Becoming a preschool teacher in Texas

How Do I Become a Preschool Teacher in Texas in 2025

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Texas is one of the best states to start a teaching career in.

If you haven’t heard, Texas is leading the way in performance-based teacher pay with its Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA) program. Launched in 2019, TIA offers up to $32,000 in state-funded salary bonuses to educators based on classroom performance, student growth, and school needs. So far, over 25,000 teachers are on track to earn $100,000 or more annually through this initiative.

But despite the program’s success, Texas still needs more qualified, passionate teachers, especially at the preschool level.

So if wondering, “Where do I start? What does Texas actually require?” Let’s break it all down. We explain the processes on how to become a preschool teacher in Texas in 2025. This will include a step-by-step guide on how to:

  • Get the right education.
  • Complete a state-approved preparation program.
  • Pass the required certification exams.
  • Clear a background check and fingerprinting.
  • Apply for and receive your Texas teaching certificate.

Related:

Education Requirements

The first step on how to become a preschool teacher in Texas 2025 is to have the right formal education.

The most straightforward path is to earn a bachelor’s degree. The ideal majors include:

  • Early Childhood Education
  • Child Development
  • Education with a focus on EC–6 (Early Childhood through 6th grade)

Whichever major you pick, just make sure your college or online program is TEA-approved. You can look this up easily on the TEA website.

Here’s what Texas requires:

  • Public school preschool teachers (Pre-K) need a bachelor’s degree AND state certification.
  • Head Start and childcare centers? Sometimes they’ll accept an Associate’s degree, or even a CDA (Child Development Associate) credential (more on that later).

So if you’re still planning your college route, go for a state-approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP). These programs are built to align with Texas certification rules and ensure you’re on track for licensure.

Completing an Educator Preparation Program (EPP)

Become a preschool teacher in Texas

Think of an Educator Preparation Program as your official teacher training. It includes coursework and hands-on experience.

Here’s what most TEA EPP preschool certification programs include:

  • Around 300–350 hours of classroom-based training
  • Student teaching or internship in an early childhood setting
  • Coursework on child development, classroom management, lesson planning, and educational psychology

Now, you can go the traditional route, like attending a university and getting your degree + certification all in one.

OR, if you’re changing careers, you might explore alternative certification programs. These can be online, accelerated, and often let you work while earning your cert.

You can start your search by typing in terms like “Texas alternative teacher certification early childhood” or “online EPP programs for preschool in Texas.”.

Required Certification Exams

After you’ve met the educational Texas early childhood teacher requirements, you will have to sit for the certification exam.

To become a certified preschool teacher in Texas, you’ll need to pass:

TExES Core Subjects EC–6 exam (#391)

Covers English, Math, Science, Social Studies, Fine Arts, and more.

TExES PPR (Pedagogy & Professional Responsibilities)

This one checks your understanding of teaching strategies, ethics, classroom rules, and more.

Some candidates, especially career changers or those with non-education degrees, might need to take the Pre-Admission Content Test (PACT) before entering an EPP.

These tests are registered through TEA’s Educator Testing System. You’ll create an account in ECOS (Educator Certification Online System), pick a test center or online option, and schedule your exam.

Tip: Invest in good study guides or courses. There are plenty of worthy resources like 240Tutoring or Mometrix that can help you pass on the first try.

Background Check & Fingerprinting

You’re going to be working with kids, so Texas requires a full criminal background check and digital fingerprinting through the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Here’s how the Texas preschool teacher background check works:

  • Once you’re enrolled in an EPP or registered for your exam, TEA will prompt you to complete fingerprinting.
  • You’ll go to an approved IdentoGO location and pay the fee (around $50).
  • Results are submitted directly to TEA.

If you have any criminal history, this could affect your eligibility to earn a preschool teacher certification in Texas for public schools or Head Start programs. It’s best to be honest and get legal guidance if needed.

Application for Certification & Licensing

Now you’ve passed your exams, finished your EPP, and completed your fingerprinting, you’re almost there.

It’s time to apply for your Standard Teaching Certificate through the TEA ECOS system.

You’ll need to submit:

  • Your official transcript
  • Your exam scores
  • Proof of EPP completion
  • Background check clearance

There’s an application fee of about $78, and processing typically takes a few weeks. Once you’re approved, you’ve officially completed the education path for Texas preschool teacher — and that means you’re ready to start teaching!

Alternative Pathways: Associate or CDA & Workforce Entry

Not ready for a bachelor’s yet? Already working in a child care center and want to grow?

You can pursue an alternative certification in preschool in Texas, thanks to the Texas Early Learning Council Career Lattice.

Here’s how it breaks down:

  1. High School Diploma + Experience
  2. CDA Credential (Child Development Associate)
  3. Associate Degree (AA in Child Development)
  4. Bachelor’s Degree (ECE or EC–6)
  5. Master’s Degree or Specializations

The CDA credential Texas preschool teacher can be earned even while you’re working full-time, thanks to programs like TEACH Early Childhood® Texas. Plus, they offer scholarships, mentoring, and support so you don’t burn out juggling work and school.

Job Pathways & Work Settings

The preschool teacher job outlook in Texas is looking good. With increased investment in early childhood education, expanded pre-K access, and programs like the Teacher Incentive Allotment (TIA), there are more opportunities than ever for qualified early educators.

  • Public School Districts (Pre-K Programs)
    • Require TEA certification
    • Offer benefits, summers off, and pension plans
    • Pay is usually higher than in private settings
  • Private Preschools & Child Care Centers
    • May accept CDA + experience or associate degrees
    • Roles include lead teacher, assistant teacher, and curriculum specialist
  • Head Start or Early Head Start Programs
    • Federally funded, often prioritize teachers with CDA or ECE credentials
    • Focus on underserved communities

As you gain experience, there are many ways to grow in the early childhood field:

  • Master Teacher – Mentors newer teachers and supports curriculum planning
  • Instructional Coach – Helps improve classroom quality and teaching strategies
  • Program Director or Center Manager – Oversees staff, compliance, and operations
  • Trainer or ECE Consultant – Works with organizations or school districts to provide professional development

Continuing Education & Advancement

Once you’re in, you’re not done growing.

Texas requires certified teachers to complete 150 hours of professional development every 5 years to maintain certification.

You can:

  • Attend ECE conferences (Texas AEYC is a great one).
  • Take online PD courses.
  • Work toward advanced degrees or specializations.

Participating in TECPDS (Texas Early Childhood Professional Development System) helps you keep track of your preschool teacher Continuing Ed Texas hours and connect with training.

Helpful Tips & Resources

TEA Approved Educator Preparation Programs

Find state-approved programs that meet Texas certification requirements for preschool and early childhood teachers.

TEACH Early Childhood® Texas Scholarships

Offers financial aid and support to help early educators earn their CDA, associate, or bachelor’s degree while working.

Texas Educator Certification ECOS

The official portal to apply for teacher certification, register for exams, and track your progress with the Texas Education Agency.

Texas AEYC

A professional network supporting early childhood educators through advocacy, training, and resources across the state.

240Tutoring – Study Prep

Trusted online prep for TExES exams, including Core Subjects EC–6 and PPR, with study guides and a pass guarantee.

CDA Council

The official organization for earning the nationally recognized Child Development Associate (CDA) credential.

Conclusion: Your Path to Preschool Teaching in Texas

The process of how to become preschool teacher in Texas 2025 isn’t just about ticking boxes. It’s about committing to a calling. And Texas is

doing its part to support you.

In Texas, the Texas Education Agency (TEA) oversees preschool teacher licensing. To get licensed, you must:

  • Earn a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
  • Complete a TEA-approved Educator Preparation Program (EPP)
  • Gain classroom experience through student teaching
  • Pass required exams
  • Once all requirements are met, applicants submit materials via the TEA’s online portal, including transcripts, exam scores, and a background check.

There are scholarships. There’s state funding. And there’s a huge need for loving, trained professionals to help raise the next generation of Texans.

So whether you’re 18 or 58, if you love working with children and want to be part of something meaningful, becoming a preschool teacher is 100% achievable.

Plan your path, stick to the steps, and don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way.