Elementary School Teacher / Kentucky
2026 data Kentucky board official source

Kentucky 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 Kentucky data shows for Elementary School Teachers

Kentucky'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. Kentucky folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Bachelors Degree in Education".

Upfront cost is $93, with renewal running $66 on a 5-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 150 hours of continuing education per 5-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

For elementary school teachers, the reciprocity picture is: State-specific — NASDTEC agreements between some states.

Licensing Requirements in Kentucky

Education / Training Hours
Bachelors Degree in Education
Not specified
Exam Requirement
State Teaching Certification Exam (Praxis or equivalent)
Required
Initial License Fee
$93
Renewal Fee
$66
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 Kentucky licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Kentucky licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Elementary School Teacher in Kentucky? ▼
In Kentucky, the license path calls for, a passing score on State Teaching Certification Exam (Praxis or equivalent), and a $93 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as an Elementary School Teacher in Kentucky? ▼
To become a licensed elementary school teacher in Kentucky, you must meet the state's requirements. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Kentucky licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Elementary School Teacher license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky. Verify the specifics with the Kentucky licensing board.
Does Kentucky require a background check for Elementary School Teacher licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the elementary school teacher licensing process in Kentucky. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Elementary School Teacher in Kentucky? ▼
Licensed elementary school teachers in Kentucky must complete 150 hours of continuing education every 5 years. The renewal fee is $66.

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.