Overview of Montana Testing Requirements

How to Qualify for Licensure in Montana

For initial educator licensure in Montana, applicants must:

• hold at least a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university
• verify completion of an accredited educator preparation program approved by NCATE, CAEP or a state board of education, ARM 10.57.102 DEFINITIONS
• meet the specific qualifications for the type of license selected from the eight classes of licensure in Montana
• complete a supervised teaching experience, ARM 10.57.412 CLASS 1 AND 2 ENDORSEMENTS
• submit all appropriate application forms and fees
  • initial licensure applications
  • renewal licensure applications

Important Information

If you test in Montana, your score report will be sent automatically to the Montana Office of Public Instruction. If you test outside of Montana, select the Montana Office of Public Instruction (state code 8653) as a score recipient when you register or on an additional score report request.

In-State Teacher Education Program Completers

If the completed educator preparation program is one of the nine accredited providers in Montana, the program completer applying for initial licensure is required to demonstrate subject area content knowledge by earning a minimum score on the Montana Assessment for Content Knowledge prior to recommendation to the OPI for licensure.

For additional information, contact the Montana Teacher Education Program Licensure Office or visit the OPI website links: Application Materials and Educator Preparation.

Out-of-State Teacher Education Program Completers

If the completed educator preparation program is not in Montana — upon initial application of a Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 — the applicant must provide proof of a minimum score on the Praxis® Subject Assessments, applicable to the requested endorsement as established by the Office of Public Instruction and approved by the Board of Public Education, ARM 10.57.410 CLASS 2 STANDARD TEACHER'S LICENSE.

See also:

• About the Praxis Tests
• The Praxis® Information Bulletin
• Prepare for a Test
• Register for a Test
• Accommodations for Test Takers with Disabilities or Health-related Needs