Delaware Credential Guide
Teacher of English Learners Standard Certificate Requirements in Delaware
Issued by Delaware Department of Education and Professional Standards Board.
Delaware issues a Teacher of English Learners Standard Certificate alongside an educator license. It recognizes several preparation routes and a separate English-proficiency condition.
Official sources reviewed . Requirements can change, so confirm your route with the issuing agency before enrolling.
Delaware License and Certificate
Keep the Teaching License Separate From EL Subject Authorization
Delaware's educator License authorizes employment; its Teacher of English Learners Standard Certificate identifies the K–12 teaching area. Regulation 1562 requires a qualifying Delaware license or a route to one before the EL certificate can be issued.
The current rule includes an approved EL program, an approved alternative route, a qualifying degree with 30 EL credits, or a bachelor's degree plus 15 credits across ESL methods, acquisition, literacy, testing and English structure. It also recognizes a current National Board English as a New Language certificate.
Check the rule's English-proficiency route and Praxis 5362 score of 149 or its multiple-measures provision. Send official transcripts and scores; if seeking an Initial License, apply for the EL certificate at the same time.
Ask Delaware to confirm which education route fits your record. A valid current out-of-state EL teaching credential may support a separate reciprocal review; temporary or expired credentials do not qualify for that route.
Delaware Professional Standards Board, current Regulation 1562 checked September 29, 2026: Teacher of English Learners Standard Certificate rule.
Delaware Requirements
Start With the Delaware License
Check whether you already hold an Initial, Continuing or Advanced License, or must qualify through the general license rules.
License eligibility
Applicants must hold a valid Delaware Initial, Continuing, or Advanced License, or qualify for a license through Delaware's general certification requirements.
Delaware Requirements
Compare the Preparation Routes
The rule recognizes a degree, approved program, alternative route and a specified 15-credit option. Ask the Department which evidence fits your record.
Preparation choices
Delaware accepts an English Learner preparation degree with at least 30 semester hours, an approved program or alternative route, or a bachelor's degree plus 15 credits across five named English Learner subject areas.
Approved routes
Delaware's rule recognizes approved educator-preparation programs, approved alternative routes, transcript coursework, and individual Secretary review in qualifying cases.
Delaware Requirements
Meet Testing and English-Proficiency Conditions
The state lists an ESOL Praxis score and a separate English-proficiency condition. Confirm both before submitting the application.
Testing and proficiency
The rule lists Praxis English to Speakers of Other Languages test 5362 with a passing score of 149 and a separate English-proficiency condition.
Delaware Requirements
Keep Your License Current or Seek Reciprocity Review
The Standard Certificate follows the underlying license. A qualifying out-of-state license can support a separate Delaware review.
License maintenance
The Standard Certificate itself is not renewed separately, but the educator's underlying Delaware license must remain current.
Out-of-state route
A valid current out-of-state teacher license or certificate can support Delaware's reciprocity route, subject to the state's licensure requirements.