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Become a Teacher

To teach in West Virginia, the state requires that you complete an accredited, state-approved teacher preparation program and pass the required PRAXIS tests. WVU teacher candidates are also required to complete and pass an edTPA website, a nationally-scored teacher performance assessment.

Teacher Preparation Programs Leading to Initial Teacher Certification:

Advanced Teacher Education Programs

Background Check Information and Procedures

If you are located in West Virginia, you may schedule an appointment for a fingerprinting/background check with IDENTOGO online at uenroll.identogo.com or you may schedule via telephone at (855) 766-7746. You will need the Service Code you will receive via email once the West Virginia Department of Education’s Office of Certification receives your application. Use the following step-by-step directions to schedule an appointment online:

  1. Visit uenroll.identogo.com
  2. Enter the Service Code you received via email from the West Virginia Department of Education
  3. Select “Schedule or Manage Appointment”
  4. Enter your information as required in the next several screens
  5. Search for the closest enrollment center to schedule your appointment
  6. Select your center of choice
  7. Select date and time for appointment
  8. Review your information
  9. Students can use debit, credit, check or money order at the LiveScan facility. (CASH IS NOT ACCEPTED)

If you are located outside of West Virginia and cannot make it to a WV IdentoGo LiveScan fingerprint location, please see West Virginia Department of Education for instructions, WVDE Fingerprinting Instructions

Questions? Contact Michelle Principe, Certification Specialist at michelle.principe@mail.wvu.edu or 304-293-3983.