Substitute Teaching License & Requirements in Delaware for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Over 140 professionals are currently employed as “teachers and instructors, all other” in Delaware, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). As schools across the state increasingly rely on substitutes to fill classroom gaps, many individuals are unsure of how to begin the licensing journey.

The steps for obtaining a substitute teaching credential—covering educational requirements, criminal background screenings, and application protocols—can be both opaque and intimidating for newcomers. This article seeks to clarify that process, offering a concise, step-by-step guide tailored to Delaware’s regulations.

Key Points About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Delaware

Delaware requires substitute teachers to hold at least a bachelor’s degree and complete a state-approved training, ensuring basic preparedness but possibly limiting entry for some candidates.
The job outlook in Delaware is stable due to consistent demand in public schools, though competition exists; flexibility and local networking enhance employment prospects.
Average salaries range around $100–$130 per day; while modest, Delaware’s smaller size and supportive education community can offer valuable early-career experience.

What are the requirements to become a substitute teacher in Delaware?
What are the different types of substitute teaching permits in Delaware?
How do substitute teachers renew their teaching permit in Delaware?
How do substitute teachers receive assignments in Delaware districts?
Can substitute teaching lead to a full-time teaching job in Delaware?
How much do substitute teachers make in Delaware?
What professional development opportunities are available for substitute teachers in Delaware?
What legal responsibilities and liabilities do substitute teachers in Delaware face?
What is the job outlook for substitute teachers in Delaware?
What ethical standards do substitute teachers adhere to in Delaware?
What are the benefits received by substitute teachers in Delaware?
What are the common challenges for substitute teachers in Delaware?
Other Things You Should Know About the Substitute Teaching License and Requirements in Delaware

What are the requirements to become a substitute teacher in Delaware?

Understanding the requirements to be a substitute teacher in Delaware involves recognizing that the state prioritizes accessibility while maintaining standards for student safety and instructional quality. The Delaware substitute teaching application process does not mandate a specific license, but candidates must satisfy several educational, legal, and health-related criteria.

Below are the primary requirements prospective substitutes should consider before applying.

Minimum Education: Candidates need at least a high school diploma or GED. Some districts may require additional qualifications such as 60 college credits or an associate degree, particularly for long-term assignments or specialized substitute roles.
Age Requirements: Applicants must be at least 20 or 21 years old depending on the district, with many districts setting 21 as the minimum age for substitute teachers.
Background Checks: Comprehensive state and federal criminal history checks, along with a Child Protection Registry screening, are mandatory to ensure student safety.
Health and Legal Documentation: A Mantoux (PPD) skin test is required to confirm health status, and eligibility to work in the U.S. must be verified through an I-9 form with appropriate identification.
Employment Setup: Substitute teachers must consent to direct deposit payment and participate in the state’s payroll system, with employment contingent on completing all onboarding steps satisfactorily.
Training and Local Support: While no formal substitute teaching license is required, many districts provide orientation and onboarding workshops. Organizations such as Kelly Education offer additional guidance, which can be invaluable for navigating the hiring process.

For those exploring career options related to education, it can be helpful to research jobs with education degree that may complement or serve as alternatives to substitute teaching in Delaware.

What are the different types of substitute teaching permits in Delaware?

Delaware offers several distinct substitute teaching permits, each designed to accommodate varying qualifications and circumstances of prospective substitutes. Understanding these permits helps clarify the pathways available for those interested in supporting classroom instruction on a temporary basis.

The primary substitute teaching permits in Delaware include:

Short-Term Substitute Permit: Intended for individuals filling in for no more than 20 consecutive school days, this permit requires minimal qualifications, often allowing those with a high school diploma or equivalent to serve temporarily.
Long-Term Substitute Permit: Designed for those who substitute beyond 20 consecutive days, this permit generally necessitates more formal qualifications such as some college coursework or a degree, reflecting the increased responsibility over an extended period.
Emergency Substitute Permit: Granted when there is an urgent need for substitute teachers and standard permit requirements cannot be immediately met, this permit is temporary and subject to specific conditions to maintain educational standards.
Standard Substitute Teaching License: For individuals who meet full state certification requirements, this license allows substitutes to work without restrictions on duration, often suited for those pursuing or holding full teaching credentials.

How do substitute teachers renew their teaching permit in Delaware?

Understanding the Delaware substitute teacher license renewal process requires recognizing that while some requirements mirror those for full teaching licenses, substitute teachers face unique expectations. The process emphasizes maintaining professional standards through administrative steps and ongoing development, though the specifics for substitutes may be less explicitly detailed.

Application Process: Substitute teachers must access their DEEDS Educator Dashboard to begin renewal. This step involves submitting a complete application along with any necessary documentation, mirroring procedures used for Continuing Licenses.
Professional Development: Although exact hours for substitute teachers are not strictly defined, maintaining a permit generally requires engaging in some professional development. For regular educators, this includes 90 clock hours over five years, with at least half relevant to their teaching duties, a benchmark that may inform substitute requirements.
Employment Verification: Verification depends on employment status; those working in Delaware public or charter schools rely on their human resources office to review and approve required hours. Non-employed substitutes must coordinate directly with the Department of Education.
Compliance with Regulations: All educators must follow the Delaware Administrative Code, which outlines rules applicable to substitute teachers, ensuring legal and professional adherence.

Given the nuances in requirements, candidates should carefully review the professional development hours for substitute teachers in Delaware and may benefit from exploring resources such as the ranking of the best online doctorate in higher education programs to enhance their qualifications and career prospects. It would also be helpful to get insights on the salary gap between teachers in terms of educational attainment, as shown in the chart below.

How do substitute teachers receive assignments in Delaware districts?

In Delaware, substitute teachers receive their assignments through a variety of district-managed processes that emphasize efficiency and adaptability. These methods reflect both technological integration and localized policies, which can vary across regions and schools. Below is an outline of key aspects involved in how substitute assignments are distributed within Delaware districts:

Assignment Management Systems: Digital platforms are commonly used by districts to post available substitute positions, allowing substitutes to accept assignments online, streamlining the process for both schools and educators.
Priority Systems: Some districts implement priority frameworks where substitutes with frequent usage or specific qualifications receive preference, though these systems differ and are not standardized statewide.
Preferred Substitute Lists: Schools may maintain curated lists of preferred substitutes based on criteria like reliability, performance, or subject expertise, ensuring trusted educators are contacted first when openings arise.
Regional Differences: Assignment procedures can vary significantly between urban and rural districts, reflecting differing needs and resource availability, without a centralized statewide assignment system.
Technology Integration: Automated calling systems and online platforms are widely utilized to notify substitutes quickly about open assignments, improving the speed and reliability of filling vacancies.

Additionally, Delaware has unique policies such as the initiative under House Bill 315 to support permanent substitute teaching by hiring full-time substitutes in schools with large enrollments, though this influences staffing rather than the assignment process itself.

Which work-related notification method is preferred by substitute teachers?

Can substitute teaching lead to a full-time teaching job in Delaware?

Substitute teaching in Delaware often serves as a practical entry point for those aiming to secure a full-time teaching role. While no formal certification is required to substitute, advancing to a permanent position entails meeting several state requirements and following a structured pathway.

Gain Relevant Experience: Working as a substitute helps candidates develop classroom skills and build relationships within schools, often positioning them favorably for full-time vacancies.
Participate in Alternative Certification Programs: Delaware provides alternative certification options, allowing substitutes with appropriate educational backgrounds to enroll in programs that combine mentoring and professional development while substituting.
Complete Required Assessments: Passing the Praxis II subject test relevant to the intended teaching field is essential before applying for full licensure or alternative certification.
Obtain an Initial Teaching License: After fulfilling certification and testing requirements, candidates can apply for a three-year Initial License, which enables full-time teaching.
Engage in Professional Development and Mentoring: New teachers must join state-approved induction programs during their initial licensure to receive support and continue professional growth.
Advance to Continuing License: Following three years of satisfactory teaching and evaluations, educators may apply for a five-year Continuing License, extending their full-time teaching eligibility.

One substitute teacher from Delaware shared his experience navigating this path. “Starting as a substitute gave me a real feel for the classroom dynamics,” he reflected. “The biggest challenge was balancing the demands of substituting with preparing for the Praxis exams and meeting certification deadlines.”

He described the mentoring received during the alternative certification program as crucial, noting, “Having that guidance made the transition less daunting.” Though the process was rigorous, he found the personal connections built while substituting invaluable, stating, “Being visible in schools helped me secure my first full-time position. It wasn’t easy, but it was definitely worth the effort.”

How much do substitute teachers make in Delaware?

The salary of substitute teachers in Delaware reflects a range of variables that influence overall earnings. The average pay for substitute teachers in Delaware typically hovers around $20.63 per hour, which is slightly above the national average. Annual salaries can vary notably, generally ranging from $23,560 to $47,374 depending on several factors.

Credential-Based Pay: Delaware employs a tiered pay system where substitutes with a Class A license (fully certified teachers) earn $179 per day, Class B (holding a Bachelor’s or Associate’s degree) earn $143, and Class C (GED or High School Diploma) earn $113 daily. Additional increases apply for long-term assignments.
Assignment Length: Long-term substitutes often receive a daily pay increase—typically around $25 per day—after the 11th consecutive day in the same classroom, reflecting the greater commitment required for extended assignments.
District and Location Differences: Wages can differ significantly depending on the school district and city, with larger areas like Wilmington offering higher pay rates to address cost of living and staffing needs.
Employer Impact: Staffing agencies such as ESS Education may offer pay rates averaging $20.36 per hour, which can be about 21% above the national average, but these can vary from direct school district employment.
Other Pay Factors: Subject area, grade level, and previous teaching experience can also affect earnings, with high-need subjects sometimes commanding higher pay.

Those considering becoming substitute teachers or upgrading their qualifications might explore an affordable online teaching degree, which can influence licensing status and salary potential. Understanding these salary dynamics is essential for anyone evaluating the substitute teacher salary in Delaware or average pay for substitute teachers in Delaware within the broader educational employment landscape.

What professional development opportunities are available for substitute teachers in Delaware?

Delaware districts and education organizations provide targeted professional development programs designed to enhance classroom management, instructional strategies, and safety protocols for substitute teachers. These initiatives—inclusive of in-person workshops and online certification courses—support continuing education and promote effective teaching practices. For substitutes interested in aligning their experience with advanced credentials, exploring types of teaching certifications and requirements in Delaware can offer clear pathways for professional advancement and long-term career growth.

What legal responsibilities and liabilities do substitute teachers in Delaware face?

Substitute teachers in Delaware must comply with district policies and state regulations that outline clear legal responsibilities. They are expected to maintain confidentiality, adhere to mandated safety standards, and follow protocols designed to protect both student welfare and teacher accountability. Additionally, substitutes are liable for appropriate classroom management and ensuring that emergency procedures are followed. For detailed guidance on the legal framework and best practices, review how to become a substitute teacher in Delaware.

What is the job outlook for substitute teachers in Delaware?

The substitute teacher job outlook in Delaware reflects a persistent and regionally varied demand driven by multiple factors. Despite some progress in reducing full-time teacher vacancies, substitute teacher shortages remain critical, highlighting ongoing challenges within the state's education system.

Statewide Persistent Shortage: Delaware continues to face a long-term shortage of substitute teachers, a problem exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Although overall teacher vacancies have declined by 52%, daily substitute coverage needs remain high across districts.
New Castle County – High Absenteeism and Dense Population: As Delaware's most populous county, New Castle sees elevated teacher absenteeism rates coupled with growing student enrollment, resulting in frequent demands for substitute teachers. Urban school districts often report needing dozens of substitutes daily, sometimes requiring administrators to fill in themselves.
Kent and Sussex Counties – Limited Local Hiring Pools: These more rural counties deal with smaller populations and fewer available substitutes, forcing school leaders to make last-minute calls to secure coverage. Substitutes may also face longer travel distances to reach these schools, complicating recruitment efforts.
Statewide Legislative Response – Permanent Substitutes: To address this sustained demand, Delaware has advanced House Bill 315, proposing the addition of 208 permanent substitute teachers statewide. This legislative measure aims to stabilize substitute staffing and reduce daily shortages.
Impact of the Pandemic: The surge of the Omicron variant intensified substitute shortages due to increased teacher illness and quarantine requirements. This crisis prompted bipartisan support to fund and formalize substitute teaching roles across the state.

For those considering the substitute teacher license and requirements in Delaware, understanding these regional dynamics and statewide trends is crucial. Prospective educators might also explore options for affordable credentials, such as cheap online library science masters degrees, which can complement their qualifications and career flexibility in education.

What ethical standards do substitute teachers adhere to in Delaware?

Substitute teachers in Delaware are held to rigorous ethical standards that ensure the well-being and respect of all students while maintaining professional integrity. These expectations reflect both general educational principles and specific values endorsed by the Delaware Department of Education and the Delaware Professional Standards Board.

The guidelines underscore the importance of fostering a respectful, confidential, and inclusive learning environment while navigating the complexities of classroom dynamics and state policies.

Respect for Student Dignity: Substitute teachers must honor each student’s individuality and maintain clear professional boundaries, fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect without overstepping personal limits.
Confidentiality Obligations: Protecting sensitive student information is essential, requiring substitutes to share details only with authorized staff to uphold privacy and trust.
Safe and Inclusive Classrooms: Creating an environment free from discrimination, bullying, or harassment is a priority, ensuring all students feel secure and valued regardless of background.
Compliance with Policies: Adherence to district and state regulations, including classroom management and mandated reporting, is mandatory to maintain consistency and legal compliance.
Professionalism and Role Modeling: Substitutes are expected to embody ethical conduct and integrity, serving as positive examples for students both in and out of the classroom.
Avoidance of Conflicts of Interest: Teachers must remain impartial, avoiding gifts or favors that could compromise their objectivity or decision-making.
Ongoing Professional Development: Commitment to continuous learning and self-assessment supports educators’ growth and the quality of instruction they provide.
Delaware’s Unique Emphasis: Beyond standard ethics, Delaware stresses educators’ role in fostering democratic values and community trust, highlighting the broader social responsibility entrusted to substitutes.

When discussing the ethical standards with a substitute teacher from Delaware, she reflected on the delicate balance required to maintain professionalism amid diverse classroom situations. “It’s not just about following rules,” she explained, “but truly understanding the impact of my actions on students’ lives.” She shared moments when upholding confidentiality meant carefully handling sensitive student issues without disrupting the class environment.

Navigating district policies often required quick judgment calls, especially when managing behavioral concerns while respecting individual rights. She described feeling a deep sense of responsibility to model integrity, noting, “Students notice how you carry yourself, and that can influence their own choices.” Her experience illustrated that ethical teaching in Delaware involves constant reflection and adaptability, underscoring the personal growth that accompanies the role of a substitute teacher in the state’s schools.

What are the benefits received by substitute teachers in Delaware?

Substitute teachers in Delaware benefit from a variety of incentives and supports designed to make the role both appealing and sustainable. These benefits reflect a combination of statewide initiatives and district-level policies that aim to attract quality educators and provide professional growth opportunities.

For those considering or currently holding a substitute teacher license in Delaware, understanding these benefits is essential for evaluating the role’s potential.

Competitive Compensation: Delaware offers competitive pay, with an average salary near $42,280 annually or $20.33 per hour, and some top earners making over $62,000 depending on experience and assignment type.
Full-Time Substitute Positions: Unique to Delaware, a 2022 law permits hiring over 200 full-time substitutes who receive a comprehensive salary and benefits package averaging $71,000 per year, providing financial stability uncommon in many states.
Flexible Scheduling: Substitute teaching in Delaware is known for schedule flexibility, which suits students, retirees, and part-time workers seeking assignments that match their availability.
Access to Professional Development: The state recognizes substitute teaching as part of a professional development pathway, enabling substitutes to work toward full certification and career advancement.
Health and Retirement Benefits: Eligibility for health insurance and retirement plans varies by district and contract, but full-time substitutes generally receive benefits comparable to full-time educators, enhancing long-term workforce retention.
Administrative Resources: Many districts provide access to portals like My.Delaware.Gov, facilitating management of benefits, pay, and personal information efficiently.
Educational Incentives: Some districts offer tuition reimbursement or support for further credentialing, encouraging substitutes to pursue advanced degrees or certifications, which can be crucial for career growth or transitioning to full-time roles.

While these benefits make substitute teaching in Delaware attractive, prospective educators should weigh district-specific policies and contracts carefully, as not all incentives apply universally.

For those curious about advanced educational pathways linked with teaching careers, exploring what is the shortest doctor of education online degree may provide valuable insight into further professional development options.

What are the common challenges for substitute teachers in Delaware?

Substitute teaching in Delaware presents several significant challenges that affect both the educators themselves and the schools they serve. The role is marked by unpredictability and systemic issues that complicate recruitment, retention, and day-to-day effectiveness.

Below are key difficulties commonly experienced by substitute teachers within the state, reflecting insights from local education reports and surveys.

Inconsistent Scheduling: Substitute teachers often receive last-minute assignments with little notice, making it difficult to plan and secure steady work. The frequent need to fill positions quickly reflects ongoing shortages and creates job insecurity.
Pay Stagnation: Delaware has not increased substitute teacher pay in nearly two decades, which diminishes the financial appeal of these roles compared to other states or professions, contributing to recruitment challenges.
Lack of Standardized Training: There is no statewide mandate for substitute teacher training, leading to uneven levels of preparedness depending on the district or agency. This gap can leave substitutes inadequately equipped to handle diverse classrooms and special education needs.
Classroom Management Struggles: With class sizes sometimes reaching 34 or 35 students due to teacher shortages, substitutes face heightened difficulty in maintaining order and engaging students effectively in unfamiliar settings.
Limited Professional Support: Compared to full-time educators, substitutes generally have restricted access to mentorship and professional development, which can hinder their growth and classroom success.
Access to Benefits: Most substitute roles in Delaware are part-time or per diem, excluding these teachers from health insurance, retirement plans, or paid leave, which may discourage long-term commitment.
Hiring and Onboarding Delays: Although no specific license is required, the clearance process—including background checks and education verification—varies by district and can be protracted, deterring potential substitutes.
Shortage-Driven Workload: Persistent shortages lead to unfilled substitute positions, forcing schools to merge classes or assign supervisory duties to non-teaching staff, increasing stress on both substitutes and permanent teachers.

To highlight how these challenges impact financial stability, the image below shows how many substitute teachers also work part-time jobs to make ends meet.

How many substitute teachers have multiple part-time jobs?

What Substitute Teachers in Delaware Say About Their Careers

Becoming a substitute teacher in Delaware has given me the flexibility to balance work and family life perfectly. The average pay is competitive, making it a rewarding choice both personally and financially. I truly appreciate being able to contribute to education without compromising my schedule. Sarah
Starting as a substitute teacher opened doors I never expected, including opportunities for permanent positions and leadership roles within the schools. Delaware’s education system values substitutes and supports their growth, which motivated me to pursue further advancement. It’s a fulfilling career path with real potential. Carter
Delaware offers excellent professional development programs tailored for substitute teachers, which helped me enhance my classroom management and instructional skills. These resources not only improved my teaching but also boosted my confidence and job stability. I feel proud to be part of a system that invests in its educators. Ken

Other Things You Should Know About the Substitute Teaching License and Requirements in Delaware

Is substitute teaching in Delaware a good career option?

Substitute teaching in Delaware offers a meaningful entry into the education field with flexible scheduling and valuable classroom experience, making it a good option for recent graduates and career changers; substitutes must uphold ethical standards, professionalism, and school policies to create a safe learning environment, and with steady demand driven by teacher shortages and rising enrollment, this role provides stable part-time income and a chance to build connections within the education system.

Can substitute teachers work in special education classrooms in Delaware?

In Delaware, substitute teachers can work in special education classrooms, but they must meet specific qualifications and training requirements. According to the Delaware Department of Education, substitutes assigned to special education roles typically need additional preparation or experience to effectively support students with diverse learning needs. This includes understanding individualized education programs (IEPs) and behavior management strategies. Many school districts prioritize substitutes who have prior special education experience or have completed relevant professional development.

While there is no statewide prohibition against substitutes working in special education, the assignment depends on the substitute’s credentials and the school's policies to ensure appropriate support for students with disabilities.

Can you substitute teach at multiple school types in Delaware with one permit?

In Delaware, substitute teachers cannot use a single permit to teach across multiple types of schools, such as public, private, or charter schools. The state issues permits specific to the category of school where the substitute will work, reflecting different regulatory and certification requirements.

This separation ensures that substitutes meet the distinct standards and policies set by each school type, maintaining consistent educational quality and compliance. Therefore, if you plan to substitute teach in more than one category of school, you will need to obtain separate permits tailored to each setting.

How do substitute teachers in Delaware handle student behavior issues?

Substitute teachers in Delaware help maintain classroom order by following the regular teacher’s rules and management plans, using clear communication, positive reinforcement, and redirection to handle minor issues, but they have limited authority to enforce major disciplinary actions, so serious behavior problems must be documented and reported to administrators or counselors to ensure consistency with school policies and maintain a safe, supportive learning environment.

References:

BLS. (2024). May 2023 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates: Delaware. bls.gov.
Cape Henlopen School District. (n.d.). Become a Substitute! capehenlopenschools.com.
Delaware County Intermediate Unit. (n.d.). Guest Teacher FAQ. dciu.org.
Justia Law. (n.d.). 2024 Delaware Code :: Title 14 - Education :: Chapter 13. SALARIES AND WORKING CONDITIONS OF SCHOOL EMPLOYEES :: § 1326. Salary schedule for substitute teachers. law.justia.com.
myKelly. (n.d.). How to become a substitute teacher in Delaware. mykelly.com.
New Castle County Vocational Technical School District. (n.d.). Seeking substitute teachers! Work for NCCVT Because #NCCVTworks. nccvotech.com.
Perez-Gonzalez, J. (2022, August 18). Delaware battling teacher shortages as students prepare to return to classroom this fall. whyy.org.
Sawicki, R. (2024, January 30). How the teacher shortage is affecting Delaware. Delaware First Media. delawarepublic.org.
TeachingCertification.com. (2022, May 3). Delaware Substitute Teaching License | Substitute teaching certification in DE. teaching-certification.com.
Zippia. (2025, January 8). Substitute Teacher Demographics and Statistics [2025]: Number of substitute teachers in the US. zippia.com.