How to become a substitute teacher in Connecticut
Connecticut's State Department of Education (CSDE) does not require a teaching certificate for daily subs. A bachelor's degree is normally required. For someone without one, the district can apply online for a waiver based on experience with school-age children. Assignments over 60 days in a school year need a long-term authorization the district files. State law requires a child abuse registry check and state and national fingerprint checks.
Checked October 30, 2026 on the Connecticut State Department of Education, Bureau of Certification's own pages. Rules change; the state's page and your district have the last word.
At a glance
| Least schooling | A bachelor's degree, or a district waiver for someone without one |
|---|---|
| Credential | No license for daily subs; districts hire directly (waiver for subs without a degree) |
| Background check | A Department of Children and Families child abuse and neglect registry check, plus state and national fingerprint checks within 30 days of hire. Subs who keep working for the same district are rechecked at least every five years. |
| How long it lasts | Waivers and long-term authorizations last one school year and expire June 30. |
| Who issues it | Connecticut State Department of Education, Bureau of Certification |
How to get it
- Apply to sub with a Connecticut school district.
- If you have no bachelor's degree, ask the district to apply for a waiver for you.
- Complete the Department of Children and Families registry check.
- Get fingerprinted for the state and national criminal history checks.
Limits and conditions
- A waiver only covers the district that applied for it.
- Long-term subs (over 60 days in one school year) need a bachelor's degree and 12 credits in the subject; the district files form ED 175.
Ready for the first day
Sources
- CSDE: What are the requirements for hiring substitute teachers? (opened October 30, 2026)
- Connecticut General Statutes, Chapter 170 (Sec. 10-221d, records checks) (opened October 30, 2026)
Colorado · Delaware · Every state
This page explains a state's rules in general and is not legal advice. Nothing you do here is sent to us. No sign-in, no ads.