Earn a bachelor's degree from a college or university that is fully accredited. Because schools in Texas do not offer degrees in education like schools in other states, you must major in another subject and enroll in an educator preparation program at your school that includes teacher training courses.
Take and pass all required teacher certification tests. The Texas Examinations of Educator Standards, or TExES tests are a series of assessments designed to ensure all entry-level teachers in Texas have an adequate understanding of the subjects they'll teach and how to teach them. Information on which test you must take can be found by contacting the Texas Education Agency (www.tea.state.tx.us).
Complete a state application. Prospective teachers must include fingerprints as part of this application and undergo a criminal background check. Educator preparation programs at colleges and universities throughout Texas can provide assistance with other parts of the application.
Earn additional credentials. Educators or potential educators can take additional courses and pass supplementary tests provided by their universities or by the State Board for Educator Certification. The board can also provide information on what tests and credentials can be transferred for educators who are relocating to Texas from another state.