How To Become a Teacher in California 2025

Around 64,000 teaching positions open yearly, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Those who want to enter this stable career path can do so in just four years. Below, we'll explain how this is possible; we'll cover education requirements, necessary credentials, and other key details that explain how to become a teacher. Keep reading to learn about the requirements to become a teacher in California.

Steps To Become a Teacher in California

If you're looking for the fastest way to become a teacher, you'll still need to follow all of the required steps outlined by the state government. These include educational and credential requirements to ensure you're fit to teach students.

Step 1: Decide What Subject and Grade Level You Want To Teach

The first step on your journey to becoming a teacher is choosing the subject and grade level that best matches your interests, strengths, and career goals. For example, do you to want to become a kindergarten teacher and teach kids around six years old? Or do you want to teach older children?

Requirements and day-to-day responsibilities can vary significantly depending on whether you want to teach at the elementary, middle, or high school level, so it's important to understand the distinctions early on.

Becoming an Elementary School Teacher

Elementary teachers typically work with younger students in kindergarten through fifth or sixth grade and are responsible for teaching multiple subjects (i.e., reading, math, science, and social studies). These roles require a strong foundation in general education and a passion for helping children build essential academic and social skills. Typically, this path includes a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential.

Becoming a Middle School Teacher

Middle school teachers usually specialize in a single subject — like math, English, or science — and teach students in sixth through eighth grade. This age group is transitioning from childhood to adolescence, so flexibility, patience, and subject-area expertise are key qualities for success.

Middle school teacher educational requirements are similar to other teaching levels. California schools may employ middle school teachers with either a Multiple Subject or Single Subject credential.

Becoming a High School Teacher

High school teachers focus on specific subject areas such as biology, U.S. history, or algebra and teach students from ninth through twelfth grade. These educators prepare students for college or the workforce and often serve as mentors during an important stage of personal and academic growth. If you're looking to go this route, high school teacher educational requirements usually require a Single Subject Teaching Credential.

Step 2: Choose Your Major

You can earn a bachelor's degree in any major, as long as you complete a teacher preparation program approved by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. However, your college major plays a key role in preparing you to teach effectively, so you'll want to carefully choose an option aligned with your career goals.

If you want to become an elementary school teacher, you'll likely major in elementary education, which covers a broad range of subjects and teaching strategies. For those aiming to teach middle or high school, you'll want to choose a major that aligns with the subject you want to teach — such as English, biology, or math, and pair it with a secondary education track. Some schools offer majors focused on physical education or special education as well.

Step 3: Earn Your Bachelor's Degree

While you don't need to major in education specifically to become a teacher, you need to hold at least a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. In California, teacher preparation programs are often integrated into your studies, allowing you to complete both your undergraduate degree and credential requirements simultaneously.

These programs include coursework in teaching methods, classroom management, and educational psychology, along with student teaching experiences. Student teaching involves supervised classroom instruction, providing hands-on experience and practical skills essential for effective teaching. Completing an integrated program can lead to a teaching credential upon graduation, allowing you to enter the classroom right after graduation.

Step 4: Consider a Master's Degree

While a master's degree is not required to begin teaching in California, it can offer significant professional and financial benefits. Many school districts offer higher salaries to teachers with advanced degrees, and a master's can open doors to leadership roles such as department head, instructional coach, or curriculum specialist. Earning a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) or Master of Education (MEd) can also deepen your expertise in specific areas like literacy, special education, or educational technology.

Step 5: Pass California Teaching Exams and Gain Licensure

To earn your California teaching credential, you'll need to meet a few state testing requirements. Most teachers satisfy the basic skills requirement with the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) or approved college coursework.

To show you're qualified in your subject, you'll need to meet Subject Matter Competency — either by passing the California Subject Examinations for Teachers (CSET) or holding a degree in that subject. You'll also complete a Teaching Performance Assessment, which evaluates your ability to plan, instruct, and assess student learning. Once you've finished these steps and your preparation program, you're ready to apply for a preliminary teaching license and officially start teaching.

Step 6: Apply for Teaching Jobs

Once you've earned your credential, it's time to start applying for teaching positions. Public school openings are often listed on district websites or statewide platforms.

Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your subject expertise, student teaching experience, and classroom skills. Be prepared for interviews that may include teaching demonstrations or scenario-based questions.

Networking with educators and attending job fairs can also help you discover opportunities. Many new teachers start with long-term substitute or temporary roles, which can be great stepping stones to full-time, permanent positions in California schools.

How To Choose the Right Teaching Degree Program

Choosing the right teaching degree program is about more than just location or cost. Look for programs with strong partnerships with local schools, as these often provide better student teaching placements and mentoring. This real-world experience can make a big difference in your career.

Also, check graduation rates, support services, and job placement stats. A good program should help you succeed beyond the classroom.

FAQs About Becoming a Teacher in California

If you're interested in becoming a teacher in California, you likely have questions about the process. Below, we dive deeper into the requirements to become a teacher.

What Qualifications Do You Need To Become a Teacher in California?

To become a teacher in California, you need a bachelor's degree, completion of a state-approved teacher preparation program, and a valid teaching credential. You must also meet basic skills and subject competency requirements, usually through exams or approved coursework. Student teaching and a background check are also required.

Do Requirements Differ at Private Schools and Public Schools?

According to the California Department of Education, private school teachers aren't required to have a valid teaching credential. Private schools operate independently from the public school system and may have different employment requirements.

How Long Does It Take To Become a Teacher in California?

Becoming a teacher in California takes as little as four years through an integrated education bachelor's program. However, if you're pursuing a master's degree or completing an internship or teaching program after completing a bachelor's degree, it could add a year or two.

Can I Get a Teaching Job Without a Teaching Degree?

Yes, you can get a teaching job in California without a teaching degree, but you still need a bachelor's degree and must complete a teacher preparation program. You could also try to get a teaching position at a private school, though requirements may vary widely depending on the school.

How Do I Become a Substitute Teacher in California?

To become a substitute teacher in California, you typically need a bachelor's degree and must satisfy the basic skills requirement, often through the CBEST or qualifying coursework. You'll also need to pass a background check and obtain an Emergency 30-Day Substitute Teaching Permit from the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing. This permit allows you to substitute in any classroom for up to 30 days per teacher.

If you're still in college, you may qualify for the Emergency Substitute Teaching Permit for Prospective Teachers, which requires at least 90 semester units and current enrollment in a four-year California university. Both permits require fingerprint clearance and are valid for one year.

How Do I Apply To a Teaching Program?

To apply to a teaching program, research state-approved colleges or universities offering credential or education degrees. Submit your application with transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Some programs require passing basic skills tests or entrance exams.

Start Your Teaching Career Today

Aspiring teachers must complete several educational and licensing requirements on their career journey. Luckily, there are many education programs available. Browse Learn.org today to find in-person and online education courses. Contact schools directly for more information.