Elementary School Teacher / North Dakota
2026 data North Dakota board official source

North Dakota Elementary School Teacher License Requirements

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

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

What the North Dakota data shows for Elementary School Teachers

North Dakota sets the entry bar for elementary school teachers at board-approved training and a passing score on State Teaching Certification Exam (Praxis or equivalent). A background check is a standard part of the process, and applicants must be 18 or older. The credential is administered under North Dakota's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Bachelors Degree in Education".

Budget $58 to get started, plus $47 at each renewal 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.

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

Licensing Requirements in North Dakota

Education / Training Hours
Bachelors Degree in Education
Not specified
Exam Requirement
State Teaching Certification Exam (Praxis or equivalent)
Required
Initial License Fee
$58
Renewal Fee
$47
Renewal Cycle
Every 5 years
Continuing Education
150 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with North Dakota licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Elementary School Teacher in North Dakota?
North Dakota requires, passing an exam (State Teaching Certification Exam (Praxis or equivalent)), and an initial fee of $58. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as an Elementary School Teacher in North Dakota?
To become a licensed elementary school teacher in North Dakota, you must meet the state's requirements. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the North Dakota licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Elementary School Teacher license to North Dakota 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 North Dakota. Verify the specifics with the North Dakota licensing board.
Does North Dakota require a background check for Elementary School Teacher licensing?
Yes, North Dakota requires a criminal background check as part of the elementary school teacher licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Elementary School Teacher in North Dakota?
North Dakota ties continued elementary school teacher licensure to 150 continuing-education hours, due every 5 years, alongside a $47 renewal fee.

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