How to Become a Licensed Professional Teacher (LPT) in the Philippines
LEPT Reviewer AI Editorial Team
Reviewed against official PRC guidelines and Philippine education laws
In this article:
Becoming a Licensed Professional Teacher (LPT)is the dream of every aspiring Filipino educator. The LPT title is the professional credential that authorizes you to teach in Philippine schools, and earning it requires a combination of education, examination, and registration. This guide walks you through the complete process — from choosing the right college course to receiving your PRC license.
Not sure what LPT means? Start with our What Does LPT Mean? explainer.
What Course Do You Need to Become an LPT?
The most direct path to becoming an LPT is through a teacher education program recognized by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED):
Elementary Level
Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEEd)
4-year program that prepares you to teach in elementary schools (Grades 1-6). Covers all general subjects plus child development and elementary teaching methods.
Secondary Level
Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd)
4-year program with a specialization (English, Filipino, Math, Science, Social Studies, MAPEH, TLE, etc.) for teaching Grades 7-12.
Both programs include Professional Education (ProfEd)subjects such as teaching theories, curriculum development, assessment, classroom management, and educational technology — topics that are heavily tested on the LEPT board exam.
Path for Non-Education Graduates
You don't need a BEEd or BSEd degree to become an LPT. Under RA 7836, holders of any bachelor's degree can take the LEPT Secondary Level exam if they complete at least 18 units of Professional Education subjects.
Example:A BS Biology graduate can take the LEPT for Secondary Science by completing 18 ProfEd units. A BA English graduate can take it for Secondary English. Your bachelor's major determines your LEPT specialization.
Where to take ProfEd units:
- CHED-recognized universities and colleges offering Certificate in Teaching (CT) programs
- Some institutions offer weekend or summer ProfEd classes for working professionals
- Programs typically take 1-2 semesters to complete
Step-by-Step Process to Become an LPT
Graduate from a qualifying program
Complete BEEd, BSEd, or any bachelor's degree + 18 ProfEd units from a CHED-recognized institution.
Apply for the LEPT through PRC LERIS
Create a PRC account, apply online, schedule an appointment, and submit your documents. See our complete requirements guide for the full document list.
Prepare and review for the board exam
Study the three major areas: General Education, Professional Education, and your Specialization. A structured 30-day study plan can help you cover everything systematically.
Take and pass the LEPT board exam
Achieve a general average of at least 75% with no area below 50%. The exam is typically held in March and September. See the LEPT schedule for dates.
Attend the PRC oath-taking ceremony
The oath taking is scheduled within weeks of the results release. You'll pledge to uphold the Code of Ethics for Professional Teachers.
Receive your PRC license and ID
After oath taking, complete your registration to get your Certificate of Registration and Professional Identification Card. You are now officially an LPT!
LPT Eligibility Requirements
Under RA 7836, you are eligible to take the LEPT if you:
- Are a Filipino citizen (or a foreign national from a country with reciprocity)
- Are at least 18 years old
- Are of good moral character
- Hold a qualifying bachelor's degree (BEEd, BSEd, or any degree + 18 ProfEd units)
- Have no criminal conviction involving moral turpitude
For retakers: After two consecutive failures, you must complete a PRC-accredited refresher course before being allowed to retake the exam.
The LEPT Board Exam: What to Expect
The LEPT is a one-day, multiple-choice examination covering three components:
| Component | Coverage | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| General Education | English, Filipino, Math, Science, Social Studies, ICT | 20% |
| Professional Education | Teaching theories, curriculum, assessment, management | 40% |
| Specialization | Your major field of study | 40% |
For a detailed topic breakdown, see our LET Coverage 2026 guide. Ready to practice? Try our LEPT Practice Questions with Answers.
After Passing: LPT License, CPD, and Career Paths
Once you become an LPT, a world of career opportunities opens up:
- Public school teacher (DepEd) — Teacher I salary starts at Salary Grade 11 (approximately ₱27,000+/month)
- Private school teacher — many private schools now require LPT for hiring
- Master Teacher — higher salary grade, requires LPT + advanced qualifications
- School administrator — principal and supervisor positions require LPT
- Teaching abroad — LPT serves as proof of professional qualification
As an LPT, you'll also need to maintain your license through Continuing Professional Development (CPD). Your PRC Professional ID Card is renewable every 3 years and requires compliance with CPD requirements under RA 10912. Learn more in our What Does LPT Mean? article.
Ready to celebrate? Once you pass, learn how to properly put LPT in your name and check out LPT passer celebration ideas!
Frequently Asked Questions
What course do you need to take to become an LPT?
The most direct path is a Bachelor of Elementary Education (BEEd) or Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSEd). Non-education graduates can also qualify by completing at least 18 units of Professional Education subjects from a CHED-recognized institution.
Can non-education graduates become LPT?
Yes. Holders of any bachelor's degree can take the LEPT and become an LPT if they complete at least 18 units of Professional Education (ProfEd) subjects. They take the Secondary Level exam in a specialization aligned with their degree.
How long does it take to become an LPT?
It typically takes 4 years for the bachelor's degree, plus a few months for board exam preparation, taking the LEPT, and completing oath taking. Non-education graduates need additional time to complete 18 ProfEd units.
How much does the LPT exam cost?
The LEPT exam fee is ₱900 for bachelor's degree holders and ₱600 for non-bachelor's degree holders. Additional costs include transcript processing, PRC application fees, and review materials.
Can I become an LPT without taking the board exam?
No. Passing the LEPT (Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers) is required to become an LPT. There is no alternative path to licensure without the board exam.
What is the passing score for the LPT exam?
You need a general average of at least 75% across all three components (GenEd, ProfEd, Specialization) with no single area falling below 50%.
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Disclaimer: Requirements may change. Always verify the latest information at prc.gov.ph and ched.gov.ph.
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