Career roadmap
How to Become a Preschool Teacher
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a preschool teacher, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a preschool teacher: (1) gain experience with children, (2) earn a CDA or degree, (3) pass background checks, (4) get hired as a lead teacher, (5) advance. Most people need about 6 months (CDA) to 2 years (associate). BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a preschool teacher
Gain experience with children
Volunteer or work as an assistant.
Earn a CDA or degree
Complete early childhood coursework.
Pass background checks
Required for all childcare work.
Get hired as a lead teacher
Centers, Head Start or public pre-K.
Advance
Earn a bachelor’s, become a director or specialist.
Education and training requirements
Requirements vary. Many preschool teachers have an associate degree in early childhood education or a CDA credential. Public pre-K and Head Start lead roles often require a bachelor’s degree.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Associate's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 6 months (CDA) to 2 years (associate) |
Certifications and licenses
- Child Development Associate (CDA): A national credential for early childhood educators.
- State early childhood teacher license: Required for many public pre-K programs.
- CPR and pediatric first aid: Required by most programs.
- State childcare training hours: Annual training required by licensing.
Skills to build now
Start with early childhood curriculum, classroom management, and child development observation, and practice patience and warmth. Learning the preschool teacher vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Assistant Teacher: Support the lead teacher.
- Preschool Teacher: Lead a classroom.
- Lead Teacher or Curriculum Coordinator: Mentor teachers and plan curriculum.
- Center Director: Run an early learning program.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Preschool 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
Do preschool teachers need a degree?
It depends on the program; many need an associate degree or CDA.
How long does it take to become a preschool teacher?
Most people need about 6 months (CDA) to 2 years (associate) of training. Requirements vary. Many preschool teachers have an associate degree in early childhood education or a CDA credential. Public pre-K and Head Start lead roles often require a bachelor’s degree.
Do you need a degree to be a preschool teacher?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
What certifications are available for preschool teachers?
Common credentials include Child Development Associate (CDA), State early childhood teacher license, CPR and pediatric first aid, and State childcare training hours. Childcare licensing rules set training and qualifications for preschool teachers. Public pre-K teachers often need a state teaching license.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-2011 (Preschool teachers, except special education).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Preschool 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.