House Bill No. 1394 amends the existing teacher certification laws in Oklahoma, specifically targeting the competency examination requirements for teacher candidates. The bill exempts teachers who have successfully completed and graduated from an Oklahoma Educational Quality and Accountability (OEQA) accredited higher education teacher preparation program from having to take and pass the professional education exam to achieve standard certification. Additionally, it clarifies that certification will be limited to areas where the teacher has successfully completed the examination, and it allows for specific testing provisions for minor teaching assignments or endorsements.

The bill also includes provisions for non-native English speakers, allowing them to take the subject area competency examination in their native language if they are employed in a foreign language immersion program. Furthermore, it establishes criteria for the State Board of Education to grant exceptions to certification examination requirements for candidates with advanced degrees or for those who are deaf, ensuring that they can demonstrate competency through alternative means. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes an emergency clause for immediate implementation upon passage and approval.