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North Dakota 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 North Dakota.

Education Requirements

North Dakota requires substitute teachers to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. The degree does not need to be in education, but candidates with education-related coursework may have an advantage when applying. Official transcripts must be submitted as part of the credentialing process.

Background Check

All substitute teacher candidates in North Dakota must pass a criminal background check, including fingerprinting submitted to the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) and the FBI. The background check must be completed prior to receiving a credential. Disqualifying offenses include felonies and certain misdemeanor convictions.

Age Requirements

Substitute teachers in North Dakota must be at least 18 years of age. Given the bachelor's degree requirement, most applicants will exceed this minimum age threshold.

Application Process

Candidates must apply for a substitute teaching credential through the Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB). The application requires official transcripts, background check results, and applicable fees. Once credentialed, substitutes can apply to individual school districts for placement. The ESPB credential must be renewed periodically as specified by the board.

Substitute Teaching Permit/License

North Dakota issues substitute teaching credentials through the ESPB. This credential authorizes the holder to serve as a substitute teacher in any public school district in the state. The credential is valid for a set period and must be renewed with updated background checks and any required documentation.

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

Training/Orientation

School districts in North Dakota may require substitutes to attend a district orientation or training session. Topics typically include emergency procedures, student safety protocols, and classroom management strategies. Training requirements vary by district and are in addition to the state credentialing process.

References

The ESPB application may require professional or character references as part of the credentialing process. Districts may also request references during the local hiring process. References from educators or supervisors in educational settings are generally preferred.

Additional Information

For more information, visit the North Dakota Education Standards and Practices Board (ESPB).

Substitute teaching guides for North Dakota

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

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