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How to Become a Teacher in Indiana: Your Step-by-Step Roadmap

 If you are passionate about education and want to become a teacher in Indiana, you’re entering a rewarding career with the opportunity to shape the future of students and communities. Indiana offers several traditional and alternative pathways to becoming a licensed teacher, making it accessible not only for recent graduates but also for career changers, retired professionals, and individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree in any field.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to become a teacher in Indiana, the licensing requirements, exams, training, and how alternative certification options—like the American Board (ABCTE) program—can help you enter the classroom without going back to college for a second degree.

Become a teacher in Indiana


 Step 1: Understand Indiana’s Basic Teaching Requirements

To qualify for a teaching license in Indiana, you must:

  • Hold at least a bachelor’s degree (in any field)

  • Complete a teacher preparation program (traditional or alternative)

  • Pass required content and pedagogy exams

  • Complete CPR/Heimlich certification and suicide prevention training

  • Submit your application to the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE)

If you already have a bachelor’s degree, you do not need to return to college to get an education degree. Indiana recognizes alternative certification pathways, including online programs such as the American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE).

Step 2: Choose Your Path — Traditional or Alternative Certification

Traditional Route

You enroll in a university-based education degree or Transition to Teaching program. This path is ideal for new graduates planning to teach immediately.

Alternative Route (Most Popular for Career Changers)

If you have a bachelor’s degree and want a faster, flexible path, an alternative certification program allows you to:

  • Study online at your own pace

  • Earn certification around work & family life

  • Start teaching sooner in Indiana schools

One of the most recognized options is the American Board (ABCTE) Teacher Certification Program, which provides:

  • Online study modules

  • Teacher readiness and subject exams

  • Certification accepted for Indiana teaching licensure

This path is highly appealing for those who want to change careers without going back to college or completing student teaching.

Step 3: Choose the Subject You Want to Teach

Indiana schools often need teachers in the following high-demand subjects:

High-Demand Teaching Areas in IndianaLevel
Math & AlgebraMiddle & High School
Biology, Chemistry, PhysicsSecondary
English & Language ArtsMiddle & High School
Special Education & Resource SupportK-12
STEM & Computer ScienceHigh School

Selecting a high-need area increases your job placement opportunities.

Step 4: Complete a Teacher Preparation Program

If You Choose a Traditional Route:

You will complete coursework and student teaching through a university.

If You Choose the ABCTE Program:

You will:

  • Study online at your own pace

  • Prepare for both pedagogy and subject area exams

  • Receive support to transition into a classroom role

The ABCTE program is particularly valuable because it:

  • Saves time (no 2–4 year degree required)

  • Reduces cost

  • Fits into your schedule as a working adult

Step 5: Pass the Required Exams

To become licensed, you’ll take:

  1. Content Area Exam — shows your subject knowledge

  2. Pedagogy/Teaching Exam — demonstrates teaching skills and classroom understanding

If using the ABCTE pathway, your certification exams fulfill these requirements.

Step 6: Complete CPR & Suicide Prevention Training

Indiana requires:

  • CPR with AED and Heimlich technique certification

  • Suicide Prevention Training (online courses are available at no cost)

These must be completed before submitting your license application.

Step 7: Apply for Your Indiana Teaching License

Once all requirements are completed:

  1. Create an account in Indiana’s LVIS Licensing Portal (https://license.doe.in.gov)

  2. Upload transcripts and certificates (including ABCTE if applicable)

  3. Submit background check results

  4. Pay the license application fee

  5. Wait for IDOE approval and issuance of your teaching license

Step 8: Begin Teaching in Indiana Schools

After receiving your license, you can apply to:

  • Public schools

  • Public charter schools

  • Private schools

  • Online and hybrid learning academies

High-demand subject teachers often find positions quickly.

Why an Alternative Route Like ABCTE is Popular in Indiana

BenefitExplanation
No need for a second degreeSaves years and money
100% online & self-pacedStudy while working full-time
Recognized by Indiana Department of EducationValid pathway to licensure
Ideal for career changersHelps professionals move into teaching smoothly

This makes the ABCTE path one of the most flexible and affordable ways to enter the teaching profession in Indiana.

Conclusion

If you want to become a teacher in Indiana, the process is clear and achievable whether you're a recent graduate or transitioning from another career. With the availability of recognized alternative certification programs like the American Board (ABCTE), you can enter the teaching field without returning to college, study at your own pace, and start impacting student lives sooner. Teaching in Indiana is not only a respected career—it is a meaningful way to give back to your community.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Do I need an education degree to become a teacher in Indiana?
No. If you already have a bachelor’s degree, you can use an alternative certification program like ABCTE to qualify.

2. How long does it take to become a teacher in Indiana?
Using an alternative pathway, many candidates complete certification and start teaching within 6–12 months.

3. Is the ABCTE certification recognized in Indiana?
Yes. Indiana accepts ABCTE as a valid pathway for earning a teaching license.

4. What is the cost of becoming a teacher in Indiana through ABCTE?
Costs vary but are significantly lower than a university education degree.

5. Can I choose any subject to teach?
Yes, but choosing high-demand subjects can improve job opportunities.

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Location: Indiana, USA

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