Renewing Your Teacher Certification

Maine’s Educator Information System (MEIS) is used for background checks, applying for new credentials, and renewing existing credentials.

Once logged in you can see your current certification (our state issues paperless certs), the status of your application, and any communication sent by the department.

MEIS Portal

Teaching certificates are valid for 5 years; submit renewal documentation before the date your certification expires to allow processing time. Your certificate lapses 6 months after the expiration date. A lapse will result in additional requirements.

Teachers are required to complete 6 semester hours (usually 2 approved college courses) or 90 contact hours. (1 CEU = 10 contact hours)

• Teacher renewal = $100
• Each additional endorsement = $35
• Be sure to check your contract to learn about reimbursement provided by the district

• Write your plan early
• Use the InTASC Model Core Standards to guide your goals
• Write 2-3 goals max
• Utilize your mentor and colleagues as you finalize your plan
• Use broad language when indicating the professional development that will help you to meet your goal
• Check your district’s policy for professional development
• Always confirm your professional development will count toward rectification before committing

STANDARDS

• Create a digital folder or physical binder to organize professional development certificates
• If you complete a college course, save copies of transcripts
• If you complete a book study or other self study, where a certificate is not issued, communicate with your district about requirement. You may have to write a reflection or submit other documentation
• At the end of each year, tally your hours and determine what you will complete the following year

• Follow district guidelines for submitting your materials
• Submit well before your certification expires – this gives you time to make adjustments if recommended
• Following approval by your district’s certification committee, you will complete the renewal process on the DOE’s site
• If you do not work in a school, you will submit your materials to the department. Instructions can be found on the DOE’s website.

RENEWAL INSTRUCTIONS