Get started on your path to teaching by reviewing New York State’s teacher eligibility requirements.
Citizenship
To be eligible for teacher certification in New York State, you must be a United States Citizen or have permanent resident status or hold a valid DACA or similar relief from deportation status. Upon submitting your application, the New York State Education Department will ask you to verify your citizenship/immigration status. For more information, please visit the NYSED website.
Criminal History
Individuals with a criminal history may be eligible for teacher certification in New York State. If your criminal history check reveals that you have been convicted of a crime and/or have a pending criminal charge, the New York State Education Department will review your record to determine whether to grant or deny your application for certification. The review is based on a few factors including, the seriousness of the offense, the time which has elapsed since the occurrence of the criminal offense, and your age at the time of occurrence of the criminal offense. To learn more, please visit the NYSED website.