Educators whose certificates expire July 1 of this year are strongly encouraged to submit their renewal applications as soon as possible. Early application ensures optimal processing. Processing time is typically eight weeks, but during the summer months, may exceed 10 weeks. By waiting too long, teachers risk not having their certificate updated before the start of the school year. Credits for your next renewal cannot be earned until your certificate has been issued.

State regulations require teachers, administrators and education specialists whose certificates have become invalid to obtain six university-transcripted credits to renew.

The Teacher 411 system at http://teacher411.sd.gov lists information from teachers' certification records, including the expiration date and teaching assignments that teachers are qualified to accept. For more information or to apply online, visit the Department of Education's Educator Certification webpage. Questions can be directed to certification@state.sd.us.

Office of Educator Certification hours of operation (Monday through Friday):

• Certification staff processes applications daily from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Central
• Certification staff responds to emails and phone calls daily from 8 – 10 a.m. and 3 – 5 p.m. Central