Credentials

SCOE’s credentials office assists Sonoma County educators with credential/permit applications, facilitates credential/permit renewals, records all credentials registered in the county, and advises out-of-state applicants regarding California certification requirements.

How do I contact SCOE’s credentials office?
The credentials office is open Monday-Thursday, 8:00am to 4:30pm, and Friday, 9:00am to 2:00pm, by appointment only. The office is located at the Sonoma County Office of Education (SCOE), 5340 Skylane Boulevard, Santa Rosa. The phone number is (707) 524-2794 or (707) 524-2987 and the fax number is (707) 524-2950. Credential technicians can also be contacted by email at credentials@scoe.org.

How do I contact the Commission on Teacher Credentialing?
The Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) is located at 1900 Capitol Avenue in Sacramento and is open Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 5:00pm, excluding holidays.

CTC's mailing address is 1900 Capitol Avenue, Sacramento, CA 95811-4213. Credential questions may also be submitted by email to credentials@ctc.ca.gov.

Where can I get credential applications and forms?
Applications and forms are available online from the Commission on Teacher Credentialing, www.ctc.ca.gov.

Can I renew my credential or substitute permit online?
Clear Credentials, Professional Clear Credentials, and Substitute Permits must be renewed online. If you are renewing a document other than those mentioned, please read the face of your document carefully. If you need assistance understanding the requirements, contact SCOE’s credentials office at (707) 524-2681.

To access the online renewal service, go to the Commission on Teacher Credentialing website, www.ctc.ca.gov, then...

• Select the light orange button for Online Services for Educators.
• Select the light orange button for Educator Page.
• Enter your social security number and date of birth, then follow the instructions provided on this secure site.
• Please note, online renewal is not available for all credentials.
• Payment for online renewals must be made by Visa or Mastercard.
• The fee is $72.

When you renew your credential online, you’ll receive an e-mail confirmation from CTC. It is recommended that you keep a copy of this email.

Do I need to register my credential at SCOE?
You only need to register your credential at SCOE if you are new to the county.

How do I register my credential?
If you are new to the county, you should register your credential at SCOE. To complete the registration process, obtain a copy of your credential document from the CTC website and submit it to SCOE with your social security number, address, and phone number. This information may be submitted by mail or in person.

Where can I find information about the CBEST?
Information about the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST) is available online. The Commission on Teacher Credentialing also provides an informational memo about CBEST.

Teacher Preparation & Credentialing Programs

Becoming a teacher in California
Supported by the California Department of Education, the TEACH California website provides information about the teacher credentialing process, teacher preparation programs, financial aid, and teaching jobs. In order to give visitors a sense of teachers’ lives, video interviews of teachers who work in different settings and samples of lesson plans are included on this website.

University-based teacher preparation programs
In the North Coast region, four universities offer teacher preparation and credentialing programs:

Dominican University, Ukiah Center
Humboldt State University
Sonoma State University
University of San Francisco, Santa Rosa Campus

Online certification program
California State University offers the option of obtaining a teaching credential without attending regular university classes. The program, CalStateTEACH, combines 12-18 months of self-study, online support, and personal coaching to integrate the theory and practice of teaching with daily classroom experiences. It prepares candidates to obtain a Preliminary Multiple Subject Credential. More information about the program is available by visiting CalStateTEACH online or calling their toll-free number, (877) 225-7828.