So, you’re a teacher in the UK, and you’ve got your sights set on teaching in Texas? Fantastic choice! Whether it’s the promise of higher salaries, year-round sunshine, or the chance to experience a whole new culture (and some seriously good barbecue), Texas has plenty to offer educators from across the pond. But how exactly do you go from teaching in London, Manchester, or Edinburgh to leading a classroom in Houston, Dallas, or Austin?

The process may seem daunting at first, but don’t worry. This article will walk you through it step by step, covering everything from certification requirements to settling into your new teaching life in the Lone Star State.

Why Teach in Texas?

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of certification, let’s talk about why Texas is such a great destination for teachers. Here are a few standout reasons:

• Higher salaries – Public school teachers in Texas can earn upwards of $60,000 per year at the start of their careers. That’s significantly higher than many UK teaching salaries, especially when factoring in the lower cost of living in many parts of Texas.
• Job security – Texas has a massive and growing student population, which means demand for qualified teachers remains strong
• Diverse and dynamic education system – With over 1,200 school districts, Texas offers a wide variety of teaching environments, from bustling city schools to small-town rural districts.
• Warm weather & lower cost of living – Say goodbye to grey skies and high UK housing costs! Texas offers a warm climate, affordable housing, and plenty of outdoor activities.

Sounds good, right? Now, let’s talk about how to get certified and become a teacher in Texas.

How to Become a Teacher in Texas?

Step	Task	Estimated Cost
1	Create a TEA Login (TEAL) Account	Free
2	Apply for a Credential Review	$164
3	Prove English Proficiency (TOEFL if required)	$195
4	Enroll in an Educator Preparation Program (EPP)	Varies
5	Take the Texas Teaching Exams (TExES)	~$116 per exam
6	Complete Fingerprinting and Background Check	~$39
7	Apply for Your Standard Teaching Certificate	$78
8	Apply for a One-Year Certificate (if needed)	$52

Step 1: Getting Your UK Teaching Credentials Recognized in Texas

Texas has its own certification system, and unfortunately, your UK Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) doesn’t automatically transfer. But don’t panic! You can still get certified through the Texas Education Agency (TEA). Here’s how:

1. Create a TEA Login (TEAL) Account

The first step in becoming a certified teacher in Texas is setting up a TEA Login (TEAL) account on the Texas Education Agency (TEA) website. This account allows you to access the Educator Certification Online System (ECOS), where you’ll submit applications, track progress, and manage your certification documents.

If you don’t have a U.S. Social Security Number (SSN) yet, you can request a temporary P-number by submitting a help desk ticket with a copy of your passport. This P-number acts as a stand-in until you get an SSN.

2. Apply for a Credential Review

Once your TEAL account is set up, you’ll need to apply for a Review of Credentials through ECOS. This process costs $164 and is a crucial step in determining whether your UK teaching qualifications meet Texas certification requirements.

The review process involves evaluating your existing credentials, including your bachelor’s degree, postgraduate certificate (if applicable), and teaching experience. TEA will determine which subjects you are eligible to teach in Texas based on this evaluation.

3. Get Your UK Qualifications Evaluated

Since TEA doesn’t automatically recognize UK qualifications, you’ll need to obtain a course-by-course credential evaluation from a TEA-approved foreign credential evaluation service.

This evaluation must verify that:

• Your degree is equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree or higher.
• You have completed an educator preparation program (including a teaching practicum).
• You hold a valid teaching certificate from the UK.

Your evaluation should be sent directly from the credential evaluation service to TEA via email at osc75@tea.texas.gov. Expect to pay between $100–$200 for this evaluation.

4. Prove Your English Proficiency

Even though you’re from the UK, you must still meet Texas’ English proficiency requirements. TEA will likely recognize your UK degree as proof of proficiency, but in some cases, you may be asked to take the TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language) exam.

Minimum TOEFL scores required:

• Speaking: 24
• Listening: 22
• Reading: 22
• Writing: 21

Use entity code 8225 to send your scores directly to TEA.

Step 2: Completing the Educator Preparation Program (EPP)

After your credentials are reviewed, you’ll need to enroll in an Educator Preparation Program (EPP). This program provides essential training on the Texas education system, teaching standards, and classroom expectations.

Many UK teachers opt for an alternative certification program (ACP), which allows you to complete your training online while still in the UK. Some programs also help with job placement and mentorship once you arrive in Texas.

Step 3: Taking the Texas Teaching Exams

Once enrolled in an EPP, you’ll need to pass the Texas Examinations of Educator Standards (TExES). These subject-specific exams assess your teaching knowledge and ensure you meet Texas’ standards.

The number and type of exams you need to take depend on your subject area and credential review results. You can register for TExES tests online, and each exam typically costs around $116.

Step 4: Fingerprinting and Background Check

All teachers in Texas must undergo a national criminal background check and complete fingerprinting before certification. After submitting your application, you’ll receive instructions on how to schedule a fingerprinting appointment through IdentoGO.

Cost: Approximately $39.

Step 5: Applying for Your Standard Teaching Certificate

Once you’ve successfully completed all prior steps—including the credential review, EPP, exams, and background check—you’re ready to apply for your standard five-year renewable Texas teaching certificate.

To do this, log into your ECOS account, submit the application, and pay the $78 certification fee. Your certificate will then be available for download from your educator account.

Can I Start Teaching Before Completing the Process?

Yes! If you want to start teaching before passing all your exams, you can apply for a One-Year Certificate. This allows you to begin teaching while you complete your final certification requirements.

Fee: $52.

Moving to Texas: Practical Considerations

Once you’re certified, it’s time to make the move! Here are a few key things to plan for:

• Visa requirements: Most UK teachers will need an employer-sponsored visa, such as an H-1B visa (for highly skilled workers) or a J-1 visa (for exchange teachers).
• Finding a job: Many Texas school districts actively recruit international teachers. Check job listings on TeachTexas.org and individual district websites.
• Settling in: Texas is huge! Research cities and school districts to find the best fit for your lifestyle and career goals.

FAQs

1. How long does the certification process take?

The teaching certification process in Texas can take anywhere from 3 to 12 months, depending on how quickly you complete each step and whether you need additional exams or training.

2. Do I need to be in Texas to complete the certification process?

No, you can complete most of the process online from the UK, including credential evaluation and educator preparation programs.

3. Will I need a visa to work as a teacher in Texas?

Yes, most UK teachers require an H-1B or J-1 visa, which usually must be sponsored by a hiring school district.

4. Are there teaching opportunities in Texas for UK-trained teachers?

Yes! Many Texas school districts actively seek international teachers, particularly in math, science, and special education fields.

Become a Teacher in Texas from the UK with TeacherBuilder.com

So, if you’re a UK teacher eager for a new challenge, why not bring your expertise to Texas? TeacherBuilder.com makes the certification process simple, flexible, and stress-free with our 100% online program designed for international educators. Plus, our first-year teaching support ensures you have the guidance you need to thrive in Texas classrooms.

Join TeacherBuilder.com today and take the first step toward an exciting teaching career in the Lone Star State! Have questions? Contact us now to learn more.

This article does not contain legal, educational, or government advice. As regulations can change from time to time, readers are advised to check with their local education departments to receive up-to-date information.