Requirements for a Colorado Initial Teacher License

An Initial Teacher License requires that an applicant submit his/her legal name, address and social security number. Once these criteria are met, an initial license may be issued to an applicant who:

• Holds a bachelor's or higher degree from an accepted, regionally accredited institution of higher education.

• Has completed an approved teacher preparation program at an accepted institute of higher education.

• Has provided an approved program verification form.

• Has submitted a complete application for licensure, including official transcripts, associated fees, and other supporting documentation.

• Has demonstrated professional competencies in the subject areas by completing 24 semester hours of course credit as demonstrated through transcript evaluation, or passage of the Colorado State Board of Education-approved content assessment relevant to the area of endorsement sought.

  • Note: All elementary education teachers and special education generalists must pass the Colorado State Board of Education-approved elementary education content exam.
     

Additional information can also be found on the application checklist. Please be aware that the checklist is only for reference and is not an application for licensure.

Available Endorsement Areas for Teachers