South Dakota
How to Apply

How to Apply to Be a Substitute Teacher in South Dakota

To apply as a substitute teacher in South Dakota, you need to meet education requirements, pass a background check, obtain credentials from the South Dakota Department of Education, and register with SD DOE and individual school districts.

SD DOE and individual school districts

Apply Through

Substitute Teaching Certificate

Credential Required

$43

Background Check Cost

1-3 weeks

Processing Time

Sioux Falls School District

Largest District

Applying to become a substitute teacher in South Dakota 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 South Dakota's basic requirements. You must be at least 18 years old and have the required education (bachelor's degree or substitute teaching permit). Review the South Dakota 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 South Dakota must pass a DCI and FBI fingerprint check. Visit an authorized fingerprinting location to have your prints taken. The cost is approximately $43, 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 Teaching Certificate through the South Dakota 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 South Dakota, substitute teachers apply through SD DOE and individual school 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 South Dakota 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 South Dakota 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 - Sioux Falls 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

South Dakota Requirements Snapshot

Legal minimums. Real success comes from exceeding them with classroom skills.

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Required

Education Requirements

South Dakota requires substitute teachers to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution or to be currently enrolled in a state-approved teacher preparation program. Candidates enrolled in a teacher prep program must have completed a minimum number of credit hours as determined by the state. Official transcripts or proof of enrollment must be submitted with the application.

Background Check

All substitute teacher applicants in South Dakota must pass a criminal background check, including fingerprinting submitted to the Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) and the FBI. Background check results are reviewed as part of the application process. Applicants with disqualifying criminal history will be denied a substitute teaching authorization.

Age Requirements

Substitute teachers in South Dakota must be at least 18 years of age. This requirement applies to all substitute teaching categories, including those for candidates currently enrolled in teacher preparation programs.

Application Process

Substitute teacher applications in South Dakota are typically processed at the district level. Candidates apply directly to the school district where they wish to substitute, submitting official transcripts or proof of enrollment, background check results, and any required forms. Some districts use online application systems, while others require paper applications.

Substitute Teaching Permit/License

South Dakota issues substitute teaching authorizations that allow individuals to serve as substitute teachers in public school districts. The authorization process may be managed at the district level with oversight from the South Dakota Department of Education. Holders of a valid South Dakota teaching certificate do not need a separate substitute authorization.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Resources

South Dakota Requirements

Full state overview

South Dakota: Salary Guide

South Dakota: Without a Degree

South Dakota: Background Check

South Dakota: Age Requirements

Substitute Teaching in Sioux Falls

Substitute Teaching in Rapid City

Substitute Teaching in Aberdeen

Skills Training Courses

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 South Dakota state and district government authorities — never by any training provider.

Succeed as a Substitute in South Dakota

Practical skills training that helps you stand out once you have met the government's authorization requirements. We do not issue credentials or guarantees.

View CoursesContact Us

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.