How to become a substitute teacher in Georgia
In Georgia, the Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) sets the rule and each school district keeps its own substitute list. At minimum you need a high school diploma or GED and at least four hours of initial training from the district that hires you. Holders of a Georgia teaching or paraprofessional certificate skip the training. Districts give priority to certified teachers and degree holders. Ask the hiring district about its background check.
Checked October 30, 2026 on the Georgia Professional Standards Commission'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 GED |
|---|---|
| Credential | No state substitute certificate; each district keeps a substitute teacher list |
| Background check | The GaPSC rule does not list one. Ask the hiring district. |
| Who issues it | Georgia Professional Standards Commission |
How to get it
- Apply to the school district you want to sub for.
- Show your high school diploma, GED or college transcripts.
- Finish the district's background check and hiring paperwork.
- Take at least four hours of the district's initial substitute training, unless you hold a Georgia teaching or paraprofessional certificate.
- Get added to the district's substitute teacher list.
Limits and conditions
- Subs with only a high school diploma or GED may not stay in one classroom more than 10 days in a row.
- An absence or vacancy of 46 or more days in a row must be filled by a certified in-field teacher.
Ready for the first day
Sources
- GaPSC Rule 505-2-.20, Substitute Teaching (opened October 30, 2026)
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