Credentials
The Tulare County Office of Education (TCOE) serves as the local agency providing credentialing services to school districts, charter schools, and individuals throughout Tulare County.
TCOE offers guidance on state requirements and regulations, reviews credential applications for accuracy and completeness, and submits approved applications to the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) for final authorization.
Credential Services
The Credentials Department provides the following services:
Processing credential applications and renewal forms
Assisting applicants with the credential application process for all credential types, including:
K–12 Teaching and Services Credentials
Substitute Permits
Career Technical, Vocational, and Adult Education Credentials
Child Development Permits
Providing guidance and assistance with credential-related questions
Supporting teachers and administrators employed in Tulare County, as well as individuals seeking credential information
Assisting credentialed educators from other states or countries with California certification requirements and the application process
Serving as a liaison to the Commission on Teacher Credentialing for Tulare County’s 43 school districts
Credential Renewals
Clear, Professional, and Professional Clear Credentials, as well as 30-Day Emergency Substitute Permits, may be renewed online through the Commission on Teacher Credentialing website at: www.ctc.ca.gov
For detailed step-by-step renewal instructions, please refer to the Commission’s “How to Renew” guide.
Substitute Information
Individuals who wish to substitute teach in Tulare County must first be cleared through the Tulare County Office of Education.
Depending on your current status, this may include:
Applying for a credential or permit
Completing fingerprint clearance
If you have questions, please contact our front desk at 559-733-6300, and you will be transferred to an available Credentials Technician.
Evaluation Process
To begin the process for:
Substitute Permits
Child Development Permits
Provisional Internship Permit (PIP)
A Short-Term Staff Permit (STSP) eligibility evaluation
Countywide/CTC fingerprints
Please complete the survey using the link below:
Emergency Permit/ Substitute Eligibility
Once your information has been submitted, a Credentials Technician will contact you within 3–5 business days.
Contact names, phone numbers, and e-mail addresses for the Credentials staff at the Tulare County Office of Education can be found on the Human Resources Division Directory page.