How to become a substitute teacher in Ohio
Ohio's State Board of Education issues the Substitute License. You need at least a bachelor's degree, and you pick a field based on your degree: General Substitute, Education Degree (Unlimited) or a subject area. Without a degree, a district can back you for a one-year Temporary Non-Bachelor's Substitute License if you meet its own education rules. Either way, you must have current background checks on file with the State Board, and the hiring district approves the application.
Checked October 30, 2026 on the Ohio State Board of Education, Office of Educator Licensure and Effectiveness'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 for the Substitute License; the employing district's own education rules for the Temporary Non-Bachelor's Substitute License |
|---|---|
| Credential | Substitute License (or Temporary Non-Bachelor's Substitute License) |
| Background check | Current background checks must be on file with the State Board of Education before you apply. |
| How long it lasts | Substitute License: one year or five years. Temporary Non-Bachelor's Substitute License: one year. |
| Who issues it | Ohio State Board of Education, Office of Educator Licensure and Effectiveness |
How to get it
- Finish the hiring process with an Ohio school, district or educational service center first.
- Ask that employer for its IRN number; its e-signer must approve your application.
- Get your background checks on file with the State Board of Education.
- For the regular license, send official transcripts showing at least a bachelor's degree.
- Apply in CORE through your OHID account: Substitute License (1-Year or 5-Year), or Temporary Substitute License (1 Year, Non-Bachelors).
Limits and conditions
- With a degree in education or in a subject directly tied to the class, a license holder may work an unlimited number of days.
- With a degree in an unrelated subject, a holder may teach that class for one full semester with the district board's approval; the superintendent can ask for more semesters.
Ready for the first day
Sources
- Ohio State Board of Education: Substitute License Application Checklist (opened October 30, 2026)
- Ohio State Board of Education: Temporary Non-Bachelor's Substitute License Application Checklist (opened October 30, 2026)
- Ohio Revised Code 3319.226: Educator licenses for substitute teaching (opened October 30, 2026)
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