Requirements to be a certified bilingual teacher vary from state to state. However, many states require a professional teaching certificate, teaching experience and an examination in the language with which the teacher intends to work. Some states, such as Illinois, require particular courses and a set number of credit hours dedicated to bilingual education programs.
Spanish isn't the only type of bilingual teaching needed in the United States. According to a report by the state of California, teachers are also needed who are fluent in languages such as Chinese, Korean and American Sign Language.
Foreign-taught teachers may be able to forgo traditional teaching certifications if they are needed temporarily or in case of emergency. Most frequently, math, science or bilingual teachers are granted this provision, although the teachers are expected to work toward becoming fully certified in the state.