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Kentucky Substitute Teacher Requirements

Last reviewed: February 8, 2026
At a Glance

5

Required Items

2

Optional/Recommended

Required Requirements
You must meet all of these requirements to become a substitute teacher in Kentucky.

Education Requirements

Kentucky has a tiered system for substitute teachers. A certified substitute requires a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. A classified substitute, who may serve in more limited capacities, needs a minimum of an associate's degree or 64 college credit hours. The specific requirements depend on the type of substitute position sought.

Background Check

Kentucky requires all substitute teacher candidates to undergo a national and state criminal background check, including FBI fingerprint screening. The background check is processed through the Kentucky State Police and must be cleared before the candidate can begin working. A letter from the Cabinet for Health and Family Services regarding the child abuse and neglect registry is also required.

Age Requirements

Substitute teachers in Kentucky must be at least 18 years of age. This minimum age requirement applies to both certified and classified substitute positions across all public school districts in the state.

Application Process

Candidates must apply through the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board (EPSB) for a substitute teaching certificate. The application is submitted online and requires official transcripts, background check clearance, and a completed application form with the applicable fee. Candidates must also apply directly with the school districts where they wish to work.

Substitute Teaching Certificate

Kentucky issues substitute teaching certificates through the EPSB. The standard certificate requires a bachelor's degree and is valid for four years. An emergency substitute certificate may be available for candidates with fewer qualifications in districts facing shortages. Holders of a valid Kentucky teaching certificate are automatically authorized to substitute teach.

Recommended / Optional
These may help your application or are recommended but not strictly required.

Training/Orientation

Kentucky does not mandate specific state-level training hours for substitute teachers, but most districts require completion of an orientation program before substitutes can accept assignments. Orientation typically covers district policies, student safety protocols, and technology resources available in the classroom.

References

Many Kentucky school districts require substitute teacher applicants to provide two to three professional references. References should be from individuals who can speak to the candidate's character, work ethic, and ability to work with children. Former supervisors or educators are typically preferred.

Additional Information

For more information, visit the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board page.

Substitute teaching guides for Kentucky

City pay, district size, and the steps to apply in Kentucky.

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