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Michigan does not require a bachelor's degree for substitute teachers at the state level. To obtain a valid Michigan substitute teaching permit, candidates must have completed a minimum of 60 semester credit hours from an accredited college or university. Some districts may set higher education standards at their discretion.
All substitute teacher applicants in Michigan must undergo a criminal background check through the Michigan State Police (ICHAT) and an FBI fingerprint-based check. Michigan law also requires a check against the sex offender registry and the central registry for child abuse and neglect. Background clearance must be obtained before the substitute permit is issued.
Substitute teachers in Michigan must be at least 18 years of age. This is a baseline requirement set by state law and applies to all substitute teaching permit holders across the state.
Candidates apply for a substitute teaching permit through the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) online certification system, the Michigan Online Educator Certification System (MOECS). The application requires official transcripts showing at least 60 credit hours, background check clearance, and payment of the applicable fee. Once the state permit is obtained, candidates apply directly with school districts.
Michigan issues a substitute teaching permit through the MDE that is valid for up to five years. The permit authorizes the holder to work as a substitute teacher in any Michigan public school district. A minimum of 60 college credit hours is required. Holders of a valid Michigan teaching certificate are automatically eligible to substitute teach without a separate permit.
Michigan does not mandate state-level training for substitute teachers. Most school districts provide their own orientation programs that cover emergency procedures, classroom management expectations, and district technology systems. Some districts may require completion of online training modules before a substitute can accept assignments.
For more information, visit the Michigan Department of Education Certification page.
Our courses are designed to help you meet all the requirements for substitute teacher training.