Earn a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in whatever subject you intend to teach. Some four-year schools also offer accelerated "blending programs," combining two years in a teaching preparation program at a community college (where you will work toward your teaching credential) with two years on the university level, at a program whose curriculum is geared toward fulfilling the state credentialing requirements. Upon completing these programs, with a C grade average and above, you will receive your Preliminary Clear Credential.
Complete a fifth-year post-baccalaureate program. By finishing another 2 to 3 semesters of coursework and student teaching, you may attain your master's degree in five years. Certain programs will also require you to complete an internship, where you will work in a classroom under a teacher's supervision, as you continue your coursework. While earning an master's (or doctorate) degree is not necessarily a prerequisite for every community college teaching job (see Resources), having one will certainly improve your future job prospects.
Register with the California Community Colleges Registry by completing an online application (see Resources) and submitting your resume, letters of recommendation and transcripts. By creating an online profile you will be added to this database of teaching candidates that is used by every community college in the state. The database includes the names of all applicants statewide, as well as their qualifications and desired positions. The Registry also offers a number of other services, including a comprehensive online job board (see Resources) letting you search for all community college openings across the state.