CLT status is open to both Newly Qualified Teachers (NQTs) and experienced teachers (including senior management and advanced skills teachers) in London. It will take NQTs about five years to achieve CLT status, and experienced teachers about two years. The first Chartered London Teachers were recognised in 2006.

CLT status is available to qualified teachers working within the Greater London area (inner and outer) who, by the time of being awarded CLT status, will have worked in London for at least four years. This includes teachers who are not working directly in one school, but who are subject to the School Teachers' Pay and Conditions document, such as those employed directly by the local education authority. It is noteworthy that this does not have to be four years of continuous service.

Participation in working towards CLT status is voluntary.