Check with your state department of education to find out what the guidelines are for certification. Most states will allow you to apply with a bachelor's degree in the field of study you seek certification in. So if you have a B.S. in physical education, you can apply for a PE certification. If you have a B.S. in science for example, you may need to complete a master's to get PE certification, or take additional coursework leading to a master's to satisfy the PE certification requirements.
Review your college transcripts and resume or curriculum vitae. Gather all materials necessary for credentialing outside of the necessary coursework, such as substitute teaching, professional development seminars, workshops, and any other related courses taken. Sometimes departments of education will count substitute teaching credits toward certification, especially if it was long-term. Courses related to physical education taken as an undergraduate might also transfer into a new certification.
Research what schools offer the coursework necessary for the certification. Your state department of education is a good place to start, but you might also conduct an Internet search.
Complete the application process for one or two schools you are interested in attending. This is where all that paperwork you gathered up in Step 2 will be needed.
When all the coursework is completed, take any necessary exams required by the state you are seeking certification in. Some require passing a state-administered exam upon completion of the coursework. Check with your school's registration office or your academic adviser for these details. Your state department of education website will also have this information.
Submit all the necessary paperwork, including the state-required application, transcripts and examination scores to your state department of education. Often schools will submit this on your behalf after you submit it to them; check with your adviser on this.