The short answer
If you hold an eligible license from one compact state and apply in another, the receiving state can use the compact to grant its closest equivalent license. You still apply, complete that state’s background check and receive a state-specific credential.
“Joined” is not the same as “ready to apply”
CSG’s roster shows which states enacted the compact. A teacher also needs the receiving agency’s eligible-license list, application instructions and operating process. Confirm those pieces before relying on the compact for a start date or paying a fee.
Who may qualify
These are screening questions, not a promise of eligibility. The receiving licensing authority makes the equivalency decision.
Both states are members
Your current license comes from a member state and the state where you want to teach is also a member.
Your license is eligible
It is current, valid and unencumbered, and the member state has identified it as a license that can be considered under the compact.
Your preparation fits
The standard route calls for a bachelor’s degree and completion of a state-approved teacher-licensure program, subject to the compact’s defined exceptions.
You complete the new background check
The receiving state still applies its own criminal background-check process.
The receiving state finds an equivalent
Its licensing authority decides which eligible state license is the closest match and retains discretion over that determination.
The application route is operating
The receiving agency has current instructions for applying through the compact—not just a law showing that the state joined.
Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact states
The Council of State Governments lists these states as having joined the compact. Open a destination guide for its regular out-of-state route and official agency sources.
Virginia joined in 2026; the other states on this roster joined from 2023 through 2024. Membership and implementation can change.
Compact vs. NASDTEC reciprocity
They are related, but they are not interchangeable names for the same system.
Read the full teacher license reciprocity guide for the broader state-to-state picture.
How to check a compact move
- 1Confirm the two-state moveCheck the current member roster for both your licensing state and destination.
- 2Verify your exact licenseAsk whether the credential name, status, subjects and grade levels you hold are eligible—not whether teachers generally qualify.
- 3Find the receiving agency’s compact instructionsUse the licensing agency’s current application, fees, delivery methods and background-check directions.
- 4Apply for the new state licenseThe receiving state reviews equivalency and issues its own credential if it finds an eligible match.
- 5Track what comes at renewalSave any state-specific coursework, testing or other conditions that may be due after the initial license is granted.
What the compact does not erase
Eligibility is only one part of the move
Keep the compact route, state instructions and your progress in one live case.
TeachPassport checks your two states and license details before checkout, then builds the steps around your move. Future moves and requirement updates are included.
Build my plan — $49Questions teachers ask about the compact
Do both states have to be members of the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact?
Yes. The compact route is for a move from one member state to another member state. If either state is outside the compact, the destination's regular out-of-state pathway may still be available.
Does the compact give teachers one license that works in every member state?
No. The teacher applies to the receiving state, and that state issues its own license. The compact is a pathway to an equivalent state credential, not a single multistate teaching license.
Can I use a provisional or temporary teaching license under the compact?
Generally, the standard compact route requires a current, valid and unencumbered license, meaning it is not restricted, probationary, provisional, substitute or temporary. The model legislation includes a different provision for eligible military spouses.
Does the compact eliminate the destination state's background check?
No. An eligible teacher still completes the receiving state's criminal background-check process. The destination can also request information needed for salary placement.
Can the receiving state add requirements after it issues my license?
Yes. The compact governs the initial grant of a license. The receiving state can apply its normal ongoing or renewal requirements later.
If my state joined the compact, can I use it immediately?
Do not assume so. Enactment makes a state a compact member, but teachers still need current agency instructions, eligible-license information and an application process from the receiving state.
Official compact sources
Use these for the compact framework and current member roster. Use the receiving state’s licensing agency for your application.