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To teach in our schools, you must have a valid New York State teacher certification. Certificates are granted through the New York State Education Department (NYSED), not NYC º£½ÇÂÒÂ×. 

Here are the most common types of New York State teacher certifications: 

Initial Certificate  

The Initial Certificate is the entry-level teaching certificate for individuals who have completed a New York State teacher preparation program or equivalent coursework and experience. The Initial Certificate is valid for five years. 

Professional Certificate 

The Professional Certificate is for teachers with a master’s degree and at least three years of teaching experience. Teachers with professional certification must complete 100 hours of professional development every five years. 

Transitional Certificates  

These certificates are for individuals completing alternative paths to the classroom and teaching while obtaining their initial certificate. Two common types of Transitional Certificates obtained by NYCPS teachers include:

• Transitional A Certificate: Individuals who have substantial industry experience but do not qualify for an Initial Certificate can become a Career and Technical Education (CTE) teacher with a Transitional A Certificate. 
• Transitional B Certificate: Participants in alternative certification programs like the New York City Teaching Fellows or Teach For America receive Transitional B Certificates, allowing them to teach while completing certification coursework.