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South Carolina allows substitute teachers to qualify with a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution or with a minimum of 60 semester hours of college coursework. Candidates with a bachelor's degree may qualify for a higher-tier substitute certificate with fewer restrictions. Official transcripts documenting degree conferral or completed coursework must be submitted with the application.
All substitute teacher applicants in South Carolina must undergo a criminal background check, including fingerprinting processed through the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and the FBI. Background check results are reviewed by the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE). Certain criminal convictions will disqualify an applicant from receiving a substitute certificate.
Substitute teachers in South Carolina must be at least 18 years of age. This applies to all categories of substitute teaching certificates issued by the SCDE.
Candidates apply for a substitute teaching certificate through the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) online certification portal. The application requires official transcripts, background check clearance, and applicable fees. Districts may have additional local application requirements. The SCDE issues the certificate once all state-level requirements are met.
The SCDE issues substitute teaching certificates that authorize the holder to work as a substitute in South Carolina public schools. The certificate is typically valid for three to five years and is renewable. Different certificate tiers may be available based on the applicant's educational qualifications, with holders of bachelor's degrees eligible for broader assignment options.
Individual school districts in South Carolina may require substitute teachers to attend an orientation or complete training before accepting assignments. Training often covers classroom management, emergency procedures, and district-specific expectations. Some districts partner with staffing agencies that provide their own training programs.
Districts in South Carolina may require professional references as part of the local hiring process for substitute teachers. Typically two to three references are requested from individuals who can speak to the applicant's character, work ethic, and ability to work with children.
For more information, visit the South Carolina Department of Education - Certification.
City pay, district size, and the steps to apply in South Carolina.
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.