Do I need teaching experience to become a substitute teacher?

Substitute teaching is an incredibly rewarding job—for some, it’s a career. If you’re interested in becoming a substitute teacher, you’re probably wondering about the requirements.  

Many people think they need prior teaching experience or that they need college education to work as a substitute teacher. While that’s true for some schools and in a few states, it’s not the case for many. In fact, even when it is the rule, there are often exceptions. 

At Kelly Education, we hire thousands of substitute teachers for school districts across the country every year. We find that stay-at-home moms, military moms, veterans, grandparents, daycare volunteers, and camp counselors often make top-notch, reliable substitute teachers. They enjoy the flexibility it offers while managing their busy schedules and other responsibilities. They also like having weekends and summers off!  

Teaching experience—do you need it?

Not usually, but it helps. 

Depending on the state where you want to teach, the education, experience, training, and credentialing requirements can vary greatly. If you have prior teaching experience or a teaching license, the district may pay more or offer you a longer term position.  

What are the minimum requirements?

Your state’s education department sets the requirements. You can expect that you’ll need at least a high school diploma or equivalent.  About 40% of states require some college credits or a bachelor’s degree. However, since the U.S. is experiencing a teacher shortage, many state departments of education have eased hiring requirements for becoming a substitute teacher. This allows for a short-term or emergency substitute teaching certification without a higher education degree. 

Because Kelly Education works with hundreds of districts across the country to hire substitute teachers, we’re experts in helping people navigate the various requirements. To get started, check out our list of minimum state requirements for substitute teachers. 

PRO TIP: When applying to be substitute teacher you should highlight all your college credit or professional expertise—especially if it’s above the minimum. Individuals with degrees or experience working with children might even qualify for higher pay. It all depends on the school district’s need and policies. 

Additional requirements beyond level of education.

Regardless of their thresholds for education, states often have other requirements to become a substitute teacher. Almost every state requires a background check and fingerprinting. Some want you to complete a training course or to pass a health and TB screening. 

School districts can also require more qualifications beyond the state’s hiring thresholds. If you work for a district where Kelly Education handles the substitute teacher hiring, we’ll help you to  

What if you don’t qualify?

Don’t be disheartened if you don’t immediately qualify for substitute teaching in your state. 

Regardless of your formal education experience, we encourage anyone who wants to work in schools to look for opportunities. Usually, just by taking the time to complete a few additional steps, you can be on your way to substitute teaching. 

There are likely other entry-level opportunities to help you gain classroom experience, such as a teacher’s aide or paraprofessional, which will provide income while you work on your substitute teacher requirements. As mentioned above, states can create special rules for emergency staff situations. 

Ready to become a substitute teacher?

Remember, many successful substitute teachers have little to no teaching experience before pursuing the opportunity. What matters most is a positive attitude, commitment to the process, and a genuine motivation to support the students in your community. 

When you work with us, Kelly Education provides information, training, and onboarding materials to support all our substitute teachers, regardless of prior experience. 

Want to learn more about our substitute teaching job opportunities near you? Fill out our interest form and a Kelly Education recruiter will reach out to discuss your next steps. You can also learn more in our complete guide to becoming a substitute teacher.