Do TEFL certificates expire?

No, TEFL certificates do not expire, they are valid for life. Once you have completed your course, either online or by attending a training center, you will be able to start work straight away or set off on your travels and use it later when your funds starts to get low. A TEFL certificate really is a great qualification to have in your backpack or briefcase as you can use it to earn a good income at any time, in any part of the world.

Although your certification will never expire, we do recommend that you continue to develop your skills and knowledge as you progress in your teaching career. Additional courses such as an advanced TEFL Diploma or a specialized certificate in teaching business English or teaching young learners will build on your existing skills, allowing you to deliver even better lessons in the classroom. These extra qualifications will also look good on your CV/resume and open up further job opportunities that may not have previously been open to you.

During your TEFL course you will receive instruction in a wide range of specific skills such as lesson planning, classroom management and correction techniques, as well as learn about various English grammar subjects and phonology. Much of what you learn will stay with you for the long term, however, if you spend an extended period away from the classroom you may well benefit from a refresher course before you start a new teaching job. Keeping your teaching skills up-to-date will not only allow you to enter an unfamiliar classroom full of confidence in your ability, but will also ensure that your students receive a high level of instruction that allows them to successfully progress in their language studies.