Initial Teaching License

Requirements - First Issuance

1. Completion of a full state of Iowa approved teacher preparation program for college semester hour credit including meeting at least one of the endorsement requirements.
2. Mandatory reporter training for child abuse.
    

Directions for Applying for an Initial Teaching License with a Recommendation from an Iowa Teacher Preparation Program

Directions for Applying for an Initial Teaching License Through an Out-of-State Teacher Preparation Program or Reciprocity

Term

2 years

Authority

Full teaching instruction within grade levels and endorsements listed on the license. Also holds substitute authority including long-term subbing.

Renewals

Two renewals are available if needed. The second (and final) renewal requires proof of employment in a contracted position that will lead to the standard license. No credits required. Mandatory reporter training for child abuse is required.

Directions for Renewing an Initial Teaching License

Extension

Applicants who will meet the experience requirement within one year.

Applicants who have already met the experience requirement, but need one final year to meet the Iowa teaching standard.

Directions for Applying for an Extension of an Initial Teaching License

Conversion

Convert to the standard license after meeting the required teaching experience: two full years of successful teaching in an Iowa public school, or three full years in an accredited nonpublic school, an out-of-state school, or a combination of these settings totaling three years. Do not apply until all experience requirements have been completed.

Directions for Converting an Initial to a Standard Teaching License

Other Information

Due to the limited number of renewals, it is best to let this license type expire if not teaching in a setting that will lead to the standard license. The license can be renewed or extended at a later date.