To apply as a substitute teacher in Iowa, you need to meet education requirements, pass a background check, obtain credentials from the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners, and register with Iowa Board of Educational Examiners and districts.
Iowa Board of Educational Examiners and districts
Apply Through
Substitute Authorization
Credential Required
$50
Background Check Cost
2-4 weeks
Processing Time
Des Moines Independent Community School District
Largest District
Applying to become a substitute teacher in Iowa 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 Iowa's basic requirements. You must be at least 18 years old and have the required education (bachelor's degree or substitute authorization with 60 credits). Review the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners 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 Iowa must pass a Iowa DCI and FBI fingerprint check. Visit an authorized fingerprinting location to have your prints taken. The cost is approximately $50, and processing typically takes 2-4 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 Authorization through the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners. 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 Iowa, substitute teachers apply through Iowa Board of Educational Examiners and districts. 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 Iowa 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 Iowa 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
- Des Moines Independent Community School District 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
Iowa Requirements Snapshot
Legal minimums. Real success comes from exceeding them with classroom skills.
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Required
Education Requirements
Since 2019, Iowa requires substitute teachers to hold a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Previously, a lesser credential was accepted, but updated regulations raised the minimum education standard. Official transcripts verifying degree completion must be submitted with the application.
Background Check
Iowa mandates a comprehensive criminal background check for all substitute teacher applicants, including fingerprinting through the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation and the FBI. The background check must be completed before a Substitute Authorization can be issued. Results are reviewed by the Board of Educational Examiners.
Age Requirements
Applicants for substitute teaching in Iowa must be at least 21 years of age. This requirement is tied to the bachelor's degree mandate and ensures candidates have sufficient maturity and academic preparation for the classroom.
Application Process
Candidates apply for a Substitute Authorization through the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners (BoEE) online portal. The application requires submission of official transcripts, background check clearance, and payment of the applicable fee. Processing times vary, and applicants are encouraged to apply well in advance of the school year.
Substitute Authorization
Iowa issues a Substitute Authorization credential through the BoEE that permits holders to serve as substitute teachers in any Iowa school district. The authorization is valid for five years and is renewable. Holders of a valid Iowa teaching license do not need a separate Substitute Authorization.
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 Iowa state and district government authorities — never by any training provider.
Succeed as a Substitute in Iowa
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.