I have a degree but have not completed a teacher education program.  What are my options for obtaining a Tennessee teaching license?

An Alternative License is not a full teaching license. It is issued at the request of the superintendent/director of schools of a Tennessee school district to an individual who is employed while still completing specific licensure requirements. The license is issued for one school year at a time and always expires on August 31 following the academic school year for which it is issued. (Source:  Tennessee State Department of Education)

Alternate Licensure is available for the following teaching fields:

• ECED
• Elementary Grades
• All Secondary Education
• School Counseling
• School Library Media

There are two types of Alternative Licensure.  Use the following links for more information.

Type I - Candidates enroll in summer terms and complete the orientation component of the core prior to beginning employment in the fall. (Source: Tennessee State Board of Education)

Type II - Candidates are those who are late summer or mid-year hires and were therefore unable to complete the orientation component prior to employment. (Source: Tennessee State Board of Education)

Alternative Licensure Partners

Alternative Licensure Frequently Asked Questions