How do I become a substitute teacher?
In most places it is three steps: meet your state's sub requirement, apply to a district, and clear its background check and onboarding. Colorado's education department asks for fingerprints with every sub authorization application. Fairfax County Public Schools in Virginia adds fingerprinting, a TB test or screener, and a two-hour in-person orientation for new subs.
Checked October 30, 2026 against the sources below.
Step one is the state credential, if your state has one. Colorado, Missouri and California each issue their own sub authorization, certificate or permit, and each lists what proof to send, such as an official transcript or a training certificate. In California, you can apply through the hiring district or straight to the Commission on Teacher Credentialing.
Step two is the district. You apply to each district you want to work for, and the district runs its own hiring. Fairfax County's FAQ notes that applications must include every required document, and that new sub applications can be paused when the district has enough interest, so timing matters.
Step three is onboarding: fingerprints, forms, sometimes a health screening, and an orientation. Once you are active, you will get a login to the district's job system. Ask the district's sub office how long each step usually takes and what to bring on day one.
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Sources
- Colorado Department of Education: substitute authorization checklist (opened October 30, 2026)
- Fairfax County Public Schools (VA): Substitute Teaching Employment FAQs (opened October 30, 2026)
- California Commission on Teacher Credentialing: Emergency 30-Day Substitute Teaching Permit (CL-505p) (opened October 30, 2026)
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This answers a common question in general. Your district, school and state may differ, and their word wins. Up: All questions · Substitute teachers
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