How to Apply for the Arizona International Teaching Certificate

If you are an international educator preparing to teach in Arizona, understanding the Arizona International Teaching Certificate process is an important step in your journey. This certificate allows qualified teachers from around the world to teach in Arizona schools through the BridgeUSA cultural exchange program.

At Spirit Cultural Exchange, we support international Teachers through every stage of this process. This guide explains the key steps in clear, simple language to help you feel confident and prepared.

The Arizona International Teaching Certificate is a special teaching license created for international educators. It allows you to teach in Arizona while participating in the J-1 Teacher Program. 

This certificate is designed to: 

• Ensure you meet state teaching standards 

• Allow you to serve as a full-time, teacher of record in Arizona 

• Allow you to fully participate in your cultural exchange program 

It is different from a standard US teaching license because it is specifically connected to your J-1 visa and cultural exchange participation.

You must begin the Arizona International Teaching Certificate process after you arrive in the US. 

Before applying, you must: 

1. Arrive in the US as a J-1 visa Teacher.

2. Validate your program with Spirit Cultural Exchange.

3. Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN).

Unlike some states, the Arizona International Teaching Certificate application is not completed online. It is a paper application that must be submitted by mail or in person. 

Once you have arrived, validated your program, and applied for your Social Security Number, follow these steps:

Review the requirements for the Arizona International Teaching Certificate here. Then, begin the application form from the Arizona Department of Education. 

• Fill out all sections clearly and accurately.  

• Make sure your information matches your official documents.

• Do not leave required fields blank.

Step 2 of the application linked above is to complete fingerprinting. Arizona requires all teachers to complete fingerprint clearance through the Arizona Department of Public Safety Identity Verified Prints (AZDPS IVP) process. 

Important notes: 

• You must apply for an IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card.

• This is a required background check for certification.

• Processing can take several weeks.

• Start this step as soon as possible after arrival in the US.

You may include proof of this application in your certification packet if instructed.

Prepare a complete application packet. This typically includes: 

• Completed paper application form 

• Required application fee 

• AZDPS IVP Card 

• Foreign Credential Evaluation 

• Letter verifying teaching position at AZ Host School

• Photocopy of your J-1 visa in your passport (Do not submit a copy of your DS-2019 form).

If you are adding additional approved subject areas or endorsements, be sure to clearly note this in your application. 

• Additional approved areas allow you to teach more subjects.

• Endorsements can show specialization or expand your grade level eligibility.

• You must include any additional required fees for these requests.

You must submit your complete application packet to the Arizona Department of Education, Certification unit. 

You have two options: 

• Mail your application to the Arizona Department of Education Teacher Certification PO Box.

• Deliver your application in person to the Arizona Department of Education office in Phoenix.

Incomplete applications may cause delays, so double-check everything before submitting.

After submission: 

• Update Spirit Cultural Exchange and your Host School! 

• Keep copies of everything you sent.

• Watch for communication from the Arizona Department of Education.

• Be patient: processing times can vary.