Elementary School Teacher / Colorado
2026 data Colorado board official source

Colorado Elementary School Teacher License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

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Instructs students in grades K-6. Requires state teaching certificate.

What the Colorado data shows for Elementary School Teachers

Colorado's path to elementary school teacher licensure runs through board-approved instruction and a passing score on State Teaching Certification Exam (Praxis or equivalent), plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. Colorado folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Bachelors Degree in Education".

The initial price tag is $218, and renewal costs $133 every 5 years. The license also carries an ongoing 150-hour continuing-education requirement per 5-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

On reciprocity, elementary school teachers should know: State-specific — NASDTEC agreements between some states.

Licensing Requirements in Colorado

Education / Training Hours
Bachelors Degree in Education
Not specified
Exam Requirement
State Teaching Certification Exam (Praxis or equivalent)
Required
Initial License Fee
$218
Renewal Fee
$133
Renewal Cycle
Every 5 years
Continuing Education
150 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

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Compare all states for Elementary School Teacher All Colorado licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Colorado licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Elementary School Teacher in Colorado? ▼
In Colorado, the license path calls for, a passing score on State Teaching Certification Exam (Praxis or equivalent), and a $218 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as an Elementary School Teacher in Colorado? ▼
To become a licensed elementary school teacher in Colorado, you must meet the state's requirements. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Colorado licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Elementary School Teacher license to Colorado from another state? ▼
Reciprocity for elementary school teachers nationally works like this: State-specific — NASDTEC agreements between some states. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into Colorado. Verify the specifics with the Colorado licensing board.
Does Colorado require a background check for Elementary School Teacher licensing? ▼
Colorado does require a background check before issuing an elementary school teacher license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Elementary School Teacher in Colorado? ▼
To stay licensed as an elementary school teacher in Colorado, plan on 150 hours of continuing education per 5-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $133.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.