Substitute Teaching License & Requirements in Indiana for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

If you’re considering becoming a substitute teacher in Indiana, it’s important to understand the key steps and qualifications you’ll need before stepping into the classroom. Substitute teachers help keep learning on track when regular teachers are absent, and Indiana provides a clear, straightforward process for getting licensed.

This guide will outline the state’s requirements, the different permit options, and how to apply, giving you a solid starting point whether you’re changing careers or looking for a flexible way to support local schools.

Key Points About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Indiana

Indiana requires substitute teachers to hold at least a high school diploma, with many districts preferring some college credits or a bachelor’s degree, reflecting modest but essential credential standards.
The job outlook for substitute teachers in Indiana remains steady due to ongoing teacher shortages, offering consistent opportunities but demanding adaptability amidst diverse classroom environments.
With an average salary around $80 per day, Indiana provides a practical entry point into education careers, balancing reasonable compensation with valuable classroom experience.

What are the requirements to become a substitute teacher in Indiana?
What are the different types of substitute teaching permits in Indiana?
How do substitute teachers renew their teaching permit in Indiana?
How do substitute teachers receive assignments in Indiana districts?
Can substitute teaching lead to a full-time teaching job in Indiana?
How much do substitute teachers make in Indiana?
What is the job outlook for substitute teachers in Indiana?
How can substitute teachers advance their professional development in Indiana?
What ethical standards do substitute teachers adhere to in Indiana?
What are the benefits received by substitute teachers in Indiana?
What are the common challenges for substitute teachers in Indiana?
What legal responsibilities and liabilities do substitute teachers have in Indiana?
Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Indiana

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

Becoming a substitute teacher in Indiana challenges the notion that minimal credentials suffice for impactful classroom engagement. The state demands clear educational and licensing commitments, reflecting its dedication to maintaining quality education through substitutes. Understanding these requirements invites deeper consideration of the professional standards expected even in temporary teaching roles.

Educational Attainment: Substitute teachers must possess at least a high school diploma or equivalent, though some districts require additional college credits, underscoring the value placed on foundational knowledge.
Minimum Age: Candidates must be at least 18 years old, ensuring a basic level of maturity and legal work eligibility.
Background and Reference Checks: Comprehensive screening including fingerprinting and criminal history review is mandatory, reflecting the serious responsibility of working with youth.
School District Screening: Beyond state mandates, districts may impose interviews or orientation, highlighting localized control over substitute teacher quality and fit.
Substitute Permit Application: The Indiana Department of Education issues a Substitute Permit through LVIS, requiring a $15 application fee plus $0.70 processing, valid for three years and tied to a specific district.
Onboarding and Training: Many districts require attendance at training sessions that cover policies and instructional strategies, emphasizing preparation beyond paperwork.
Employment Verification: Proof of eligibility to work in the U.S. is required, aligning with federal employment laws.

For those questioning is getting education associate degree hard, these requirements underscore the balance Indiana strikes between accessibility and maintaining standards in substitute teaching. This approach ensures substitutes are not just placeholders but vital contributors to the learning environment.

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

Indiana offers several distinct substitute teaching permits, each designed to accommodate a variety of educational backgrounds and professional circumstances. Understanding these categories reveals how the state balances flexibility with the need for qualified classroom leadership.

Regular Substitute Permit: This permit is intended for individuals who have earned at least 60 college credit hours but have not yet completed a bachelor's degree. It allows them to serve in substitute roles, providing a pathway for those still pursuing full certification.
Short-Term Substitute Permit: Crafted for those with a minimum of a high school diploma or GED, this permit enables substitutes to work for limited periods, usually up to 30 consecutive days within the same classroom, emphasizing temporary but essential support.
Long-Term Substitute Permit: Available to candidates holding a bachelor’s degree, this permit authorizes substitutes to fulfill extended assignments, often in roles that demand greater responsibility and continuity in instruction.
Emergency Substitute Permit: This permit addresses urgent staffing needs and is typically granted under special circumstances where no other certified individuals are available, reflecting the state’s pragmatic approach to maintaining classroom stability.

To see the educational paths many substitutes take, check out the image below showing the most common major among substitute teachers.

13% of substitute teachers are elementary majors.

How do substitute teachers renew their teaching permit in Indiana?

Unlike many states where licenses are simply renewed, Indiana requires substitute teachers to reapply for a Substitute Permit every three years. This process challenges the common notion of seamless license renewal, highlighting the unique regulatory environment within the Indiana Department of Education substitute license renewal framework.

Check Expiration Date: Substitute Permits are valid for three years from issuance and cannot be renewed. Teachers must monitor their permit’s expiration carefully to avoid any lapse in eligibility.
Confirm Eligibility: Applicants must be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Additional employer-specific screening may apply, reflecting how local districts maintain higher standards beyond state requirements.
Contact School Employer: The sponsoring employer plays a critical role by recommending candidates and verifying applications in the Licensing Verification and Information System (LVIS), underscoring the employer’s gatekeeping function in permit approval.
Submit New Application via LVIS: A fresh application must be completed online, accompanied by a $15 permit fee plus a $0.70 processing charge. This step reaffirms that renewal is actually a reapplication process.
Print New Permit: Upon approval, teachers print their new permit directly from LVIS. The permit remains tied to the sponsoring employer, emphasizing the non-transferable nature of substitute teaching credentials in Indiana.

For those exploring pathways to meet educational requirements, engaging with quality online education courses can provide valuable preparation and insight into the profession, helping potential substitutes navigate the intricacies of Indiana’s substitute teaching permit system.

How do substitute teachers receive assignments in Indiana districts?

Understanding how substitute teachers receive assignments in Indiana reveals a complex interplay of technology, policy, and local customs that goes beyond simply signing up. The state’s approach challenges the notion that substitute teaching is ad hoc, showing instead a system that values reliability, specialization, and regional nuances. Here are key aspects of the assignment process:

District Registration and Databases: Substitutes must first obtain a Substitute Permit through Indiana’s LVIS system and then register with individual districts, as each maintains its own roster. Access to assignments in one district does not guarantee opportunities elsewhere without reciprocity agreements.
Technology Platforms for Notifications: Most districts employ platforms like Absence Management or proprietary systems that allow substitutes to receive real-time job alerts and accept or decline assignments online or by phone, streamlining communication and scheduling.
Preferred Substitute Lists: Indiana districts often prioritize substitutes who demonstrate reliability or specialized skills by placing them on preferred lists, giving these substitutes first access to assignments and more consistent work.
Priority and Seniority Systems: Some districts use tenure, past performance, or endorsements to determine assignment priority, ensuring experienced substitutes fill critical or long-term positions, which elevates the value of sustained commitment.
Direct Contact for Urgent Needs: When last-minute absences arise, schools sometimes bypass automated systems, contacting substitutes directly by phone or text to fill urgent gaps efficiently.
Regional and District-Level Variations: Assignment methods vary widely—from centralized digital platforms in large districts to personal outreach in rural areas—reflecting Indiana’s diverse educational landscape and local autonomy.

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

Substitute teaching in Indiana can serve as a strategic pathway toward securing a permanent teaching role and high paying jobs in education. Rather than being a mere temporary position, substitute teaching often acts as an informal audition, offering opportunities to demonstrate skills and build essential connections within school communities.

Showcasing Ability: Each day in the classroom allows substitutes to prove their instructional competence and classroom management, with positive feedback often influencing hiring decisions.

Establishing Networks: Developing relationships with educators and administrators can open doors, as many districts rely on internal recommendations to fill vacancies.

Understanding District Culture: Familiarity with specific district policies and expectations gives substitutes an edge when applying for full-time roles, smoothing the transition from temporary to permanent employment.

Meeting Additional Criteria: Beyond state permits, districts may require extra training, background checks, or orientations, underscoring the importance of adhering to local procedures.

Applying for Vacancies: When full-time openings arise, substitutes who have proven their reliability and effectiveness are often favored candidates through the standard hiring process.

Gaining Administrative Support: Recommendations from principals and staff can be decisive in competitive hiring environments.

One substitute teacher from Indiana shared a candid reflection on this journey. “At first, it felt like I was just filling in, but every day I tried to leave a positive mark,” he recalled. Navigating the nuances of each school’s culture was challenging, requiring patience and adaptability.

“The hardest part was waiting—the uncertainty of when or if a full-time spot would open up.” Yet, building trust with teachers and administrators became his strongest asset. “When a position finally came up, having those relationships made all the difference. It wasn’t just about credentials; it was about proving I belonged.” This experience underscores how substitute teaching can evolve from a transient role into a meaningful career opportunity in Indiana’s education system.

How much do substitute teachers make in Indiana?

Understanding the substitute teacher license and requirements in Indiana is crucial for anyone exploring this career path. While the average pay for substitute teachers in Indiana hovers around $19.33 per hour, equating to approximately $40,198 annually, this figure masks a wide variability influenced by several key factors.

The salary range typically spans from $14.18 to $22.88 per hour, with top earners making up to $31.57 per hour, challenging the notion that substitute teaching is a one-size-fits-all role.

The substitute teacher salary in Indiana is shaped by multiple dynamics:

Credential Type: Holding a valid Indiana teaching license or specialized certifications can significantly boost pay, as districts often reward higher qualifications with better compensation.
Length of Assignment: Long-term substitute positions generally offer higher daily rates and sometimes additional benefits compared to short-term or daily assignments.
District Policies: Pay structures vary widely between districts; some standardize daily rates, while others offer bonuses or stipends to address demand and shortages.
Location Differences: Urban areas like Indianapolis tend to pay more due to higher living costs and demand, whereas rural districts may offer lower rates but more consistent work.
Job Market Activity: Although stable, the market for substitute teachers is moderately competitive, influencing salary levels and advancement opportunities.

For those considering this path, investing in a credential can be a game-changer, both for access and pay. Exploring a cheapest online elementary education degree might be a strategic step to meet licensing requirements while controlling costs. Reflecting on these factors offers a more nuanced view of what substitute teaching in Indiana truly entails beyond the surface-level salary figures.

What is the job outlook for substitute teachers in Indiana?

The substitute teacher license and requirements in Indiana reflect a growing need to address persistent teacher shortages and staffing gaps. The job outlook for substitute teachers in Indiana remains strong, fueled by ongoing challenges in recruiting and retaining full-time educators.

Understanding these demands offers a clearer picture of where opportunities lie and why schools increasingly depend on qualified substitutes to sustain educational continuity.

Statewide Urban and Suburban Areas: Large districts such as Indianapolis Public Schools and Fort Wayne Community Schools face high enrollment and frequent teacher absences, driving a sustained demand for substitute teachers to maintain classroom stability.
Hamilton County (Westfield Washington Schools): This district prioritizes recruiting responsible, caring substitutes to support its growing student population, emphasizing experience with youth and educational quality as key factors.
Rural Districts: Many rural Indiana districts struggle with limited local hiring pools, making substitutes essential to filling both teaching and support roles, sometimes for extended periods due to a lack of permanent candidates.

These regional variations underscore deeper issues such as high teacher absenteeism, enrollment growth, and limited local talent pools. The substitute teacher job outlook Indiana-wide is thus shaped by these intersecting factors, creating ongoing opportunities for those qualified to step into these roles.

For candidates aiming to enhance their credentials, exploring affordable masters degrees in educational leadership online can provide additional pathways to career advancement within education.

At least $1,800 per year is spent on a substitute teacher.

How can substitute teachers advance their professional development in Indiana?

Substitute teachers in Indiana can enhance their classroom expertise and career prospects by actively seeking continuing education opportunities, specialized training, and mentorship programs. Districts and educational institutions offer targeted workshops and seminars that address modern pedagogical techniques, effective classroom management, and integrating technology into instruction. These initiatives support substitutes in adapting to dynamic teaching environments while preparing them for potential permanent positions. For more detailed information on navigating career pathways and certification alternatives, consult types of teaching certifications and requirements in Indiana.

What ethical standards do substitute teachers adhere to in Indiana?

Substitute teachers in Indiana navigate a complex ethical landscape that demands more than just filling a temporary role. Their conduct shapes classroom dynamics, influences student well-being, and upholds public trust in education. These educators must balance professionalism with empathy while adhering to stringent ethical principles that reflect both statewide standards and district-specific expectations.

Confidentiality of Student Information: Substitute teachers are entrusted with sensitive student data and must protect this information rigorously, avoiding any disclosure outside professional contexts to maintain trust and comply with legal mandates.
Promoting Safe and Inclusive Environments: They are responsible for fostering classrooms free from discrimination and hostility, supporting equity across race, gender, and other protected categories to ensure all students feel valued.
Adherence to District Policies: Following established school procedures—including lesson plans, emergency protocols, and technology use—is critical to sustaining instructional continuity and minimizing classroom disruption.
Maintaining Professional Boundaries: Interactions with students require careful restraint; substitute teachers must avoid personal conversations or physical contact, aligning with district-wide “no touch” policies designed to protect all parties.
Avoiding Conflicts of Interest: Impartiality is essential, prohibiting favoritism or acceptance of gifts, which could undermine fairness and professional integrity in decision-making.
Respecting Professional Relationships: Constructive communication is key; substitutes should refrain from criticizing colleagues publicly and report concerns through proper administrative channels.
Upholding Indiana’s Unique Standards: Indiana’s Department of Education mandates that substitutes meet the same ethical and professional standards as licensed educators, emphasizing alignment with state academic goals and reinforcing accountability.
Professional Appearance and Conduct: Punctuality, dress code adherence, and minimizing distractions such as cell phone use are expected to project respect and commitment to the role.

When I spoke with a substitute teacher from Indiana about her experiences, she shared how upholding ethical standards requires constant awareness and respect for the trust placed in her. “It’s more than just showing up,” she said, describing how following lesson plans closely and maintaining the “no touch” policy help protect students and herself.

She also noted that adapting to different district policies takes patience but provides helpful guidance in tricky situations. By refusing gifts and staying impartial, she reinforces fairness and professionalism, reminding herself that substitute teaching is about supporting the entire educational community every day.

What are the benefits received by substitute teachers in Indiana?

For those considering or currently holding a substitute teacher license in Indiana, understanding the benefits and incentives attached to the role reveals a nuanced picture. Far from being merely a temporary stopgap, substitute teaching in Indiana offers tangible advantages that challenge the notion of this work as purely transient or marginal.

Below is an overview of the key benefits that often accompany substitute teaching, shaped by both state policy and local district decisions.

Flexible Scheduling: Substitute teaching allows considerable autonomy in choosing assignments, making it ideal for individuals balancing other commitments, whether students, graduates, or those transitioning careers.
Competitive Daily Pay Rates: Many districts, such as Fishers Junior High, offer competitive daily wages, with rates like $95 per full day and $47.50 per half day, reflecting respect for the professional contribution of substitutes.
Long-Term Assignment Incentives: Some districts incentivize substitutes who take on extended assignments with bonuses or higher pay, recognizing the greater responsibility and continuity these roles demand.
Access to Retirement Plans: Unlike in many states, Indiana enables qualified substitute teachers to join the Teachers’ Retirement Fund (TRF), provided they meet certification and teaching day requirements, a unique benefit that underscores the state’s commitment to substitute teacher welfare.
Professional Development Opportunities: Though less formalized, substitutes often can participate in district-sponsored training sessions that maintain and enhance their teaching skills, sometimes with compensation or as a requirement.
Additional District Benefits: Some school corporations extend perks such as paid sick leave, stipends for extra duties, or coverage of mandatory background check costs, which ease financial burdens and acknowledge the broader role substitutes play.

These incentives make the role more than a stopgap, offering meaningful professional and financial benefits. Prospective substitutes should weigh these advantages alongside the cost of getting teaching degree and career aims.

Furthermore, while substitute teacher health benefits in Indiana vary by district, access to retirement plans like the Indiana substitute teacher retirement plan adds a layer of long-term security often overlooked in temporary educational roles.

What are the common challenges for substitute teachers in Indiana?

Substitute teaching in Indiana presents a unique set of challenges that affect both the quality of education and the stability of those filling these temporary roles. From unpredictable work patterns to administrative hurdles, substitutes often navigate complex circumstances that demand resilience and adaptability.

The following points highlight the principal obstacles these educators face in Indiana’s school systems.

Unpredictable Scheduling: Assignments can be highly erratic, with last-minute notifications and frequent cancellations, making it difficult for substitutes to rely on steady work or income despite the use of automated scheduling tools.
Ongoing Teacher Shortages: Persistent shortages, particularly in rural regions and during illness outbreaks, increase the burden on substitutes who may be tasked with covering multiple classes or unfamiliar subject areas.
Minimal Training Support: Many substitutes receive little to no formal orientation, forcing them to manage classrooms and instructional continuity without adequate preparation or guidance.
Classroom Management Difficulties: Establishing authority quickly is a consistent struggle, compounded by varying discipline policies and the challenge of integrating into diverse school cultures.
Isolation and Limited Integration: Substitutes frequently feel undervalued and disconnected from school communities, lacking access to professional development and administrative support crucial for job satisfaction.
Financial Insecurity: Daily pay rates typically range from $80 to $90 without benefits, leaving substitutes financially vulnerable and without protections like health insurance or retirement plans.
Complex Licensing Requirements: Substitute permits are district-specific and expire every three years, demanding reapplication and fees that restrict flexibility and increase administrative burdens.
Weather-Related Disruptions: Sudden school closures from Indiana’s variable weather force substitutes to remain alert to changing schedules, complicating their ability to maintain consistent assignments.

What Substitute Teachers in Indiana Say About Their Careers

Becoming a substitute teacher in Indiana has given me the flexibility I needed to balance work and family life without sacrificing income. The average salary here is surprisingly competitive, and I love being able to choose assignments that fit my schedule. It’s been a rewarding way to stay connected with education while managing my own time. – Sarah
Starting as a substitute teacher opened doors I hadn’t expected. Indiana offers real opportunities for advancement, including transitioning into full-time teaching roles and leadership positions within schools. This career path has allowed me to grow professionally in ways I never imagined. – Phil
Indiana’s commitment to professional development for substitute teachers truly sets this state apart. I’ve participated in workshops and training programs that have enhanced my skills and confidence in the classroom. Knowing that ongoing learning is encouraged makes me feel valued and motivated. – Clarence

What legal responsibilities and liabilities do substitute teachers have in Indiana?

Substitute teachers must navigate a framework of legal obligations that support both student welfare and their professional protection. They are required to follow strict protocols related to confidentiality, emergency response, and reporting incidents—all while adhering to district-specific policies. Additionally, the enforcement of mandatory background checks and compliance with state certification standards serve to mitigate liability risks. Staying informed about updates in legal guidelines and policy changes is crucial for maintaining best practices and ensuring personal protection. For detailed procedures and requirements on meeting these standards, see how to become a substitute teacher in Indiana.

Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Indiana

Is substitute teaching in Indiana a good career option?

Becoming a substitute teacher in Indiana is a flexible and accessible way for students, recent graduates, and career changers to enter the education field while gaining valuable classroom experience. According to the Indiana Department of Education, substitutes help maintain learning continuity and develop instructional skills without the full-time commitment of a licensed teacher.

With steady demand driven by teacher absences and retirements, there are frequent opportunities statewide. Substitute teachers must follow clear ethical standards—protecting student confidentiality, fostering respect, and adhering to curriculum and school policies—to ensure professionalism and student welfare. While pay varies by district, this role can be a rewarding stepping stone toward full certification or other education careers, offering practical experience and the chance to positively impact diverse classrooms.

Can substitute teachers work in special education classrooms in Indiana?

In Indiana, substitute teachers can work in special education classrooms, but there are important requirements and limitations to keep in mind. The Indiana Department of Education states that substitutes in these settings often need additional training or qualifications to effectively support students with disabilities and implement individualized education programs (IEPs).

Many districts require specialized professional development or endorsements in special education to ensure substitutes can manage diverse learning needs and comply with federal and state regulations, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). While those without these qualifications can work in general education, substitutes interested in special education should check local district policies and pursue any recommended certifications to expand their opportunities and effectiveness.

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

Substitute teachers in Indiana play an important role in maintaining classroom order but have specific limits when it comes to student discipline. According to the Indiana Department of Education, they are expected to follow the regular teacher’s management plan and school policies, using redirection, positive reinforcement, and prompt reporting of issues to the administration or full-time staff.

Substitutes generally cannot issue suspensions or detentions without approval, ensuring that serious disciplinary actions are handled consistently by permanent personnel. Since substitutes often have little prep time and limited student background information, their main focus is to keep the classroom safe and productive until the regular teacher returns, making clear communication with school leadership and adherence to guidelines essential for managing behavior effectively.

References:

Appleton, A. (2022). Indiana districts announce big pay raises for substitutes amid shortage. WFYI Indianapolis
Beckner, B. (2024). Integrating Substitute Teachers into a Comprehensive School District Staffing Strategy. Chalkbeat Indiana
Blad, E. (2024). 10 Major Challenges for Substitute Teachers. Education Week
Deer, K. (2020). ‘ALL HANDS ON DECK’: Shortage of substitute teachers posing problems in schools. Daily Reporter
Justia. (2024). 2024 Indiana Code Title 20. Education Article 28. School Teachers. Justia
Ordway, D.M. (2023). The substitute teacher shortage: Research reveals why it warrants more news coverage. The Journalist Resource
Sliger, L. (2024). Addressing the changing landscape of special education amid a national teacher shortage. Inside Indiana Business
Zippia. (2025). Substitute Teacher Demographics. Zippia