How to Become a Substitute Teacher in Arizona for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Substitute teaching in Arizona offers a flexible way to support schools while gaining valuable classroom experience. With ongoing teacher shortages across the state, substitutes are in high demand for both short- and long-term roles.

You only need a bachelor’s degree, fingerprint clearance, and a substitute certificate to get started—no teaching exam required. While pay and job stability can vary, the role allows you to work with diverse students, build skills, and explore a potential path to full-time teaching.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the certification process, job opportunities, and what to expect as a substitute in Arizona.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Arizona

Obtain a high school diploma or GED; some districts require at least 60 college credits or a bachelor’s degree.
Complete a background check and fingerprint clearance through the Arizona Department of Public Safety.
Apply directly to school districts, as requirements and pay vary widely across Arizona.
Consider taking a substitute teaching training course to boost your skills and employability.
Expect an average daily pay ranging from $156, depending on location and experience.

What are the basic requirements to become a substitute teacher in Arizona?
What training is required for first-time substitute teachers in Arizona?
How do you apply to become a substitute teacher in Arizona?
How much do substitute teachers in Arizona make?
How do you renew or maintain a substitute teaching certificate in Arizona?
What are the responsibilities of a substitute teacher in Arizona?
How flexible is a substitute teacher’s schedule in Arizona?
What are the benefits received by a substitute teacher in Arizona?
What legal rights do substitute teachers have in Arizona?
What are the career advancement opportunities for substitute teachers in Arizona?
What challenges do substitute teachers face in Arizona?
Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Arizona

What are the basic requirements to become a substitute teacher in Arizona?

Exploring the path to substitute teaching in Arizona reveals a set of clear, essential qualifications that open doors to classrooms across the state. These requirements ensure both readiness and compliance with state standards, creating opportunities for a variety of candidates.

Bachelor’s Degree: A minimum of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution is required, and it can be in any subject—no education major necessary.
Age and Legal Eligibility: Applicants must be at least 18 years old and legally eligible to work in the United States.
Fingerprint Clearance: Obtaining a valid Arizona Department of Public Safety Identity Verified Prints (IVP) fingerprint clearance card is crucial to pass a criminal background check.
Application Submission: Candidates must submit a completed certification application, pay a $60 fee, and provide official transcripts sent directly to the Arizona Department of Education.
Certificate Validity: The substitute certificate remains valid for six years and can be renewed upon reapplication.

For those considering further preparation, consulting the rankings of the best online bachelors in education can provide valuable insights into degree options. These basic requirements to become a substitute teacher in Arizona reflect the state’s approach to maintaining quality while addressing its teacher shortages with flexibility.

What training is required for first-time substitute teachers in Arizona?

Arizona offers a unique landscape for first-time substitute teachers, where state-level requirements are minimal but local variations invite curiosity. Exploring the training requirements reveals a patchwork of expectations shaped by districts and staffing agencies.

No Statewide Mandatory Training: The Arizona Department of Education does not require formal pre-service training before issuing a substitute teaching certificate, allowing quick entry into the classroom.
Local District Orientations: Many school districts offer or require brief orientations focused on local procedures, emergency protocols, and use of school technology, providing essential support tailored to each community.
Staffing Agency Onboarding: Agencies like Kelly Education often impose pre-hire training and new hire orientations covering classroom management and professional conduct, although specifics vary by employer.
Substitute Certificate Validity: Certificates last six years and require renewal through reapplication, but renewal does not mandate additional training, emphasizing flexibility in maintaining certification.
Fingerprint Clearance: While training is limited, fingerprint clearance remains a necessary step for all substitutes, ensuring compliance with background check standards.

For those interested in expanding their qualifications, exploring the best rated online education degree programs can be a strategic next step in advancing an educational career within Arizona’s diverse system of substitute teacher training requirements in the state.

To better understand where substitute teachers are most urgently needed, the chart below highlights the subject areas in which U.S. schools, including Arizona, are currently understaffed.

How do you apply to become a substitute teacher in Arizona?

Becoming a substitute teacher in Arizona involves navigating a clear, step-by-step application process designed to ensure safety and professionalism. Each stage builds on thorough background checks and proper documentation, paving the way for a rewarding role in education.

Obtain an IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card: Secure an Identity Verified Prints (IVP) Fingerprint Clearance Card through the Arizona Department of Public Safety, which confirms a clean background necessary for student safety.
Prepare Official Academic Documentation: Request official transcripts from your accredited institution to be sent directly to the Arizona Department of Education; unofficial copies won’t be accepted.
Complete the Application for Certification: Fill out the Substitute, PreK-12 Certificate application form available on the ADE website completely and accurately.
Pay the Application Fee: Submit the non-refundable $60 fee as part of your application through the ADE certification portal.
Submit All Required Documents: Send the completed application, official transcripts, IVP card proof, and payment receipt to the ADE Certification Unit following their submission instructions carefully.
Wait for Formal Review: Allow time for the ADE to verify your eligibility and approve your certification, which is valid for six years.
Complete District Onboarding: After certification, fulfill any additional onboarding steps required by your hiring district or charter school, including possible orientation or training.

When I spoke with a substitute teacher from Arizona who graduated locally, she reflected on the application journey with a mix of pride and patience. “The fingerprint clearance was the most nerve-wracking part, waiting to hear back, but it’s reassuring knowing it’s about student safety,” she shared. She emphasized how sending official transcripts directly from her university felt like a hurdle at first, but following the ADE’s detailed instructions made the process smooth.

“The $60 fee was straightforward, but keeping track of every document and deadline truly tested my organization skills,” she recalled. Her experience highlighted how the formal review can feel like a pause filled with anticipation, yet the reward of receiving that six-year certificate made it all worthwhile. She advised prospective substitutes to prepare early and stay attentive to detail, as these steps ensure a strong start in Arizona’s classrooms.

most schools cannot find substitute teachers

How much do substitute teachers in Arizona make?

The average substitute teacher salary in Arizona hovers around $45,882 annually, translating to roughly $22.46 per hour. Pay can shift quite a bit depending on certification and location—daily rates usually range from $120 to $202, with long-term substitutes earning up to $200 per day. This flexibility means that holding a full teaching certificate or accepting longer assignments can bump your earnings significantly.

Looking deeper, the majority of substitute teachers in Arizona earn between $35,360 and $59,536 per year. But here’s an intriguing insight: Arizona ranks last in the nation for substitute teacher salaries. This means that, compared to other states, the financial rewards here are on the lower end. Yet, this doesn’t tell the whole story. For those wondering how much do substitute teachers make in Arizona, it’s essential to see this in light of local living costs and the opportunity to gain valuable classroom experience.

In larger districts like Phoenix, hourly rates can edge closer to $23, offering a glimpse of more competitive pay in urban areas. Despite its ranking, Arizona’s pay structure allows some upward mobility for substitutes who pursue certification or longer roles.

For educators eager to advance, pairing this salary info with a focus on professional development—like exploring the best online EdD programs—could open doors to better positions and earnings.

How do you renew or maintain a substitute teaching certificate in Arizona?

Renewing or maintaining your substitute teaching certificate in Arizona is a straightforward process designed to keep you ready for classroom opportunities. Here’s what you need to know to keep your certification active and compliant.

Application for Renewal: Complete the official renewal form available from the Arizona Department of Education and submit it by mail or in person, as online options may not be available.
Fee Payment: Pay a $20 renewal fee per certificate, which covers the certificate itself without extra charges for endorsements.
Fingerprint Clearance: Maintain a valid Arizona DPS IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card to ensure you meet safety requirements for working with children.
Professional Development: No proof of professional development hours is required to renew a substitute certificate, unlike standard teaching certificates.
Lapsed Certificates: If expired between 2 and 10 years, renew under the "Experienced Educator" rule if no deficiencies exist; otherwise, reapply with current requirements.
Document Submission: Submit official transcripts directly from your institution to ADE; foreign degrees need approved credential evaluations sent directly as well.

What are the responsibilities of a substitute teacher in Arizona?

Substitute teachers in Arizona hold a vital role, stepping in to keep classrooms running smoothly when regular teachers are away. Their work ensures that learning never skips a beat and that the school environment remains safe and structured.

Follow Established Lesson Plans: Deliver instruction based on the regular teacher’s lesson plans to maintain consistent learning objectives.
Maintain Classroom Management: Enforce rules and manage student behavior to create a respectful and safe space for all learners.
Take Attendance: Keep accurate records of student presence for every class or period as mandated by the school.
Communicate with Students and Staff: Use clear verbal and written communication to guide students and collaborate with school personnel.
Adapt to Different Classrooms and Grade Levels: Flexibly adjust to various subjects, grade levels, and school environments with ease.
Monitor and Support Student Learning: Observe student engagement and offer assistance to help meet educational goals.
Complete Administrative Requirements: Fulfill paperwork and use district systems like Sub Finder to report and track assignments.
Attend Mandatory Orientation: Participate in district-required sessions to understand school procedures and expectations.
Meet Health and Safety Requirements: Provide proof of immunity or immunization according to state health regulations.
Hold Appropriate Certification: Possess a valid Arizona Substitute Teaching Certificate or Teacher Certificate and an IVP fingerprint clearance card for legal employment.

How flexible is a substitute teacher’s schedule in Arizona?

Imagine a work schedule that bends and flows around your life instead of the other way around. That’s exactly what substitute teaching in Arizona offers. You can pick and choose which days to work, the schools you want to serve, and even the grade levels that spark your interest. There’s no pressure to commit to a set number of days, so you create your own rhythm—whether that means a few days a week or an occasional fill-in.

Technology plays a big role here, with apps and online portals letting you browse open assignments in real time. This means you’re not just waiting for work; you’re actively hunting down opportunities that fit your vibe and schedule. It’s a freedom rarely found in traditional roles, giving you the power to balance life’s unpredictable moments with a fulfilling job.

When I asked a substitute teacher from Arizona, a graduate of a local school, about his experience with this flexible schedule, he shared how it’s both a gift and a challenge. “Some weeks, I’m juggling back-to-back assignments across different districts, which keeps me on my toes. Other times, I take a step back to recharge without any guilt because I know I’m not tied down.”

He recalled days when last-minute openings popped up, and he’d jump in gladly, appreciating the spontaneity. The freedom to design his own calendar meant he could support family needs and explore other interests, making substitute teaching a dynamic adventure rather than a rigid routine.

The chart below reveals the plans of substitute teachers during the 2023 to 2024 school year.

What are the benefits received by a substitute teacher in Arizona?

Exploring the benefits of being a substitute teacher in Arizona reveals a mix of rewarding pay and valuable flexibility. These perks can make stepping into classrooms an exciting option for many seeking diverse professional experiences.

Daily and Long-Term Pay: Substitute teachers earn competitive daily rates, ranging from $120 to $202 depending on certification and assignment length, with half-day work paid proportionally.
Flexibility and Scheduling: The role offers the freedom to choose assignments, enabling teachers to balance personal commitments or pursue further education.
Professional Experience and Community Impact: Substitutes gain hands-on classroom experience and play a vital role in supporting schools facing teacher shortages.
Eligibility for Additional Benefits: While most positions lack district-sponsored benefits due to part-time status, long-term substitutes may access limited perks and professional development.

For those navigating substitute teacher perks and advantages in Arizona, understanding certification requirements and district policies is key. If you’re interested in advancing your credentials while working as a substitute, consider exploring the most affordable online masters degrees in educational leadership to enhance your opportunities.

What legal rights do substitute teachers have in Arizona?

Substitute teachers in Arizona navigate a unique set of legal rights that balance flexibility with responsibility. These rights shape their role in classrooms across the state, offering a framework for their employment and duties.

Certification Requirement: Substitute teachers must hold a valid Substitute, PreK-12 Certificate, which allows them to teach temporarily in place of a regular teacher for up to six years before renewal.
Employment Duration Limit: They can work up to 120 days in the same school year at a single school, ensuring opportunities without long-term contract entitlements.
Background Clearance: Holding a valid Arizona IVP Fingerprint Clearance Card is mandatory, safeguarding student safety by verifying the teacher’s background.
Assignment Expectations: While on duty, substitutes follow the absent teacher’s lesson plans and manage the classroom but do not have tenure or collective bargaining rights.
Administrative Substitution: Full-time administrative staff may be required to substitute once yearly without the standard certificate, provided they pass fingerprint clearance and maintain a clean disciplinary record.
Online Teaching Equivalence: The same certification and background check rules apply to online substitute teaching, with districts possibly adding technology or management training requirements.

What are the career advancement opportunities for substitute teachers in Arizona?

Exploring career advancement for substitute teachers in Arizona reveals exciting pathways beyond temporary classroom roles. Substitute teaching can open doors to long-term opportunities and professional growth within education.

Full Certification Track: Many substitutes use their experience as a stepping stone to become fully certified teachers, gaining permanent positions with greater benefits and responsibilities.
Long-Term Substitute Roles: These assignments often last over 20 days and provide higher pay while allowing substitutes to build classroom expertise and stronger district connections.
Professional Development: Some districts offer training and orientation sessions that help substitutes sharpen skills and prepare for full-time teaching careers.
Networking Opportunities: Serving as a substitute teacher enables valuable contacts with administrators and educators, which can lead to future job offers.

For those interested in pursuing teaching certification pathways in Arizona, substitute teaching offers firsthand experience in diverse classrooms. If you're curious about the easiest education degree to start this journey, consider this easiest education degree as a potential option to complement your substitute teaching career.

What challenges do substitute teachers face in Arizona?

Substitute teachers in Arizona commonly encounter issues such as fluctuating work schedules, variable pay structures, and the complexities of managing different classroom environments. Challenges include rapid adaptation to diverse school cultures and courses, as well as navigating evolving district policies and certification processes. Addressing these requires strategic planning, consultation of resources on Arizona substitute teacher licensing requirements, and an ongoing commitment to professional development.

What do substitute teachers in Arizona say about their careers?

Completing the substitute teaching certification at Mesa Community College truly opened my eyes to the incredible diversity of learners across Arizona. Starting out in a local school, I quickly realized how rewarding it is to fill in for teachers and still make a meaningful impact on students’ lives. The flexibility allowed me to balance family commitments while gaining valuable classroom experience. I appreciate how Arizona’s unique cultural landscape enriches each school day, giving me a deeper connection to the community I serve. - Randy
My journey began after finishing the substitute teacher program at Pima Community College, and it has been both challenging and inspiring. Working as a substitute teacher in various Arizona schools helped me grow professionally and personally, sharpening my classroom management skills and adaptability. The state's emphasis on professional development provided me with opportunities to advance my career. I find real satisfaction in supporting students' education and contributing positively to their well-being, especially in underserved communities. - Sharon
Starting my teaching career as a substitute in a local Arizona school was a pivotal experience that deepened my passion for education. Graduating from Scottsdale Community College’s substitute program gave me the tools to confidently handle diverse classrooms and unique challenges tied to Arizona’s environment, like addressing the needs of students from rural and urban areas. The job stability and varied assignments kept my work engaging while allowing me to grow as an educator. It’s fulfilling to know I’m helping shape the future of young people across the state. - Baljeet

Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Arizona

Are online substitute teacher training programs in Arizona legitimate?

When considering online substitute teacher training programs in Arizona, it is essential to prioritize legitimacy and recognition by the state’s educational authorities. One of the most reputable options is the Arizona Department of Education’s approved courses, which ensure that the training aligns with state requirements and equips candidates with the necessary classroom management and instructional skills.

Additionally, nationally recognized platforms like Substitute Teacher Training by ProTrainings offer comprehensive online courses that are widely accepted across various states, including Arizona.

These courses cover essential topics such as student safety, effective communication, and legal responsibilities, making them a popular choice for substitute teachers seeking flexibility and credible certification. Choosing programs with official endorsements or broad acceptance can help ensure that the training will be recognized by school districts in Arizona, ultimately supporting a smoother path to employment as a substitute teacher.

Is substitute teaching in Arizona considered full-time employment?

In Arizona, substitute teaching is generally not considered full-time employment. Most substitute teachers work on an as-needed, day-to-day basis rather than holding a permanent, full-time position. According to the Arizona Department of Education, substitute teachers are typically hired to fill in for absent teachers, leading to inconsistent hours that fall short of the standard 40-hour workweek associated with full-time roles.

The Arizona Substitute Teacher Association estimates that substitutes work an average of 10 to 20 days per month, which varies widely by district and demand.

Additionally, substitute teachers in Arizona often lack benefits such as health insurance or retirement plans, which are typically afforded to full-time employees. Pay rates vary but are generally hourly; for example, the average daily rate for substitutes ranges from $120 to $202 depending on the district (Arizona School Boards Association, 2023). These factors contribute to the classification of substitute teaching as part-time or temporary work rather than full-time employment in the state.

What skills do you gain as a substitute teacher in Arizona?

As a substitute teacher in Arizona, you gain a diverse set of valuable skills. You develop classroom management techniques that help maintain a productive learning environment. You also improve your communication skills by interacting with students, staff, and parents from various backgrounds.

Adaptability is key, as you often teach different grade levels and subjects with little preparation. This flexibility enhances your ability to think quickly and solve problems on the spot. You also strengthen organizational skills by following lesson plans and managing time effectively.

Additionally, substitute teaching offers experience in instructional delivery and student engagement. You learn to motivate students and support their academic progress despite being in a temporary role. These skills are transferable to many educational and professional settings.

Overall, substitute teaching in Arizona builds your confidence, professionalism, and understanding of diverse classroom dynamics, which are essential for a successful teaching career or other roles in education.

Should you substitute teach before becoming a full-time teacher in Arizona?

Yes, substituting before becoming a full-time teacher in Arizona is generally advisable. It offers valuable classroom experience and helps develop essential teaching skills. Substitute teaching allows you to understand school environments, student behavior, and curriculum implementation firsthand. This experience can strengthen your resume and improve your confidence in managing diverse classrooms.

Additionally, substitute teaching helps build professional networks with school staff and administrators. These connections can be beneficial when applying for full-time teaching positions. It also provides flexibility, enabling you to explore different grade levels and subjects before committing to a specific teaching path.

However, substitute teaching alone does not meet the state’s certification requirements for full-time teachers. You will still need to complete the necessary education and licensure steps. Overall, substitute teaching serves as a practical stepping stone, offering insight and preparation that can ease the transition to a full-time teaching career in Arizona.