The purpose of the Florida Teacher Certification examinations (FTCE) is to ensure that all teacher candidates demonstrate the necessary content and pedagogical knowledge necessary to effectively instruct students in Florida. The purpose of the Florida Educational Leadership Examination (FELE) is to ensure that all school administrator candidates demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively lead in Florida’s schools. The Department of Education recognizes that children are our most important resource, and we would not be doing our due diligence if we did not do everything in our power to ensure that their teachers and school leaders meet rigorous professional standards at an appropriate level for a Beginning Effective Teacher Candidate (BETC) or a Beginning Effective School Administrator Candidate (BESAC). The FTCE and FELE are administered in accordance with State Board of Education Rule 6A-4.0021, F.A.C., and Rule 6A.400821, F.A.C.

Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) are standardized tests used to assess the competencies of prospective teachers according to Florida's Sunshine State Standards. FTCE refers to 47 different exams: four General Knowledge sub-tests, one Professional Education exam, and 42 Subject Area examinations.

Passing the appropriate FTCE exam is considered one part of the requirements for becoming a licensed teacher in Florida. Prospective teachers go through the Bureau of Educator Certification at the Department of Education to become certified. The Bureau advises that teacher candidates should submit an application for certification before applying to take certification examinations. Note: All teachers must have either professional or temporary certification by the Bureau of Educator Certification.

Paper and pencil tests are offered 6 times per Calendar Year, with 2 additional supplemental administrations. Supplemental administrations cost considerably more than regular testing dates. As an alternative to paper-and-pencil tests, many tests are now offered on the computer during the week at 36 locations throughout the state. The computer-based tests are equivalent to the paper-and-pencil tests in length and difficulty.