Idaho: Praxis Testing Requirements Overview

Overview of Idaho Testing Requirements

How to Qualify for Certification

For initial certification in Idaho, all candidates must:

Earn an appropriate bachelor's degree or advanced degree.

Complete the minimum requirements in a state-approved educator preparation program or an Idaho state-approved alternative teacher certification program.

Complete a criminal history check pursuant to Idaho Code §33-130.

Pass The Praxis Series™ tests for their certification areas, hold National Board for Professional Standards Teaching Certification or verify Highly Qualified status, as defined by the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act, in their certification area by other approved means (e.g., test, degree, Highly Objective Uniform Standard of Evaluation (HOUSSE), etc.)

Important Information

Idaho requires a Social Security number (SSN) in order to process teacher certification paperwork. ETS does not require your SSN for its own purposes, but will submit it to Idaho with your test results. Failure to provide your SSN could delay processing of your certification application.

In September 2009, ETS began administering new versions of the Library Media Specialist (0311) and Speech Communication: Content Knowledge (0221) Praxis™ tests. The new tests cover the same content as the previous tests. However, scores are reported on a different scale, so requirements will vary from previous versions. All scores for discontinued tests are reportable for 10 years. Consult the Test Requirements table for specific score requirements.

Who Must Take the Tests?

Teacher candidates or those wishing to become certified must take The Praxis Series tests or verify Highly Qualified status by another approved means.

Prior to entering a teacher education program at your college or university, you may be required to take the Praxis I® tests to demonstrate your qualifications.

In Idaho, you must also take the appropriate Praxis II® tests for each area of certification you seek.