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

If you’re interested in becoming a substitute teacher in Idaho, you’re stepping into a role that is flexible, meaningful, and essential for schools across the state—from Boise to Coeur d’Alene to Idaho’s many rural districts. Whether you’re exploring a new career path, re-entering the workforce, or simply seeking work that aligns with a school-year schedule, substitute teaching offers a chance to support students with minimal long-term commitment.

This guide walks you through what substitute teaching looks like in Idaho, what districts require, and how Certified Sub can help you enter the classroom feeling prepared and confident.

Why Substitute Teaching Appeals to So Many Idahoans

Substitute teaching is uniquely flexible. You choose when to work and how often, making it ideal for parents, retirees, college students, and anyone looking for meaningful part-time or full-time flexibility.

Many people appreciate that substitute teaching provides structure, purpose, and income—without taking work home. Each day brings something new: different classrooms, students, and routines. If you enjoy variety, this role is a perfect fit.

Pay in Idaho varies widely by district, typically ranging from $90 to $130 per day, with higher rates for long-term placements or for those who hold a valid Idaho teaching certificate. Districts across Idaho continue to face ongoing substitute shortages, meaning steady opportunities are available year-round.

What It Takes to Become a Substitute Teacher in Idaho

Idaho does not issue a statewide substitute teaching license, and the Idaho State Department of Education (SDE) leaves hiring and qualification decisions to individual districts. That means requirements vary—but are generally straightforward.

Here’s what most districts require:

Background Check (Mandatory for All Substitutes)

All substitutes in Idaho must complete the Idaho State Department of Education fingerprint-based background check. This is required before working in any school building.

Minimum Education Requirements

These vary by district but commonly include:

  • High school diploma or GED for short-term or emergency substitute roles
  • Some college credits (often 32–60 credits) for regular substitute positions
  • A bachelor’s degree for long-term roles or higher pay
  • Idaho Teaching Certificate (optional) — not required, but often increases pay rates

Because Idaho is a local-control state, each district sets its own standards. Some rural districts are more flexible due to staffing needs, while larger districts (like Boise, West Ada, and Coeur d’Alene) tend to require more formal qualifications.

Additional District Requirements

Districts may require:

  • proof of education (diploma/transcripts)
  • professional references
  • orientation or onboarding sessions
  • district-specific training
  • completion of a substitute handbook review

You’ll typically find these details under “Employment,” “Human Resources,” or “Substitute Opportunities” on the district’s website.

What the Application Process Typically Looks Like in Idaho

Even though requirements vary, the process across Idaho districts generally follows the same steps:

  1. Check the district’s substitute qualifications.
    Each district posts its expectations clearly online.
  2. Gather your documents:
    • diploma or transcripts
    • driver’s license or ID
    • résumé
    • references, if required
  1. Submit your district application.
  2. Complete the fingerprint-based Idaho SDE background check.
    This is mandatory statewide.
  3. Attend district orientation or training (if required).
  4. Get added to the district substitute roster.

Once approved, you can begin accepting substitute assignments. Many Idaho subs choose to register with more than one district—especially in regions where several districts operate close together—so they can increase their scheduling flexibility and earning potential.

How Certified Sub Helps Prepare Substitutes in Idaho

Even though Idaho requirements are minimal, stepping into a classroom with confidence takes preparation—and that’s where Certified Sub comes in.

Certified Sub offers practical, classroom-focused training built specifically for substitute teachers. It bridges the gap between being eligible to substitute and being ready to manage a real classroom.

Through online, self-paced modules, substitutes learn how to:

  • establish routines the moment they walk in
  • manage student behavior effectively
  • deliver lesson plans clearly
  • keep students engaged
  • adapt when plans are missing or unclear
  • handle common classroom disruptions
  • maintain consistency with grade-level expectations

Certified Sub focuses entirely on the realities of substitute teaching—walking into unfamiliar rooms, working with students you’ve never met, and managing behavior with confidence. Training includes scripts, checklists, templates, routines, and real classroom examples that new substitutes can start using immediately.

For Idaho districts—especially those that provide little or no mandatory training—Certified Sub fills a critical gap. Substitutes come in prepared, consistent, and equipped with strategies that support smooth, productive school days.

Your Next Step

If substitute teaching is on your radar, Idaho is an excellent place to get started. The process is simple, the demand is high, and training programs like Certified Sub make it easier than ever to feel calm and confident on day one.

Ready to get trained and classroom-ready?

Explore the full library of substitute teacher training courses here:
👉 https://www.certifiedsub.org/courses/