How to Become a Maine Educator

There are more than 150 different endorsements for Administrators, Education Specialists, Teachers, and CTE Teachers each with its own requirements.  Please see our certification requirements here.  This will help you understand which endorsement(s) you may qualify for. 

Important Certification Links

Pathways to Certification 

Pathway 1

Pathway 1 - Approved Teacher Prep Program

Applications were received from graduates of a Maine state-approved educator preparation program.

Helpful Tip:
  • Review your official transcript to see if there is a note regarding the approved program you completed. If you do not see anything on the transcript regarding this, please submit an approved program verification form completed by the college. The form can be found on the Forms & Resources page. 
Pathway 2

Pathway 2 - Transcript Analysis

Applications received without having attended a formal education preparation program.  These applications typically have multiple transcripts with the requirements piece-mailed.  Please ensure you include the transcript with your Bachelor's confer date.

Helpful Tips:
  • Please be sure to submit an official transcript showing all of your coursework.
  • Double-check that your transcript shows a bachelor's degree conferred or awarded. 
  • Please submit any praxis test scores that have been taken. 
Pathway 3

Pathway 3 - Out-of-State Applicant

Individuals may receive a reciprocal professional certificate if they have submitted a criminal history background check and hold a comparable certificate in another state, the District of Columbia, a United States territory, or another country to address the identified staffing shortage (Shortage area list).

Helpful Tips:
  • Please also submit valid teaching certificates, transcripts, and tests you may have taken.
  • A background check must be completed to issue. Please visit the fingerprint page to register and have your fingerprints done.