Request an extension while upgrading
Last updated on January 30, 2024If you hold a certificate that is set to expire, you may request an extension in the six months prior to the expiry date of your certificate. We review all extension requests, however an extension is not guaranteed.
If your certificate expires, you are no longer authorized to teach in B.C. and you will not be able to request an extension – you will need to apply for certification.
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Certificate extensions
- Conditional Certificate: A one-year extension can be requested if you have been unable to complete your courses because of circumstances out of your control (e.g. serious illness)
- Interim Independent School Teaching Certificate: A four-year extension can be requested if you have not completed the equivalent of 1.5 years full-time teaching
- Developmental Standard Term Certificate: A one-time extension of four years can be requested if you have made enough progress in completing your coursework requirements
Request an extension while upgrading
Step 1: Pay the $35 extension request fee
Include the fee with your written request (step 2). You can:
- Send a cheque, money order or bank draft to Ministry of Education and Child Care – make it payable to the Minister of Finance
OR
- Complete the Credit Card Payment Authorization Form (PDF). This form must be returned via mail or fax. Credit card payments cannot be processed over email
Step 2: Email your extension request
Send a written request to trb.certification@gov.bc.ca to request a certificate extension. Send your request up to six months before your certificate expires.
Every request is evaluated on a case-by-case basis so be sure to describe your personal situation and include:
- A list of the courses you have completed and a plan for how/when you will complete the rest of the required coursework
OR
- The amount of teaching experience you have (independent school teaching certificate holders)
Step 3: Provide relevant supporting documents
Provide any supporting documents that would be relevant to your request, for example:
- Have the post-secondary institution where you completed your courses send an official copy of your transcript to the Ministry of Education and Child Care
- Ask for a letter from a doctor or another professional that describes an illness or other extenuating circumstance
You may be asked to provide more supporting documents upon review of your request.