2026 data Missouri board official source

Missouri Secondary School Teacher License Requirements

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

Instructs students in grades 7-12. Requires state teaching certificate.

What the Missouri data shows for Secondary School Teachers

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

Budget $108 to get started, plus $74 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 Missouri

Education / Training Hours
Bachelors Degree plus Subject Certification
Not specified
Exam Requirement
State Subject Area Exam (Praxis II or equivalent)
Required
Initial License Fee
$108
Renewal Fee
$74
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 Missouri licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Secondary School Teacher in Missouri?
Missouri requires, passing an exam (State Subject Area Exam (Praxis II or equivalent)), and an initial fee of $108. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Secondary School Teacher in Missouri?
Missouri licenses secondary school teachers who complete its requirements and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Missouri licensing board.
Can I transfer my Secondary School Teacher license to Missouri from another state?
Secondary 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 Missouri licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Missouri require a background check for Secondary School Teacher licensing?
Missouri does require a background check before issuing a secondary 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 Secondary School Teacher in Missouri?
To stay licensed as a secondary school teacher in Missouri, plan on 150 hours of continuing education per 5-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $74.

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