Vermont Administration/Principal Certification
Vermont principal candidates need a master’s degree, at least three years of licensed PreK-12 teaching experience, and a principal endorsement added to an existing Vermont educator license. Candidates must complete required leadership coursework and assessments, then apply through the Vermont Agency of Education’s online licensing system before working as a school administrator.
Sponsored School(s)
Vermont doesn’t issue a standalone administrator license. Instead, licensed teachers add a principal endorsement to their existing Vermont Educator License once they’ve met the state’s education, experience, and testing requirements. The Vermont Agency of Education administers the licensure process and reviews endorsement applications submitted through ALiS.
Education Requirements
Principal endorsement candidates must hold at least a master’s degree and complete leadership coursework that demonstrates competence in these areas:
- Fundamentals of Educational Administration/Leadership
- School Law
- School Finance or School Business Management
- Staff Evaluation/Development
- Curriculum Management
- School/Community Relations
Candidates must complete leadership coursework that satisfies Vermont’s administrator endorsement competencies. Individual preparation programs may package this coursework differently, so credit-hour totals can vary by program.
Learn more about the graduate school process. Contact schools offering educational administration degree programs in Vermont.
Examination Requirements
Vermont requires the ETS School Leadership Series Assessment (ETS Test Code 6990) for administrator endorsements unless the applicant qualifies for one of the exemptions in state rule, such as completing a post-baccalaureate educational leadership program, a ROPA-approved teacher leadership program, or already holding a current administrator endorsement. The Vermont Agency of Education notes that specific testing requirements can change, so candidates should confirm current exam codes, exemptions, and passing scores directly with the Agency before registering.
Experience Requirements
Candidates need at least three years of experience as a licensed PreK-12 teacher before they can add a principal endorsement. Many programs also build in supervised leadership experience, often cited around 300 hours tied to Vermont’s Core Leadership Standards, plus a practicum component. Teaching experience first gives future administrators firsthand knowledge of classrooms and instruction, background that carries directly into school leadership. For more on moving from the classroom into administration, see our guide on becoming a school principal.
Document and Application Requirements
Candidates apply for a principal endorsement through Vermont’s online licensing system, ALiS, administered by the Vermont Agency of Education. During the application, candidates designate that they’re seeking the principal endorsement (Code 91) and submit it for academic review.
Applicants should include transcripts and documentation of completed coursework with their application. Vermont also requires an oath to uphold the U.S. and Vermont Constitutions, a current resume, and consent for release of registry information.
Teachers who already hold a Vermont license can request a Transcript Review to have prior coursework evaluated against the general competencies for principals.
Because application fees, mailing requirements, and exact processing steps can change, candidates should verify current figures directly with the Vermont Agency of Education before submitting an application.
Criminal History Background Check
Applicants for Vermont educator licensure are subject to Vermont’s criminal history record check requirements, including fingerprinting. During the application process, candidates complete a form authorizing release of their background information to the Agency of Education. Candidates can find that form here.
Fingerprints can be submitted through local Identification Centers that offer fingerprinting services. Because background check fees can change, candidates should confirm the current fee directly with the Vermont Department of Public Safety.
Renewing a Principal Endorsement
Renewal requirements are established by the Vermont Agency of Education and the Standards Board. Because renewal rules and continuing professional learning requirements may change, administrators should verify current requirements with the Vermont Agency of Education well ahead of their license expiration date. Administrators who also hold an underlying Vermont teaching license should review Vermont’s teacher license renewal requirements as well, since both credentials need to stay current.
Contact Information
For questions about the principal certification process in Vermont, email the Agency of Education at [email protected] or call 802-828-2445.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a separate license to become a principal in Vermont?
No. Vermont adds a principal endorsement to an existing Vermont Educator License rather than issuing a standalone administrator license. You must already hold or be eligible for a Vermont teaching license before applying for the endorsement.
How many years of teaching experience does Vermont require for a principal endorsement?
Vermont requires at least three years of experience as a licensed PreK-12 teacher before a candidate can add the principal endorsement to their license.
What degree do I need to become a principal in Vermont?
Vermont requires at least a master’s degree along with leadership coursework covering areas like school law, school finance, and curriculum management. Credit-hour totals can vary depending on the preparation program.
Where do I apply for a Vermont principal endorsement?
Applications go through the Vermont Agency of Education’s online licensing system. Candidates should confirm the current application steps and any fees directly with the Agency, since these details can change.
Does a Vermont principal endorsement need to be renewed?
Yes. Vermont’s educator licenses, including administrative endorsements, are renewed periodically based on completed professional learning credit in the endorsement area. Check with the Vermont Agency of Education for the current renewal cycle and credit requirements.
- Endorsement, not a separate license — Vermont adds a principal endorsement to an existing Vermont Educator License.
- Master’s degree required — along with leadership coursework covering areas like school law and school finance, packaged differently by each preparation program.
- Three years of teaching experience — required before applying for the endorsement.
- Apply through ALiS — Vermont’s online licensing system, with academic review by the Agency of Education.
- Confirm current details directly — exam codes, fees, and renewal requirements can change, so verify specifics with the Vermont Agency of Education before applying.
Select your state below to find accredited teacher certification programs, application links, and licensing requirements for your jurisdiction.
