How to Become a Substitute Teacher in Illinois for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Illinois’ ongoing teacher shortages have left classrooms in urgent need of support, with more than 30% of schools frequently struggling to fill substitute positions. This critical gap presents a timely opportunity for aspiring educators to step in and make a meaningful impact. Becoming a substitute teacher offers not just flexible work, but also a powerful entry point into the state’s education system—ideal for those seeking classroom experience or exploring a long-term teaching path.

This article, created by career planning experts, outlines the latest state requirements, certification pathways, and practical tips. It’s designed to give you clear, actionable steps toward launching a successful substitute teaching career in Illinois.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Illinois

Hold at least a bachelor’s degree or a valid teaching license to meet Illinois substitute teaching eligibility.
Complete the required application and background check, including fingerprinting, ensuring safety in classrooms statewide.
Register with local school districts individually, as Illinois mandates district-specific hiring for substitutes.
Stay flexible: substitutes often earn $100–$150 daily, with demand spiking during flu season and teacher shortages.
Maintain ongoing professional development to enhance skills and increase chances of long-term substitute assignments.

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

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

Becoming a substitute teacher in Illinois blends straightforward academic milestones with practical verification steps. Here are the core qualifications that shape access to this flexible educational role, reflecting the essentials of the requirements to become a substitute teacher in Illinois.

Bachelor’s Degree: A standard substitute teaching license requires a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, with no restriction on the field of study, allowing broad academic diversity.
Associate Degree or College Credits: For a Short-Term Substitute License, candidates need an associate degree or at least 60 semester hours of college coursework, opening doors for those earlier in their academic journey.
Educator Preparation Program: If enrolled in such a program, completing 90 credit hours can qualify an applicant for the standard substitute license, merging ongoing education with practical teaching opportunities.
Employment Verification: Federal I-9 forms and valid identification ensure legal eligibility to work, a mandatory step for all candidates.
Application Process: Licensure applications go through the Educator Licensure Information System (ELIS) with a fee of $50 for the standard license and $25 for the short-term license, reflecting the administrative gatekeepers.
License Validity: The standard substitute license lasts five years and is renewable, while the short-term license limits classroom assignments to five consecutive days and is nonrenewable.
Existing Educator Licenses: Holders of a Professional Educator License or Educator License with Stipulations can substitute teach without additional substitute-specific licenses.

Those exploring the nuances of Illinois substitute teacher license qualifications might also find value in pursuing advanced credentials, possibly through programs like the best rated 1 year online masters in education, which can open further professional pathways.

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

Stepping into the role of a substitute teacher in Illinois involves a tailored set of preparatory steps, especially for first-timers navigating the landscape of short-term assignments versus longer-term placements. These requirements shape the readiness and confidence needed to manage diverse classrooms effectively.

State-Approved Training for Short-Term Substitutes: Mandatory for the Short-Term Substitute License (STS), this training hones skills in classroom management, safety, and instructional techniques, ensuring substitutes are ready for the unique challenges of temporary teaching.
District-Level Training for Standard Substitutes: While the standard Substitute Teacher License (SUB) has no state-required training, many local districts impose their own orientations to familiarize substitutes with specific policies and emergency procedures.
Legal Prerequisites: Completion of the state-approved program is required by law before short-term substitutes can begin work, reflecting Illinois’ emphasis on preparedness for even temporary educators.
Training Delivery Methods: Offered through Regional Offices of Education, sessions may be online or in-person, providing flexible access to essential knowledge.
Training Focus Areas: Core topics include classroom management strategies, school safety protocols, and district and state policies relevant to substitutes, all critical for maintaining effective learning environments.

For those curious about broader educational pathways, exploring the ranking of the best online bachelors degrees in special education can offer insights into advancing a career in education beyond substitute teaching.

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

Becoming a substitute teacher in Illinois is a gateway to impacting classrooms statewide, but it’s a journey paved with clear, structured steps. Each phase of the application carries its own weight, ensuring candidates are ready and credentialed for the dynamic world of education.

Create an ELIS Account: Begin by setting up your profile on the Illinois State Board of Education’s Educator Licensure Information System, your central hub for managing license applications.
Select and Complete the Substitute License Application: Choose between a full Substitute Teacher License or a Short-Term Substitute License, then fill out the required details through a guided online process.
Pay the Application Fee: Submit the nonrefundable fee online—$50 for a full license or $25 for the short-term option—right when you apply.
Submit Official Transcripts: Arrange for your college transcripts to be sent directly and securely from your institution to the ISBE or Regional Office of Education.
Undergo a Background Check: After application, schedule fingerprinting at an approved vendor; results are sent straight to your district or regional office.
Complete Employment Verification (I-9 Form): Prove your work eligibility through the federal I-9 process, typically handled by the hiring district once you’re offered a position.
TB Risk Assessment or Test: Meet your district’s health requirements by completing a TB risk review or test before starting work.
Apply to School Districts: With your license in hand, seek substitute positions district-by-district, noting each may have unique application steps and expectations.

A substitute teacher from Illinois who graduated from a local college described the application process as both methodical and rewarding. While navigating ELIS was smoother than expected, she noted that waiting for transcripts and coordinating with multiple districts presented challenges, as each had its own requirements and expectations.

From fingerprinting to demonstrating tech skills for online classes, her experience reflected the need for patience, persistence, and adaptability—underscoring that the process is about more than paperwork; it’s about preparing to step confidently into the classroom.

The image below shows that 38% of substitute teachers plan to pursue full teacher certification—a telling statistic that reinforces why Illinois’s application process matters. For many, this role isn't just a temporary job—it's the first step toward a long-term career in education.

Number of substitute teachers who want to pursue teacher certification.

How much do substitute teachers in Illinois make?

The average pay for substitute teachers in Illinois spans a colorful spectrum, shaped by credentials and district. Permanent substitutes earn around $40,936 annually, roughly $19.68 per hour, but certified substitutes push that ceiling higher—averaging $49,139 yearly with hourly wages near $24. This range, from about $38,700 to over $51,700, speaks to the premium Illinois places on formal teaching licenses and experience.

Daily rates dance to their own rhythm: a licensed substitute might pocket $132.50 per day, climbing to $215 for long-term gigs. Retired teachers returning to the classroom command even more, with daily pay reaching $236.26 in extended assignments. Chicago Public Schools adds its own beat, with pay tiers from $125 to $193 per day depending on license type. These nuances reflect a patchwork of opportunity within the substitute teacher salary in Illinois landscape.

The median salary isn’t just a midpoint; it’s a mirror reflecting the state’s diverse educational terrain. Urban districts with robust funding and union influence contrast with rural areas, creating a salary mosaic. For substitutes willing to embrace long-term roles or specialized assignments, this median is less a limitation and more a launchpad into higher earnings.

On the national stage, Illinois holds its own but sits last in ZipRecruiter’s permanent substitute salary rankings. Yet, the upper end of certified substitute wages competes well with national averages, especially where demand and qualifications align. For those curious about the pathway to teaching, exploring a list of most affordable online education degrees can be a strategic step toward boosting credentials and salary potential.

The chart below illustrates the wage gap among substitute teachers based on degree level. As shown, higher education credentials—especially a master’s or doctorate—correlate with significantly higher earnings. This reinforces how formal qualifications can turn an average income into a competitive one in Illinois’s substitute teaching landscape.

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

Renewing your substitute teaching certificate in Illinois is a streamlined process that respects your time and dedication. Here’s how you keep that license active and ready for your next classroom adventure:

Renewal Window: Mark your calendar from April 1 to June 30 every five years to renew; missing this means your license instantly shifts to “Invalid,” halting your substitute eligibility.
No Professional Development Needed: Forget about extra coursework or training hours—Illinois keeps it simple with zero professional development or testing requirements for renewal.
Online Renewal Platform: Use the Educator Licensure Information System (ELIS) on a desktop or laptop to complete your renewal; mobile devices won’t cut it here.
Fee Structure: Pay the necessary registration fees to reactivate your license if it’s invalid, but retired educators can maintain validity without fees.
Status Check: Holding a Professional Educator License? You might bypass renewing your SUB License—consult your Regional Office of Education to clarify your renewal obligations.
Late Renewal and Reinstatement: If your license lapses beyond invalid status, you’ll need either nine semester hours of coursework or a $50 penalty to regain active certification.

The image below reveals that the majority of substitute teachers planned to continue teaching in 2024. This high retention rate underscores the importance of staying on top of Illinois’s renewal process—maintaining your certificate isn’t just compliance; it’s your ticket to long-term classroom impact.

73% of substitute teachers planned to continue substitute teaching in 2024.

What are the responsibilities of a substitute teacher in Illinois?

Substitute teachers in Illinois step into the educational spotlight whenever the regular teacher steps away, carrying the torch of learning and order with steady hands. Their mission is to weave seamless continuity and maintain the rhythm of the classroom, ensuring that the absence of the main instructor doesn't skip a beat.

Lesson Plan Adherence: Follow the regular teacher’s roadmap to deliver lessons with consistency, keeping the learning journey uninterrupted.
Classroom Behavior Management: Maintain discipline using positive strategies, while strictly avoiding corporal punishment and calling on administrators when necessary.
Attendance Tracking: Accurately record student presence using electronic systems like Power School to keep official records precise.
Student Supervision: Oversee students inside and outside the classroom, from hallways to playgrounds, ensuring safety at every turn.
Adaptive Teaching: Tailor instructional methods to meet diverse student needs, especially for those with special requirements.
Assignment Administration: Deliver and grade work as outlined by lesson plans or school directives, keeping academic flow intact.
Documentation Completion: Handle necessary reports and paperwork typically managed by the regular teacher, as requested by administration.
Supervisory Duties: Fulfill all supervisory roles such as hall or bus duty, stepping into the regular teacher’s shoes fully.
Emergency Response: Be prepared for fire drills and other emergencies by reviewing posted procedures upon arrival.
Special Needs Monitoring: Follow specific instructions related to medical or unique student needs found in substitute plans or provided by staff.
Detailed Notes: Leave comprehensive feedback for the returning teacher about lesson coverage, student behavior, and any classroom challenges.
Long-Term Engagement: For assignments over 20 days, fully integrate into classroom life by developing lesson plans aligned with the regular curriculum.
Licensing and Verification: Obtain a valid Illinois Substitute Teaching or Professional Educator License, completing background checks and employment verification forms.

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

Imagine a job where your calendar bends to your will—where you accept calls for classroom coverage only when it suits your rhythm. Substitute teaching in Illinois offers this kind of freedom, a rare blend of autonomy and purpose. No rigid 9-to-5 chains, but a dance with opportunity: pick a full day, half day, or skip entirely. You can hop between schools or districts, painting your own patchwork schedule.

Licensing categories come with their own tempo—some let you stay longer with the same classroom, others encourage quick shifts—inviting you to craft a work-life mosaic uniquely yours. This isn’t just clocking hours; it’s weaving flexibility into the fabric of your career and life.

One substitute teacher from Illinois, who graduated from a local school, shared his experience. He described mornings spent scanning online platforms for assignments that fit around his family’s needs. “Some days, I’d jump in last minute; other days, I’d plan weeks ahead,” he recalled. The unpredictability once felt daunting, but it became a strength—“I learned to embrace the ebb and flow, balancing work with moments that mattered most.” His story reflects how substitute teaching here is not just a job, but a dynamic partnership with time itself.

The pie chart below captures the top skills substitute teachers highlight on their résumés—ranging from subject-specific expertise to student support. This variety reflects the adaptability required for Illinois’s flexible scheduling model, where each day can bring a new classroom, new subject, and new challenge.

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

Substitute teachers in Illinois unlock a patchwork of benefits that blend financial incentives with unique perks, shaped by district policies and licensure levels. These advantages transform substitute teaching from a stopgap role into an intriguing career choice or a flexible side hustle.

Daily Pay Rates: From $125 to $193 per day depending on your license, with retired educators often earning their previous salary plus pension.
Paid Time Off (PTO): Rare but possible—some districts grant PTO hours proportional to days worked, giving substitutes a taste of traditional leave.
Incentive Pay and Bonuses: Monthly incentives, special education bonuses, and referral rewards create opportunities to boost income beyond base pay.
Retirement Benefits: Though usual substitutes don’t join TRS, some qualify for IMRF, and retirees can teach while collecting pensions under lifted work caps.
Professional Growth: Tuition reimbursement and professional development encourage substitutes to transition toward full-time careers.

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What legal rights do substitute teachers have in Illinois?

Substitute teachers in Illinois navigate a unique legal landscape that balances flexibility with fundamental protections. Their rights, while more limited than those of full-time educators, ensure fair treatment during their assignments.

License Validity: Substitute teaching licenses last five years and allow work anywhere in Illinois, offering broad geographic flexibility.
Assignment Limits: Substitutes can only fill in for licensed teachers under contract, with emergency allowances extending assignments up to 90 days or the semester’s end under specific conditions.
At-Will Employment: Districts can terminate or inactivate substitutes at will, reflecting the temporary and flexible nature of their work.
Guaranteed Pay and Breaks: Substitutes earn a full day’s pay when reporting for a full-day assignment and receive lunch breaks equal to those of the regular teacher they replace.
Assignment Changes: Schools may reassign substitutes to different classes or cancel assignments as needed, underscoring the adaptable role substitutes play.
Voluntary Extra Duties: Substitutes aren’t obligated to cover field trips or extra responsibilities unless notified in advance and agreeing to participate.
Due Process in Chicago Public Schools: Guest teachers must be informed if blocked from a school and can respond to negative records in their personnel files, protecting their professional reputation.
Training Requirements: Mandatory training before starting work ensures substitutes understand their duties, including those teaching online or in short-term roles.

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

Substitute teaching in Illinois can be a surprising launchpad for career advancement, offering more than just day-to-day classroom coverage. With strategic moves and the right credentials, substitutes can reshape their professional trajectory in meaningful ways.

Certified Teacher: Many substitutes leverage their classroom experience to earn a Professional Educator License, stepping into full-time teaching roles with greater responsibility and stability.
Special Education Specialist: By pursuing targeted certifications, substitutes can specialize in high-demand areas like special education, increasing their value and impact.
District Mentor or Trainer: Experienced substitutes may transition into roles that support and train other educators, turning hands-on knowledge into leadership.
Educational Administrator: Ambitious substitutes can climb into administrative positions, influencing school policies and educational outcomes.
Teacher Certification Support: Illinois offers tuition reimbursement programs that assist substitutes aiming for certification, making the leap easier and more affordable.

Exploring career advancement for substitute teachers in Illinois also means considering pathways to becoming a full-time teacher from substitute in Illinois, often supported by licensure upgrades and professional development incentives.

For those looking to deepen their expertise, enrolling in online PhD in education programs can open doors to advanced roles and leadership opportunities within the educational system.

What licensing challenges do substitute teachers encounter in Illinois?

Substitute teachers often face compliance hurdles that can complicate both initial certification and subsequent renewals. Meeting stringent background checks, sustaining continuing education requirements, and managing district-specific criteria are common challenges. A detailed review of Illinois substitute teacher licensing requirements can clarify procedural expectations and help identify potential pitfalls. Staying informed about legislative changes and proactively addressing documentation delays are essential strategies for ensuring uninterrupted classroom placements.

What do substitute teachers in Illinois say about their careers?

Completing my substitute teaching certification at Lincoln Park High School truly opened doors for me. Starting my career in a local school allowed me to experience a wide variety of classroom environments and student needs, which helped me grow both professionally and personally. The stability of substitute work in Illinois gave me the confidence to pursue additional training, knowing I had a reliable source of income. I love the feeling of making a positive impact on kids’ lives every day, especially in communities where resources can be limited. This career path has been incredibly rewarding and has deepened my passion for education. Allan
After finishing my program at Evanston Township High School, I began working as a substitute teacher in my community, which was a wonderful way to gain practical experience without committing to a full-time role right away. Illinois’ diverse cultural landscape presented unique challenges and opportunities, allowing me to adapt my teaching style and connect with students from various backgrounds. Reflecting on my journey, I appreciate how substitute teaching has not only enhanced my skills but also helped me build meaningful relationships within the neighborhood. It’s fulfilling to contribute to the well-being and growth of young people in such a dynamic environment. Hannah
Starting as a substitute teacher after completing my program at Rockford High School was a strategic choice for advancing my career in education. Illinois offers numerous professional development opportunities, and working in different schools has exposed me to a variety of teaching methods and administrative styles. This experience has been invaluable for my growth, helping me refine my classroom management skills and preparing me for future full-time roles. I appreciate the balance substitute teaching provides between steady employment and the chance to explore different educational settings while serving the community. Devin

Other Things You Need to Know About Substitute Teachers in Illinois

Are online substitute teacher training programs in Illinois legitimate?

When considering online substitute teacher training programs in Illinois, it is crucial to choose those that are both legitimate and widely recognized. One of the most reputable programs is offered by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) through approved providers, which ensures that the training meets state requirements for substitute licensure. These programs typically cover classroom management, instructional strategies, and legal responsibilities, providing essential preparation for substitute teachers in Illinois.

Another prominent option is the American Board for Certification of Teacher Excellence (ABCTE), a nationally recognized program that offers flexible, online certification courses. Although ABCTE is not Illinois-specific, its certification is accepted in multiple states and is respected for its comprehensive curriculum and convenience for adults transitioning into teaching roles.

Both options emphasize convenience and accessibility while maintaining standards that align with state guidelines, making them reliable choices for prospective substitute teachers seeking legitimate online training.

Is substitute teaching in Illinois considered full-time employment?

Substitute teaching in Illinois is generally not considered full-time employment due to the nature and structure of the work. Most substitutes are hired on a daily or short-term basis, filling in for absent teachers without guaranteed continuous hours. According to the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), substitute teachers typically work on an as-needed basis, which limits consistent full-time opportunities. Additionally, the average daily rate for substitute teachers in Illinois ranges between $120 and $150, depending on the district, making it difficult to achieve full-time income solely through substitute teaching.

A 2022 report by the Illinois Education Association noted that substitutes often seek multiple placements or additional part-time work to maintain financial stability. While some districts offer long-term substitute positions, these are exceptions and may provide temporary full-time hours, but they do not constitute permanent full-time employment. Therefore, substitute teaching in Illinois is primarily considered part-time or temporary rather than full-time employment.

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

As a substitute teacher in Illinois, you gain a diverse set of skills that enhance your professional versatility. You develop strong classroom management abilities by maintaining order and engagement among students in varied educational settings. Adaptability is key, as you quickly adjust to different grade levels, subjects, and school cultures. Communication skills improve through interactions with students, teachers, and administrators, fostering clear and effective dialogue.

Additionally, substitutes cultivate problem-solving skills by addressing unexpected challenges and ensuring continuity of learning. Time management becomes essential as you plan and execute lessons within limited periods. You also gain insight into curriculum implementation and instructional strategies, broadening your educational knowledge. These experiences build patience, resilience, and professionalism, which are valuable across many career paths.

Overall, substitute teaching in Illinois offers practical experience that strengthens teaching competencies and interpersonal skills, preparing you for a potential full-time teaching role or other educational careers.

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

Yes, substituting before becoming a full-time teacher in Illinois is often beneficial. It provides practical classroom experience and helps build confidence in managing diverse student needs. Substitute teaching allows you to observe different teaching styles and curricula, which can inform your own approach as a full-time educator.

Additionally, substitute teaching helps you develop strong communication and classroom management skills. It also expands your professional network within school districts. This experience can make your application for full-time positions more competitive.

However, substitute teaching is not a formal requirement for becoming a certified full-time teacher in Illinois. You must still complete the necessary education, licensure exams, and obtain a Professional Educator License (PEL). But the hands-on experience gained as a substitute can be a valuable supplement to these requirements.

Overall, substituting first offers a practical pathway to better understand the demands of teaching and improve your chances of success in a full-time teaching career in Illinois.