How to become a substitute teacher in Florida
Florida sets the floor in state law (s. 1012.35, Florida Statutes), and each district school board hires its own substitutes. You need at least a high school diploma or its equivalent, a full set of fingerprints, and an orientation on school safety, liability, ethics and district policy. If you have not taught before, the district also asks for training in classroom management and teaching strategies. Districts can add more, so check with the district.
Checked October 30, 2026 on the Florida Legislature (s. 1012.35, Florida Statutes); district school boards hire'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 its equivalent |
|---|---|
| Credential | No state substitute certificate; each district school board hires and sets its own rules |
| Background check | A full set of fingerprints is required for employment (s. 1012.32). |
| Who issues it | Florida Legislature (s. 1012.35, Florida Statutes); district school boards hire |
How to get it
- Pick the school district you want to sub for and apply on its jobs page.
- Show your high school diploma or its equivalent.
- Submit a full set of fingerprints for the background screening.
- Finish the district's orientation on school safety, ethics and district policies.
- If you have not taught before, finish the district's classroom management training.
Limits and conditions
- A sub who teaches the same class for 30 or more days is appraised by the district.
- Each district sets pay and any rules beyond the state floor.
Ready for the first day
Sources
- Florida Statutes s. 1012.35, Substitute teachers (opened October 30, 2026)
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