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Step 1
The first thing you must do, regardless of the state you live in, is to earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university. If the university you are attending has a specific teaching degree plan this is the program you should enroll in. Otherwise, enroll in a liberal arts program with an emphasis in the area you would eventually like to teach.
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Step 2
Once you have enrolled in an education program you should begin researching the requirements of the different districts or states you are interested in teaching in. Some states require student teaching, additional education requirements, or may have specific course requirements you must complete prior to becoming a teacher.
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Step 3
While working towards certification you should volunteer or substitute at any schools or school districts you wish to eventually teach for. This allows you to become familiar with the staff, teachers, and principals. This will give you a better idea where you would like to teach and you will have an advantage when positions become available.
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Step 4
Once you have obtained your degree and completed all required training you must then pass your state's certification tests. These will often include a subject area and general knowledge test and may also include a professional ethics exam. You will need to register and pay for these on your own and will be notified by the testing center of your grade.
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Step 5
After you have received your passing scores apply to your state's department of education for your teaching certificate. In some states you will only be eligible for a certificate of employment which you can use to be hired as a teacher. If this is the case in your state you will not be able to become certified until you have been offered a position as a teacher.
