United States

South Dakota 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 South Dakota.

Education Requirements

South Dakota requires substitute teachers to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution or to be currently enrolled in a state-approved teacher preparation program. Candidates enrolled in a teacher prep program must have completed a minimum number of credit hours as determined by the state. Official transcripts or proof of enrollment must be submitted with the application.

Background Check

All substitute teacher applicants in South Dakota must pass a criminal background check, including fingerprinting submitted to the Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) and the FBI. Background check results are reviewed as part of the application process. Applicants with disqualifying criminal history will be denied a substitute teaching authorization.

Age Requirements

Substitute teachers in South Dakota must be at least 18 years of age. This requirement applies to all substitute teaching categories, including those for candidates currently enrolled in teacher preparation programs.

Application Process

Substitute teacher applications in South Dakota are typically processed at the district level. Candidates apply directly to the school district where they wish to substitute, submitting official transcripts or proof of enrollment, background check results, and any required forms. Some districts use online application systems, while others require paper applications.

Substitute Teaching Permit/License

South Dakota issues substitute teaching authorizations that allow individuals to serve as substitute teachers in public school districts. The authorization process may be managed at the district level with oversight from the South Dakota Department of Education. Holders of a valid South Dakota teaching certificate do not need a separate substitute authorization.

Recommended / Optional

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

Training/Orientation

District-level training or orientation is commonly required for substitute teachers in South Dakota. Sessions typically cover school safety, classroom management, district policies, and expectations for substitute teachers. Training formats vary by district and may be offered in person or online.

References

School districts in South Dakota frequently require professional references as part of the substitute teacher application process. Typically two to three references are requested from individuals who can attest to the applicant's qualifications and suitability for working with students.

Additional Information

For more information, visit the South Dakota Department of Education - Certification.

Substitute teaching guides for South Dakota

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

South Dakota topics

Cities in South Dakota

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