Nebraska School Counselor Certification Reciprocity

School Counselor Certification

by School Counselor Certification Staff

Updated: January 30th, 2025

Certification Reciprocity Process for School Counselors

Nebraska is currently offer direct reciprocity for out-of-state teachers. There are two (2) pathways for obtaining licensure.

The first option is through the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact, which facilitates teachers’ mobility across member states. To be eligible, you must hold an Unencumbered Eligible License from a member state.

The second route is going through the standard route to obtain an Initial Special Services Certificate.

Background checks are mandatory for both pathways, with fingerprints being required.

Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact:

  • Purpose: Nebraska is a member of the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact to facilitate the mobility of teachers across member states, aiming to support teachers through a new pathway to licensure.
  • Requirements: To qualify for certification under this compact, you need to hold an Unencumbered Eligible License issued by a member state’s licensing authority. An Unencumbered License is current, and valid, and allows you to serve as a teacher in P-12 public educational settings.
  • Application Process:
    • Apply through the TEACH portal and pay the application fee.
    • Submit two (2) sets of full fingerprints taken while in the United States.
    • Submit Out-of-State Teacher Certification to confirm your certification in a compact state.
    • Additional forms may be required depending on your certificate type from your current compact state.

An application fee of ($55) applies for both pathways, payable through the TEACH system.

Documentation requirements include official transcripts, institutional verification, educator certificate, employment verification, and test scores (if applicable).

For further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to a specialist via email at nde.tcertweb@nebraska.gov  or give the certification office a call at (402)-471-0739. They’ll be happy to provide you with any additional information you may need.