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Certification

The New Jersey Department of Education supports schools, educators and districts to ensure all of New Jersey's 1.4 million students have equitable access to high quality education and achieve academic excellence. As a national leader in education, New Jersey is committed to ensuring excellence within our schools.

To meet our mission the NJDOE requires committed educators to ensure students achieve postsecondary success. This webpage provides information on how to obtain New Jersey certification for teachers, school leaders, educational services personnel, career and technical educators and substitutes.

Basic Skills Requirement Update

The Governor signed A1669/P.L.2024, c.26, into law on June 29, 2024, which eliminates the requirement to complete a Commissioner of Education-approved test of basic reading, writing, and mathematics skills (Basic Skills) for all instructional certificates except for the limited certificate of eligibility (CE) and the limited certificate of eligibility with advanced standing (CEAS). This law shall take effect on the first day of the seventh month following the date of enactment. The law also immediately eliminates the Alternate Certificate of Eligibility.

Customer Service

• Hours: Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Phone: (609) 292-2070
• Create an NJEdCert account to submit questions and communicate directly with customer service staff.
• For all Substitute Credential questions contact a County Office of Education

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS)

Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS) allow persons who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, DeafBlind, or have speech disabilities to communicate by telephone.

See the Accessible Communication Services webpage for additional information on New Jersey Relay and other accessible communications services.

Quick Links

• Apply for Certification
  • Educator License Search
  • Application Status Check