Substitute Teacher Requirements
Substitute Teacher Requirements in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has some of the strictest substitute teaching requirements in the country.
Education Requirement
Bachelor’s degree required
(There is no high school diploma pathway for substitute teaching.)
Mandatory Background Clearances
All substitute teachers must complete:
Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Records Check
FBI fingerprint-based criminal background check
Department of Human Services Child Abuse History Clearance
These clearances must be completed before employment.
Certification and Emergency Permits
If you hold a valid Pennsylvania teaching certificate:
You may substitute immediately after completing required clearances.
If you do not hold a teaching certificate:
The hiring district must request a Type 06 Emergency Permit on your behalf.
The permit is valid for one school year and may be renewed.
The permit is district-specific (only valid in the district that requested it).
Assignment Limits in Pennsylvania
20-day limit per individual teacher assignment
Beyond 20 days, a long-term substitute permit is required
Pennsylvania emphasizes formal credentials and district oversight, especially for extended placements.