How to Teach Science in Idaho

Idaho needs qualified science teachers—and if you hold a bachelor’s degree, you can start teaching without returning to college. Through American Board’s flexible, online certification program, you can teach science in Idaho and help meet the growing demand for educators in biology, chemistry, physics, and general science.

However, Idaho’s science certification requirements are more specific than most states, so it’s important to understand your endorsement options before getting started.

Step-by-Step: How to Teach Science in Idaho

There are two certification pathways you can follow to teach science in Idaho, depending on whether you want to teach a single subject or multiple science disciplines.

Option 1: Teach a Single Science Subject (Biology, Chemistry, or Physics)

If you want to focus on one science subject at the middle or high school level, follow this path to certification:

1. Enroll in the American Board teacher certification program.
2. Choose your subject—Biology, Chemistry, or Physics—when applying.
3. Pass two required exams:
   • Professional Teaching Knowledge (PTK) exam
   • Content area exam for your chosen subject
4. Receive your American Board Certificate, making you eligible for hire in Idaho schools.
5. Apply for the ABCTE Interim Certificate through the Idaho State Department of Education once hired.
6. Complete Idaho’s two-year state-approved mentor program within your first three years.
7. Earn a five-year renewable Idaho teaching certificate after completing all requirements.

This pathway qualifies you to teach science in Idaho in your specific subject area.

Option 2: Teach Multiple Science Subjects with a Natural Science Endorsement

Want the flexibility to teach across science subjects—such as general science, biology, chemistry, and physics? Then the Natural Science Endorsement is your best option. Here’s how to earn it:

1. Enroll in the American Board teacher certification program.
2. Choose a science subject (Biology, Chemistry, or Physics) when applying.
3. Pass three required exams:
   • Professional Teaching Knowledge (PTK) exam
   • A single-subject science exam (Biology, Chemistry, or Physics)
   • The General Science exam
4. Receive your American Board Certificate.
5. Apply for the ABCTE Interim Certificate through the Idaho State Department of Education once hired.
6. Complete Idaho’s two-year mentor program.
7. Earn a five-year renewable Idaho teaching certificate.

Understanding the Natural Science Endorsement

The Natural Science Endorsement allows you to teach a variety of science courses at the secondary level. To qualify, you must:

• Pass the PTK exam
• Pass one American Board single-subject science exam (Biology, Chemistry, or Physics)
• Pass the General Science exam

Important: You cannot teach science in Idaho with just the PTK and General Science exams. A subject-specific science exam is also required.

Recommended Exam Order

If you’re pursuing the Natural Science Endorsement, we recommend this exam order:

1. PTK
2. Your chosen single-subject science exam
3. General Science exam

This sequence ensures you meet Idaho’s certification requirements and are prepared to teach across science disciplines.

When I moved my family to Idaho in 2013, I wanted to find a way to transition into teaching, but couldn’t afford to take time off for the traditional route of in-person classes and student teaching. ABCTE allowed me to study while still working full time. I passed my exams within a year of beginning the program, and found my first teaching job the following school year. I’m now entering my tenth year teaching middle school science and have never regretted it! -Todd V., Idaho teacher and American Board graduate

Ready to Teach Science in Idaho?

Becoming a science teacher in Idaho is within reach. With American Board’s online, self-paced program, you can earn certification on your schedule—without going back to school.

Start your journey to teach science in Idaho today!
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Teach Science in Idaho: FAQs

• How much do science teachers make in Idaho? The average science teacher in Idaho makes more than $55,000 annually.
• Are teachers in demand in Idaho? Yes! Like most states, Idaho is experiencing a teacher shortage. In particular, STEM subject and special education teachers are greatly needed. Additionally, there is a need for teachers in high-poverty and very rural schools.
• Can you teach in Idaho without a teaching certificate? Yes, it is possible to get started in the classroom while you pursue a teaching certificate. As an example, American Board teacher candidates can teach on an interim certificate (described above) while working toward state licensure. Ultimately, however, a teaching certificate and state license are necessary for a full career in education.