Montgomery, AL – Governor Kay Ivey on Tuesday signed Senate Bill 149 into law, establishing a new pathway for military veterans to serve in Alabama classrooms while helping address teacher shortages across the state.
The legislation, sponsored by Matt Woods and Rick Rehm, authorizes the Alabama State Department of Education to issue temporary teaching certificates to eligible veterans who may not meet the traditional requirement of holding a bachelor’s degree.
“Service is woven into the fabric of who we are as a state and as a nation, and by signing this bill into law, we are ensuring opportunity follows sacrifice,” Ivey said. “Our veterans have already answered the brave call to serve our country. Now, as America nears its 250th year, we are creating a pathway for our heroes to answer a new call – guiding students, filling critical teacher shortages and continuing their mission of service right here at home. This is good for our veterans, and it is especially good for our young people who will learn from their leadership and example.”
Under the law, the Alabama State Department of Education will be able to issue a Military Veteran Temporary Teaching Certificate to qualified applicants. The certificate allows veterans who meet specific eligibility requirements to teach in Alabama schools.
Sen. Woods said the legislation supports both veterans and the state’s education system.
“Today marks a major step forward not only for our veterans, but also for Alabama’s entire education system,” Woods said. “By signing SB149 into law, we are building a pathway for our veterans to bring their leadership, experience and real-world knowledge back into our communities. This legislation ensures the next generation will learn from some of the very best our nation has to offer. I’m grateful to Governor Ivey for her steadfast support of both our veterans and our students.”
To qualify for the temporary certificate, applicants must:
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Document 48 months of active-duty military service with an honorable discharge or medical separation
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Pass a background check
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Receive a recommendation for certification from a local superintendent of education or private K–12 school administrator
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Complete at least 60 college credit hours with a minimum 2.5 GPA on a 4.0 scale
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Obtain a passing score on the Praxis test through the Alabama Educator Certification Assessment Program
Rep. Rehm said veterans can bring valuable leadership and real-world experience into the classroom.
“The final passage of the Military Veteran Temporary Teaching Certificate is a meaningful step forward for both our students and those who have served our country,” Rehm said. “Veterans bring proven leadership, accountability and a mission-driven mindset to the classroom. By creating this pathway, we are strengthening our teacher pipeline while honoring the service and sacrifice of our military men and women. I am grateful for Governor Ivey’s partnership in continuing to make Alabama a national leader in supporting veterans.”
The temporary teaching certificate will be nonrenewable and valid for up to five years. According to state officials, the initiative aligns with Governor Ivey’s broader goal of making Alabama the most military- and veteran-friendly state in the nation.
Senate Bill 149 will take effect October 1, 2026.
