Learn how to renew a Professional Educator Certification or reinstate a Professional Educator Certification in California
Preliminary teaching credentials may not be renewed after their five-year expiration. You must meet the requirements for a Clear Credential during the five-year life of your Preliminary Credential.
To apply for your Clear Credential, submit a Renewal Application along with fees and supporting documents to State of California Commission on Teacher Credentialing; Certification, Assignment and Waivers Division; Attention: Applications; 1900 Capitol Avenue; Sacramento, CA 95811-4213.
Once you receive your California Clear Credential, it is valid for five years. Although the Commission used to require 150 hours of professional growth to renew a clear credential, clear credentials may now be renewed without verifying any professional or continuing education requirements.
If your California teaching credential is revoked for failing to fulfill your contract duties or for misconduct, you must wait one year from the effective date of your credential to apply for reinstatement. You must submit a letter requesting reinstatement along with an application and appropriate fees. Complete the Petition for Reinstatement Packet and mail it, along with supporting documents and fees, to Commission on Teacher Credentialing, Division of Professional Practices, 1900 Capitol Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95811-4213. If you have any questions, call the Division at (916) 324-5953.