Oregon Substitute Teacher Requirements

Last reviewed: February 8, 2026

At a Glance

Required Items

Optional/Recommended

Required Requirements

You must meet all of these requirements to become a substitute teacher in Oregon.

Education Requirements

Oregon offers flexible education pathways for substitute teachers. Candidates may qualify with a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, or with an associate's degree combined with relevant work experience in an educational or child-related setting. Official transcripts must be submitted to the Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC) as part of the application.

Background Check

Oregon requires all substitute teacher applicants to complete a criminal background check, including fingerprinting submitted through the Oregon State Police (OSP) and the FBI. Background check results are reviewed by TSPC before a license is issued. Certain criminal convictions may disqualify an applicant from obtaining a substitute license.

Age Requirements

Substitute teachers in Oregon must be at least 18 years of age. This is a baseline requirement enforced by TSPC for all substitute teaching licenses.

Application Process

Applicants must apply for an Emergency Substitute Teaching License through the Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC) online portal. The application requires official transcripts, background check completion, and payment of licensing fees. Once licensed, substitutes may apply to individual school districts for placement. The license must be renewed according to TSPC's renewal schedule.

Substitute Teaching Permit/License

Oregon issues an Emergency Substitute Teaching License through TSPC. This license allows the holder to serve as a substitute teacher in Oregon public schools for the duration of the license period. The license is typically valid for three years and is renewable. Substitutes holding a regular Oregon teaching license do not need a separate substitute license.

Recommended / Optional

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

Training/Orientation

District-level orientation or training may be required before substitute teachers begin work in Oregon. Training topics typically include classroom management, school safety, mandated reporting obligations, and culturally responsive teaching practices. Some districts provide online training options.

References

TSPC may require character or professional references as part of the substitute license application. Districts may also request references during their local hiring process. References from educators or supervisors who can speak to the applicant's ability to work with students are preferred.

Additional Information

For more information, visit the Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC).

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