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Colorado does not have a single statewide education requirement for substitute teachers. Requirements are set at the district level and vary significantly. Some districts require a bachelor's degree, while others accept candidates with a high school diploma or a minimum of 60 college credit hours. Applicants should check with the specific district for its education standards.
All substitute teachers in Colorado must pass a fingerprint-based criminal background check, including both a Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and FBI check. This is a statewide requirement regardless of the district. The background check must be completed and cleared before the substitute can be placed in a classroom.
Substitute teachers in Colorado must be at least 18 years of age. Individual school districts may set higher minimum age requirements at their discretion.
Because Colorado does not issue a state-level substitute teaching license, applicants apply directly to individual school districts. Each district manages its own substitute teacher pool and application process. Many larger Colorado districts use online application portals or partner with substitute staffing agencies such as Kelly Education or Swing Education.
Colorado does not issue a state-level substitute teaching license or permit. Authorization to substitute teach is granted entirely at the district level. However, candidates who hold a valid Colorado educator license are generally eligible to substitute in any district without additional permitting.
Many Colorado school districts require substitute teachers to complete an orientation or training program before receiving classroom assignments. Topics commonly covered include classroom management, district-specific policies, emergency and safety procedures, and student data privacy. Some districts offer both in-person and online training options.
For more information, visit the Colorado Department of Education - Educator Licensing page.
City pay, district size, and the steps to apply in Colorado.
Recommended training
$89one-time
Professional training with a certificate of completion. This does not replace your state's substitute permit or license. *Refund within 7 days if you have completed less than 20% of the course. Grab the free checklist if you are not ready to enroll.