Career roadmap
How to Become an Elementary School Teacher
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an elementary school teacher, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an elementary school teacher: (1) earn a bachelor’s degree, (2) complete student teaching, (3) pass licensing exams, (4) get licensed, (5) advance. Most people need about 4 years plus licensing. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an elementary school teacher
Earn a bachelor’s degree
Elementary education or another field plus a preparation program.
Complete student teaching
Teach under supervision.
Pass licensing exams
Praxis or state tests.
Get licensed
Apply to your state.
Advance
Earn National Board Certification or move into leadership.
Education and training requirements
Public school teachers need a bachelor’s degree, a teacher preparation program with student teaching, and a state license. Some states require a master’s degree within several years.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 4 years plus licensing |
Certifications and licenses
- State teaching license: Required for public school teaching.
- Praxis or state exams: Licensing tests.
- ESL or bilingual endorsement: Certification for teaching English learners.
- National Board Certification: Advanced teaching credential.
Skills to build now
Start with lesson planning, reading and math instruction, and classroom management, and practice patience and communication. Learning the elementary school teacher vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Student Teacher: Learn to teach.
- Elementary Teacher: Lead a classroom.
- Lead Teacher or Specialist: Mentor or specialize.
- Instructional Coach or Principal: Lead instruction or schools.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Elementary School Teacher training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become an elementary school teacher?
Most people need about 4 years plus licensing of training. Public school teachers need a bachelor’s degree, a teacher preparation program with student teaching, and a state license. Some states require a master’s degree within several years.
Do you need a degree to be an elementary school teacher?
Yes, for public schools. Elementary teachers need a bachelor’s degree and a state license, though alternative certification routes let degree holders in other fields earn licenses while teaching.
What certifications are available for elementary school teachers?
Common credentials include State teaching license, Praxis or state exams, ESL or bilingual endorsement, and National Board Certification. Public school teachers must hold a state teaching license, typically after a degree, preparation program and exams.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-2021 (Elementary school teachers, except special education).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Elementary school teachers, except special education (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.