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The Preliminary Designated Subjects CTE Teaching Credential allows the holder to teach specific career technical, trade, or vocational courses in grades 12 and below, as well as in adult education classes. 

The Clear Designated Subjects CTE Teaching Credential allows the holder to teach the same courses but also includes teaching English learners through Specially Designed Academic Instruction Delivered in English (SDAIE) in the same settings.

Available subjects, also known as industry sectors, are as follows:

  • Agriculture and Natural Resources
  • Arts, Media, and Entertainment
  • Building and Construction Trades
  • Business and Finance
  • Education, Child Development, and Family Services
  • Energy, Environment, and Utilities
  • Engineering and Architecture
  • Fashion and Interior Design
  • Health Science and Medical Technology
  • Hospitality, Tourism, and Recreation
  • Information and Communication Technologies
  • Manufacturing and Product Development
  • Marketing, Sales, and Service
  • Public Services
  • Transportation

Credential Details

Work Experience: Three years of work experience in the industry sector(s) listed on the credential. One year equals at least 1,000 hours, which can be full-time, part-time, paid, or unpaid.

High School Diploma: Possess one of the following: high school diploma, GED diploma, or foreign equivalent of a high school diploma

Verification: A signed statement from a Commission-approved program sponsor confirming the applicant understands the requirements for both the preliminary and clear credentials, including the personalized preparation program.

Application: Complete the application form (41-4).

Fingerprinting: Submit a Live Scan receipt (41-LS) showing fingerprints were taken and fees were paid, unless fingerprint clearance is already on file.

Fee: Pay the application processing fee.

Program Recommendation: Receive a recommendation from a Commission-approved CTE program sponsor.

Valid Credential: Hold a valid California Preliminary CTE Teaching Credential (either three-year or five-year).

Training: Complete a Commission-approved program that includes Specially Designed Academic Instruction Delivered in English (SDAIE).

Teaching Experience or Advanced Training: Verify completion of one of the following:

  • Two years of successful teaching with the Preliminary CTE Credential in the industry sector(s) listed on the credential.
  • A Commission-approved advanced personalized preparation program as determined by the program sponsor.

U.S. Constitution Requirement: Meet one of the following:

  • Complete a U.S. Constitution course (PS 1 at Irvine Valley College) and submit the course description.
  • Pass an examination on the U.S. Constitution given by a regionally-accredited college or university.

Health Education: Complete training in health education, including topics like nutrition, effects of alcohol, drugs, and tobacco use, plus CPR training (infant, child, and adult).

Technology: Complete study in computer-based technology, especially its use in educational settings.

Application: Submit the completed application form (41-4).

Application Fee: Pay the application processing fee.

Recommendation: Receive a recommendation from a Commission-approved CTE program sponsor.