High school teachers play a vital role in shaping students’ futures, whether they guide freshmen through English literature, help juniors master Algebra II, prepare seniors for AP U.S. History, or inspire curiosity in biology and chemistry labs. From 9th through 12th grade, teachers support teenagers as they transition toward college, careers, and adulthood. Many people step into this profession straight out of college, while others choose teaching as a meaningful career change. No matter your background, we’ll outline everything you need to know about the certification process in Texas and answer your biggest questions along the way.
Texas High School Teacher Requirements
It can feel daunting to satisfy the requirements to become a high school teacher in Texas. The good news is that many of the requirements are chronological, so you just have to take them one step at a time.
Educational Requirements
First, assess the education that you currently have related to being a teacher. To qualify for teacher certification, you must hold a bachelor’s degree. Generally, there are two groups of people:
- Doesn’t have a bachelor's degree: When you are obtaining a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university, be sure to enroll in a teacher prep program through the university to satisfy educational requirements.Â
- Does have a bachelor’s degree: You can complete an education preparation program (EPP) if you already have a bachelor’s, or consider choosing an alternative prep program (APP) if you’re interested in an accelerated option.Â
Pass Exams
All teachers are required to take teacher exams called TExES exams, which are similar to the Praxis exams you may be familiar with in other states. Core tests for all educators include the Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities (PPR) exam. Â
Because high school courses require more specialized knowledge, you are also required to pass subject-specific tests. For example, to teach math, you must pass the Math 7-12 exam, and to teach English, you must pass the English 7-12 exam. You can find specific requirements with TEA. Additionally, 240 Certification has program advisors who can guide you through the selection of the appropriate test.Â
Apply for Certification
Once you have completed a training program and passed an exam, you can begin the certification process.
Complete your state application
You can apply for your teacher’s license through the TEAL website. You must include all forms and payment to begin the complete application process. Otherwise, the certification process does not begin.
Once you submit your application, the process will depend on your background and the fingerprinting requirements. This can take several weeks.
Background check and fingerprinting
The fingerprinting process is done at IdentoGo, so be sure to grab a separate appointment with them. You must bring a valid ID to your appointment and pay an additional $10 to IdentoGo.Â
Typically, the TEA receives your results in 5-7 business days. But you can track the status of this process in the ECOS system. You will see when the TEA receives the results, when they review it for relevant criminal history, and when it has passed.
If you do not pass, the TE will contact you with further information.
Find a Teaching Job
Texas is divided into twenty Regional Education Service Centers (ESCs). Each ESC serves several districts. You can broaden your search by looking for a job at your preferred ESCs. They tend to have their websites with job boards.Â
You can also narrow your search to specific districts and schools.
Maintain Compliance
Once you jump through all the hoops of getting your Texas teacher’s license, it’s important to keep it up to date.
CPE RequirementsÂ
Your license is valid for five years. However, during this time, you will need to complete Continuing Professional Education (CPE) requirements. Many of these requirements will occur alongside your district’s professional development requirements. Classroom teachers need to complete 150 hours of continuing professional education.
Renewal Process
You will need to upload your documentation for renewal into your TEAL account. You will also be asked to pay renewal fees.Â
Texas High School Teacher Salary
Average salary
According to the NEA, the average teaching salary in Texas is $62,463. The average starting salary is $48,526.Â
What affects my salary?
Different districts will have different pay scales. However, you will typically climb a salary ladder based on your years of experience and educational level.
Ways to increase my salary?
You have a few options for increasing your salary:
- Get an additional degree, like a master’sÂ
- Teach in a high-need area that qualifies for the Teacher Incentive Allotment, which qualifies you for increased pay
- Take on extracurricular activities that pay a stipend, such as coaching
Job Outlook for High School Teachers in Texas
Demand for high school varies across Texas. It depends on the school district location and subject area. According to the TEA, the teacher shortage subject areas for high school include:
- Bilingual/English as a Second Language
- Career and Technical EducationÂ
- Computer Science/Technology Applications
- English Language Arts and ReadingÂ
- MathematicsÂ
- Special Education
Career advancement includes getting an additional degree and pursuing a job as a school administrator.
Author Tip: "High schools have a big need for extracurricular coaches and sponsors. If you have a preferred school or district in mind, consider contacting the principal directly to see if they require additional support. It doesn’t hurt to ask, and you don’t need a teacher’s license to help out with extra-curriculars.Â
I used this strategy to land a great high school teaching job by agreeing to coach the bowling team. You don’t have to agree to be the head coach of the football team to be useful after school."
If you already hold a bachelor’s degree and are eager to make the leap into a teaching career, alternative certification offers a fast, affordable, and practical path. With flexible online courses, real classroom experience through a paid internship, and the potential to be certified in as little as 12 months, it’s designed for career changers ready to make an impact. At 240 Certification, we create a personalized plan for every future teacher and pair you with a dedicated advisor to support you along the way.
Ready to take the next steps in becoming a High School teacher in Texas? We can help!
Frequently Asked Questions
No. But having a master’s degree will result in a high salary.
If you have a bachelor’s degree, you can become a high school teacher in Texas in as little as 12 months.
The average teaching salary in Texas is $62,463. But salaries vary across school districts.
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