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All individuals applying for �һ�������Ƶ educator certification must complete a fingerprint-based national criminal background check. 

Before You Get Started

• Fingerprinting is initiated during the certification application process in the Educator Certification Online System (ECOS) when there are no prior fingerprinting results on file with the TEA.
• To access ECOS, you need a TEAL account, which requires a Social Security number (SSN). If you don’t have one, TEA .
• For applicants with prior fingerprint results on file with TEA, “Fingerprinting in Progress” will display in the “Fingerprint Status” page in ECOS until the transfer of results has taken place after application submission.
• Fingerprint results from other purposes (e.g., childcare employment, real estate license, foster parenting) or from other states are not shared with TEA.
• This webinar is available for more information:
• If you have questions or need further assistance, please submit a ticket through the .

In-State Certification Applicants

Step 1: Complete and make payment for your certification application in ECOS

• Choose Option 1 for digital fingerprinting.
• Pay the required $39 fee ($37 fingerprinting fee plus $2 credit card processing fee).

Step 2: Schedule your fingerprinting appointment

• You'll receive an email from IdentoGO with instructions for fingerprint appointment scheduling.  It will also include:

• • Your UEID number
  • Service code
  • A link to schedule a fingerprinting appointment with IdentoGO
• If you accidently delete or miss the email, you can click "Fingerprint Status" in ECOS to access the information contained in the email. 

Step 3: Complete fingerprinting

• Bring a valid photo ID to your appointment.
• At the appointment, you must pay an additional $10 to IdentoGO for fingerprint scanning.
• TEA typically receives your results within 5–7 business days.
• “Fingerprint Status” in ECOS will change from “Fingerprint in Progress” to “Fingerprint Complete” once results have been received.

TEA will review any applicable criminal history and will contact you if further information or action is required.

Out-of-State or International Certification Applicants 

Complete and make payment for your certification application in ECOS

• Select how you will fingerprint: Option 1 or Option 2.

Option 1: Digital fingerprinting (preferred)

Digital fingerprinting is the faster option, with results typically available within five business days. 

• If you plan to visit or relocate to �һ�������Ƶ within the next two months, we recommend scheduling a digital fingerprinting appointment for your arrival. Some select out-of-state also offer digital fingerprinting services for TEA certification. Please note an additional fee will be included. To complete the process, follow the same steps outlined above for “In-State Certification Applicants.”

Option 2: Fingerprint card submission by mail

If you're not in �һ�������Ƶ and not relocating soon, this may be the better option.  However, note that your employing school district may still require electronic fingerprinting later. 

• TEA will mail fingerprint cards to the address listed in your ECOS profile.
• Visit a local law enforcement agency to have your fingerprints rolled onto the cards. Bring a valid photo ID; some agencies may charge a fee.
• Complete online pre-enrollment using the instructions included with the cards.
• Pay a $10 processing fee to IdentoGO during pre-enrollment.
• Mail the completed fingerprint cards as directed.
• Processing takes at least four weeks, so plan accordingly.
• TEA will review any applicable criminal history and will contact you if further information or action is required.