Teaching · WA
Can a K-12 Public School Teacher transfer a license to Washington as a military spouse?
Data as of May 2026|Source: Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact commission + DOJ Servicemembers Initiative
Published by the Honest MOS Editorial DeskVerified against DoD/.gov sourcesUpdated May 2026Editorial standards
⚠ VAEIA federal backstop
Not through the compact — Washington is not currently a Teaching compact member. A military-spouse K-12 Public School Teacher relies on VAEIA 2022 / 50 U.S.C. § 4025a, which requires Washington to recognize a valid out-of-state license upon relocation for military orders.
Your teacher-licensing authority in Washington
Washington Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI), Professional Certification
ospi.k12.wa.us/certification ↗☎ 360-725-6400Washington military-spouse provision
Gives military-affiliated applicants and their spouses an expedited review and expedited issuance of an appropriate certificate or permit under Chapter 18.340 RCW.
Official source ↗About the Interstate Teacher Mobility Compact
Newer compact (2023) for K-12 teachers. Allows teacher licenses to transfer between member states without re-testing or re-coursing. War Department helped fund development specifically for military families.
Official compact site ↗All Teaching member states
12 jurisdictions. Tap any to check that destination for this profession.