How to become a substitute teacher in Alaska
Alaska's Department of Education and Early Development (DEED) does not license short-term subs. Each district sets its own education rules and hires directly. State rule says that when a teacher will be out more than 20 school days, the sub must hold a valid Alaska teacher's certificate. A retired teacher certificate can sometimes fill that gap. Ask the hiring district about its background check; teaching certificates go through DEED's own check.
Checked October 30, 2026 on the Alaska Department of Education and Early Development, Teacher Education and Certification's own pages. Rules change; the state's page and your district have the last word.
At a glance
| Least schooling | Set by each district for short-term subs |
|---|---|
| Credential | No state license for short-term subs; districts hire directly |
| Background check | Ask the hiring district. Teaching certificates go through DEED's background check. |
| Who issues it | Alaska Department of Education and Early Development, Teacher Education and Certification |
How to get it
- Pick the Alaska district you want to work for and read its substitute posting.
- Apply to the district and meet its education and training rules.
- Complete the district's background check.
- For assignments over 20 school days, get an Alaska teacher's certificate through DEED's TEACH AK system.
Limits and conditions
- A sub for a teacher who will be out more than 20 in-session days must hold a valid Alaska teacher's certificate.
- If no certified sub can be found, a district may use a retired teacher certificate (Type R) holder as a long-term sub for up to 120 days.
- A district that hires an uncertified sub to fill a vacancy at the start of the year for 20 in-session days or less must tell DEED by August 31.
Ready for the first day
Sources
- Alaska Administrative Code 4 AAC 18.021, Employment of substitute teachers (opened October 30, 2026)
- DEED: Teacher Certification (opened October 30, 2026)
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