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Exam Overview
Exam Name
Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE): Exceptional Student Education K–12 (test code 061)
Administering Authority
The FTCE program belongs to the Florida Department of Education. Tests are developed and delivered for the department by Evaluation Systems (Pearson), and you register through the official FTCE/FELE website.
Purpose of the Exam
The FTCE Exceptional Student Education K–12 exam evaluates whether you possess the professional knowledge and instructional skills required to teach students with disabilities in Florida public schools.
The exam verifies your ability to:
- Understand legal and ethical responsibilities in special education.
- Assess and interpret student performance data.
- Plan and deliver appropriate instruction.
- Support positive behavior and communication.
- Prepare students for postsecondary transitions.
Passing this exam is a mandatory step toward earning Florida certification in Exceptional Student Education.
Exam Pattern and Format
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Format | Computer-based test (CBT) at an authorized testing center |
| Questions | Approximately 80 multiple-choice questions, four answer options each |
| Testing time | 2 hours and 30 minutes |
| Score scale | Scaled scores; a scaled score of at least 200 passes |
| Penalty for guessing | None; answer every question |
| Reference materials | None allowed |
| Registration fee | $150 for the full test (fees can change; confirm when you register) |
| Retakes | Allowed after a waiting period of 31 calendar days |
Test Administration and Availability
- Testing is by appointment at Pearson VUE testing centers, year-round.
- If you do not pass, you may retake the test after 31 calendar days; each attempt requires a new registration and fee.
- Scores are reported as pass or not pass with a scaled score; check your online account on the score report date.
Why This Exam Is Important
Passing the FTCE Exceptional Student Education K–12 exam allows you to:
- Qualify for Florida teacher certification in Exceptional Student Education.
- Demonstrate readiness to teach students with diverse learning needs.
- Meet state requirements for employment in Florida public schools.
- Strengthen professional credibility in special education settings.
This exam confirms that you can apply educational theory, legal mandates, and instructional strategies in real classroom situations.
This section prepares you to understand how the exam is structured and why focused preparation is critical. The chapters that follow address each tested area in detail, with practice and guidance aligned to the exam format.
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