RICA Updates

Reading Instruction Compentence Assessment (RICA)

The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) will retire the Reading Instruction Competence Assessment (RICA) on October 31, 2025. Candidates who have not passed the RICA before November 1, 2025, have options. A candidate could:

• take a Commission-approved performance assessment that includes literacy instruction

• take Foundations of Reading  (see also PSA 24-10 ) after October 31, 2025, for:

  • Teachers who hold a Preliminary credential with a RICA renewal code.

  • Multiple Subject, Education Specialist, and PK–3 ECE Specialist candidates who by June 30, 2025, complete all other credential requirements except for the RICA.

  • Single Subject credential holders who want to add a Multiple Subject credential.

  • Private school teachers seeking a Multiple Subject credential.

  • Teachers who are prepared in another country.

  • Teachers who are prepared via Peace Corps Volunteer Experience.

Learn more by reviewing the CTC's RICA Transition FAQs. 

We strongly suggest teachers aim to take and pass the RICA by October 31, 2025. For RICA prep support, please go here.