Frequently Asked Questions

How can a certificate be verified?

Visit the Michigan Educator Credential Status and PIC Lookup tool.
What is MOECS?

The Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS – pronounced “moe-ex”) is the system used by individuals to apply for, or renew, educator certificates, monitor their professional development needs for recertification and view the evaluation labels submitted by their employing school(s). School districts and/or staffing agencies use the system for permits, annual career authorizations, special education approvals, and school nurse certificates. Michigan college and university certification offices and alternative route programs use MOECS to recommend initial certificates and endorsements. Schools, education organizations, and professional development entities use MOECS to support educators in obtaining State Continuing Education Clock Hours (SCECH).
What if I forgot my login information?

You must use the same login name each time you visit your MOECS account. You may retrieve login and password information by clicking the "Login Assistance" link on the login page. Do not create multiple MEIS accounts, as MOECS will not allow you access to your certification account by using a new login name.
How do I find my PIC?

Visit the Michigan Educator Credential Status and PIC Lookup tool.
How do I find my MEIS number?

When you create a MEIS account, you should save the confirmation page as it contains the MEIS ID number that you will need in order to register into MOECS the first time. If you didn't save the page, you can still get your account ID number in the "View/Update Profile" area in your MEIS account. The login name and password will be the same for MEIS and MOECS. Anytime you need to reset your password, it will be reset through MEIS. You may update your personal information in both systems. All communication regarding your certification and/or application(s) will be sent to you from MOECS using the email address you provide in the demographics portion of your MOECS account. If you choose to have a new password emailed to you, MEIS will use the email address associated with you in that account. MEIS also allows you to change your password immediately, without having to wait for an email.
How do I apply for a certificate?

One must apply using MOECS. A login name and password are required. If you have not previously accessed the system, you will need to create an account.
How do I renew my certificate?

You renew your certificate by logging into MOECS, updating your personal information, verifying and/or adding your professional learning, and following the application steps.  Renewal requirements for the various certificates and licenses educators may hold can be found on our webpage under Teacher Recertification.
How do I apply for a Michigan teaching certificate if I completed my program and/or received my certificate in another state, country, or federally recognized Indian tribe?

Create a MEIS account and self-register in MOECS and then submit a certificate application. Once you submit the application and pay the non-refundable evaluation fee, print your MOECS-generated application cover letter and mail with the specified documents as one complete packet. A staff consultant will review your packet for determination. More specific guidance is available for out-of-state applicants.
What certification tests do I have to take?

If you completed your program in Michigan, you may receive that information from the certification office at your institution. If you completed a program in another state, country, or federally recognized Indian tribe, you will be notified of the testing requirements once an evaluation of your certification application packet has been completed. Required test(s) determination will not be made prior to evaluation.
How do I log my DPPD into MOECS?

Effective July 1, 2020, district provided professional development (DPPD) is entered by approved sponsors as State Continuing Education Clock Hours (SCECHs) to be used for certificate renewal or progression. For more information about this process, please see our DPPD Reporting Resources webpage. Any DPPD occurring prior to July 1, 2020 may continue to be logged by educators into the Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS).
I submitted my application and the status now indicates "waiting for documents". What does that mean?

You must submit additional documents to complete your application. MOECS creates a cover letter that is specific to your application. Click on the application number and generate the cover letter to be printed. It includes a checklist of documents and instructions for submitting your complete packet. You may also review the Criteria for Accurate Teacher Certificate Application Documentation. Once all documentation has been received, scanned, and uploaded, you will see the status of your application change to "pending evaluation".
How long will my application remain active?

Your application will remain in the system for 2 years after submission and payment if no other action is taken. No evaluation will occur if required documentation is not received. Documentation that is received without a corresponding application will not be reviewed. For additional information review the application fees document.
What if my name, address, or other personal information has changed?

Log into your MOECS account and make all necessary changes by choosing the update button and enter your corrected information. Remember to save your changes. If you have made a name change, you must also print a new certificate and get it notarized.
How do I pay for my certificate or permit application?

Payment must be submitted using a credit or debit card bearing a Visa, MasterCard, or Discover logo. If you do not have a credit or debit card, it is recommended you purchase a pre-paid card available at many retail establishments (i.e., gas stations, grocery stores, etc.). The pay system is not currently compatible with tablets and/or smart phones.
How do I receive my certificate once it is issued?

The Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS) enables educators with secure login and password access a variety of convenient features, including the ability to print their own Michigan educator certificate(s). Michigan permits, special education approvals, career authorizations are not printable but are viewable within the Michigan Department of Education’s public credential search.
How do I get a permit to substitute teach?

Permits are issued only to local and intermediate school districts, public school academies, and nonpublic schools. The district/school where you are substitute teaching, or would like to be employed, is responsible for applying for the permit for you. If you are employed by a third-party substitute teacher employment agency, either the agency or the school district will apply for the permit, depending on their contractual arrangements.
I came from out-of-state and was issued a Michigan one-year temporary certificate. What happens after I pass the test required in my evaluation?

After testing, the official scores are sent to both you and the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) according to the MTTC score report dates schedule. Once received, your application will be reviewed by MDE and the Michigan certificate your evaluation identified may be issued. It is not necessary to reapply once you pass your tests unless your application is no longer active.
How do I verify three years of teaching experience when applying for a professional teaching certificate?

The experience report form is found in the "Forms" area within your MOECS account. Use additional forms when experience is with multiple employers.
How do I find more information about certificate requirements?

Visit the certification guidance webpage.

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