Steps to Teaching

Multiple Subject (Elementary)

  1. Have a bachelor's degree (or higher) from a regionally accredited college or university;
  2. Passage of the California Basic Skills Test (CBEST);
  3. Demonstration of subject matter competency through the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET);
  4. Character identification clearance through a state and federal fingerprint check;
  5. Completion of a state-approved Teacher Preparation Program.

Single Subject (Secondary)

  1. Have a bachelor's degree (or higher) from a regionally accredited college or university;
  2. Passage of the California Basic Skills Test (CBEST);
  3. Demonstration of subject matter competency through the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET) OR through approved coursework;
  4. Character identification clearance through a state and federal fingerprint check;
  5. Completion of a state-approved Teacher Preparation Program.

Please visit the Commission on Teacher Credentialing website for updated information at http://www.ctc.ca.gov.

For out-of-state applicants who already hold a teaching credential/license in another state, please contact the San Diego County Office of Education, Credentials Department at 858.292.3581 or via email at sdcred@sdcoe.net. Click on the link below for more information:
- Out-of-State Applicants

Mission Valley Satellite Office
2650 Camino Del Rio North, Suite 301
San Diego, CA 92108
Contact Us
619.908.3600 or (toll free) 877.908.3600
Email: socaltrc@sdcoe.net