How to Register and Prepare for Praxis Exams (DC Certification)

This article explains what to know when registering for and preparing to take Praxis exams for certification, including exemptions, which Praxis tests to take, where to register, and recommended study resources.

Who may be exempt from the Combined Praxis CORE (state-specific; please refer to your state-specific guide or webpage. This information is for DC licensure)

• Candidates who earned a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale for a completed bachelor’s degree qualify for exemption from the Combined Praxis CORE.
• Candidates who have passing scores for an approved basic skills exam also qualify for exemption.

Which Praxis exams do you need to take:

• Take the Praxis content exam(s) directly related to the certification area you are seeking and that align with the teaching practices used during your Clinical Practice.
• For certification, candidates must take:
  • Content Knowledge (subject-specific Praxis exams)
  • Principles of Learning and Teaching (PLT) / Pedagogy

Where to find required tests, test codes, and passing scores

• Required tests, test codes, and passing scores for certification are available from the District of Columbia Office of the State Superintendent of Education (DC OSSE) certification resources.

How to register for Praxis exams

1. Visit the Educational Testing Service (ETS) website to register for Praxis exams: https://www.ets.org/
2. Complete and save the personal information section
3. Search and select the desired exams. Once they are in the cart, follow the instructions to register to take them in your area (or virtually if applicable). Pay the fees. 
4. If you have additional certification-related testing questions, contact your program’s Certification Department for guidance.

Study and test-prep resources

• Official ETS Praxis practice materials: https://www.ets.org/practice.html
• Study.com Praxis resources: https://study.com/praxis/index.html
• TeacherTestPrep: https://www.teacherstestprep.com/
• Mometrix Praxis directory: https://www.mometrix.com/praxisii-directory.htm
• Discounted online tutoring (monthly subscription offer referenced for program candidates): https://study.240tutoring.com/subscribe/MORELANDPRAXIS

Practical tips

• Confirm which specific content and PLT exams match your certification area before registering.
• Check the DC OSSE resource page for exact test codes and passing score requirements for your certification.
• If you believe you qualify for the Combined Praxis CORE exemption (3.0+ GPA or approved basic skills exam), document your qualifying credential when completing certification requirements.
• Use official ETS practice materials alongside third-party resources to vary study formats and practice question styles.

If you have any additional questions related to this topic, please contact your program advisor directly or the Moreland Help Desk at help@moreland.edu