Endorsements are defined in 16 KAR 2:010 as an addition to a base professional certificate or a base restricted certificate. To receive an endorsement, educators must complete an approved educator preparation program. While most endorsement programs typically require 12-15 graduate credit hours, the specific program structure is determined by each institution and approved by the EPSB. Only master’s level programs that have received approval will result in a change in rank.

Endorsements to Certificates

• Computer Science (Grades 8 through 12)
• English as a Second Language (Primary through Grade 12)
• Gifted Education (Primary through Grade 12)
• Driver Education (Grades 8 through Grade 12)
• Literacy Specialist/Reading (Primary through Grade 12)
• Instructional Computer Technology (Primary through Grades 12)
• Teacher Leader (All Grades)
• School Safety (Primary through Grade 12)
• Environmental Education (Primary through Grade 12)
• Elementary Mathematics Specialist (Primary through Grade 5)
• American Sign Language (Primary through Grade 12)

Applying for an Endorsement

STEP 1: Log into the KECS Web Portal.
STEP 2: Follow the prompts in the application wizard to apply for Initial Kentucky Certification (CA-1).
STEP 3: Provide official transcripts of the endorsement coursework.
STEP 4: Pass the appropriate assessments for EACH endorsement sought.
STEP 5: Verify completion of endorsement program from the preparing college or university.
STEP 6: Complete the Character and Fitness review.
STEP 7: Make the appropriate payment for certification fees through the KECS online payment service. Please note that any other forms of payment are not accepted and will be returned to the applicant.
STEP 8: Submit the application.

Submitting Official Transcripts

Transcripts are only considered official if submitted one of the following ways:

Electronic transcripts sent DIRECTLY from the institution’s third-party transcript provider to KDELicensure@education.ky.gov. Electronic transcripts are not accepted if printed by or forwarded by the applicant.

Sent by mail from the institution on official transcript paper to:

KDE Certification
300 Sower Blvd., 5th Floor
Frankfort, KY 40601

Official transcripts that are mailed or dropped off at the office will NOT be returned to the applicant.