Individuals with less than four years of teaching experience may be issued initial certifications. An Illinois initial certification is valid for four years. After four years, a person holding a initial certification must apply for a standard teaching certification.
Standard teaching certification is required following four years of successful instruction under an initial certification. A person seeking a standard certification must also complete a state-authorized, professional development program. A standard certification is valid for four years.
Teachers who are certified through the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards may seek master certification in Illinois. Illinois master certification is valid for 10 years. Upon expiration, a master certification may be renewed for additional, ten-year terms.
Teachers certified in other states may apply for provisional teaching certifications in Illinois. Provisional certifications expire after two years. They also outline deadlines for meeting the specific certification requirements for Illinois.