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Commission on Teacher Credentialing Resources

The California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) is the authorizing agency for teachers in California. The following links provide information and resources about English learner (EL) teacher authorization.

For information regarding different authorizations available for distinct purposes and credential holders, visit the CTC English Learner Authorization web page External link opens in new window or tab..

For more information regarding EL teaching authorization, visit the CTC’s FAQs Appropriate Assignment and Authorizations to Serve English Learners web page External link opens in new window or tab..

For a complete list of authorizations and the type of instruction to which they pertain, please refer to pages G-1 to G-9 in the CTC Assignment Resources External link opens in new window or tab..

The Adding Authorizations or Teaching Areas Requirements CTC web page External link opens in new window or tab. provides links to Commission leaflets that provide comprehensive information for educators seeking authorization to provide instructional services to EL students. Particular questions regarding earning a credential or credential requirements may be referred directly to CTC’s Information Services Section by email at credentials@ctc.ca.gov. The CTC is the agency responsible for the issuance of credentials.

The Commission issues several documents that authorize the following types of instruction for EL students:

  • Instruction for English language development (ELD)
  • Specially Designed Academic Instruction Delivered in English (SDAIE)
  • Content instruction delivered in the primary language
  • Instruction for Primary Language Development

For a summary of all documents that authorize instruction to EL students, see the CTC credential leaflet, “Serving English Learners" External link opens in new window or tab..

Questions:   Language Policy and Leadership Office | 916-319-0845
Last Reviewed: Monday, June 09, 2025
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