Become a Substitute Teacher in Your Area
Schools rely on people with experience working with kids to step in when teachers are absent. Substitute teaching is a flexible and meaningful way to support students in public, private, and independent schools.
Free to apply · Experience with kids preferred · Flexible schedule
What actually happens
when you apply
Apply in minutes
A short form — your background, experience with kids, and availability. No resume required upfront.
Schools find you
Schools near you review applicants and reach out if you're a good fit for their substitute pool.
Handle the paperwork together
Background check, fingerprinting, training — the school walks you through whatever they need.
Start showing up
Accept assignments on days that work for you. Some subs work once a week. Some work every day.
If you're good with kids, you're halfway there
Schools care a lot more about whether you can connect with students than whether you have a teaching credential. Experience matters — whatever form it's taken.
Apply NowPeople who typically qualify
- Babysitters & nannies
- College students
- Tutors
- Coaches & camp counselors
- Retired professionals
- Parents with open schedules
You might already qualify
Most states don't require a teaching degree. The application takes about 5 minutes and shows you exactly what's needed in your state.
Find out nowSchools Are Looking for Substitute Teachers
Thousands of schools across the country need qualified substitutes when teachers are absent.
Flexible
Work the days you choose — nothing more
Meaningful
You're not just filling a seat. Students notice.
Local
Schools near you, not across the state
Typical Substitute Teacher Requirements
These steps are usually completed after a school reviews your application — not before you apply.
Meet the education bar
High school diploma, some college, or a degree depending on your state.
Verify work eligibility
Standard I-9 process — you've probably done this before.
Pass a background check
Required everywhere. Usually takes a few days to come back.
Get fingerprinted
Most states require this as part of the screening.
Complete a short training
Some districts have a brief orientation before you start.
Why Subpool
Substitute Teacher FAQs
A substitute teacher fills in for the regular classroom teacher when they are absent. Responsibilities include following lesson plans, maintaining classroom order, and supporting student learning.
Requirements vary by state. Most require at least a high school diploma, a background check, and work authorization. Some states require college credits or a substitute teaching permit.
Very flexible. You choose the days you want to work and the schools you prefer. Most substitutes work on a day-to-day basis.
Most substitutes can work with all grade levels — from kindergarten through 12th grade.
Yes, both public and private schools hire substitutes, as well as charter and independent schools.
Pay varies by state and district but typically ranges from $80 to $200+ per day. You can view the average pay for your state on our State Requirements page.
Subpool helps you apply to become a substitute teacher, understand the requirements for your state, and get connected with schools near you.
Ready to Become a Substitute Teacher?
Start your application and see the requirements for your state.
Free to apply · Takes less than 5 minutes