There were more than 42,900 teachers employed in the state of Iowa in elementary through high school, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2019. Although all of these teachers must renew their licenses after a period of time, the processes for each may be different depending on their license type.
Iowa Teacher General Information
| Average Salary for Teachers in Iowa (2019)* | $53,950 (Elementary School); $55,250 (Middle School); $56,570 (High School) |
| Required Degree | Bachelor's degree required (master's degree required for master educator license) |
| Degree Field | Education with a state-approved teacher preparation program |
| Testing Requirement Options | ETS Praxis Pedagogy Test and ETS Praxis Content Test OR edTPA Content Test OR ETS PPAT Pedagogy Test with ETS Praxis Content Test |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
How to Renew a Teacher License in the State of Iowa
Initial Teacher License
The process for renewing a teaching license in Iowa is dependent on the desired license. Recent graduates and those teaching in the state of Iowa for the first time receive an initial license valid for two years which can then be renewed two more times for two years each renewal. There is no additional schooling required to renew this license, but mandatory reporter training is necessary. After the second renewal of this license, a proof of employment is necessary to be eligible for a standard license.
Standard Teacher License
A standard license is the next step for a teacher in Iowa. Converting from an initial license to a standard license requires two years of teaching in a public school or three years of combined public, private, or out-of-state teaching experience. This license is valid for five years, and renewing this license requires six renewal credits as well as mandatory reporter training.
Master Educator License
A master educator license is the highest level of licensing for a teacher in Iowa. This license requires a master's degree in one of the specified areas, as well as five years of teaching experience. All renewal requirements for the standard license must also be met. To renew a master educator license, four renewal credits and mandatory reporter training are required. This license is valid for five years.
License Renewal Resources for Iowa Teachers
Additional information regarding professional development for teachers can be found through the link below.
- Psychology - Professional Development Course for Teachers
