Do I need a substitute teacher certification or license to work in schools?

With a persistent educator shortage across the country, schools need qualified, reliable people who have a passion for working with students. One frequently asked question by substitute teacher candidates is about state substitute teacher certification or licensure. Credentialing varies by state and (at times) even by the individual school district.  

It gets a little confusing because states use different names for their substitute teacher credential – certificate, license, authorization, permit, or some other word for this documentation. No matter what it’s called, if your state requires it, you need to follow through and get started early. 

Which states require substitute teacher certification?

A substitute teaching credential is not mandatory in every state to become a substitute teacher, especially for short-term substitute posts. For example, Florida doesn’t require a special certification. Substitute teachers must, however, meet the state’s minimum eligibility requirements. Check out our full list of each state’s minimum requirements for substitute teachers. 

Some states require applicants to earn a substitute teacher-specific certificate or license. Here are two examples. 

• In Arizona, candidates for K-8 substitute teaching must complete a teacher preparation program or possess at least two years of previous professional teaching experience to apply for the state’s educator certification. 

• In Pennsylvania, substitute teachers must possess either a Pennsylvania teaching license or an emergency (Type 06) permit. Candidates must also have a bachelor’s degree. 

In some states, there are different types of credentials depending on your level of education and experience. Most districts want at least a high school diploma. However, about 40% of states require a bachelor’s degree or some completed college coursework. Other states are waiving or relaxing substitute teacher credentials to reduce barriers to employment or fill emergency demand. 

One notable twist here, a few states require the school district to submit credentialing to the department of education. So, it’s important to talk with the school district human resources team or the education recruiter to understand the nuance for your state. 

What does the certification or licensure process include?

To apply for a substitute teacher credential (whether your area uses the term license, certificate, or permit), you’ll typically submit the required materials to your state’s Department of Education. 

Application materials often include transcripts of previous coursework, official test scores, and a current background or fingerprint check on file. Some states might also request a letter from your current employer, employing district, or other proof of prior teaching experience.  

Of course, there’s a cost for credentials. You’ll likely need to submit a fee as well. 

Are there other requirements to become a substitute teacher?

Certificate or not, your state or school district will have additional requirements, such as: 

• Most states require substitute teachers to be at least 18 years old, though some say 21. 

• A negative tuberculosis test  

• A recent drug screening  

• Some states mandate a teacher-specific training program. At Kelly Education, our substitute teachers all must complete training and orientation. 

Why do substitute teachers need a certificate or license to teach?

Regardless of your state’s specific requirements for substitute teacher certification, the goal is the same: state agencies must vet your competency for the role. Substitute teachers fill a vital gap within the school, and districts need individuals who can effectively and safely facilitate a classroom. 

Grow as a substitute teacher with Kelly Education.

If you are looking for more details about becoming a substitute educator or ways to improve your practice, we’ve got an entire library of articles. Here are a few more to read: 

• Top six reasons to become a substitute teacher
• Complete guide to becoming a substitute teacher
• How to apply to be a substitute teacher

Not only can substitute teaching be a rewarding career, it’s also great for people who want a flexible work schedule with weekends and summers off. Wondering how to find substitute teacher jobs near you? Fill out our brief interest form, and one of our recruiters will contact you to answer your questions and share more about opportunities to become a substitute teacher with one of our school district partners. 

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