How to Apply to Be a Substitute Teacher in Indiana
To apply as a substitute teacher in Indiana, you need to meet education requirements, pass a background check, obtain credentials from the Indiana Department of Education, and register with Indiana Department of Education LVIS system.
Indiana Department of Education LVIS system
Apply Through
Substitute Teacher License or Permit
Credential Required
$52
Background Check Cost
1-3 weeks
Processing Time
Indianapolis Public Schools
Largest District
Applying to become a substitute teacher in Indiana involves a multi-step process that includes meeting education requirements, completing a background check, obtaining the proper credentials, and registering with school districts. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application process.
Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility
Before applying, confirm that you meet Indiana's basic requirements. You must be at least 18 years old and have the required education (bachelor's degree for Substitute Teacher License; associate's degree for Substitute Teacher Permit). Review the Indiana Department of Education website for the most current eligibility criteria.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Prepare the following documents before starting your application:
- Official transcripts from your educational institutions
- Valid government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport)
- Social Security card or number
- Resume or CV highlighting any teaching or childcare experience
- Letters of recommendation (if required by your target district)
- Proof of completion of any required training programs
Step 3: Complete the Background Check
All substitute teachers in Indiana must pass a Indiana State Police and FBI fingerprint check. Visit an authorized fingerprinting location to have your prints taken. The cost is approximately $52, and processing typically takes 1-3 weeks. Start this step early, as it often takes the longest to complete.
Step 4: Apply for Your Substitute Teaching Credential
Apply for the Substitute Teacher License or Permit through the Indiana Department of Education. The application process typically involves:
- Completing an online application form
- Uploading or mailing required documents (transcripts, background check results)
- Paying the application fee
- Waiting for credential approval (processing times vary)
Step 5: Register with School Districts
In Indiana, substitute teachers apply through Indiana Department of Education LVIS system. Many districts use online application systems or partner with substitute staffing agencies such as Kelly Education, Swing Education, or ESS. Research which districts you want to work in and complete their specific registration process.
Step 6: Complete District Orientation and Training
Most school districts in Indiana require new substitute teachers to attend an orientation session. This may cover district policies, emergency procedures, classroom management techniques, and technology systems used for taking attendance and accessing lesson plans. Some districts offer paid training, while others require unpaid attendance.
Step 7: Set Up Your Profile and Start Accepting Assignments
Once you are registered and trained, set up your availability in the district's substitute management system (many districts in Indiana use Frontline/AESOP, SmartFind Express, or similar platforms). These systems allow you to view available assignments, set your preferred schools and grade levels, and accept or decline jobs. You will typically receive notifications via phone call, text, email, or app notification when assignments become available.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply to multiple districts to maximize your available work days
- Indianapolis Public Schools and other larger districts often have the most consistent demand for substitutes
- Keep copies of all your documents and confirmation numbers
- Follow up with districts if you have not heard back within 2-3 weeks
- Consider working with a staffing agency, which can simplify the application process across multiple districts
Indiana Requirements Snapshot
Legal minimums. Real success comes from exceeding them with classroom skills.
●
Required
Education Requirements
Indiana requires substitute teachers to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. The degree does not need to be in education, but candidates must demonstrate competency in the subject areas they intend to teach. Transcripts must be submitted as part of the application process.
Background Check
All substitute teacher applicants in Indiana must undergo an expanded criminal background check, including national and state-level fingerprint-based screening. The background check is conducted through the Indiana State Police and the FBI. Applicants with certain felony or misconduct convictions may be disqualified from eligibility.
Age Requirements
Substitute teachers in Indiana must be at least 18 years of age at the time of application. There is no maximum age limit for substitute teaching in the state.
Application Process
Candidates must apply for a Substitute Teaching Permit through the Indiana Department of Education (IDOE) online licensing system. The application requires official transcripts, background check results, and a completed application form. Once approved, the permit is valid for five years and must be renewed before expiration.
Substitute Teaching Permit
Indiana issues a Substitute Teaching Permit through the IDOE that authorizes holders to serve as substitute teachers in any public school corporation in the state. The permit is valid for five years and requires a bachelor's degree. Holders of a valid Indiana teaching license are automatically eligible to substitute teach without a separate permit.
This is skills-based professional development training only. It does not constitute state certification, a teaching license, or a guarantee of employment or assignments. All substitute teaching authorization and certification is issued exclusively by government/state/provincial/district authorities.
Practical skills training only. Actual substitute teaching authorization, certification, permits, and credentials are issued exclusively by Indiana state and district government authorities — never by any training provider.
Succeed as a Substitute in Indiana
Practical skills training that helps you stand out once you have met the government's authorization requirements. We do not issue credentials or guarantees.
Substitute Teacher Training provides practical skills development and resources to help substitute teachers perform more effectively in the classroom. Actual substitute teaching authorization, certification, permits, and credentials are issued exclusively by government/state/provincial/district education authorities. Decisions about hiring, pay rates, assignments, and any required credentials are made solely by schools, districts, and state education authorities. Completion of our courses results in a Certificate of Completion for professional development purposes only. We do not issue, approve, or guarantee any form of certification or employment.
Substitute Teacher Training does not issue substitute teaching authorization, credentials, or employment. All decisions rest solely with state education authorities, provincial ministries, and local school districts.