How to Apply

The Credentials Department is able to provide information and guidance when applying for specific credential(s)/permit(s). However, you may refer to the links below to review information provided by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) pertaining to each specific credential/permit. The Credentials Department can also submit the application to CTC on your behalf. If you are hired through a Fresno County School District, you will need to work with your District to submit the application to our office. If you are not hired through a Fresno County School District and need assistance with your application, please review the checklists below and contact the Credential Specialist assigned to your last name.

Road Map to Teaching

Not sure where to start? Visit CTC's Road Map to Teaching. Here, you will find many helpful resources to get you on your way to becoming a California Educator!

Credential/Permit Requirements

• Basic Skills Requirement

  The California Education Code and Title 5 Regulations specify that applicants for a credential, certificate, or permit to serve in California public schools must verify basic skills proficiency. For Preliminary Teaching Credential candidates, this must be done before serving as an intern. Institutions may require the basic skills requirement prior to enrollment. Contact the college or university education department for more information.

  Click here to view all options for meeting the Basic Skills Requirement

• Certificate of Clearance

  The Certificate of Clearance (COC) verifies that an individual has completed the Commission's fingerprint character and identification process. This document is valid for five years.

  Click here for a checklist

• Substitute Teaching

  Emergency 30-Day Substitute Teaching Permit (Click here if you already HAVE EARNED your bachelor's degree)

  Prospective Teacher Substitute Permit (Click here if you have earned at least 90 units and are CURRENTLY ENROLLED to earn your bachelor's degree)

  RENEWAL: Prospective Teacher Substitute Permit (Click here if you have an expiring or expired Prospective Teacher Substitute Permit and are still currently enrolled to earn your bachelor's degree)

• Out-of-State Educators

  California has a two-tier credential structure: Preliminary and Clear credentials. If requirements for the Clear credential are not completed before the expiration of the Preliminary credential, the holder will be unable to teach in public schools.

  Elementary Teaching (Multiple Subject Credential)

  Secondary Teaching (Single Subject Credential)

  Special Education (Education Specialist Credential)

  Note that you must hold a professional-level credential* from another state or U.S. territory to qualify for California teaching certification based on out-of-state preparation.

  • Intern/Internship documents
  • Apprentice documents
  • Temporary/Non-renewable documents
  • Documents with requirements to complete subject matter examinations

  Click here for a checklist

• Child Development

  Please refer to the Child Development page for detailed information on this topic.

If you are mailing an application to the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools Credentials Department, please include everything in one packet. Incomplete applications will not be processed. Applications are processed in the order received.