How do I meet the Certificate of Clearance requirement?

Admission Checklist and Program Requirements: Steps to Join the Reach Intern Teacher Credential Program

Certificate of Clearance Requirement:

Applicants must apply for a Certificate of Clearance with the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) or submit proof of prior completion of the clearance. Please note this is separate from any Live Scan processing you may have previously been required to engage in by an employer unless otherwise noted (see “Acceptable Documentation in Lieu of a Certificate of Clearance.”)

To obtain a Certificate of Clearance, follow these steps:

  1. LIVE SCAN FORM 41-LS: The first step in obtaining a Certificate of Clearance is fingerprinting. Print three (3) copies of the Live Scan form 41-LS. You must use this specific CTC Live Scan form. (Note: Previous fingerprinting completed without this form will not suffice; only this form directs the results appropriately to the CTC. See clarification on this requirement as well as out-of-state/country instructions on the CTC site here.)
  2. LIVE SCAN SITE: Locate and visit a Live Scan site for fingerprinting with your three(3) copies of form 41-LS. You may find a list of sites near you here. Fees vary by location, but may range from $35-$100.
  3. CTC APPLICATION: Complete the direct web application for the Certificate of Clearance and pay the nonrefundable application fee. Step-by-step directions on applying are available here. 

Once you have been granted a Certificate of Clearance by the CTC, you will receive a confirmation email from the CTC confirming your Certificate of Clearance as a current document. Reach will confirm the validity of your Certificate of Clearance by consulting the CTC website using the information provided in your application. Please note that a receipt of payment for the Certificate of Clearance application will not be accepted, as this is not proof that the certificate was granted.

Acceptable Documentation in Lieu of a Certificate of Clearance:

Credentials or permits issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing, including:

  • 30-day emergency clearance
  • Pre-intern clearance
  • Emergency long-term clearance
  • Clear or preliminary
  • Child Development Permits
  • Substitute Teaching clearance

For additional information regarding the Certificate of Clearance, please see here.