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The Connecticut State Department of Education is adopting a new cloud-based certification application portal to replace the current Connecticut Educator Certification System (CECS). The official launch date of the new CECS is November 10, 2026. Please be advised that CECS will be completely offline from Thursday, October 29, 2026, to November 10, 2026, as we prepare to launch the new certification system.



How do I apply for a vocational or technology teaching certificate?


Read time: 6 minutes

 

How do I apply for a vocational-technical teaching certificate? 

Please follow the process below to apply for certification. We will process your applications in 2-3 months. 

1.  Apply

Submit your application by using the C.E.C.S. online system or paper-based ED 170 form.

2.  Mail Your Required Documentation

College or high school diploma: A copy of your appropriate diploma. 

Teaching coursework, including special education studies: You can either mail an official transcript OR have the university send an e-transcript to us at teacher.etranscript@ct.gov. 

Employer letter: Mail letters from your current and/or previous employers verifying your experience in this career. The letters must:

  • Include your specific dates of employment, job title(s), whether you worked part- or full-time, and briefly describe your job responsibilities
  • Be originals, not copies
  • Be on official letterhead
  • Be signed by the business owner, your supervisor, or the director of human resources
  • NOTE: You may submit a notarized statement if the employer is no longer in business or you are self-employed.

Professional license: A copy of your valid RN or health license.

 

Vocational Educators