Requirements to Become a Substitute Teacher in California

_{August 24, 2025 by JoyAnswer.org, Category : Education}

What are the requirements to become a substitute teacher in California?Learn the requirements to become a substitute teacher in California. This guide outlines eligibility, certification, and application processes for those interested in teaching temporarily.

Table of Contents

What are the requirements to become a substitute teacher in California?

1. Emergency 30-Day Substitute Teaching Permit

Most substitute teachers in California work under the Emergency 30-Day Substitute Teaching Permit, issued by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). EdSource

To apply, you must submit to the CTC:

Official transcripts showing the completion of a bachelor’s degree or higher (any field).
A completed application form.
Live Scan fingerprinting for a background check.
Payment of a $100 application fee plus a $2.65 service fee.
Proof of basic skills proficiency—typically via the CBEST exam or equivalent. (Note: a temporary waiver for basic skills was in place until July 1, 2024.)

2. Alternative or Specialized Permits

Beyond the standard permit, California also offers specialized options:

Emergency Substitute Permit for Prospective Teachers: For those still completing a teaching credential program with at least 90 college units completed. Basic skills must still be demonstrated.
Emergency Career Substitute Permit: For experienced substitutes (minimum three years in a district), this permit allows longer assignments of up to 60 days per teacher—but those extensions ended after July 1, 2023.
Emergency Designated Subjects Career Technical Education Permit: Allows individuals with a high school diploma plus three years of work experience to substitute in CTE classes. Subject-matter competence is waived, though background and fees still apply.

3. Basic Skills Requirement

Historically, basic skills were often verified via the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST). Passing thresholds: total score ≥ 123 and at least 37 in each section, or 41 per section. Wikipedia

However:

As of July 1, 2024, California implemented a waiver for basic skills requirements for those with a bachelor’s degree or higher, eliminating the need for CBEST in many cases.

4. District-Level Processing & Application Timeline

Permit processing through a school district or county office of education is often faster—sometimes just a couple of weeks—versus ~2.5 months if doing it directly via the CTC.
Substitutes are typically placed in a substitute pool via EdJoin, district websites, or HR contacts. EdSourceReddit

5. Real-World Insights from Substitute Teachers

One user confirmed: "a bachelor’s degree was required" for the 30-day permit.
Another noted that in some districts, only 90 units plus CBEST may suffice.
FAQs around CBEST: some areas still require it, while others waive it or accept alternatives like SAT/ACT scores or college coursework. District rules vary.
Regarding permit limits: the 30-day limit applies per teacher, not your total days in a year—you can substitute in other classes or districts indefinitely.

Summary Table

Requirement	Details
Education	Bachelor’s degree (any field), or 90+ units for the prospective permit
Application	Apply via CTC or faster via district/COE; submit transcripts, fees
Background Check	Live Scan fingerprinting required
Basic Skills	CBEST or waiver with a BA (waived after July 1, 2024)
Permits	Standard 30-day, Prospective, Career Substitute, or CTE substitute
Permit Duration	30 days per teacher; can cover entire year across multiple assignments
Employment	Join substitute pool via EdJoin or district HR

Final Recommendations

Confirm with your local district or County Office of Education to understand their specific requirements, especially around CBEST and unit thresholds.
Apply through the district if possible—faster permit turnaround is common.
If eligible, take advantage of the basic skills waiver if you have a bachelor’s degree.

Your Guide to Becoming a Substitute Teacher in California

Substitute teaching offers a flexible and impactful way to contribute to California's educational system. Whether you're considering a career in education or seeking a part-time role, understanding the pathway to becoming a substitute teacher is key. This guide breaks down everything you need to know to get started.

Requirements to Become a Substitute Teacher in California

To become a substitute teacher in California, you'll need to meet several state-mandated requirements, which largely revolve around your educational background and basic skills.

Bachelor's Degree: Generally, a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university is required. The degree can be in any major, not necessarily education-related.
Basic Skills Requirement (BSR): You must satisfy the California Basic Educational Skills Requirement. This can be met in several ways, including:
- Passing the California Basic Educational Skills Test (CBEST), which assesses reading, writing, and math.
- Through qualifying coursework (e.g., specific college-level English and math courses).
- By achieving a certain score on other standardized tests like the SAT or ACT.
TB Test: A negative tuberculosis (TB) test result is required, typically within 60 days of your application or interview. Some districts may accept a TB risk assessment questionnaire.
Age: You must be at least 18 years old.

Certification and Training Needed

California requires substitute teachers to hold a specific permit or credential issued by the Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). The most common is the Emergency 30-Day Substitute Teaching Permit.

Emergency 30-Day Substitute Teaching Permit: This permit allows you to serve as a day-to-day substitute teacher in any classroom (preschool through grade 12 and adult classes) for up to 30 days for any one teacher during the school year. It is valid for one year and is renewable.
Emergency Substitute Teaching Permit for Prospective Teachers: If you're currently enrolled in a regionally accredited four-year California college or university and have completed at least 90 semester units, you might qualify for this permit, though it has specific renewal requirements and may limit teaching days.
Emergency Career Substitute Permit: This is for experienced substitute teachers who have worked at least 90 days per year for three consecutive years in a single California county.
Training: While the state mandates certain clearances (like child abuse mandated reporter training and sexual harassment training), there isn't extensive statewide pre-hire training for substitute teachers. However, many school districts or substitute staffing agencies may require their own pre-hire orientation or training covering topics like classroom management, school policies, and emergency procedures.

Application Process and Background Checks

The application process involves several steps, including thorough background checks to ensure student safety.

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree: Ensure you meet the educational requirements and have official transcripts.
Satisfy the Basic Skills Requirement: Pass the CBEST or meet the requirement through other approved methods.
Complete Live Scan Fingerprinting: This initiates a criminal background check through both the California Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). You'll typically need to fill out a "Request for Live Scan Service Form" and visit a Live Scan location.
Get a TB Test: Provide proof of a recent negative TB test.
Apply for a Permit through the CTC: You can apply directly through the CTC Online portal. This involves submitting your application, official transcripts, fingerprint information, and paying a processing fee. Some school districts may assist with or guide you through this process.
District-Specific Onboarding: Once you have your permit, you'll need to apply directly to school districts or substitute staffing agencies, which will have their own onboarding processes, including additional forms and potentially local training.

Responsibilities and Expectations of Substitute Teachers

Substitute teachers play a crucial role in maintaining continuity and a positive learning environment. Key responsibilities and expectations include:

Implementing Lesson Plans: Carefully review and follow the regular teacher's lesson plans.
Classroom Management: Maintain order and discipline in the classroom, adhering to school and classroom rules.
Student Monitoring and Support: Supervise students during instructional time, transitions, and non-instructional periods, ensuring their safety and well-being.
Adherence to Routines: Follow established school and classroom routines (e.g., bell schedules, lunch procedures).
Communication and Reporting: Leave detailed notes for the regular teacher about lessons covered, student progress, and any significant incidents. Report any serious issues to school administration.
Professionalism: Maintain a professional demeanor and positive attitude, interacting respectfully with students, staff, and administrators.
Flexibility: Be prepared to adapt to unexpected situations or changes in plans.

Tips for Success in Substitute Teaching

Being a successful substitute teacher involves more than just meeting the basic requirements. Here are some tips to excel:

Arrive Early: Get to the school well before students arrive to familiarize yourself with the classroom, lesson plans, and school layout. Introduce yourself to office staff and neighboring teachers.
Be Prepared: Always carry a "substitute bag" with essential items like extra pens, pencils, paper, a book for downtime, and perhaps a few generic filler activities.
Set Clear Expectations: At the beginning of the day, introduce yourself and clearly communicate your expectations for student behavior and work.
Follow Lesson Plans Closely: Deviate only if absolutely necessary, and always prioritize the teacher's instructions.
Be Proactive with Classroom Management: Address behavioral issues promptly and consistently. Use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior.
Engage Students: Keep students involved and on task. Move around the classroom and interact with them.
Leave Detailed Notes: A thorough note for the regular teacher is highly appreciated and increases your chances of being requested back. Include what was covered, who was helpful, and any issues that arose.
Be Flexible and Positive: Every day and every classroom is different. A positive attitude and willingness to adapt will go a long way.
Network: Build relationships with school staff. Being friendly and reliable can lead to more consistent work.