Texas Credential Guide
English as a Second Language Supplemental Requirements in Texas
Issued by Texas Education Agency and State Board for Educator Certification.
The ESL Supplemental credential is added to a Texas teaching certificate for a content area and grade level. It is not a standalone teaching certificate.
Official sources reviewed . Requirements can change, so confirm your route with the issuing agency before enrolling.
Not a Standalone Certificate
The ESL Credential Supplements a Texas Teaching Certificate
The ESL Supplemental credential is added to a Texas teaching certificate for a content area and grade level. It is not a standalone teaching certificate.
Published Exam Transition
Plan Around the 2028 Test Change
Dates and test availability can change. Confirm the current testing page before registration.
For Current Texas Classroom Teachers
Add ESL by Examination Through Your Educator Account
TEA's exam route requires a valid standard classroom teaching certificate and a bachelor's degree. A passing exam score does not add ESL automatically.
- Check that your classroom certificate is active and that its name matches the ID you will use for testing.
- Register for the current ESL Supplemental exam and confirm the passing score in your educator account.
- Choose Additional Certification by Examination from the account's Applications menu. TEA adds the area after application approval and a clear background check.
If you hold an out-of-state credential or need initial Texas certification, use TEA's credential-review or initial-certification path before relying on this additional-area process.
Renewal Follows the Standard Certificate
Texas classroom-teacher standard certificates generally renew every five years and require 150 continuing professional education hours.