Certification

Certification Test Requirements

About the Certification Exams

New York State certification requirements typically include one or more assessments from the New York State Teacher Certification Examinations (NYSTCE) programexternal website. The test requirements for each certificate title can be found through the Search Certification Requirements webpage. Certificates may require the:

Exceptions to the Test Requirements


Please note that individuals who are eligible for certification through the “Endorsement of a Certificate” pathway or the “National Board Certification” pathway are not required to take and pass tests.


NYSCTE Certification Exam Waiver


Information regarding requirements and instructions for requesting a waiver can be found here.


Examination Safety Nets


Information regarding safety nets for Content Specialty Tests (CSTs), the Educating All Students test (EAS), and the School Building Leader Assessment can be found on the Exam Safety Nets webpage.


Out-of-State Examinations


Information regarding acceptance of out-of-state exams toward New York State Educator Certification can be found on the Out-of-State Exam webpage.


Test Registration and Preparation


Individuals can register for certification tests through the NYSTCE websiteexternal website. This website includes resources for all NYSTCE tests and information about test fees, schedules, locations, test design and frameworks, score reports, alternative testing arrangements, and study guides.


Reporting and Submitting Scores


NYSTCE test scores are automatically reported to the TEACH system on the specified score report date, even if individuals have not applied for certification yet.

When registering for tests, please make sure to provide the name, date of birth, and the last five digits of your social security number that is listed in your TEACH account.    If your information does not match TEACH, you must submit a formal request to have your information changed.  

Last Updated: September 17, 2026
September 17, 2026