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Teacher License in Kentucky

Kentucky requires a state-level teacher license. The licensing authority is State Dept of Education / Board of Teaching. The median salary is $59,093 per year.

Last updated 2026-05-08

Experience
— months
Exam Fee
$130
Passing Score
70%
Avg Salary
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What are the teacher license requirements in Kentucky?

01

Kentucky requires a teacher to hold a state license. Teach academic and social skills to students in K-12 public and private schools. Licensing is administered by the State Dept of Education / Board of Teaching.

Minimum Age18 years old
EducationBachelor's degree + state-approved teacher preparation program + student teaching
Experience DetailsBachelor's degree + state-approved teacher preparation program + student teaching

What exam do you need for a teacher license in Kentucky?

02

Kentucky requires passing the Kentucky Praxis or state-specific content and pedagogy exams with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $130.

Exam NameKentucky Praxis or state-specific content and pedagogy exams
Passing Score70%
Code EditionPraxis or state-specific content and pedagogy exams
Application Fee$130

How do you get a teacher license in Kentucky?

03

Getting licensed as a teacher in Kentucky takes 24 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.

1
Register with the state
Register with State Dept of Education / Board of Teaching before beginning work.
2
Accumulate required experience
Complete — months of supervised work experience.
3
Apply for the exam
Submit your application and $130 fee through the state portal.
4
Pass the exam
questions, 70% to pass.
5
Receive your license
After passing, your license will be issued. Renew every 2 years.

How much does a teacher license cost in Kentucky?

04

The total cost includes an exam application fee of $130 and renewal fees of $130 every 2 years. Continuing education of 60 hours is required per renewal cycle.

FeeAmount
Exam Application$130
License Renewal$130 every 2 years
Continuing Education60 hours

How much do teachers make in Kentucky?

05

Teachers in Kentucky earn a median salary of $59,093, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

25th Percentile
Median
$59,093
75th Percentile
Mean (average)— / year
Entry level (10th pct)
Top earners (90th pct)
Total employed— in Kentucky
National average$66,397

Frequently Asked Questions

07

Is a license required to work as a teacher in Kentucky?

Yes — Kentucky requires a state-level teacher license. Teach academic and social skills to students in K-12 public and private schools.

What exam is required for a teacher license in Kentucky?

The required exam is the Kentucky Praxis or state-specific content and pedagogy exams. You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $130.

How much do teachers make in Kentucky?

The median annual salary for teachers in Kentucky is $59,093. The national median is $66,397.

What are the continuing education requirements for teachers in Kentucky?

Kentucky requires 60 hours of continuing education for license renewal every 2 years.

How long does it take to get a teacher license in Kentucky?

The fastest path takes approximately 6 months. The typical path takes 24 months including experience requirements.

Related

Data last verified April 2026. Requirements may change — always verify with the State Dept of Education / Board of Teaching.