How to Become a Substitute Teacher in Maryland for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Maryland is facing a growing demand for substitute teachers, with recent data showing a 15% increase in short-term teacher absences across the state. This rise in vacancies is putting additional strain on school districts and creating an urgent need for reliable substitutes who can step in and keep classrooms running smoothly. For aspiring educators and professionals seeking flexible, meaningful work, this shortage presents a valuable opportunity to make a difference while earning competitive daily pay.

In this guide, based on extensive research, you’ll learn exactly how to become a substitute teacher in Maryland. We’ll cover certification requirements, step-by-step application procedures, salary insights, and proven strategies to help you start—and succeed—in this essential education role.

Key Things to Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Maryland

Substitute teachers must obtain at least a bachelor’s degree, as Maryland requires this minimum education for substitute teachers.
Maryland is experiencing a growing need for substitute teachers due to a 15% increase in short-term teacher absences statewide.
Substitute teachers in Maryland can expect an average daily pay between $90 and $120, reflecting demand and experience in Maryland schools.

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

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

Meeting the basic requirements to become a substitute teacher in Maryland involves navigating a patchwork of local standards rather than a single state mandate. This decentralized approach means knowing the specific educational and age criteria of your chosen district is essential.

Educational qualifications: Most counties require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, though some accept an associate degree, high school diploma, or GED with official transcripts, reflecting varied district policies.
Additional assessments: For candidates without a bachelor’s degree, districts may demand basic skills testing or relevant work experience, emphasizing the value of partial college education or completed coursework.
Age requirements: Generally, substitutes must be at least 18 years old, but some districts set the minimum age at 21 for high school assignments, highlighting the importance of checking local rules.
Background check requirements for substitute teachers in Maryland: While not uniformly detailed at the state level, most districts require a clear background check, underscoring safety and trust as foundational elements.
Transcript fees and processing: Expect fees around $10 to $15 with a processing time of three to five days, a practical consideration when submitting proof of education.
Educational pathways: Exploring options like an what is the best online associate degree in education can enhance your qualifications and potentially improve pay scales in some districts.

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

First-time substitutes in Maryland encounter a range of district-specific training that equips them to handle diverse classroom challenges effectively. These requirements reflect a commitment to preparing substitutes beyond basic orientation, ensuring they support student learning and safety.

District training requirements generally include:

Orientation sessions: New substitutes attend sessions that cover district policies, professional conduct expectations, and classroom management essentials to help navigate their roles confidently.
Child abuse and neglect training: Completion of training modules is mandatory to recognize and report abuse, aligning with state and district legal standards.
Classroom management training: Instruction focuses on techniques for maintaining a productive environment and resolving conflicts, which are crucial skills for substitutes managing unfamiliar classrooms.
Training on district technology: Substitutes learn to use tools like smart boards and student information systems, reflecting the growing integration of technology in education.
Health and safety protocols: Recent emphasis on illness prevention, allergy awareness, and safety drills prepares substitutes to respond appropriately in emergencies.

The Maryland substitute teacher orientation program varies by district, often lasting from a few hours to a full day, with some requiring additional online modules. Prospective substitutes should consult their local human resources office for up-to-date details. For those interested in further educational pathways, exploring the best library science programs online can be a complementary route to deepen their professional skills.

The image below illustrates the current vacancy rate of teachers in public schools, further underscoring the need for well-prepared substitute educators across the state.

what is the vacancy rate for public school teachers

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

Applying to become a substitute teacher in Maryland involves a structured process designed to ensure candidates are well-prepared and meet district standards. This process balances efficiency with thoroughness, reflecting the importance of safeguarding students while adapting to new educational demands.

Online Application Submission: Begin by completing an online employment application through the school district’s portal, attaching all necessary documents such as transcripts or certificates.
Supporting Documentation: Provide official proof of your highest education level and identification, which may include a driver’s license and banking details for payroll.
Background Check and Fingerprinting: Schedule and attend a fingerprinting appointment for a criminal background check, following each district’s payment and ID requirements carefully.
Orientation and Training: Attend a mandatory orientation session that covers classroom management and the substitute teacher’s role, offered by invitation after application review.
Registration with Substitute Management Systems: Once approved, register in the district’s substitute management software to receive and manage job assignments efficiently.
Assignment and Pay Approval: Begin accepting assignments only after final approval by Human Resources, with options often available for online or in-person teaching roles.

For those entering substitute teaching, state-by-state pay differences are worth considering. High-paying states like Wisconsin and Connecticut can offer better financial stability. With salaries ranging from $52,180 to $69,730, location significantly impacts earning potential. This information can help educators plan where to apply or relocate.

How much do substitute teachers in Maryland make?

The average salary range for substitute teachers in Maryland generally falls between $30,100 and $48,500 annually, with top earners making up to $60,173. Hourly wages hover around $19.71, which might seem reasonable at first glance but masks the broader challenges within the state’s compensation structure.

Those considering how much do substitute teachers make in Maryland should note that pay varies widely depending on assignment length, education level, and district, with long-term substitutes often earning more for extended commitments.

In many counties, daily rates reflect these differences. For example, substitutes with some college credits but no degree might earn around $105 per day, while those with a bachelor’s degree can command $125 or more. Retired teachers, due to their experience, sometimes receive even higher daily rates. Yet, these figures remain modest compared to other states.

The state’s median substitute teacher salary closely aligns with its average, indicating a relatively flat pay scale across districts. This suggests limited room for salary growth unless substitutes move into specialized or long-term roles. From an experienced perspective, this flat distribution emphasizes the importance of strategic career moves within education to improve earnings.

Nationally, Maryland ranks last in substitute teacher salaries, a surprising fact given the state’s reputation for quality education. This reality should encourage prospective substitutes to research district-specific pay and consider further education options, such as pursuing the best online teaching degrees, to enhance their prospects and compensation.

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

Renewing or maintaining a substitute teaching certificate in Maryland requires careful attention to state regulations and professional development standards. The process, while detailed, ensures educators remain current and effective in their roles.

Certificate Validity and Renewal Timeline: Maryland teaching certificates last five years; start renewal early via the TEACH Dashboard before expiration to avoid lapses.
Professional Development Points (PDPs): Complete 90 PDPs over five years, focusing on content knowledge, ESL or bilingual education, special education strategies, and culturally responsive teaching.
Documentation Submission: Upload your Individualized Professional Development Plan (IPDP) and PDP Activity Log to the TEACH Dashboard as proof of completed requirements.
Credit and Coursework Standards: Earn credits through regionally accredited institutions or approved CPD providers, ensuring relevance to your teaching assignment and completion within the last five years.
New Requirements Effective July 2025: Demonstrate reading proficiency via state-approved tests, coursework, observations, or MSDE training if working in specified Maryland public or special education settings.
Employer’s Role in Renewal: If contracted by a Maryland public school or approved institution, your employer usually submits renewal paperwork; otherwise, apply independently through TEACH with necessary evidence.
Local School System Flexibility: Since Maryland lacks a statewide substitute certificate, local districts may impose additional criteria for substitutes not holding standard teaching certificates.

The data indicates that over half of substitute teachers leave the profession within their first two years. Tenure drops sharply after that, with only 13% staying for three to four years and even fewer continuing beyond seven. Just 9% of substitutes remain in the role for over 11 years. This pattern highlights the high turnover rate and the short-term nature of most substitute teaching jobs.

What are the responsibilities of a substitute teacher in Maryland?

Substitute teachers in Maryland play a crucial role in maintaining instructional continuity and ensuring effective classroom management during a regular teacher's absence. Their presence supports student learning and contributes to a stable, positive educational environment.

Upon arrival, substitutes are expected to report to the school administration to receive daily instructions and materials. They must carefully review lesson plans and schedules, consulting with team leaders when necessary, to deliver lessons smoothly. Adhering closely to the regular teacher’s plans and routines is essential, as is enforcing classroom rules and managing student behavior to maintain a safe and orderly atmosphere.

Substitutes are responsible for taking accurate attendance, supervising students during class periods and transitions, and clearly explaining assignments while assisting individuals or groups as needed. Flexibility is important, as substitutes may need to adapt plans and collaborate with administrators to address unexpected challenges. Maintaining confidentiality about student information and school matters is mandatory.

Professionalism, punctuality, and clear communication with staff and students are expected at all times. Proficiency in using school technology and instructional materials also supports effective teaching. Additionally, substitutes should understand their rights to sick and safe leave under Maryland law.

Some districts, such as Montgomery County, require substitutes to work a minimum number of days per semester to remain on the active roster. Finally, substitutes must uphold the same disciplinary standards as full-time teachers, as failure to do so may result in removal from the substitute list.

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

Substitute teaching in Maryland offers a remarkable level of schedule flexibility, allowing educators to blend work with personal commitments in a way few other jobs do. Substitutes can choose which days to work without the pressure of a fixed routine, making it easier to balance family or other professional responsibilities.

Many districts provide tools that let substitutes pick assignments by location, grade, or subject, giving them control over where and what they teach. While some areas require a minimum monthly commitment, it’s typically low enough to maintain freedom without sacrificing job stability. This flexibility is supported by systems that notify substitutes of openings, whether planned or last-minute, ensuring a dynamic and adaptable work environment.

One substitute teacher from Maryland, who graduated locally, shared his experience: “At first, I was worried about juggling last-minute calls with my family life, but the automated system really helped me stay ahead. I could accept early assignments or wait for emergency calls without feeling overwhelmed. The biggest challenge was learning to be patient and flexible, but that’s part of the job’s rhythm. It’s rewarding to know I can decide my workload each month and still contribute meaningfully.” His reflections highlight how the schedule’s adaptability becomes a real asset once you embrace its ebb and flow.

This balance of autonomy and purpose makes substitute teaching in Maryland a compelling choice for those seeking meaningful, flexible work in education. Moreover, the image below shows how many days teachers miss on average in a school year—one of the key factors driving demand for substitutes across the state.

how many days does the average teacher miss per year

What are the current certification and licensing steps for substitute teachers in Maryland?

Each district in Maryland follows its own process to validate substitute teaching credentials beyond basic eligibility criteria. Prospective substitutes should review specific district guidelines regarding educational qualifications, background checks, and procedural documentation. It is essential to align with both local requirements and state protocols to ensure continuous eligibility over time. For detailed procedural guidance and a comprehensive checklist of necessary prerequisites, refer to our guide on the Maryland substitute teacher licensing requirements.

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

Substitute teachers in Maryland enjoy a variety of benefits that support both their professional and personal needs. These benefits often depend on the length of the assignment and hours worked but provide meaningful advantages to those in this role.

Compensation: Earnings range widely, with an average annual salary near $41,000 and daily rates reflecting experience and district policies.
Sick and Safe Leave: Maryland law mandates accrual of leave, which substitutes can request through payroll systems, ensuring protection during illness or emergencies.
Health Insurance: Available primarily to substitutes working 30+ hours per week, often under ACA guidelines, offering crucial coverage for long-term assignments.
Retirement Plans: Voluntary options like 403(b) and 457(b) plans help substitutes save for the future while managing taxes.
Workers’ Compensation: Coverage is automatic during working hours, providing security in case of injury on the job.
Flexibility: Substitutes can choose their schedules, preferred schools, and grade levels, accommodating diverse personal circumstances.

For those interested in expanding their skills, pursuing online library science degrees can complement teaching roles and open new opportunities. Understanding substitute teacher benefits in Maryland, including sick and safe leave Maryland policies, helps teachers navigate their rights and enhances their professional experience.

What legal rights do substitute teachers have in Maryland?

Substitute teachers in Maryland navigate a unique set of legal rights shaped by state regulations and local policies. These rights balance the flexibility of at-will employment with important protections related to workplace safety and due process.

At-Will Employment with Safeguards: Substitute teachers can be dismissed by either party without cause, but this must not violate laws or contractual agreements.
Disqualification Procedures: Specific criteria govern the suspension or revocation of eligibility, aligned with licensed educator standards, ensuring clear grounds and process.
Notification Requirements: Substitutes must receive written notice if removed from eligibility lists due to conduct, maintaining transparency, and communication.
Right to Contest Decisions: Teachers have the opportunity to challenge disqualification or status changes through their district’s human resources office.
Workers’ Compensation Coverage: Protection for workplace injuries applies during all hours of employment, whether teaching in-person or online.
Union and Civil Service Benefits: In some districts, substitute teachers may access union representation or civil service protections, offering additional avenues for appeal and support.

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

Substitute teaching in Maryland can serve as a valuable stepping stone toward a fulfilling career in education, offering practical experience and exposure to diverse classroom environments. Many substitutes leverage their roles to explore various career advancement opportunities.

Becoming a Fully Certified Teacher: By meeting state certification requirements, substitutes can transition into full-time teaching positions, gaining access to broader benefits and career stability.
Long-Term Substitute Positions: These roles often come with enhanced pay and benefits, providing a bridge between short-term assignments and permanent employment.
Specialized Educational Roles: Substitute teachers can build expertise in specific subjects or grade levels, positioning themselves for roles such as instructional aides or curriculum support specialists.
Retired Educator Opportunities: Retired teachers with valid certification may return as substitutes, often receiving higher daily rates and flexible schedules.

For those contemplating how to advance, understanding what are the easiest education degrees to pursue can help streamline the transition from substitute to full-time teacher Maryland educators often seek. This knowledge supports strategic career development within the state's educational system.

What do substitute teachers in Maryland say about their careers?

Completing my substitute teaching certification through the Baltimore City Public Schools was a pivotal moment in my career. Starting work in local Maryland schools allowed me to explore diverse classroom environments, which truly enriched my teaching skills. I appreciate how being a substitute teacher here offers both flexibility and stability, perfect for balancing my passion for education with personal growth. The community’s support and the chance to positively influence young minds have been incredibly rewarding. I look forward to continuing my journey and possibly advancing within the education system. - Shaina
After finishing a program at Montgomery County Public Schools, I found substitute teaching to be a fulfilling way to contribute to local education without the immediate pressure of a full-time position. Maryland’s rich cultural diversity presents unique classroom challenges and opportunities that have broadened my perspective as an educator. The experience has also helped me develop strong classroom management skills and adaptability, which are essential career assets. I’m proud to be part of a community that values education and supports professional growth. - Ashley
My journey began with a substitute teaching program at Prince George’s County Public Schools, and it has been a transformative experience. Working in different schools across Maryland, I’ve gained insights into how local resources and community culture shape student learning. This career has deepened my passion for mentoring youth and contributing to their well-being, especially in underserved areas. The professional development opportunities as a substitute here have been excellent, providing a solid foundation for future advancement in education. It’s a rewarding path both personally and professionally. - Carlos

Other Things to Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Maryland

Are online substitute teacher training programs in Maryland legitimate?

Yes, many online programs are legitimate, especially those approved by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). MSDE-approved training ensures candidates meet state standards and gain key skills like classroom management and child safety. Another reputable option is the A+ Education & Training Substitute Teacher Certification Course, which, while not Maryland-specific, offers solid preparation and is recognized in multiple states. Always confirm the program is accepted by your local district or meets Maryland's requirements.

Is substitute teaching in Maryland considered full-time employment?

No, substitute teaching in Maryland is not considered full-time employment. Substitutes work on an as-needed basis with no guaranteed hours, benefits, or long-term contracts. Most work fewer than 20 hours per week, well below the 40-hour full-time threshold. According to the Maryland State Department of Education, substitutes are classified as part-time or temporary workers. Daily pay ranges from $100 to $150, depending on the county, and benefits like health insurance or retirement plans are typically not included.

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

Substitute teaching in Maryland helps you build key skills like classroom management, adaptability, and effective communication. You learn to handle different grade levels and subjects, follow lesson plans, and work within varied school cultures. It also strengthens your problem-solving, organizational, and instructional abilities. These experiences offer valuable insight into Maryland’s education system and prepare you for full-time teaching or other roles in the field.

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

Yes, substitute teaching is a helpful step before becoming a full-time teacher in Maryland. It offers hands-on classroom experience, strengthens your teaching and management skills, and helps you understand school operations. It also allows you to build connections with staff, explore different grade levels, and work while completing certification. While not required for full-time roles, it’s a valuable way to enhance your resume and ease the transition into a permanent teaching position.

References:

Baltimore County Public Schools. (n.d.). MSDE licensure. https://www.bcps.org/hr/recruitmentstaffing/educator_licensure/msde_licensure

Cornell Law School, Legal Information Institute. (n.d.). Md. Code Regs. 13A.07.12.01 – Disqualification criteria for substitute teachers. https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/maryland/COMAR-13A-07-12-01