How to Become a Substitute Teacher in Georgia: A Clear, Updated Guide

If you’re considering substitute teaching in Georgia, you’re exploring a flexible, rewarding opportunity to help support classrooms — whether you want part-time work, occasional assignments, or to explore teaching without committing full-time. Because substitute-teacher eligibility often depends on the local school district rather than a statewide permit, there’s a lot of flexibility around who can become a sub. This guide lays out what’s typical, how to apply, and how training — like that from Certified Sub — can help you enter classrooms confidently.

Why Substitute Teaching in Georgia Might Be a Good Fit

Substitute teaching in Georgia offers considerable flexibility and variety. Many districts rely heavily on substitutes to cover teacher absences — whether for a single day or for several days in a row — which means there are frequent opportunities for qualified individuals. This flexibility appeals to people juggling other jobs, school, family obligations, or seeking a role with fewer long-term commitments than a typical full-time teaching position.

Because many districts do not require a formal statewide substitute-teacher certification, substitute teaching can be accessible to individuals with a wide range of educational and professional backgrounds. That makes it a practical option if you’re exploring education but aren’t ready or interested in pursuing a full teaching credential.

What It Takes to Become a Substitute Teacher in Georgia

In Georgia, there is no universal statewide substitute-teacher license that applies everywhere. Instead, each school district sets its own requirements for who can serve as a substitute teacher. As a result, what you need to qualify will depend on which district you apply to. But here’s what many districts commonly require:

• Many Georgia districts accept candidates who hold at least a high school diploma or GED as eligible to substitute, especially for day-to-day or short-term assignments.
• For certain roles (e.g., long-term substitute positions, or secondary-level classes), some districts prefer — or require — candidates with some college credits or a bachelor’s degree.
• All substitute teacher applicants must pass a criminal background check and complete any required fingerprinting or clearances. Districts use these checks to ensure the safety and well-being of students.
• Because there is no statewide substitute permit, some districts may require additional local paperwork, application forms, or district-specific orientation/training, especially for long-term substitutes or frequent subs.

Because of this variation, your best first step is always to review the substitute-teacher policy on the website of the school district you’re interested in, or to contact their Human Resources or substitute-services office directly to confirm their current requirements.

What the Application Process Usually Looks Like in Georgia

Though processes vary somewhat by district, most follow a similar pattern:

1. Check district requirements. Look on the district’s website for substitute-teacher eligibility criteria — education level, background screening, paperwork, and any special requirements.
2. Prepare your documentation. Typically you’ll need your high school diploma or GED, or transcripts if you have college credits; valid identification; and any additional items the district asks for (e.g., references, proof of employment eligibility).
3. Complete required background clearances. Many districts will require a criminal background check (and possibly fingerprinting) before approving you as a substitute.
4. Submit your application to the district or to the district’s substitute-pool / staffing system. Some districts manage substitute hiring directly; others may rely on third-party substitute placement services.
5. If required: complete local onboarding or training. Some districts may ask new substitutes to complete a brief orientation or training before assigning them to classrooms — especially if they expect long-term or frequently used substitutes.
6. Get added to the substitute pool. Once approved, you’ll be eligible to receive assignments. Many substitutes apply to multiple districts to increase their chances of work, especially if they live near district borders or are open to commuting.

Because districts set their own rules, requirements and details can vary widely — so some flexibility and due diligence is important when you apply.

How Certified Sub Helps Prepare Georgia Substitutes for the Classroom

Because Georgia does not enforce a statewide substitute-teacher license or require a standard substitute-specific certification, many new substitutes begin without formal classroom training. That can make subbing challenging — especially on your first day — when you may encounter unfamiliar environments, different grade levels, or disruptive situations.

That’s where Certified Sub can make a real difference.

Certified Sub offers structured, practical training specifically designed for substitute teachers. Through their self-paced online modules, you can learn essential classroom skills such as establishing routines, managing student behavior, delivering lessons based on existing plans, and handling unexpected situations — regardless of grade level or subject.

For first-time substitutes in Georgia — especially those without a teaching background — this training can boost confidence and readiness. Instead of walking into a classroom uncertain and unprepared, you’ll have a toolkit, plan, and approach to lead effectively from day one.

For school districts, substitutes who’ve completed such training tend to maintain better classroom stability, reduce disruptions, and support student learning — which is especially valuable when regular teachers are absent.

If your goal is to stand out — not just by meeting minimum requirements — but by delivering quality instruction and classroom consistency, then Certified Sub offers valuable preparation and support.

Your Next Step

Substitute teaching in Georgia offers accessibility, flexibility, and the chance to make a positive impact — whether you’re seeking occasional work, part-time hours, or a path toward more consistent assignments. Because requirements depend on each school district, checking local policies is essential; and preparing yourself with professional training can make all the difference.

Ready to get trained and classroom-ready?
Explore the full library of substitute teacher training courses here:
👉 https://www.certifiedsub.org/courses/