The primary purpose for licensing teachers and school personnel in Virginia is to ensure they meet standards of professional competence, as outlined by the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE). The licensure system upholds quality education by setting specific requirements for preparation, testing, and endorsement, thus confirming educators possess the necessary skills and knowledge for effective instruction.

This responsibility is defined in § 22.1-298.1 of the Code of Virginia, which mandates the Virginia Board of Education to establish licensure requirements through regulation. These requirements encompass educational credentials, specific training, and often assessments that verify professional readiness for the classroom. Virginia offers both traditional licensure pathways for graduates of teacher preparation programs and alternative paths, such as the Career Switcher Program, for individuals transitioning from other professions.

The commitment to continuous learning is important, and the renewal process ensures that school personnel continually update their professional knowledge and skills. License holders are responsible for satisfying license renewal requirements as set forth in the Licensure Regulations for School Personnel and the Code of Virginia. The Virginia Licensure Renewal Manual provides guidance for all license holders as they plan their personal growth within the profession. The manual describes the process for renewing Virginia's educators' licenses through an individualized plan.

Licenses for renewal may be submitted to the Office of Licensure any time after January 1 of the year of expiration. Renewal requests should not be submitted prior to January 1 of the year of expiration.

The Application for License Renewal can be found in the Virginia Licensure Manual.

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• VDOE Professional Learning and Development Website