Initial or Renewal of Temporary Authorization for Coaches, Athletic Trainers, and Limited Sports Trainers

Applicant Requirements

General Requirements

To apply, you must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or hold eligible documentation (see Policy 5202 for complete requirements).
• Be employed in the West Virginia public school system.
• Hold a high school diploma or equivalency.
• Have completed West Virginia Secondary School Activities Commission-required courses.
• Hold valid medical credentials (limited sports trainer and athletic trainer).

If you need to renew your authorization, see Policy 5202 or speak to your employer about renewal requirements. 

Instructions for Initial Applicants

Form 39 must be completed online. If this is your first time using our Certification Portal, you will need to register. Follow the instructions for first-time applicants. 

Form 39 is used for both your initial authorization and your authorization renewal. Your authorization is valid for one (1) year.

1. Log in to the portal and select "apply for licensure", select the license type, and then select the form number.
2. Fill in the applicant information and attach any required documentation. You will need to provide personal information, such as your name and address, respond to legal disclosure questions, and indicate the county where you're employed.
3. Submit the form for county approval.
4. After it is approved, you will receive an email for payment. Log back in to the portal to pay the application fee.
5. Following the receipt of the application by the Office of Certification, you will receive an email with instructions for completing your background check.

For more detailed instructions, see our Form 39 Initial Tutorial:

User Guides

• Applicant User Guide - Form 39
• County User Guide - Form 39

Instructions for Renewal

1. Log in to the portal and select the "Renew" button for the certificate you would like to renew.
2. Fill in the applicant information and attach any required documentation. You will need to provide personal information, such as your name and address, respond to legal disclosure questions, and indicate the county where you're employed.
3. Submit the form for county approval.
4. After it is approved, you will receive an email for payment. Log back into the portal to pay the application fee.
5. Following a review of your application, you will receive an email with instructions to download your authorization. You do not need to resubmit a background check. Your employer or the Department will contact you if any additional information is required.

For more detailed instructions, see our Form 39 Renewal Tutorial:

$35