Frequently Asked Questions  

When should I file for a NC License? 
You may file for a NC license at any time. However, once you become an employee of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, you must file your paperwork within 30 days of employment.  

Is there a fee for my license? 
Yes. There is a processing fee of $85.  

What test do I need to obtain a NC license?
North Carolina uses the Praxis II test for teacher licensure. However, testing may not be required for all license holders. 

• Teachers from other states with three or more years of teaching experience who are fully licensed and highly qualified in the originating state and have met NC’s Praxis II requirements or who have National Board Certification will have no further testing requirements 
• Teachers from other states with three or more years of teaching experience who are fully licensed and highly qualified in the originating state but have not met NC’s Praxis II testing requirement or who have not earned National Board Certification can receive a clear license after one year of satisfactory teaching in NC 
• Teachers with fewer than 3 years of teaching experience and have completed an approved teacher education program must pass a state test or have an academic major in the area or have a graduate degree in the area or have National Board Certification in the area to receive a clear license 
• Elementary education and Exceptional Children’s teachers must pass a rigorous state test before employment 

How does reciprocity work?
Reciprocity is based on completion of an approved education program or an interstate agreement. Reciprocity does not guarantee that all areas of licensure will transfer directly from one state to another, but you will be awarded the closest comparable NC area. North Carolina grade levels differ and such a difference may be reflected on your license. Out-of-state license holders must document “HQ” status from their home state. See previous section on reciprocity.

May I apply for a license if I have not met the testing requirement?
Yes. Your testing requirement must be met by the end of your first school year. Different date requirements may apply if you are a lateral entry candidate hired after July 1, or if you are newly hired after January 1 of any school year. Effective June 30, 2006, test requirements must be met before a license is issued for teachers licensed in elementary education and exceptional children. 

Will my previous experience be credited to my NC license?
Yes, in most cases. Properly documented professional experience is creditable under the criteria outlined by the state. Salary placement will be at the bottom of the scale until a complete Licensure Application Packet has been filed with the CMS Licensure Office. Credit for lateral entry, non-teaching, work related experience must be approved by the NC State Department of Public Instruction. 

Who do I contact for further information about NC Licensure? 
Contact the NC State Department of Public Instruction Licensure Section. If you are employed in a licensed position with CMS, you may contact your assigned Licensure Case Manager.

Where can a lateral entry teacher get information on course work requirements?
CMS is fortunate to have established partnerships with the following area colleges and universities. Contact their School of Education for information on licensure programs.