Teach in Rhode Island

Teach in Rhode Island – Information

If you want to Teach in Rhode Island, you will have to qualify for a teaching certificate.

This page contains information on how to get certified to teach in Rhode Island.


Teach in Rhode Island – Initial Certificate

For initial certification in Rhode Island, you have to:

  • Have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
  • Have completed an approved teacher education program within five years from the date of your application
  • Submit official college transcripts for all of your coursework
  • Document the recency of your studies, if requested
  • Submit passing scores for the appropriate Praxis tests (see next section)
  • Document your teaching experience, if any
  • Pay the appropriate application fee

Teach in Rhode Island – Testing

To teach in Rhode Island, you will need to pass the Praxis subject area test for your teaching area.

You may also be required to take one of the following Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching exams:

  • Praxis Principles of Learning and Teaching for Grades K–6
  • Principles of Learning and Teaching for Grades 7–12

Teaching certificates will not be issued if you do not pass the Praxis tests.

Praxis test results must be provided with your application to the state of Rhode Island.

Applicants for vocational teacher status are exempt from taking the Praxis exams.

For further information, please visit the official Praxis website.

Praxis Teacher Certification Test – Rhode Island

Teach in Rhode Island – Out-of-State Teachers

Out-of-state applicants have to follow the terms of the interstate certification agreement.

So, if you are from out of state, you will have to document your qualifications and experience according to these terms.

If you are from out of state and you have graduated within the past five years, you will need to submit a copy of your current teaching certificate.


Out-of-state graduates of approved teacher education programs who have taken the Praxis tests are entitled to initial teacher certification in Rhode Island.

Teach in Rhode Island – Other Information

Applicants should refer to the State of Rhode Island Educator Certification Procedures for further details on certification requirements.

Rhode Island Department of Education

NOTE:  This website is not affiliated with the Praxis Test or with the Rhode Island Department of Education.