Licensure Regulations Outside Massachusetts

Reciprocity with other states

Lesley graduates endorsed for an Initial license in Massachusetts can apply for comparable positions across the US and other territories that have signed the NASDTEC (National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification) Interstate Agreement 2010-2015. The reciprocity agreement means that licensure programs are recognized across states. A Preliminary license is not recognized by other states.

How to obtain a license in other states

• You are advised to investigate the licensure requirements for each state by looking at the individual websites for the states who have signed the reciprocity agreement. Keep in mind that becoming licensed in another state is not automatic. Although your approved Initial licensure program will be recognized, each state may have additional requirements, including testing, courses, workshops, or other assessments.

• Other states frequently require a verification of your educator licensure program. If you graduated from a Lesley University educator licensure program and need a Verification Form (FORM V) filled out from another state, please send the form to the Certification Office, 29 Everett St, Cambridge, MA 02138-2790. Remember to include your contact information (address, phone, email) as well as a cover sheet explaining where you want the form to be sent.

• Additional information on certification in member states and jurisdictions is available at the NASDTEC Knowledgebase website. You will be required to enter a user name and password to access a variety of information. Please email the Certification Office at cert_off@lesley.edu to request the Lesley user name and password.

How to obtain a Massachusetts teacher license if you are licensed or completed a licensure program in another state

• Massachusetts accepts approved educator preparation programs from other states or the equivalent of an Initial license/certificate and three years of employment under the license in the previous seven years.

• Review the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's webpage on Out-of-State Applicants for complete details on the process and requirements.

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Although Lesley Certification Office has attempted to ensure that the information contained on the website is accurate and complete at the time of posting, the contents are subject to change at any time.