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Oklahoma requires substitute teachers to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution or to have completed at least 90 semester hours of college coursework. Candidates with 90 or more hours but no degree may qualify for a substitute teaching certificate with certain restrictions. Official transcripts documenting coursework or degree conferral must be submitted with the application.
All substitute teaching applicants in Oklahoma must undergo a national criminal background check, including fingerprinting through an approved vendor. The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) and FBI process the results, which are reviewed by the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE). A felony conviction or certain misdemeanor offenses may result in denial of the substitute certificate.
Substitute teachers in Oklahoma must be at least 18 years of age. This applies to all categories of substitute teaching certificates issued by the OSDE.
Candidates apply for a substitute teaching certificate through the Oklahoma State Department of Education (OSDE). The application is submitted online and requires official transcripts, background check clearance, and applicable fees. Once certified, substitutes may be employed by any Oklahoma public school district. The OSDE typically processes applications within several weeks.
The OSDE issues substitute teaching certificates that authorize holders to work in Oklahoma public schools. The certificate is typically valid for one to three years depending on the type and must be renewed before expiration. Renewal may require updated background checks and transcripts.
District-level training or orientation may be required before a substitute begins teaching in Oklahoma. These sessions often cover district policies, student safety, and emergency procedures. Some districts offer online orientation modules, while others require in-person attendance.
For more information, visit the Oklahoma State Department of Education - Educator Certification.
Our courses are designed to help you meet all the requirements for substitute teacher training.