Teacher license renewal is one of those tasks that sneaks up. Every state has its own rules, deadlines, and required hours. This reference guide covers the basics for the largest states. Always verify with your state licensing board — rules change.
The Common Pattern
Most states require renewal every 5 years, with 100 to 180 hours of professional development as the minimum. Graduate credits count heavily — typically one credit equals 15 to 30 PD hours depending on the state.
California
Clear credentials renew every 5 years. Professional growth requirements vary by credential type. Graduate credits count.
Texas
Standard certificates renew every 5 years and require 150 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) hours. Graduate credits can convert at a generous ratio.
Florida
Professional Certificates renew every 5 years and require 120 in-service points. Graduate credits convert at 60 points per credit.
New York
Professional Certificates require 100 Continuing Teacher and Leader Education (CTLE) hours every 5 years. Graduate credits count at 15 hours per credit.
Pennsylvania
Act 48 requires 180 hours every 5 years. Graduate credits convert at 30 hours per credit — two 3-credit courses cover the entire cycle.
Illinois
Professional Educator Licenses require 120 PD hours every 5 years. Graduate credits count at 15 hours per credit.
New Jersey
Requires 20 hours of PD per year for active certificate holders. Graduate credits count generously.
Georgia
Certificates renew every 5 years with 10 PLUs. Graduate credits count at 10 PLU hours per credit.
Universal Advice
Start earning credits the year your 5-year cycle begins, not the year it ends. Panic-earning credits in month 58 rarely ends well.
Browse graduate courses that count toward renewal in every state.