Educator Licensing

APPLICATION PROCESS
There are two parts to the application process.

1. BACKGROUND CHECK – Qualified candidates for licensure must first complete a criminal background check.  Candidates pay fees and receive an authorization form for the background check online at https://secure.utah.gov/elr/ebc/welcome.html.
2. APPLICATION – Complete the related application, license and/or endorsement application(s). Each program has specific applications; make sure to use the correct application(s).  Do not leave any information categories blank. Attach the supporting documentation such as official college transcripts, letters to verify employment (do not send letters of reference or resumes), test scores, copies of current professional licenses or other documentation requested by the state specialist.

GETTING STARTED
As you get started with the licensing process, there are two distinct components of which you need to be aware to keep you on track. You need both components to teach Career and Technical Education courses.

1. LICENSE – A license is an authorization issued by the Utah State Board of Education that permits the holder to serve in a professional capacity in the public education system or an accredited private school.
2. ENDORSEMENT – An endorsement is a specialty field or area earned through course work equivalent to at least an academic minor or through demonstrated competency. Endorsements are listed on the Professional Educator License indicating the specific qualification(s) of the holder.

ROUTES TO LICENSURE
There are several ways to earn a Professional Educator License.

1. UNIVERSITY TEACHER PREPARATION PROGRAM is the traditional route to earning a Professional Educator License. A license is issued to an individual who completes a university teacher preparation program. Contact the university teacher preparation program for more information.
2. CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION ALTERNATIVE PREPARATION PROGRAM (CTE-APP) is an alternative licensure route for the experienced professional. With a combination of work experience and education, an individual may qualify for this licensure route. For additional information, please visit www.schools.utah.gov/cte/sts_licensingapp.html.
3. ALTERNATIVE ROUTES TO LICENSURE PROGRAM (ARL) is a teacher preparation program for individuals who currently hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Candidates must have a degree major in a subject taught in Utah secondary schools. For additional information, please visit www.schools.utah.gov/cert/Alternative-Routes-to-Licensure.aspx.

   -Skilled & Technical Sciences CTE-APP License Application - PDF
   -Level 1 to Level 2 Advancement Form - PDF

Note: Please complete interactive PDF form electronically.  Once completed, print and send in form as outlined in application instructions.

ENDORSEMENT AND SAEP INFORMATION
There are two ways in which to earn an endorsement.

1. ENDORSEMENT- Endorsements are requested when a licensed educator wants the authorization to teach outside his/her current endorsement area(s). All endorsement requirements should be completed before the application is submitted. A processing fee of $45.00is the responsibility of the educator and must be submitted with the endorsement application.
2. SAEP - A State Approved Endorsement Plan (SAEP) is requested by an educator or district when that district has assigned the educator to teach outside of his/her endorsement area(s). The educator must have at least nine semester hours of related course work and/or two years of related work experience and complete the endorsement requirements within the timeframe identified in the plan. Since the SAEP is required by the district, the $45.00  processing fee is the responsibility of the district and must be submitted with the SAEP application.

The following endorsements are available for licensed educators seeking to teach Skilled and Technical Sciences Education courses. Click on the endorsement name for detailed information about each endorsement.

Communication
-TV Broadcasting Technician

Construction Trades
-Carpentry

-Electrician

-Masonry/Tile Setting

-Plumbing

Mechanics and Repairs
-Aircraft Mechanics Technician

-Automotive Collision Repair Technician

-Automotive Services Technician

-Electronics Technician

-Heating/Air Conditioning/Refrigeration

-Heavy Duty Mechanics/Diesel

-Small Vehicle Technician

Personal and Miscellaneous Services
-Cosmetology/Barbering

-Culinary Arts/Chef

Precision Production Trades
-Cabinetmaking/Millwork

-Design Technology (Formerly Drafting/CAD)

-Graphics/Printing

-Machinist Technician/CNC

-Sheet Metal

-Welding Technician

Protective Services
-Fire Science

-Law Enforcement

Transportation and Material Moving
-Commercial Aircraft Pilot

Visual Art
-Commercial Art

-Commercial Photography

Complete the following to apply for a Skilled & Technical Sciences Education Endorsement or a SAEP:

• Select the endorsement needed and download the application form.
• Fill out the form, including university/college course numbers, work experience and industry certifications, to indicate that minimum requirements in each area have been met. 
• Indicate whether you are applying for an endorsement or a SAEP.
• Attach a copy of your transcripts and highlight corresponding classes.
• Attach copies of letters to verify employment.
• Attach copies of test scores, current professional licenses or other documentation requested by the state specialist.
• Do not send letters of reference or resumes.
• Send the transcripts, professional certifications, and completed form, along with the appropriate processing fee (see information above) to:

Utah State Office of Education
ATTN: Stephanie Ferris
Educator Quality and Licensing
250 East 500 South
P O Box 144200
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-4200

Updated December 8, 2011