Teacher certification tests in California
California’s requirements changed in 2025. The RICA reading exam is retired and has been replaced by a literacy performance assessment. To earn a Preliminary credential you now meet the Basic Skills Requirement (the CBEST or an alternative), show subject matter competence (the CSET or an approved program), and pass a Commission-approved teaching performance assessment that includes literacy.
From the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing’s literacy page and program sponsor alerts. Checked October 12, 2026. Check the CTC for the requirements of your specific credential.
What you need for a Preliminary credential
| Requirement | How you meet it |
|---|---|
| Basic Skills Requirement | Pass the CBEST, or use one of the CTC’s approved alternatives, such as qualifying test scores or coursework |
| Subject matter competence | Pass the CSET subtests for your credential, or complete an approved subject matter program or qualifying coursework |
| Teaching performance assessment | Pass one of the three Commission-approved models: CalTPA, edTPA or FAST |
| Literacy | Pass a Commission-approved literacy performance assessment, or the Foundations of Reading exam where the CTC allows it |
What happened to the RICA
State law (SB 488) required the CTC to replace the RICA with a literacy performance assessment. The new assessment became operational on July 1, 2025, and the CTC extended the RICA’s final sunset to October 31, 2025. The CTC also adopted the Foundations of Reading exam for some candidates who had completed everything except the RICA.
Common questions
Does California use Praxis?
No. California uses its own Commission-owned exams, including the CBEST and CSET, delivered by Pearson.
Do I still need to take the RICA?
No. The RICA has been retired. If you hold a Preliminary credential with a RICA renewal code, check the CTC for your options, including the Foundations of Reading exam.