8VAC20-23-100. Conditions for licensure for out-of-state candidates by reciprocity.
A. An individual coming into Virginia from any state may qualify for a Virginia teaching license with comparable endorsement areas if the individual (i) has completed a state-approved teacher preparation program through an accredited four-year institution or (ii) holds a valid out-of-state teaching license (full credential without deficiencies) that shall be in force at the time the application for a Virginia license is made. An individual shall meet licensure requirements set forth in the Code of Virginia. An individual seeking licensure shall establish a file in the Virginia Department of Education by submitting a complete application packet that includes official student transcripts. Unless exempted by the criteria in this chapter, professional teacher's assessment requirements prescribed by the Virginia Board of Education shall be satisfied.
B. An individual coming into Virginia will qualify for a Virginia teaching license with comparable endorsement areas if the individual holds an active national certification from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards (NBPTS) or a nationally recognized certification program approved by the Virginia Board of Education.
C. Licensure by reciprocity is provided for any spouse of an active duty or reserve member of the Armed Forces of the United States or a member of the Virginia National Guard who has obtained a valid out-of-state license, with full credentials and without deficiencies, that is in force at the time the application for a Virginia license is received by the Virginia Department of Education. Each such individual shall establish a file in the Virginia Department of Education by submitting a complete application packet, which shall include official student transcripts and an official copy of the military permanent assignment orders of the individual's spouse. No service requirements or licensing assessments shall be required for any such individual. The Virginia Department of Education shall determine and communicate such individual's eligibility for licensure by reciprocity within 15 business days of receipt of the complete application packet.
D. Universal licensure by reciprocity shall be provided for any individual who holds a valid out-of-state teaching license with full credentials and without deficiencies that has been in force for at least three years prior to and is in force at the time of application. No service requirements or licensing assessments shall be required for any such individual who applies for universal licensure by reciprocity. Any individual who applies for universal licensure by reciprocity shall provide a copy of the individual's out-of-state teaching license that meets the criteria set forth in this subsection. Any such individual shall be subject to the provisions of §§ 22.1-296.2 and 22.1-296.4 of the Code of Virginia. The department shall prioritize applications for universal licensure by reciprocity.
E. For licensure by reciprocity, applicants may submit third-party employment verification forms.
F. For licensure by reciprocity, the board shall grant special consideration to individuals who have successfully completed a program offered by a provider that is accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation.
Statutory Authority
§§ 22.1-16 and 22.1-298 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 24, eff. August 23, 2018; amended, Virginia Register Volume 37, Issue 14, eff. April 15, 2021; Volume 39, Issue 4, eff. November 9, 2022; Volume 41, Issue 2, eff. October 24, 2024; Volume 41, Issue 3, eff. October 25, 2024.