The usual steps
- Choose Form 20R reciprocity or Form 20A out-of-state program completion
- Create the West Virginia certification application
- Upload the valid source public-school certificate for reciprocity
- Arrange the official transcript
- Map the source endorsements to West Virginia
- Complete the background and conduct disclosures required by Policy 5202
- Submit the application and monitor Certification Check
What can change your path
- • The reciprocity route requires a valid out-of-state public-school license or certificate
- • Out-of-state preparation without a valid license is a different application route
- • Program-completion applicants need an accredited state-approved program and the preparing institution's recommendation
- • WVDE makes the final endorsement and certificate determination under Policy 5202
What the state says
These facts come from official sources. The state agency still makes the final licensing decision.
Two separate applications
A valid source public-school certificate uses West Virginia's Form 20R reciprocity route; completion of an out-of-state program without that credential uses Form 20A instead.
Program route is not reciprocity
The program-completion branch must meet Policy 5202 and applicable West Virginia licensure assessments, while the valid-license reciprocity branch is evaluated as a separate transaction.
Core evidence
West Virginia requires an official transcript and, for reciprocity, a copy of the valid out-of-state public-school license; the program route adds provider approval and institutional recommendation evidence.
Why your details matter
State websites describe the possible routes. The right one for you can depend on your license, preparation, experience, subjects, grades, tests, National Board status and compact eligibility. TeachPassport uses those details to build your checklist and keeps checking the state’s rules.
One thing to know: A valid source public-school certificate uses the Form 20R reciprocity route; a person who completed out-of-state preparation but does not hold that credential uses the separate Form 20A program-completion route and must satisfy Policy 5202 requirements.