT): $156.
- Elementary Education: Multiple Subjects (5001): $180 for the combined test, or $64 per subtest.
Praxis Additional Fees
- Late registration fee: $50.
- Test center or date change fee: $40.
- Score reporting fee: $50 per recipient after the first four free reports.
- Phone registration fee: $35.
Cheapest Way to Take the Praxis in Tennessee
To save money on testing fees, consider these tips:
- Register early to avoid the $50 late fee.
- Take combined tests, such as the Praxis 5001, to benefit from bundled pricing.
- Use your four free score reports wisely to avoid additional fees.
- Apply for fee waivers if you qualify based on financial need.
Note that fee waivers are limited to one per year and cover up to three Praxis Core tests or one Subject Assessment.
Praxis Test Preparation Courses in Tennessee
Preparing well for the Praxis Test Tennessee is key to passing on your first try. Luckily, there are many Praxis test preparation courses in Tennessee designed to help you succeed.
When choosing test prep for Praxis, consider options that include:
- Comprehensive study guides covering all tested content areas
- Practice questions that mimic the style and difficulty of actual exams
- Simulated practice tests to build test-taking confidence
- Focus on both the content knowledge test and the Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) exam
One popular resource is Prepsaret, an online platform known for effective Praxis test practice. Prepsaret offers:
- Self-paced study guides covering all topics tested on the Praxis exam
- Practice questions that closely reflect real exam questions
- Flexibility to study anytime, anywhere
In addition to online platforms, you can find prep courses at local universities, community colleges, and private tutoring centers in Tennessee. Many of these offer:
- In-person and online class options
- Flexible scheduling to accommodate busy lifestyles
- Expert instructors familiar with Tennessee’s testing requirements
Combining different preparation methods, including formal courses, self-study guides, and online practice tests, will give you the best chance to excel on the Praxis exam Tennessee and advance your teaching career.
Praxis Test Tennessee PDF
Many candidates find that using official and reputable downloadable resources helps them focus their preparation. These include:
- Praxis test Tennessee pdf study guides that cover all exam content areas
- Praxis test Tennessee practice test materials that simulate real exam conditions
Practice questions and sample tests to build confidence and identify knowledge gaps
These resources are often free or low-cost and can be found on official ETS websites, educational platforms, or through prep course providers like Prepsaret.
Using these tools alongside formal preparation courses and self-study can improve your chances of passing the Praxis exam Tennessee on your first try.
Try Out: Free Praxis 5101 Practice Test
Praxis Score Report Timeline Tennessee
Understanding when and how you’ll receive your results helps you plan your next steps in the certification process after taking the Praxis Test Tennessee.
Score Release Schedule
- For computer-based Praxis tests with selected-response (multiple choice) questions, you may see unofficial scores immediately after finishing the exam. However, these scores are not official and cannot be used for licensure.
- Official scores for most Praxis assessments without essays are typically released 10 to 16 business days after your test date.
- Tests that include constructed-response items (such as essays or open-ended questions) require additional human scoring. These scores are usually released 4 to 6 weeks after the test date.
- ETS generally releases scores on Wednesdays. You can access your official scores anytime through your ETS Praxis online account.
What is the Passing Score for Praxis in Tennessee
All Praxis tests, including the Core Academic Skills, Subject Assessments, and PLT, are scored on a scale of 100 to 200.
The Praxis passing score Tennessee varies by test type:
- Core Academic Skills: Reading (150), Writing (162), Mathematics (150) — generally accurate but always verify the latest requirements.
- Subject Assessments: Passing scores usually range between 147 and 165 depending on the specific test.
- PLT (Principles of Learning and Teaching): Typically between 157 and 160, depending on the grade level.
Passing the required score is essential to advance in your Tennessee teaching licensure process.
Check Out: Praxis Score Release Dates
How to Send Praxis Scores to Tennessee Department of Education
Once you receive your scores, you must submit them as part of your application for teacher licensure in Tennessee. Here’s how to send your Praxis scores Tennessee to the state:
- If you take the test at a Tennessee test center or have your ETS profile address in Tennessee, your scores are automatically sent to the Tennessee Department of Education.
- If you need to send scores after testing or to additional recipients, log into your ETS account, select “Send Additional Score Reports,” and choose the Tennessee Department of Education as the recipient using the correct state code: 8190.
- Remember, you get up to four free score reports when registering. Any additional score reports cost $50 per recipient.
- After requesting additional score reports, allow 10 to 15 business days for processing and delivery.
If you test outside Tennessee or your profile is not set to Tennessee, you must manually select Tennessee as a score recipient to ensure your scores are sent to the state.
Continue Reading: How Long Does It Take to Get Your Praxis Scores Back
Praxis Test Tennessee: FAQs
Is The TN Praxis Hard?
Difficulty depends on your preparation and subject area. Many candidates find Praxis challenging, especially without thorough study or familiarity with the test format.
Do You Have To Pass The Praxis To Teach In Tennessee?
Yes, passing the required Praxis exams is mandatory for most teaching licenses in Tennessee.
Where Can I Take The Praxis Test In Tennessee?
Praxis tests are available at test centers in cities like Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Johnson City, and some exams can be taken online.
Can You Teach Without Passing The Praxis?
Generally, no. Passing the Praxis is required for standard licensure, though some alternative or temporary programs may allow limited teaching before passing.
Praxis Test Tennessee: Conclusion
Preparing for the Praxis Test Tennessee is a vital step toward becoming a licensed teacher in the state. Understanding the test requirements, registration process, dates, costs, and score reporting helps you approach the exam with confidence.
Using quality test prep for Praxis, such as Prepsaret’s study materials and practice tests, can greatly improve your chances of success. Stay informed, prepare thoroughly, and take advantage of available resources to achieve your teaching goals.
Start your preparation today and move one step closer to a rewarding career in education in Tennessee.