Substitute Teacher Requirements by State
What it takes to substitute teach in each state — age, degree, license, and background-check rules at a glance.
| State | Min age | Degree | License |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado | 18+ | No | No |
| Colorado | 18+ | Sometimes | No |
| Georgia | 18 baseline, often 21+ | Sometimes | Sometimes |
| Indiana | 18+ | No | Substitute permit |
| New Jersey | Set by district | Some college (30 credits) | Substitute credential |
| Pennsylvania | Generally 18+ | Sometimes | Sometimes |
| Texas | 18+ or 21+ | No | No |
Colorado Early Childhood (ECE) Substitute Requirements
What you need to work in Colorado daycares and preschools: the required PDIS trainings, background checks, CPR, and the 21-point path to Lead Teacher (Level 2).
Colorado Substitute Teacher Requirements
Colorado does not require a full teaching license to substitute — see the age, degree, authorization, and background-check rules, plus how to start substitute teaching.
Atlanta Substitute Teacher Requirements
What you need to substitute teach in Atlanta and across Georgia — minimum age, whether a degree or certificate is required, and the background-check rules districts set.
Indiana Substitute Teacher Requirements
To substitute teach in Indiana you need a high school diploma, to be at least 18, and a school-sponsored Substitute Permit through LVIS — no college degree required. See the full requirements and pay.
New Jersey Substitute Teacher Requirements
To substitute teach in New Jersey you need a Substitute Credential — 30 college credits, a sponsor district, and a criminal history record check. See the full NJ requirements and pay.
Pennsylvania Substitute Teacher Requirements
To obtain a teaching certification in Pennsylvania, you must follow specific guidelines and complete the required steps. Most public schools in…
Texas Substitute Teacher Requirements
Texas requires no statewide substitute teacher certificate — most districts ask only for a high school diploma, a background check, and age 18+. See full requirements and pay.