If you hold a Tier 1 or Tier 2 teaching license in Minnesota, you may be wondering how to renew your license or work toward a higher tier. This guide outlines the basics of each license type and where to go for additional help.
While Proserva does not currently support Tier 1 or Tier 2 licensure processes, we’ve compiled this article to help you navigate your next steps.
👩🏫 Tier 1 Teaching License Overview
Valid for: 1 year
Renewable: Up to 3 times (4 total licenses in the same content area)
Who applies: Must be requested by a district on your behalf
Renewal Requirements:
Your district must show it was unable to hire a Tier 2, Tier 3, or Tier 4 licensed teacher for the position
You must be employed in the position for which the license is requested
Each renewal is submitted by the district, not the individual educator
Advancing Beyond Tier 1:
Tier 1 is intended as a short-term entry point. To move to Tier 2 or higher, you’ll typically need to:
Begin or continue a teacher preparation program, or
Meet requirements for Tier 2 placement in your content area
👨🏫 Tier 2 Teaching License Overview
Valid for: 2 years
Renewable: Up to 3 times (4 total licenses in the same content area)
Who applies: Must be requested by a district
Renewal Requirements:
Must have district sponsorship and ongoing employment in a Tier 2-approved position
Continued demonstration of progress or alignment toward Tier 3 qualifications is encouraged
Advancing to Tier 3:
To move from Tier 2 to Tier 3, you must meet one of the following:
Complete a Minnesota-approved teacher preparation program
Hold a master’s degree in your content area and have two years of teaching experience
Have a professional teaching license from another state and two years of experience
Complete three years of teaching under a Tier 2 license and pass MTLE content and pedagogy exams
❓ Where Can I Learn More or Get Help?
Visit the PELSB Tiered Licensure Page
Contact your district HR/licensure coordinator
Reach out directly to PELSB’s support team
💡 Tip:
If you're actively working toward a Tier 3 or 4 license start using a free Proserva account for licensure via portfolio and CEU tracking.