We Can Help You Address Issues Impacting Your Florida Educator Certification

Last updated on April 21, 2025

In Florida, teachers and certain education professionals must obtain a teaching license – called an educator certification. This license is a ticket to your career and livelihood. You must maintain and recertify your license in accordance with Florida law.

There are many steps in the certification and recertification process. Navigating the process can be confusing, and when obstacles arise, you shouldn’t have to address them alone. Our lawyers at Bilello & Soowal, PLLC, can help. We are experienced education lawyers with proven success handling Florida teacher certification issues.

Certification Problems That Can Jeopardize Your Teaching Career

Florida law sets specific standards for obtaining and maintaining your educator certification. There are many pathways to obtaining a teaching license. Generally speaking, the basic eligibility requirements include:

• Obtaining a qualifying degree or completing an approved teacher education program
• Passing the required examinations
• Completing ongoing education requirements

We can help you with any issues that arise during the certification process, including:

• Unwarranted denials of your teacher certification
• Problems converting a temporary certification to a professional one
• Issues with renewing your certification
• Problems with transferring your out-of-state teaching license to Florida
• Help pursuing reinstatement of your teacher certification after a suspension, revocation or expiration

Once you have obtained your teaching license, you may encounter hurdles that jeopardize your certification. Disciplinary proceedings and complaints of misconduct can result in suspension or revocation of your license. Florida law – specifically, Florida Statutes 1012.795 – enumerates many grounds for disciplinary action. We defend teachers against any type of allegations of misconduct.

Frequently Asked Questions On Florida Educator Certification Issues

Verifying the status of your teaching certification is an important step that helps ensure your credentials are active and up to date. Below, we have answered some commonly asked questions about certification issues:

How can I verify the status of my teaching certification?

Having your teaching certification active and accurate is important as it helps maintain compliance with state requirements.

The Florida Department of Education (FLDOE) provides an online portal where you can check your certification status quickly and easily. You can check your certification status by accessing the official portal and signing in with your credentials.

How do I address a discrepancy in my certification records?

If you find an error in your certification records, it is important to address it as soon as possible. Contact the FLDOE’s Bureau of Educator Certification and provide any necessary documentation to correct the mistake.

With the help of a Florida attorney, you may seek assistance from the district’s certification specialist to help ensure your records are updated properly.

How can I pursue reinstatement of my teaching license after suspension or revocation?

Reinstating a suspended or revoked teaching license depends on the circumstances of the case. You may need to:

• Complete additional coursework
• Fulfill professional development requirements
• Provide evidence of rehabilitation

In some cases, you may be required to appear before the Education Practices Commission before your license can be reinstated. Contact the FLDOE, with the help of an educator certification lawyer, for specific guidance on your situation.

What should I do if my certification application is denied?

If your certification application is denied, it is vital to review the reason for the denial, as outlined in your notification.

You may have the opportunity to correct any deficiencies, submit additional documentation or appeal the decision through the FLDOE. On the whole, consulting with a certification attorney can help you determine the best course of action.