Illinois offers multiple pathways to licensure. To find the route that best suits you, please review the options below.

Option 1: Reciprocity

Did you complete an approved out-of-state educator preparation program and become licensed in that state? You can qualify for the Illinois PEL by submitting the following documents:

• A copy of your valid, comparable out-of-state license
• A bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution of higher education​
  

Option 2: ISBE 80-02

Did you complete an approved out-of-state educator preparation program but did not become licensed in that state? You must meet the following requirements to obtain the Illinois PEL:

• A bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution of higher education
• Proof of completion of a State Approved Program (Use form 80-02: State Approved Program and Completion of Standards Verification​)
  
• Student teaching or equivalent experience
• Completion of coursework* addressing methods of teaching exceptional children, reading methods, content area reading, and methods of teaching English learners (Use form 80-02: State Approved Program and Completion of Standards Verification)
  
• Licensure Tests: All test scores are valid indefinitely. View the options below to see the required tests for each area. Click here to register for the tests. If out-of-state test scores were completed, copies of the test scores must be submitted per the ISBE 80-02 form.  ​
  

Option 3: Illinois Educator Preparation Program

If you are completing an educator preparation program at an Illinois institution, please work closely with the institution to ensure their specific requirements are met.

The menus below indicate the Illinois educator preparation program type and corresponding licensure tests.​​

*View a list of acceptable courses you may take to fulfill this coursework requirements.

• Specific Testing Information/Options​​