How to become a substitute teacher in Colorado
The Colorado Department of Education (CDE) issues Substitute Teacher Authorizations. The 1-year needs a high school diploma or equivalent and successful experience working with children. The 3-year needs a bachelor's degree. The 5-year needs a full teacher license from Colorado or another state, active or expired. Everyone submits fingerprints to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation and applies in CDE's COOL system.
Checked October 30, 2026 on the Colorado Department of Education, Educator Licensing'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 or equivalent, plus experience working with children |
|---|---|
| Credential | Substitute Teacher Authorization (1-year, 3-year or 5-year) |
| Background check | Fingerprints to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation for CDE licensure, plus self-disclosure of any criminal history. |
| How long it lasts | 1, 3 or 5 years from the date of issue. |
| Fee | $60 for the 1-year; $90 for the 3-year and 5-year (as of 2026-10-30). Fees are not refunded. |
| Who issues it | Colorado Department of Education, Educator Licensing |
How to get it
- Pick the authorization that fits: 1-year, 3-year or 5-year.
- Gather a government ID and your documents (transcript for the 3-year, license for the 5-year).
- Create a COOL account with CDE.
- Submit fingerprints to the Colorado Bureau of Investigation.
- Apply in COOL within 30 days of CDE getting your background check, and pay the fee.
Limits and conditions
- CDE reviews applications within 45 business days.
Ready for the first day
Sources
- CDE: Substitute Teacher Authorizations checklist (opened October 30, 2026)
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