CalTPA Information
The California Teaching Performance Assessment (CalTPA) is designed to measure how well teacher candidates meet the state’s Teaching Performance Expectations (TPEs). To earn a preliminary teaching credential in California, you’ll need to complete your coursework, engage in clinical practice, and successfully pass a Teacher Performance Assessment (TPA).
CalTPA is one of three TPAs available in the state (alongside edTPA and FAST) and is most commonly used for those pursuing single-subject teacher certification. Unlike multiple-choice exams such as CBEST or RICA, the CalTPA takes place over time — usually during your field placement — so you can demonstrate your skills in a real classroom setting.
As part of the process, you’ll:
- Get to know your students and design lessons to meet their needs
- Record yourself teaching and select video clips that highlight your effectiveness
- Assess student learning, provide feedback, and use results to plan future lessons
- Write reflective narratives that connect your teaching to pedagogy and demonstrate your growth
This performance-based approach not only helps assess your readiness but also prepares you for the realities of the classroom. The rigor and structure of CalTPA encourage teacher candidates to set high expectations, engage in continual growth, and enter the profession with confidence.
Format
Format
The CalTPA is made up of two instructional cycles:
- Cycle 1: Learn about your students and plan instruction
- Cycle 2: Use assessments to drive instruction and measure learning
Each cycle includes planning, teaching and assessing, reflecting, and applying. Programs may allow candidates to complete the cycles in either order.
Completion Time
Completion Time
Evidence for each cycle is typically gathered over the course of a week or more during your placement.
Passing Score
Passing Score
- Cycle 1: 8 rubrics, minimum passing score = 19 points
- Cycle 2: 9 rubrics, minimum passing score = 21 points
- Rubrics are scored 1–5. A score of “1” on more than one rubric results in a non-passing outcome, regardless of total points.
Exam Fees
Exam Fees
The total cost of the exam is $150-$300 per instructional cycle.
Exam Registration
Exam Registration
Begin the registration and payment process at the CTC and schedule your appointment online.
Click here to view the CalTPA registration guide. After you schedule your appointment, look for the Pearson VUE confirmation email. You’ll submit your CalTPA documents online, and your preparation program will let you know the required location for document submission.
FAQs and Resources
Which areas of certification does the CalTPA cover?
Single Subject Certification:
- Agriculture
- Art
- Business
- Dance
- English
- English Language Development
- Health Science
- Home Economics
- Industrial and Technology Education
- Mathematics
- Music
- Physical Education
- Science
- Social Science
- Theatre
Credentials:
- Multiple Subject
- World Languages
Are there any U.S. military funding eligibility options?
Qualifying U.S. military members may have funding options through Pearson VUE.
Do I need to take the CalTPA?
Are you currently seeking certification to teach in the state of California? Then you may need to take the CalTPA. Earning a Teaching Performance Assessment (TPA) based on the TPEs is mandated for those who wish to earn a preliminary multiple subject or single subject teaching credential.
If you are not sure if you should take the CalTPA, please contact the CTC for approval to test.
Can I retake the CalTPA?
If you need to retake part of the CalTPA, the process depends on your teacher preparation program. Your program coordinator can explain their specific retake policies, including whether you must remain enrolled to retake.
In most cases, once you receive your results, you may retake one or both instructional cycles. Each retake requires you to re-register, pay the associated fees, and submit a new application with fresh content and evidence. When you retake, your most recent scores will replace any previous scores.
We recommend preparing for the CalTPA with this prep course to help you get the results you want.
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