Career roadmap
How to Become a Substitute Teacher
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a substitute teacher, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a substitute teacher: (1) check your state’s requirements, (2) apply for a substitute permit, (3) register with districts, (4) accept assignments, (5) advance. Most people need about Days to weeks for a substitute permit. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a substitute teacher
Check your state’s requirements
Education requirements vary.
Apply for a substitute permit
Complete applications and fingerprints.
Register with districts
Join substitute systems.
Accept assignments
Build experience across grades.
Advance
Take long-term assignments or earn a teaching license.
Education and training requirements
Requirements vary by state. Some require a bachelor’s degree, others accept college credits or a high school diploma with training. Most require a substitute permit and background check.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | Days to weeks for a substitute permit |
Certifications and licenses
- State substitute teaching permit: Required in most states.
- Background check and fingerprints: Required for school work.
- Substitute training: District or online training courses.
- Teaching license: Required for some long-term substitute roles.
Skills to build now
Start with classroom management, following lesson plans, and subject knowledge, and practice confidence and flexibility. Learning the substitute teacher vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Day-to-Day Substitute: Cover classes.
- Long-Term Substitute: Teach extended assignments.
- Licensed Teacher: Lead your own classroom.
- Department Lead: Lead subjects or grade levels.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Substitute Teacher training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do substitute teachers need a degree?
It depends on the state.
How long does it take to become a substitute teacher?
Most people need about Days to weeks for a substitute permit of training. Requirements vary by state. Some require a bachelor’s degree, others accept college credits or a high school diploma with training. Most require a substitute permit and background check.
Do you need a degree to be a substitute teacher?
Not always. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical, but requirements vary by state: some accept an associate degree or college credits, and a few accept a high school diploma with training.
What certifications are available for substitute teachers?
Common credentials include State substitute teaching permit, Background check and fingerprints, Substitute training, and Teaching license. Most states require a substitute permit or license, with education requirements that vary widely.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-3031 (Substitute teachers, short-term).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Substitute teachers, short-term (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.