The registration and score reporting services on this website will be temporarily unavailable for system maintenance on Thursday, November 12, 2026, between 5:00 AM – 10:00 AM ET / 4:00 AM – 9:00 AM CT / 3:00 AM – 8:00 AM MT / 2:00 AM – 7:00 AM PT / 1:00 AM – 6:00 AM AKT / 12:00 AM – 5:00 AM HAT. We apologize for any inconvenience. Online-proctored exams scheduled during this time will not be affected; however, there may be a brief period where appointments may not be started. If you cannot begin your appointment, please wait a short period and then try again.

CTEL

California Education Code Sections 44253.3 and 44253.4 require the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) to issue authorizations that allow the holder to provide specialized instruction to English learners (EL). Section 44253.5 requires the CTC to develop and administer examinations on which a teacher can demonstrate competence in the knowledge and skill areas necessary for effective teaching of English learners (EL). With expert advice from California educators and others, the CTC has developed the California Teacher of English Learners® (CTEL®) Examination for that purpose. The CTC has contracted with the Evaluation Systems group of Pearson to administer the examination.

English Learner and Bilingual Authorization Requirements

Access CTEL registration fees and other test-specific information.


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