TX
United States
Texas Substitute Teacher Requirements
Last reviewed: February 8, 2026
At a Glance
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Texas substitute teacher requirements vary by district. Some districts require a bachelor's degree, while others accept candidates with a high school diploma or GED plus at least 48 semester hours of college credit. Districts set their own minimum education thresholds, so candidates should verify requirements with the specific district where they wish to substitute.
All substitute teachers in Texas must undergo a criminal background check, including fingerprinting processed through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and the FBI. Texas law also requires districts to check candidates against the state's registry of persons not eligible for employment in public schools.
Substitute teachers in Texas must be at least 18 years of age. Government-issued photo identification is required to verify age and identity during the application and hiring process.
The application process in Texas is managed entirely at the district level. Many districts contract with third-party staffing agencies such as ESS or Kelly Education to manage substitute teacher recruitment and placement. Candidates typically complete an online application, submit transcripts, and attend an orientation before being approved.
Most Texas districts require substitute teachers to complete a district-specific orientation or training program before they can accept assignments. Training typically covers classroom management, district policies, emergency procedures, and the use of electronic attendance and grade systems.
The State Board for Educator Certification (SBEC) does not issue a statewide substitute teaching certificate in Texas. Instead, individual school districts are responsible for establishing their own qualification criteria and approving substitute teachers. Districts maintain their own rosters of approved substitutes.
Texas districts commonly require two to three professional references from applicants seeking substitute teaching positions. References from prior supervisors, educators, or professionals who can speak to the applicant's reliability and suitability for working with students are preferred.
For more information, visit the Texas Education Agency Certification page or contact your local school district's human resources department.
City pay, district size, and the steps to apply in Texas.
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.