How to become a substitute teacher in Arizona
The Arizona Department of Education issues two sub credentials. The Substitute Certificate needs a bachelor's degree and a valid fingerprint clearance card. The Emergency Substitute Certificate needs a high school diploma, GED or associate degree, a fingerprint clearance card, and a superintendent's note that an emergency staffing need exists. The emergency certificate works only in the district that asked for it. Rules change, so confirm with ADE and the district.
Checked October 30, 2026 on the Arizona Department of Education, Educator Certification's own pages. Rules change; the state's page and your district have the last word.
At a glance
| Least schooling | A high school diploma, GED or associate degree (Emergency Substitute Certificate); a bachelor's degree for the Substitute Certificate |
|---|---|
| Credential | Substitute Certificate or Emergency Substitute Certificate |
| Background check | A valid fingerprint clearance card from the Arizona Department of Public Safety. |
| How long it lasts | Substitute Certificate: 6 years. Emergency Substitute Certificate: 2 school years. |
| Who issues it | Arizona Department of Education, Educator Certification |
How to get it
- Get an Arizona Department of Public Safety fingerprint clearance card.
- Choose the Substitute Certificate (bachelor's degree) or the Emergency Substitute Certificate (diploma, GED or associate degree).
- For the emergency certificate, ask the district superintendent to sign the request.
- Apply to ADE Educator Certification with your transcript or diploma and the fee.
Limits and conditions
- An Emergency Substitute Certificate only lets you sub in the district that verified the emergency.
Ready for the first day
Sources
- Arizona House of Representatives: SB 1412 summary (describes the substitute certificate rules, A.A.C. R7-2-614) (opened October 30, 2026)
- A.R.S. 15-501.01, Requirements for teachers (opened October 30, 2026)
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