Special Education Licensure

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The Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC) is an independent licensing agency that operates under Oregon Administrative Rules. Teacher Standards and Practices Commission's mission is to ensure that every student is provided with a competent and ethical educator.

Information on Continuing Licensure.

Alternative Programs are those licensure programs approved by TSPC which are delivered in a non-traditional format. This format can include distance delivery, off-campus instruction and a combination of alternative methods along with traditional methods.

 

What do I need to become a special educator in Oregon?

If you currently do not have a teaching license from Oregon, or any other state, the following links may be of assistance in becoming a special educator. Licensure rules for teachers, administrators, and school psychologists are fundamentally the same.

Check with Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC) for specific information.

 

How do I get certified if I am certified/licensed in another state?

If you are from another state and currently hold a teaching license from that state, you will typically need to apply for a transitional license. This license is valid for three years in which time you need to meet any additional requirements for the Initial License. These requirements are usually in the form of specific test scores required in Oregon.

How do I add a special education endorsement to an Oregon regular education license?

If you currently hold a valid Oregon Teaching License for regular education, you will need to add an endorsement in one of the areas specific to special education. These areas include:

Check with Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC) for specific information.

 

Can I be a substitute teacher or teach in special education with a regular education license?

If you currently hold a valid Oregon teaching license, but are not endorsed in one of the areas specific to special education, you can be a substitute. You can also teach special education under a Conditional Assignment Permit.
Check with Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC) for specific information.

Substituting

Misassignment (Conditional Assignment Permit)

Starting school year 2000-2001, TSPC began using a "Conditional Assignment Permit" instead of the "Misassignment" classification. The Conditional Assignment Permit is required for individuals who are assigned to teach more than 10 hours per week outside of their endorsement area. This permit allows individuals with a regular renewable license to teach outside of their endorsement area if their employer attests that "circumstances prevent hiring a suitable teacher licensed with all of the levels and endorsements needed for the role" and the co-applicant employer agrees to provide "professional assistance" to the applicant during the first year. Click for more information on the Conditional Assignment Permit.

 

Can I be a substitute teacher or teach in special education without a regular education license?

Yes, though with limits.

Check with Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC) for specific information.

How and where can I get license application forms?

Click to download license application forms in pdf format.

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For more information, contact
The Recruitment & Retention Project
Teaching Research Division
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