There are three levels of certification for teaching assistants, and the amount of education required varies depending on the level. A teaching assistant requiring Level I certification needs only a high school diploma or GED. A teaching assistant requiring Level II certification needs nine credits toward the certificate. Level III certification requires 18 credits.
All levels of teaching assistant certification require the same examination: the New York State Assessment of Teaching Assistant Skills Test. Passing the test is good for three years for Levels I and II and does not expire for Level III certification. Passing the exam is valid for Level III as long as the assistant satisfies required ongoing education requirements. Every five years, a Level III teaching assistant must complete 75 hours of continuing education, also referred to as professional development.
Certification is renewable for Level I but not for Level II. Assistants who have had continuous employment in the field can renew Level 1 certification. A teaching assistant who opts for Level II certification must retake the exam and re-apply for the certificate every three years. Re-certification for Level III is not necessary if the teaching assistant continues receiving education credits.