Credentialed in Another State with Special Education Teaching Experience

California has a two-level special education teaching credential. The Level I Credential, valid for five-years, is the first document issued after an out-of-state prepared individual has met the basic credential requirements, which includes a baccalaureate degree and teacher preparation. The Level II or Clear Credential, valid for two years, is issued once all credential requirements have been met, including induction teaching and professional development experiences.

Requirements for the Education Specialist Instruction Credential are determined by the number of years of full-time special education teaching experience one has. (Example: “less than two-years” or “two or more years” of teaching experience). Several options are given based on requirements already met.