New Jersey requires a Substitute Credential to fill in for an absent classroom teacher. Unlike states with no statewide certificate, New Jersey's credential is issued by the state Department of Education and can be used in multiple counties once you hold it.
For the Instructional Substitute Credential, the state requires completion of 30 semester-hour credits at an accredited college or university, plus a criminal history record check with an approval date within five months of your application. You also need a sponsor — a school district, a teacher preparation program, or a vendor organization you will serve — and you apply through the state's online NJEdCert system. There is a $125 application fee.
If you already hold a New Jersey instructional certificate (CE or CEAS), a standard instructional certificate, an administrative certificate, or an educational services certificate, you do not need a separate Substitute Credential.
What Are the Requirements To Be a Substitute Teacher in New Jersey?
To earn the Instructional Substitute Credential, the New Jersey Department of Education sets these requirements:
Education Requirements
- Completion of 30 semester-hour credits at a regionally accredited college or university. A full bachelor's degree is not required for the substitute credential.
Sponsor Requirement
- You must have a sponsor to apply: a school district, a teacher preparation program, or a vendor organization you will serve. If you plan to substitute in several districts, you choose at least one sponsoring organization when you apply.
Background Check
- A criminal history record check is required, with an approval date within five months of your application date and "Substitute Teacher" listed as the job position.
Credential & Fee
- Apply for the Substitute Credential through the state's online system, NJEdCert. There is a $125 application fee. The credential can be used across multiple counties.
Frequently Asked Questions About Substitute Teaching in New Jersey
Do you need a degree to be a substitute teacher in New Jersey?
Not a full degree. The Instructional Substitute Credential requires 30 semester-hour college credits, not a completed bachelor's degree. If you already hold a New Jersey instructional, administrative, or educational services certificate, you can substitute without a separate credential.
Do you need a certification to substitute teach in New Jersey?
Yes. New Jersey requires a Substitute Credential issued by the state Department of Education. You need a sponsor (district, teacher-prep program, or vendor organization), a criminal history record check, and a $125 application through NJEdCert.
How much do substitute teachers make in New Jersey?
Pay is set by the district and assignment. Through HelloSubs, South Jersey and Camden-area substitute assignments commonly pay $140–$200 per day, with weekly pay.
How long does the New Jersey substitute credential take?
Timelines vary by county office. Once issued, the substitute credential can be used in multiple counties. Browse substitute teacher jobs in Camden, NJ or learn how to become a substitute teacher in New Jersey.