Career roadmap
How to Become a Kindergarten Teacher
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a kindergarten teacher, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a kindergarten teacher: (1) earn a bachelor’s degree, (2) complete student teaching, (3) pass licensing exams, (4) get your license, (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 a kindergarten teacher
Earn a bachelor’s degree
Early childhood or elementary education.
Complete student teaching
Teach under a mentor teacher.
Pass licensing exams
Take Praxis or state tests.
Get your license
Apply for state certification.
Advance
Become a lead teacher, reading specialist or administrator.
Education and training requirements
Public school teachers need a bachelor’s degree, a teacher preparation program with student teaching, and a state license, often requiring Praxis or state exams.
| 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 teacher exams: Tests of content and teaching knowledge.
- Early childhood endorsement: Additional certification for early grades.
- Reading or literacy certification: Training such as LETRS or science of reading programs.
Skills to build now
Start with early literacy instruction, math instruction, and classroom management, and practice patience and warmth. Learning the kindergarten teacher vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Student Teacher: Learn under a mentor.
- Kindergarten Teacher: Lead a classroom.
- Lead Teacher or Reading Specialist: Mentor and specialize.
- Instructional Coach or Principal: Lead instruction or schools.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Kindergarten 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 a kindergarten 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, often requiring Praxis or state exams.
Do you need a degree to be a kindergarten teacher?
Yes, for public schools. Kindergarten teachers need a bachelor’s degree and a state teaching license, though many states offer alternative certification for people with a degree in another field.
What certifications are available for kindergarten teachers?
Common credentials include State teaching license, Praxis or state teacher exams, Early childhood endorsement, and Reading or literacy certification. Public school teachers must be licensed by their state, typically after a bachelor’s degree, a teacher preparation program and exams.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-2012 (Kindergarten teachers, except special education).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Kindergarten 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.