Elementary School Teacher / Washington
2026 data Washington board official source

Washington Elementary School Teacher License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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

What the Washington data shows for Elementary School Teachers

To practice as an elementary school teacher in Washington, 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 Washington's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Bachelors Degree in Education".

Budget $209 to get started, plus $128 at each renewal on a 5-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 150 hours of continuing education are due every 5-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: State-specific — NASDTEC agreements between some states.

Licensing Requirements in Washington

Education / Training Hours
Bachelors Degree in Education
Not specified
Exam Requirement
State Teaching Certification Exam (Praxis or equivalent)
Required
Initial License Fee
$209
Renewal Fee
$128
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 Washington licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Washington licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Elementary School Teacher in Washington? ▼
Washington's requirements cover, the State Teaching Certification Exam (Praxis or equivalent) exam, and an initial fee of $209. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as an Elementary School Teacher in Washington? ▼
Certification as an elementary school teacher in Washington means clearing the state's checklist, and a passing exam score. The Washington licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Elementary School Teacher license to Washington 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 Washington licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Washington require a background check for Elementary School Teacher licensing? ▼
Yes, Washington 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 Washington? ▼
To stay licensed as an elementary school teacher in Washington, plan on 150 hours of continuing education per 5-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $128.

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.