Fast Teacher Certification
A Quick Path to the Classroom
More schools need qualified teachers—and fast teacher certification is helping career changers step into the classroom sooner. Several programs offer a streamlined, flexible path to licensure for those who already hold a bachelor’s degree.
What Is Fast Teacher Certification?
Many organizations offer “fast and affordable” certification. If this is something you’re looking for, the first step is finding a state-approved program. In fact, state-approved programs are the only option for progressing from certification to licensure.
When searching for state-approved fast-track options, focus on programs offering alternative teacher certification. These programs give individuals with a bachelor’s degree a direct path to certification and licensure without traditional university coursework. Most alternative programs deliver study content online, offer flexible pacing, and let candidates finish in less than a year.
For example, American Board’s teacher certification program allows candidates to study from home, pass two certification exams, and begin teaching with a provisional or temporary license—often within a few months. It’s a practical option for working adults, adults with family to care for, paraprofessionals, and career changers.
How Fast Is “Fast”?
Truly, we’ve seen candidates study full-time, pass their exams on the first attempt, and be fully certified within a month. Some candidates complete the entire program over summer break (3 months) and begin teaching in the fall. Others take a bit longer, completing the program in 3 to 6 months while working or caring for their families. No matter your certification timeline, you control the schedule. There are no university semester schedules. No required wait time. Just a clear path forward—as fast as you want to move.
Who Is It For?
- Career changers who bring subject expertise into the classroom
- Paraprofessionals and substitute teachers seeking full licensure
- Stay-at-home parents which children starting school
- College graduates looking to start a teaching career
- Current teachers ready to add endorsement areas
Fast-track programs are ideal for people who already have strong content knowledge and want to focus on pedagogy and classroom readiness. On the flip side, these programs are also great for current school staff who are pedagogy experts but need to add a content area.
Why Consider Fast Teacher Certification?
- Save time and money: Skip the years and tuition of a master’s degree
- Start teaching sooner: Many programs allow you to begin teaching while completing certification
- Make a difference now: Help address teacher shortages in your community
If you’re passionate about teaching and ready to get started quickly, fast teacher certification can help you turn that passion into a classroom career—without delay. Visit AmericanBoard.org to learn more.
Start your teacher certification journey today and be in front of students sooner than you think.
Fast Teacher Certification: FAQs
- What is the fastest teaching certificate? Of course, the answer to this varies by state. In general, it’s safe to say that competency-based certification programs are the fastest because they allow you to leverage your current knowledge in lieu of additional courses.
- What is the shortest time to become a teacher? If you already hold a bachelor’s degree, you can likely apply for a teaching position today, depending on your state. Because the teacher shortage is so severe, most states allow someone with a degree in any subject to begin teaching immediately on an emergency license. You then have (typically) one year to complete certification.
