Elementary School Teacher / Montana
2026 data Montana board official source

Montana Elementary School Teacher License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

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

What the Montana data shows for Elementary School Teachers

To practice as an elementary school teacher in Montana, the state licensing board requires board-approved training, a passing score on State Teaching Certification Exam (Praxis or equivalent). A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Montana's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Bachelors Degree in Education".

Upfront cost is $198, with renewal running $122 on a 5-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 150-hour continuing-education requirement per 5-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

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

Licensing Requirements in Montana

Education / Training Hours
Bachelors Degree in Education
Not specified
Exam Requirement
State Teaching Certification Exam (Praxis or equivalent)
Required
Initial License Fee
$198
Renewal Fee
$122
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 Montana licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Montana licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Elementary School Teacher in Montana? ▼
Montana requires, passing an exam (State Teaching Certification Exam (Praxis or equivalent)), and an initial fee of $198. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as an Elementary School Teacher in Montana? ▼
Certification as an elementary school teacher in Montana means clearing the state's checklist, and a passing exam score. The Montana licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Elementary School Teacher license to Montana from another state? ▼
Elementary School Teacher licenses generally reciprocate as follows: State-specific — NASDTEC agreements between some states. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Montana licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Montana require a background check for Elementary School Teacher licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for elementary school teacher licensing in Montana. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Elementary School Teacher in Montana? ▼
Licensed elementary school teachers in Montana must complete 150 hours of continuing education every 5 years. The renewal fee is $122.

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.