Credential Programs

About CalTPA

California requires all candidates for a preliminary Multiple, Single Subject, or Education Specialist Credential to pass a Teaching Performance Assessment (TPA). California requires all candidates for a preliminary Multiple or Single Subject Credential to pass a Teaching Performance Assessment (TPA). 

The CalTPA includes two instructional cycles that measure the new Teaching Performance Expectations (TPEs) and focus on the steps of planning, teaching and assessing, reflecting and applying, that naturally occur during teaching as follows:

Cycle 1: Learning About Students & Planning Instruction 

Cycle 2: Assessment-Driven Instruction

For more information, please visit the California Educator Credentialing Assessments website and select CalTPA under the Assessments’ tab.

Important Dates

Effective July 1, 2025, the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) will be transitioning to new CalTPAs (see  PSA 25-03 ). Candidates will complete these cycles in the Performance Assessment course while concurrently enrolled in Clinical Practice.

Important Dates for: Multiple Subject, Education Specialist: MMSN and ESN 

  • June 30, 2025:
    • Last date for candidates to register and take the RICA exam
    • Last date to register for the 2024-25 version of CalTPA Cycle 1 and/or Cycle
  • July 1, 2025:
    • CalTPA 2025-26 versions will be approved by the Commission (replaces RICA requirement) 
  • June 30, 2026:
    • Last date for candidates who meet the qualifications in Table 1 to submit 2024-25 versions  of the CalTPA Cycles 1 and/or 2

Important Dates for Single Subject, World Language

  • June 30, 2025: 
    • Last date to register for the 2024-25 version of CalTPA Cycles 1 and 2 
  • July 1, 2025: 
    • All 2025-26 versions Single Subject and World Languages become operational   
  • June 30, 2026:
    • Last date for candidates who meet the qualifications in Table 2 to submit 2024-25 versions of the CalTPA Cycles 1 and 2

Contact Us: 

For more information about the TPAs, please visit the California Educator Credentialing Assessments website and select CalTPA under the Assessments’ tab or email MS/SS TPA Coordinator, Dr. Amy Gimino and ES TPA Coordinator, Dr. Heather Taylor