How to Become a Substitute Teacher in Iowa for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Many Iowa residents struggle to find flexible, rewarding jobs in education that fit their schedules. With over 90% of Iowa school districts reporting substitute teacher shortages, demand for qualified substitutes is high. Pursuing a substitute teaching career offers consistent income and valuable classroom experience across the state.

This article, prepared by career planning experts, provides clear steps, licensing requirements, and practical strategies to help prospective substitutes navigate the Iowa system efficiently and secure employment.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Iowa

Obtain a substitute teaching license through the Iowa Department of Education; requirements include a minimum of 60 semester hours of college credit or a valid teaching license.
Complete a background check and fingerprinting as required by Iowa law to ensure student safety.
Register with local school districts directly, as each district manages substitute hiring independently.
Consider completing a substitute orientation or training program offered by many districts to improve classroom management skills.
Expect an average daily pay ranging from $90 to $130, varying by district and qualifications.

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

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

Meeting the educational requirements for substitute teachers in Iowa involves specific academic credentials depending on the pathway chosen. These qualifications ensure candidates are prepared to step into classrooms responsibly and effectively.

Substitute Authorization Eligibility: Candidates must hold either an associate degree or at least 60 semester hours of college credit from a regionally accredited institution. Those seeking this route often explore the best rated online associate in education programs to meet credit requirements efficiently.
Substitute Teacher License Requirements: A bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution is required, along with completion of a teacher preparation program or eligibility for an Iowa teaching license.
Paraeducator Limited Authorization: Paraeducators with a valid certificate may receive limited authorization to substitute only within their special education classrooms.
Background Check: All applicants must successfully clear a background check to ensure student safety and compliance with state regulations.
Assignment Limits: Those holding Substitute Authorization cannot serve long-term and are restricted to 10 consecutive days in the same classroom within a 30-day period.

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

To become a substitute teacher in Iowa for the first time, candidates must complete several specific training steps designed to ensure readiness and compliance. These requirements focus on legal responsibilities, practical skills, and safety measures.

Substitute Authorization Course: This state-approved, instructor-led course takes about 15 hours and can be completed online or in person through Area Education Agencies or colleges, costing around $100 plus the Substitute Teacher Handbook fee.
Mandatory Reporter/Child Abuse Training: Candidates must complete state-mandated training to recognize and report child abuse, ensuring they understand their legal responsibilities as mandatory reporters.
Background Check and Fingerprinting: A criminal background check and fingerprinting are required before authorization, ensuring student safety in Iowa schools.
Classroom Practicum: Some programs include a 2-hour classroom observation or participation component to provide hands-on experience.
Renewal Requirements: After five years, substitutes must complete two continuing education credits and repeat the mandatory reporter training to renew their authorization.

For those exploring further educational pathways, considering teaching degrees online can be a strategic step toward expanding your qualifications.

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

Applying to become a substitute teacher in Iowa involves a clear, stepwise approach focused on meeting state requirements and coordinating with local districts. Following these practical steps can streamline your application and prepare you for substitute teaching roles across the state.

Select the Appropriate Credential: Determine whether you are eligible for the Substitute Authorization or Substitute License, as each follows a specific application path managed by the BOEE.
Gather Required Documentation: Request official academic transcripts to be sent directly to the BOEE, ensuring your application can be processed without delays.
Complete the Application Online: Use the BOEE’s online portal to submit your application, following detailed instructions especially if you hold out-of-state credentials.
Pay the Application Fee: Submit the non-refundable fee online as part of your application to move forward in the process.
Undergo Background Checks: Complete fingerprinting and background screening required by the BOEE to ensure student safety.
Complete Mandatory Reporter Training: Provide proof of your training in recognizing and reporting child abuse, a state mandate for all substitutes.
Submit and Await Processing: After submitting all materials, allow several weeks for the BOEE to review and approve your application.
Register with Local Districts or AEAs: Sign up with school districts or Area Education Agencies using platforms like SubCentral or Red Rover to manage assignments and availability.
Approval by District: Obtain final approval from districts before you can begin accepting substitute teaching assignments through their online systems.

When I asked a substitute teacher from Iowa about her experience applying, she reflected on the process with a mix of patience and satisfaction. A graduate of a local university, she shared that getting her transcripts sent directly to the BOEE took longer than expected, which initially caused some anxiety.

Still, the clear online instructions and accessible resources made the application manageable, and she found the fee payment process simple. While the background check felt extensive, she appreciated the thoroughness, knowing it reinforced student safety.

Registering with individual school districts was a new experience that required coordination and learning to navigate online platforms. However, she viewed this as an advantage, giving her greater control over where and when she worked. “It was a little overwhelming at times,” she admitted, “but knowing each step was building toward a real opportunity to help in classrooms made it worth the effort.”

Her practical mindset underscores how understanding the detailed application process can empower aspiring substitutes in Iowa. To put this in perspective, the image below shows that more than one million substitute teachers were active across the U.S. in 2023—highlighting both the scale and rising demand for qualified educators.

Around 1.35 million substitute teachers were available to workin 2023.

How much do substitute teachers in Iowa make?

The average substitute teacher salary in Iowa varies widely depending on location, job status, and district policies. Full-time substitute teachers earn around $39,678 annually, or about $19.08 per hour. However, salaries range from $29,100 at the 25th percentile to $47,000 at the 75th percentile, with some top earners making up to $58,234. This variation reflects differences in school funding, experience, and assignment frequency.

Hourly wages in urban areas like Des Moines are higher, ranging from $24.42 to $25.34, while in Iowa City the annual average is $34,876. Programs such as the Grant Wood Area Education Agency’s SubCentral pay about $18.75 per hour, indicating that district and regional factors strongly influence pay. Those substituting at the elementary level can earn significantly more, with annual salaries between $48,784 and $73,266, suggesting that specialized roles or longer-term assignments can boost earnings.

When examining how much do substitute teachers make in Iowa compared to the rest of the country, it’s clear the state ranks last nationally for full-time substitute teacher salaries. Iowa’s median pay is not just low—it signals broader challenges in attracting and retaining qualified substitutes. Lower wages may cause workforce instability and impact education quality over time.

To improve earning potential, prospective substitutes should consider working in larger districts or seeking specialized assignments. Building credentials, such as through examples of education degrees, can also help secure better pay and more stable positions.

The chart below illustrates how education level directly impacts substitute teacher earnings nationwide. While Iowa’s wages remain on the lower end, the chart reinforces a clear trend that substitutes with advanced degrees consistently earn more. Investing in higher education can be a strategic move for those seeking better compensation and job security.

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

Renewing or maintaining a substitute teaching certificate in Iowa involves meeting specific credit and training requirements set by the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners. Follow these key steps to ensure your credential remains valid.

Complete Required Renewal Credits: For a Substitute License, earn one License Renewal Credit (LRC), which equals about 15 contact hours. For a Substitute Authorization, two renewal credits are required unless you qualify for an alternative based on experience and education.
Document Substitute Teaching Experience: You may renew a Substitute License by documenting either 30 days of substitute teaching during the license period or one full year of teaching experience, verified by at least 91 days of substitute work within a year.
Mandatory Reporter Training: All renewals require completion of the mandatory reporter training for child and dependent adult abuse, a free online course provided by the Iowa Department of Human Services.
Alternative Renewal for Substitute Authorization: If you hold a master’s degree or higher and have at least 10 years of licensed PK-12 teaching experience, you can renew your Substitute Authorization by completing only the mandatory reporter training.
Apply for Extensions if Needed: If you cannot complete renewal requirements within five years, request an extension from the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners to avoid expiration.
Adhere to Assignment Limits: Remember that Substitute Authorizations limit you to no more than 10 consecutive days in the same assignment within a 30-day period, while a Substitute License restricts assignments to 90 days per school year.

The image below highlights a growing trend among substitute teachers who view their roles as a stepping stone toward full-time teaching careers. This underscores the value of understanding Iowa’s renewal process, not only to maintain active credentials, but also to build a solid foundation for long-term professional growth within the state’s education system.

Number of substitute teachers who want to pursue teacher certification.

What are the responsibilities of a substitute teacher in Iowa?

Substitute teachers in Iowa must fulfill specific responsibilities to maintain instructional continuity and effective classroom management when the regular teacher is absent. Their role is essential for ensuring a smooth learning experience and upholding school policies.

Deliver Lesson Plans: Implement the classroom activities and lesson plans prepared by the regular teacher to keep instruction consistent.
Classroom Management: Maintain order, supervise students, and enforce school rules to create a safe and productive learning environment.
Student Supervision: Monitor student behavior in various settings including classrooms, hallways, lunchrooms, and recess to ensure safety.
Attendance: Take accurate attendance and report absences following school policies.
Instructional Support: Assist students with assignments and clarify instructions, adapting strategies to meet diverse learning needs.
Communication: Keep open communication with students, staff, and administrators about classroom progress or any arising issues.
Documentation: Leave detailed notes for the regular teacher regarding daily events, student behavior, and assignment status.
Follow Emergency Procedures: Understand and implement all school emergency protocols, such as fire drills and lockdowns.
Professional Conduct: Arrive on time, dress appropriately, and maintain confidentiality concerning student information.
Compliance with Substitute Limits: Adhere to Iowa’s legal limits on consecutive teaching days, ensuring compliance with authorization or license restrictions.

To carry out these responsibilities successfully, substitute teachers rely on a diverse skill set. The chart below highlights the top skills listed on resumes—ranging from subject-specific knowledge like Math and Language Arts to broader capabilities like ESL and classroom support—demonstrating the versatility required to meet varied classroom needs.

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

Substitute teaching in Iowa offers unmatched schedule flexibility, allowing substitutes to choose when and where they work without committing to regular hours. You can accept short-term assignments lasting just a day or plan ahead for known absences, making it easy to balance other personal or professional commitments.

Registering with multiple districts expands your options, and specifying preferred grade levels or subjects helps tailor assignments to your strengths and interests. Online platforms streamline the process by notifying you of available jobs, enabling quick decisions with minimal hassle. This flexibility also means you can vary your workload seasonally, working more during peak times like flu season or holidays and less when preferred.

When I spoke with a substitute teacher from Iowa who graduated locally, he shared how this flexibility shaped his experience. “Some weeks, I’d get calls the morning of needing coverage, and other times I’d schedule days weeks ahead,” he explained. “Balancing this with family life was easier because I wasn’t locked into a fixed schedule.” He emphasized that while last-minute assignments could be stressful, the ability to decline certain days gave him control over his time. This adaptability made substitute teaching a sustainable and rewarding role for him.

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

Substitute teachers in Iowa enjoy several practical benefits that combine flexibility, competitive pay, and professional growth opportunities. These advantages make it an appealing option for those seeking part-time work or a pathway into education.

Financial Compensation: Substitute teacher pay averages around $19 per hour, with potential annual earnings between $29,100 and $47,000 depending on experience and district demand.
Flexible Scheduling: Teachers can select their working days, allowing for a balanced work-life schedule suitable for retirees, students, or professionals.
Career Advancement: Substitute teaching experience can count toward license renewal and long-term service, serving as a stepping stone to full-time teaching roles.
Licensing and Authorization: Iowa’s streamlined authorization process and license renewal options make it easier to maintain eligibility and extend substitute authority.

For those aiming to enhance their credentials, exploring a list of cheapest online masters degrees in educational leadership can provide further career development. Overall, understanding the benefits of being a substitute teacher in Iowa helps candidates maximize their earnings and professional growth while maintaining flexibility.

What legal rights do substitute teachers have in Iowa?

Substitute teachers in Iowa operate under specific legal protections that balance their rights with the unique nature of their employment. These rights ensure fair treatment while recognizing the temporary and flexible status of substitute teaching.

At-will employment: Substitute teachers are considered at-will employees, meaning they can be dismissed without the same tenure or due process protections as full-time teachers.
Work assignment limits: Licenses and authorizations restrict how long substitutes can serve in a single assignment, protecting both the substitute and district from extended temporary placements without proper credentials.
Labor law protections: Substitutes are covered by state and federal laws addressing workplace safety, discrimination, and harassment, ensuring a safe and equitable work environment.
Compensation rights: Pay rates are locally determined, and substitutes have the flexibility to choose workdays, providing control over their schedules and income opportunities.
Renewal requirements: Substitutes must complete mandatory training and meet renewal criteria to maintain their authorization, ensuring ongoing compliance with legal and professional standards.
Limited due process in discipline: While substitutes have basic legal protections, their rights to contest disciplinary actions are more limited than those of permanent staff.

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

Substitute teaching in Iowa offers several paths for career advancement, allowing educators to build experience while working toward full certification or other roles in education. Exploring these options can help you transition from substitute teacher to full-time teacher in Iowa smoothly and strategically.

Certified Teacher: Gain classroom experience as a substitute while completing licensure requirements to become a fully certified teacher eligible for permanent positions.
Professional Development: Use substitute teaching as a stepping stone to access training and credit courses that support licensure renewal and skill enhancement.
Specialized Roles: Earn endorsements or further qualifications to substitute in specialized subjects or grade levels, increasing your assignment options and marketability.
Para-educator to Teacher: Transition from authorized substitute or para-educator roles into full teaching positions with additional education and licensure.

For those interested in advancing their education credentials, pursuing a doctorate of education online can further open doors to leadership and specialist roles beyond classroom teaching.

What do substitute teachers in Iowa say about their careers?

Completing the substitute teacher program at Cedar Rapids Community School District gave me a solid foundation to confidently step into classrooms across Iowa. Starting my career as a substitute in various local schools allowed me to experience the diverse educational environments within the state, from rural to urban. I’ve found it incredibly rewarding to support students’ learning and engagement, especially in communities where resources can be limited. Being a substitute teacher here has deepened my passion for education and strengthened my commitment to helping young people succeed. James
My journey began with a program at Des Moines Public Schools, and starting as a substitute teacher in local schools truly opened doors for my professional growth. The flexibility of substitute teaching gave me the chance to explore different grade levels and subject areas, which helped me decide on my long-term teaching goals. Iowa’s close-knit communities and emphasis on education foster a supportive environment where I could develop my skills and make a meaningful impact on students’ lives. Reflecting on this path, I feel grateful to contribute positively to the well-being of young learners across the state. Lola
After completing the substitute teaching program at Waterloo Schools, I embraced the unique challenges and opportunities that come with working in Iowa’s educational system. The state’s rich agricultural background and community values bring a special dynamic to classrooms, where I’ve met students with diverse experiences and ambitions. Substitute teaching has not only helped me grow professionally but also allowed me to give back to communities by supporting continuity in education. This role has been both a fulfilling career step and a way to stay connected with the heart of Iowa. Raymond

Other Things You Need to Know About Substitute Teachers in Iowa

Are online substitute teacher training programs in Iowa legitimate?

When considering online substitute teacher training programs in Iowa, the Iowa Department of Education does not mandate a specific training provider but requires substitutes to meet certain educational and background criteria.

Among available options, Substitute Teacher Certification programs offered by reputable platforms like A+ College Ready stand out for their alignment with state standards and comprehensive training modules. These programs provide essential classroom management strategies and instructional techniques tailored to substitute teaching roles, ensuring participants are well-prepared for Iowa classrooms.

Globally, Teach Away offers a widely recognized substitute teacher training program that combines flexibility with a solid curriculum, making it popular among educators seeking certification online. It emphasizes practical skills and legal compliance, which can complement Iowa’s requirements effectively.

Overall, while Iowa permits various approved trainings, selecting programs with strong reputations like A+ College Ready or Teach Away ensures legitimacy and quality preparation for substitute teaching roles in Iowa and beyond.

Is substitute teaching in Iowa considered full-time employment?

In Iowa, substitute teaching is generally not considered full-time employment. Most substitute teachers work on an as-needed basis rather than holding continuous, full-day schedules. According to the Iowa Department of Education, substitute teachers are typically employed on a daily or short-term basis to fill in for absent regular teachers, which limits their hours and consistency of work.

The average daily pay for substitutes in Iowa ranges from $120 to $160, depending on the district, but these positions usually do not provide the benefits or job security associated with full-time roles.

Furthermore, substitute teaching assignments rarely exceed a full school year, which also impacts classification as full-time employment. The Iowa State Education Association confirms that substitutes do not typically qualify for full-time benefits like health insurance or retirement plans. Therefore, while substitute teaching offers flexible employment opportunities, it is generally viewed as part-time or temporary rather than full-time work in the state.

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

As a substitute teacher in Iowa, you gain a variety of valuable skills that enhance your professional and personal development. You develop strong classroom management abilities by adapting quickly to different learning environments and student needs. You improve your communication skills through interactions with students, teachers, and school staff. Flexibility is another key skill, as substitute teaching requires you to handle diverse subjects and grade levels on short notice.

Additionally, you cultivate problem-solving skills by managing unexpected situations and maintaining a productive classroom atmosphere. Time management becomes essential as you balance lesson plans and daily tasks efficiently. Working as a substitute also enhances your cultural competency and empathy, given the exposure to varied student backgrounds and learning styles. These skills collectively prepare you for a career in education or any role requiring adaptability, communication, and leadership.

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

Yes, substituting before becoming a full-time teacher in Iowa can be beneficial. It provides practical classroom experience and helps you understand the daily demands of teaching. This experience can strengthen your resume and improve your classroom management skills.

Substitute teaching allows you to work in various school environments and grade levels. This exposure helps you discover your teaching preferences and areas of interest. It also offers networking opportunities with school administrators and educators, which can be valuable when applying for full-time positions.

However, substituting is not mandatory for teacher licensure in Iowa. You still need to complete an approved teacher preparation program and obtain the proper certification. But gaining experience as a substitute can make the transition smoother and give you a clearer sense of the profession’s challenges and rewards.

In summary, while not required, substitute teaching is a practical step to consider before pursuing full-time teaching in Iowa.