Statistics about valid certified teachers

Last updated on April 21, 2026

Number of Valid Certificate Holders in B.C.

These statistics reflect the current number of valid certificate holders. They do not capture applicants currently in the certification process.
Certificate Type Number as of April 8, 2026
Certificate of Qualification (COQ) 77,086
Independent School Teaching Certificate (ISTC) 2,301
COQ and ISTC   429
Total 79,816

​ Number of Valid Letter of Permission Holders in B.C.

Typically, the maximum validity period for a Letter of Permission (LOP) is one school year. Individuals who are issued a Letter of Permission must re-apply once the validity period has expired.
Certificate Type Number as of April 8, 2026
Letter of Permission – Public Schools 373
Letter of Permission – Independent Schools 609
Letter of Permission – First Nation Schools 2
Total 984