Tips for Renewal from ODE/DEW

The State Board of Education of Ohio’s online application system opened Nov. 1 for renewal of educator licenses that expire June 30, 2024. Educators who have met renewal requirements can avoid the summer rush by submitting their online applications now. Review the following tips to ensure a smooth application process.

OH|ID accounts

Educators must have an OH|ID account to access the online licensure application. Educators who previously set up an account but do not remember their password should go to the OH|ID portal and use the “Forgot Password” link located under the sign-in boxes.

Applicants should not create a second OH|ID account even if they changed their name since first establishing their account.

See the FAQs About the Online CORE License System for more information.

Background checks

Those who hold an active Ohio educator license, certificate or permit must submit FBI background checks every five years. Applicants living outside of Ohio also need to submit BCI background checks.

Please see the Background Check FAQs page for additional information regarding background check requirements to maintain a license.

Requirements for renewing, advancing or transitioning a license (subhead)

Some applicants must complete coursework or hold an active board license to renew their licenses. Others may fulfill education requirements through continuing education, contact hours or other equivalent activities (local professional development committee approval required). Please see the Renew a License webpage for links to licensure requirements.

Other helpful links include:

• Aligning Licenses

• Extend, Renew or Advance a Resident Educator Licenses

• Extend or Renew Alternative Resident Educator Licenses

• Advance to a Senior Professional License

• Advance to a Lead Professional License

• Transition an Expired Certificate to a License

• Reinstatement Licenses

Educators must complete all limitations listed on their licenses before they may renew or advance it even if they are renewing through their local professional development committee (LPDC).

License fees waived for veterans and those in the military

Ohio waives the fees for any educator license, permit or certificate for applicants who are veterans with honorable discharges or current service members of all branches of the United States Armed Forces, including the National Guard or Reserves. Spouses of active-duty service members also may receive a license free of charge.

Applicants must upload documentation to verify their eligibility with their online licensure application. Learn more about this and other programs to support Ohio’s military families. Application instructions.

To apply for a license:

• Log in to the OH|ID account.

• Click Educator Licensure and Records (CORE).

• Complete the online renewal application from the CORE Dashboard.

See the FAQs About the Online CORE License System for complete instructions and the CORE User Manual.