Substitute Teaching License & Requirements in Illinois for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Becoming a substitute teacher in Illinois is a strategic entry point into the education sector, offering flexibility, daily variety, and direct classroom experience. With ongoing teacher shortages and a heightened need for classroom coverage, substitutes are increasingly vital to school operations across the state. Illinois recognizes this by setting clear licensing pathways to ensure quality instruction continues during regular teacher absences.

In this article, I’ll walk you through everything my team and I have uncovered through extensive research, including licensing requirements, salary insights, qualifications, and what you need to know before stepping into the classroom.

Key Points About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Illinois

Illinois requires a Substitute Teaching License, which demands either 60 semester hours of college credit or an educator license; background checks and health clearances are mandatory.
The job outlook sparkles with opportunity as Illinois schools increasingly rely on substitutes, with an average salary around $40,936 per year, varying by district and experience.
Illinois offers a vibrant educational ecosystem, blending urban and rural needs, making it fertile ground for substitutes eager to gain diverse classroom experiences and professional growth.

What are the requirements to become a substitute teacher in Illinois?
What are the different types of substitute teaching permits in Illinois?
How do substitute teachers renew their teaching permit in Illinois?
How do substitute teachers receive assignments in Illinois districts?
Can substitute teaching lead to a full-time teaching job in Illinois?
How much do substitute teachers make in Illinois?
What is the job outlook for substitute teachers in Illinois?
What professional development and mentorship opportunities benefit substitute teachers in Illinois?
What legal safeguards and liability concerns should substitute teachers consider in Illinois?
What ethical standards do substitute teachers adhere to in Illinois?
What are the benefits received by substitute teachers in Illinois?
What are the common challenges for substitute teachers in Illinois?
Other Things to Know About Substitute Teaching License and Requirements in Illinois

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

If you’re contemplating becoming a substitute teacher in Illinois, here is a creative breakdown of what it takes to step into the role:

Educational Foundations: For a standard Substitute Teaching License, a bachelor’s degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution is essential. Alternatively, the Short-Term Substitute License requires an associate degree or completion of at least 60 semester hours of college coursework, offering an accessible route for many.
Official Transcript Submission: Sealed and official college transcripts must be sent directly to the Illinois State Board of Education or the relevant Regional Office of Education to validate your academic achievements.
Application via ELIS: The Educator Licensure Information System (ELIS) is your gateway to applying, with fees of $50 for the standard license and $25 for the short-term option, streamlining the bureaucratic maze into a few clicks.
Background Check Compliance: Illinois law mandates fingerprint-based criminal background checks for all school employees, including substitutes, ensuring a safe learning environment for students before any classroom placement.
Employment Eligibility Verification: Completing the I-9 form with proper identification confirms your legal right to work in the U.S., a critical legal step often overlooked by newcomers.
District Onboarding and Training: Many districts, like Chicago Public Schools, provide orientations or workshops to familiarize substitutes with local policies and classroom management, while some universities offer professional development to enhance teaching skills.

For those weighing their options, substitute teaching not only provides a chance to earn up to $195 daily but also serves as a stepping stone into education careers or supplemental income. If you’re curious about other career paths, check out jobs with education degree not teaching for inspiration beyond the classroom.

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

In Illinois, stepping into the shoes of a substitute teacher means navigating a landscape of permits tailored to different educational adventures. Each permit type unlocks unique pathways for those ready to guide classrooms on a temporary basis.

Short-Term Substitute Permit: Designed for those who want to fill in for up to 20 consecutive days in a single classroom, this permit suits individuals who bring flexibility and adaptability to the role without a full teaching license.
Long-Term Substitute Permit: For those ready to dive deeper, this permit allows substitutes to teach for more than 20 consecutive days, often in a single assignment. It requires more rigorous qualifications, reflecting a commitment to sustained classroom leadership.
Substitute Teaching License for Certified Teachers: Certified teachers from Illinois or other states can obtain this permit, enabling them to substitute teach without pursuing additional certification, leveraging their existing credentials.
Emergency Substitute Teaching License: This option is a lifeline for districts facing urgent staffing shortages, allowing individuals who may not meet all standard requirements to temporarily step in and keep the educational rhythm alive.

Each permit type is a key to unlocking the door of substitute teaching, shaped by duration, qualifications, and urgency, offering a mosaic of opportunities for those eager to educate on the fly.

The chart below shows that staffing shortages are especially severe in special education, with general elementary and ESL/bilingual education also facing significant gaps. This highlights a strong, ongoing demand for educators in these fields and suggests that pursuing these specialties can lead to meaningful impact and more job opportunities.

How do substitute teachers renew their teaching permit in Illinois?

The journey to renew a substitute teaching license in Illinois is straightforward, designed to ensure educators remain eligible without unnecessary hassle. Here are some of the things that you must know:

Renewal Access Period: The renewal window opens on April 1 of the license's expiration year and closes June 30, offering a focused three-month timeframe to complete all renewal tasks.
ELIS Account Login: Renewal is conducted online through the Illinois Educator Licensure Information System (ELIS), where substitute teachers log in to check license status and follow renewal prompts.
Verification of Requirements: Unlike other teaching credentials, substitute licenses typically do not mandate professional development hours for renewal, but it's crucial to verify any updates via ELIS before proceeding.
Fee Payment: The renewal fee stands at $10 annually, amounting to $50 for the five-year cycle, payable conveniently online via credit or debit card within ELIS.
Confirmation and Registration: After payment and submission, teachers must confirm their license registration in the appropriate regional categories to secure eligibility for the next five years.

For educators exploring career advancement, Illinois also offers pathways to deepen expertise, potentially through programs like the best rated doctorate in higher education online. Staying current with the Illinois ELIS account license renewal system ensures substitute teachers remain empowered and prepared to contribute to vibrant learning environments statewide.

How do substitute teachers receive assignments in Illinois districts?

Substitute teaching in Illinois combines traditional practices with modern technology, requiring strategic registration, use of digital platforms, and awareness of local district procedures. Here’s a breakdown of how substitute teachers receive assignments across Illinois districts:

Application and Registration: Prospective substitutes must obtain a license from the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and register with individual districts, often through online platforms.
Automated Placement Systems: Many districts use systems like Aesop (Absence Management), allowing substitutes to view and accept assignments online. Priority and Preferred Lists: Some districts maintain preferred rosters, prioritizing substitutes with strong track records.
Regional Differences: Larger districts, such as Chicago Public Schools, often include additional requirements such as interviews and background checks, adding complexity to the placement process.

This blend of systems and local policies means schools often struggle to fill last-minute vacancies—an issue the image below illustrates by highlighting how challenging it can be to find enough substitute teachers.

how hard it is to find substitute teachers

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

Stepping into the classroom as a substitute teacher in Illinois can be more than a temporary gig—it often serves as a gateway to securing a full-time teaching role. Many districts tap into their substitute pool when vacancies arise, making this experience a strategic foothold in education.

Immersive Classroom Experience: Substitutes gain versatile exposure by managing diverse classrooms and subjects, sharpening their teaching skills while becoming familiar faces in school communities.

Networking Within Schools: Regular interactions with administrators and staff build professional connections that can open doors to full-time opportunities and insider job alerts.

Proving Dependability and Skill: Consistent performance, adaptability, and positive feedback from multiple assignments establish substitutes as trustworthy candidates for permanent roles.

Applying for Full-Time Positions: Experience as a substitute often enhances candidacy when applying for full-time jobs, especially for those with a record of steady work in the district.

Licensure Essentials: Holding a Professional Educator License (PEL) is key for transitioning; substitutes with a PEL can teach all grade levels and bypass the need for a separate substitute license.

Capitalizing on Substitute Reputation: Districts may prioritize substitutes with strong attendance and classroom effectiveness for internal vacancies before looking externally.

One substitute teacher from Illinois shared how his journey unfolded: “At first, the unpredictability was daunting—never knowing which classroom or grade I’d cover. But each day was a chance to prove myself. Building trust with principals took time, and juggling the demands of different classes tested my adaptability. When a full-time math position opened, my consistent presence and positive reviews gave me an edge. It wasn’t just about filling in; it was about showing I belonged. The path wasn’t smooth, but every substitute day was a step closer to my goal.”

How much do substitute teachers make in Illinois?

On average, substitute teachers earn about $19.68 per hour, with weekly pay of $787, depending on the district and assignment length. Annual salaries vary widely, but the average is $40,936 (ZipRecruiter, 2025).

Certification Impact: Certified substitutes generally command higher pay, with annual salaries averaging around $45,611, compared to less for those without credentials. The license you hold can open doors to long-term assignments with better compensation.
Assignment Length: Short-term gigs pay less per day, but long-term substitute roles often offer upwards of $285 daily, especially in larger districts like Illinois School District U-46, sometimes including extra benefits.
District Differences: Urban and suburban districts with higher living costs or teacher shortages tend to offer more competitive rates, ranging from $128 in smaller areas to over $250 in affluent communities.
Experience and Demand: More experienced substitutes or those with specialized credentials can negotiate better pay, as districts facing greater demand seek qualified candidates.

For those exploring how much substitute teachers make in Illinois, considering certification upgrades can be a strategic move. Enhancing your qualifications not only elevates your earning potential but also your chances for long-term roles. To navigate this path effectively, you might explore a list of affordable online education degree programs that align with substitute teacher license requirements in Illinois.

Adding all factors together, it’s clear that pay can vary widely—making it helpful to see how the median salary for substitute teachers compares across the U.S. in the image below.

What is the job outlook for substitute teachers in Illinois?

The substitute teacher job market in Illinois pulses with opportunity, fueled by persistent demand across diverse regions. This demand is shaped by a tapestry of educational challenges and demographic shifts that keep substitute roles critical to daily classroom vitality.

Underserved and Understaffed Districts: Illinois’ 170 most understaffed districts, recipients of Teacher Vacancy Grants, face ongoing struggles filling substitute roles, as chronic teacher shortages make substitutes essential to sustain classroom continuity and student achievement.
Rural Areas: Geographic isolation and limited local talent pools hamper rural districts’ ability to attract substitutes, with compensation less competitive than urban areas, intensifying the need for adaptable educators willing to bridge these gaps.
Urban and High-Enrollment Districts: Chicago and its surrounding urban districts experience a surge in substitute demand, driven by high student enrollment, elevated teacher absenteeism, and frequent staff turnover, requiring a flexible substitute workforce to maintain educational flow.
Regions with High Teacher Absenteeism: Districts grappling with increased staff illness, family leave, and professional development absences routinely call on substitute teachers, a trend amplified by post-pandemic shifts in educator health and work patterns.
Statewide Shortages: Nearly 91% of Illinois schools report difficulties filling substitute positions, revealing a widespread challenge despite a modest 5.6% decline in unfilled teaching roles, signaling sustained demand across most counties.

Substitutes stepping into Illinois classrooms enter a dynamic landscape marked by steady demand and flexibility. For those curious about advancing their credentials, exploring the ranking of affordable online masters degrees in educational leadership can provide pathways to long-term educational careers beyond substitute teaching.

What professional development and mentorship opportunities benefit substitute teachers in Illinois?

Substitute teachers in Illinois can significantly enhance their expertise by engaging in targeted professional development and mentorship programs. Leveraging district-sponsored workshops, online seminars, and one-on-one coaching helps refine classroom management and instructional strategies, while also opening pathways for further credentialing. For educators aiming to advance their careers without leaving their current roles, exploring additional qualifications through resources such as types of teaching certifications and requirements in Illinois is a strategic step towards long-term professional growth.

What legal safeguards and liability concerns should substitute teachers consider in Illinois?

Substitute teachers must operate within a defined legal framework to minimize professional liability. They must strictly follow district policies, maintain accurate classroom records, and fully understand mandatory reporting requirements to safeguard themselves against potential legal disputes. Securing appropriate professional liability coverage and regularly reviewing state guidelines and district-specific risk management procedures are critical steps. For further details on complying with legal standards and advancing to secure positions, consult how to become a substitute teacher in Illinois.

What ethical standards do substitute teachers adhere to in Illinois?

Stepping into Illinois classrooms as a substitute teacher demands more than just subject knowledge—it calls for a steadfast commitment to ethical conduct that safeguards students and nurtures trust. These educators navigate a complex web of responsibilities, balancing privacy, inclusivity, and professionalism, all while upholding a code uniquely tailored by Illinois law and educational authorities.

Guarding Student Privacy: Substitutes must vigilantly protect student data and personal details, honoring strict federal and state privacy laws to prevent unauthorized disclosures.
Creating Inclusive Spaces: Every classroom must be a sanctuary where diversity thrives; substitutes are tasked with fostering respect and equity regardless of race, gender, or ability.
Adhering to Policies: Compliance with district rules and the Illinois School Code ensures consistency in curriculum delivery, classroom management, and ethical behavior.
Maintaining Professional Boundaries: Clear lines between educators and students are essential, supported by training that addresses abuse prevention and ethical conduct beyond the classroom walls.
Exemplifying Integrity: Honesty about credentials, continuous self-improvement, and accountability form the backbone of a substitute’s professional identity.
Duty to Report: Illinois law mandates prompt reporting of suspected child abuse or neglect, reinforcing the substitute’s role as a vigilant guardian.
Respecting the School Community: Effective substitutes collaborate respectfully with staff and families, fostering transparent communication and supporting school initiatives.
Illinois’ Distinctive Code: The Illinois Educator Code of Ethics binds all educators legally and is reinforced by district-led ethics training focused on student welfare and professional excellence.

What are the benefits received by substitute teachers in Illinois?

Exploring the substitute teacher benefits in Illinois reveals a landscape rich with practical perks designed to support educators navigating flexible roles. Whether you’re seeking a foot in the classroom door or balancing multiple commitments, these incentives create a framework that values adaptability and professional growth. Here’s a closer look at the primary benefits that make substitute teaching in Illinois a uniquely appealing option:

Flexible work schedule: Illinois substitute teachers enjoy the freedom to select assignments that fit their personal timetables, allowing an ideal balance between work and life obligations.
Competitive daily pay rates: Compensation varies by license type, with Short Term Substitute License holders earning around $125.01 per day and Substitute Teacher License holders receiving about $143.43 per day, reflecting the state’s recognition of their valuable service.
Potential long-term assignment bonuses: While not uniformly guaranteed by the state, some school districts offer additional financial incentives for extended substitute assignments, rewarding commitment on a larger scale.
Access to professional development: Many districts provide opportunities to enhance teaching skills and advance careers, which can be crucial for those interested in exploring career paths with online masters degree in education or similar growth avenues.
Paid time off eligibility: Though traditional employee benefits like health insurance are rare, substitutes who accumulate sufficient hours may qualify for paid time off, depending on district policies.
Unique retirement and re-employment options: Illinois allows retired teachers to return as substitutes under specific rules, enabling them to maintain pension benefits while continuing to contribute their expertise in classrooms.

What are the common challenges for substitute teachers in Illinois?

Substitute teaching in Illinois unfolds as a patchwork of unpredictability and unmet needs, revealing a landscape where educators navigate a maze of challenges unique to the state’s diverse districts. From urban sprawl to rural stretches, substitute teachers grapple with barriers that extend beyond the classroom walls. The following points illuminate the core struggles shaping their daily reality.

Erratic Scheduling: Substitutes often face last-minute calls and sporadic workdays, making stable income and reliable planning elusive, with some districts requiring minimal engagement just to stay active.
Insufficient Training and Support: Many substitutes report little to no orientation or professional development, entering classrooms without the tools needed for effective management or instruction amid a statewide teacher shortage.
Classroom Control Challenges: Without established rapport or authority, substitutes struggle to maintain discipline and student focus, especially in unfamiliar environments where continuity falters.
Scarcity of Benefits: Working primarily on a part-time or per diem basis, substitutes frequently miss out on essential benefits like health coverage and paid leave, amplifying job insecurity and turnover.
Credentialing Roadblocks: A convoluted certification process and a shortage of qualified applicants leave districts scrambling, sometimes resorting to underqualified substitutes to fill vacancies.
Heightened Stress and Burnout: Increased workloads and insufficient staffing support create pressure-cooker conditions, affecting both substitutes and full-time teachers, as reported in local surveys.
Unequal Opportunity Distribution: Chicago and rural districts report the toughest battles in attracting substitutes, hindered by lower pay and tougher working conditions.
Adverse Impact on Learning: Chronic shortages lead to canceled classes or reliance on untrained paraprofessionals, disrupting educational consistency and the substitute teachers’ professional experience.
Low Pay: Compensation often fails to match the demands and living costs, particularly in metropolitan areas, driving a cycle of shortages and frequent turnover.

The chart below shows that many substitute teachers feel they need more training to handle the behavioral and emotional needs of students. This highlights a clear gap in preparation for the realities of today’s classrooms.

What Substitute Teachers in Illinois Say About Their Careers

Working as a substitute teacher in Illinois has given me the flexibility to balance my family life while earning a competitive daily rate that often exceeds my expectations. The ability to choose assignments that fit my schedule truly makes this career rewarding. I feel valued and appreciated every day. – Cinna
Starting as a substitute teacher opened doors I never anticipated, including pathways to full-time teaching positions and leadership roles within the district. Illinois offers excellent support and mentorship programs that helped me grow professionally and confidently step into advanced roles. This journey has been both challenging and incredibly fulfilling. – Jeremy
Illinois provides some of the best professional development opportunities for substitute teachers, including workshops and certifications that keep me up-to-date with the latest teaching strategies. These resources have deepened my skills and enhanced my classroom effectiveness, making every day a chance to improve. I’m proud to be part of a state that invests in its educators. – Patricia

Other Things to Know About Substitute Teaching License and Requirements in Illinois

Is substitute teaching in Illinois a good career option?

Substitute teaching in Illinois offers a flexible entry into the education field, ideal for students, career changers, and recent graduates. It provides valuable classroom experience and networking within school districts. Demand remains steady due to teacher shortages and frequent absences. Although it lacks the benefits and pay stability of full-time roles, it offers income and experience without long-term commitment. This makes it a practical choice for those exploring teaching or seeking flexible work.

Can substitute teachers work in special education classrooms in Illinois?

Yes, substitute teachers in Illinois can work in special education classrooms, but specific qualifications are required. They must hold a valid substitute license and often need training or experience with students with disabilities. Some districts require familiarity with IEPs and behavior management strategies. Preference is often given to those with special education coursework or experience. This ensures substitutes can meet students' unique needs and follow federal laws like IDEA.

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

No, a single substitute teaching permit in Illinois typically does not cover multiple school types. Public, private, and charter schools often have separate certification or approval requirements. Public schools follow state-issued permits, while private and charter schools may have different credentialing standards. Therefore, one permit usually applies only to the type of school that recognizes it. Separate authorizations may be needed to work across different school sectors.

How do substitute teachers in Illinois handle student behavior issues?

Substitutes are expected to follow the school's behavioral guidelines and use strategies like redirection and positive reinforcement. They should not issue formal discipline such as detention or suspension. Serious issues must be reported to the regular teacher or administration. Their role focuses on maintaining order while deferring major decisions to permanent staff. Cooperation with school policies and personnel is key to managing behavior effectively.

References:

Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Substitute teachers (OES code 25-3031). U.S. Department of Labor. https://www.bls.gov/oes/2023/may/oes253031.htm

Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Substitute teachers needed: Closing the gap on supply versus demand. U.S. Department of Labor. https://www.bls.gov/opub/mlr/2023/beyond-bls/substitute-teachers-needed-closing-the-gap-on-supply-versus-demand.htm

EdWorkingPapers. (2024). The effects of substitute teacher availability on student learning [Working paper]. https://edworkingpapers.com/sites/default/files/ai24-1089.pdf