How to apply for a texas educational aide certificate

Becoming an Aide

Note: ATPE is not a provider for aide certification

Educational aides must be employed by a Texas public school district before applying for certification. The Texas Education Agency (TEA) handles educational aide certification. Visit the TEA website to learn more.

Educational Aide I

An applicant for an Educational Aide I Certificate must:

• Be a high school graduate or hold a General Educational Development (GED) certificate; and
• Have experience working with students or parents as approved by the employing superintendent. Experience may include work in church-related schools, day camps, youth groups, private schools, licensed daycare centers, or similar experience.

Educational Aide II

An applicant for an Educational Aide II Certificate must:

• Be a high school graduate or hold a General Educational Development (GED) certificate.
• Have satisfied one of the following requirements:
  • Have two creditable years of experience as an educational aide I; or
  • Have a minimum of 15 semester hours of college credit with some emphasis on child growth and development or related subject areas; or
  • Have demonstrated proficiency in a specialized skill area as determined by the local school district.

  Education Aide III

  An applicant for an Educational Aide III Certificate must:

  • Be a high school graduate or hold a General Educational Development (GED) certificate.
  • Have satisfied one of the following requirements:
    • Have three creditable years of experience as either an educational aide I or II; or
    • Have 30 semester hours of college credit with some emphasis on child growth and development or related subject areas.