MA
United States
Massachusetts Substitute Teacher Requirements
Last reviewed: February 8, 2026
At a Glance
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Massachusetts generally requires substitute teachers to hold a bachelor's degree, although requirements can vary by district since much of the substitute hiring process is managed at the local level. Some districts may accept candidates with fewer credentials for short-term substitute assignments. Official transcripts are typically required as part of the district application process.
Massachusetts requires all substitute teachers to undergo Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) and Sexual Offender Registry Information (SORI) background checks. Fingerprint-based national background checks through the FBI are also mandatory under state law. These checks are initiated by the hiring school district and must be completed before the substitute can begin working.
Substitute teachers in Massachusetts must be at least 18 years of age. Districts may set higher minimum age requirements at their discretion. The bachelor's degree expectation typically means most applicants are in their early twenties or older.
Massachusetts operates a district-by-district hiring process for substitute teachers. There is no single statewide application portal for substitute teaching credentials. Candidates must apply directly with each school district where they wish to substitute teach, submitting transcripts, references, and background check authorizations as required by the individual district.
Massachusetts does not issue a statewide substitute teaching license or permit. Instead, districts hire substitute teachers directly based on their own qualification standards. Candidates who hold a valid Massachusetts teaching license issued by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) are generally given preference for substitute assignments.
Training requirements for substitute teachers in Massachusetts are determined at the district level. Many districts provide orientation sessions that cover classroom management basics, emergency procedures, and district-specific policies. Some larger districts offer comprehensive onboarding programs with ongoing professional development opportunities for substitute teachers.
Most Massachusetts school districts require substitute teacher applicants to submit two to three professional references. References should come from individuals who can speak to the candidate's reliability, character, and ability to work effectively with students. Former supervisors, colleagues, or professors are commonly accepted.
For more information, visit the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education Licensure page.
Our courses are designed to help you meet all the requirements for substitute teacher training.