Substitute Teaching License & Requirements in Kentucky for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Substitute teaching in Kentucky offers a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the classroom while enjoying a flexible work schedule. However, before you can start, it is important to understand the specific licensing requirements set by the Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board.

This guide is designed to help you navigate the different types of substitute certifications, eligibility requirements, and application steps specific to Kentucky, so you can take the first step toward becoming a trusted presence in the state's schools.

Key Points About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Kentucky

To become a substitute teacher in Kentucky, you generally need a high school diploma or GED, complete an application, and pass a background check; some districts may require additional training.
The job outlook for substitute teachers in Kentucky is steady, with demand rising due to teacher shortages and increasing student enrollment in public schools.
Substitute teachers in Kentucky earn an average salary around $100 per day, making it a flexible, decent-paying way to gain classroom experience and start an education career.

What are the requirements to become a substitute teacher in Kentucky?
What are the different types of substitute teaching permits in Kentucky?
How do substitute teachers renew their teaching permit in Kentucky?
How do substitute teachers receive assignments in Kentucky districts?
Can substitute teaching lead to a full-time teaching job in Kentucky?
How much do substitute teachers make in Kentucky?
What is the job outlook for substitute teachers in Kentucky?
What ethical standards do substitute teachers adhere to in Kentucky?
What are the benefits received by substitute teachers in Kentucky?
What are the common challenges for substitute teachers in Kentucky?
What additional training opportunities can substitute teachers pursue in Kentucky?
What legal protections and liability issues should substitute teachers in Kentucky consider?
Other Things You Need to Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Kentucky

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

If you're thinking about stepping into the classroom as a substitute teacher in Kentucky, it's good to know what the state expects from you. Kentucky has clear substitute teacher requirements designed to make sure you’re ready and qualified to support students effectively. Whether you have a degree or just a high school diploma, there’s a certification path for you.

Certification Pathways: Kentucky offers three main substitute teaching certificates: a Ten-Year Certificate for current or former certified teachers, a Five-Year Certificate for those with a bachelor’s degree or higher, and an Emergency Certificate for individuals with a high school diploma. Keep in mind, the emergency certificate limits you to 20 consecutive instructional days in one assignment.
Education Requirements: To get the Five-Year Substitute Certificate, you need at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. You’ll also need to submit official transcripts as proof of your education.
Application Process: You’ll apply through the Kentucky Educator Credentialing System (KECS) Web Portal, where you fill out your application, upload transcripts, and complete a Character and Fitness review.
Background Check: Every applicant undergoes a Character and Fitness review to ensure student safety and uphold Kentucky’s educational standards.
Fees and Payment: Certification fees must be paid online through the KECS system, with no alternative payment methods accepted.
Local District Requirements: After certification, districts may require onboarding, training, or orientation sessions to help you get familiar with local policies and classroom expectations.

For those curious about further enhancing their qualifications, exploring what are the best bachelors in education online might be a smart move to boost your chances in the substitute teaching field.

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

In Kentucky, if you’re thinking about substitute teaching, it’s good to know there are a few different types of permits depending on your background and how long you plan to cover classes. Each permit has its own requirements, so here’s a quick look at the main options.

Short-Term Substitute Permit: This permit is for people who want to fill in for a teacher for up to 20 consecutive days in a single assignment. It’s designed for those who might not have a full teaching certificate but want to help out temporarily.
Long-Term Substitute Permit: If you’re stepping in for more than 20 days, this permit applies. It usually requires you to hold at least a bachelor’s degree and be recommended by a school administrator. It’s a bit more official and meant for longer assignments.
Emergency Substitute Permit: Perfect for those who don’t have a teaching degree but want to substitute immediately. This permit is issued when there’s a critical need, and you must have at least 60 college credit hours to qualify.
Certified Substitute Permit: This one is for individuals who already hold a full teaching certificate in Kentucky or another state. It allows more flexibility since you’re already credentialed as an educator.

How do substitute teachers renew their teaching permit in Kentucky?

If you're wondering how to renew your substitute teacher license in Kentucky, the process is pretty straightforward but does have a few key steps to keep in mind. Substitute teachers need to stay on top of their certification to keep working smoothly in classrooms across the state. Here’s a quick rundown on what you’ll need to do to maintain your permit and keep those teaching opportunities coming.

Eligibility Verification: You need to prove that you’ve either taught for three years within the past five years or completed six semester hours of graduate-level coursework. This helps ensure you’re staying sharp and gaining new skills.
Online Application Submission: Head over to the Kentucky Educator Credentialing System (KECS) Web Portal to fill out the CA-2 application form. It’s all digital, making the process faster and easier to track.
Supporting Documentation: You’ll have to submit proof of your recent teaching experience or official transcripts showing your graduate classes. This documentation is essential to validate your renewal request.
Character and Fitness Review: Everyone renewing must complete this review to confirm they meet the ethical standards Kentucky requires for educators.
Payment of Fees: Pay the renewal fee using the KECS online payment system only—other payment methods won’t be accepted.
Final Submission: Once everything is uploaded and completed, submit your application electronically through KECS to finalize the renewal.

With over 6,000 permits issued recently, staying current with your substitute teaching permit renewal Kentucky rules not only keeps you legally eligible but also supports your growth as an educator. To see who’s doing this work, check out the image below showing the average age of substitute teachers. If you’re interested in advancing your qualifications, consider checking out the ultimate quality online education programs for flexible options that fit your schedule.

How do substitute teachers receive assignments in Kentucky districts?

Substitute teachers in Kentucky receive a mix of certification rules, tech tools, and local district preferences. Here’s a quick rundown of what usually happens behind the scenes:

Application and Certification Process: Substitute teachers need a valid Kentucky teaching certificate or meet alternative certification paths before they can get assignments, applying through the Kentucky Educator Certification System (KECS) and paying a fee.
Pre-Employment Checks: Many districts, like Jefferson County, require background checks and drug tests before substitutes appear on assignment lists, ensuring safety and compliance.
Assignment Management Systems: Schools use digital platforms such as the Absence Management System (formerly called Aesop) to post and fill substitute positions quickly and efficiently.
Priority Selection Process: Kentucky districts often give preference to substitutes based on certification status—regularly certified teachers get first dibs, followed by those certified in other areas, and then emergency certified substitutes with certain academic qualifications.
Regional Variations: Some districts have their own special rules or preferred substitute lists, which can prioritize teachers with specific skills or experience, so assignment practices can vary across Kentucky.

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

Landing a full-time teaching job in Kentucky as a substitute teacher is definitely possible, but it takes more than just showing up in the classroom. Substitute teaching offers valuable experience and exposure, but moving up requires meeting state certification rules and going through several steps.

Building Experience: Substitute teachers get a chance to practice managing a classroom and connect with school staff, which can make a positive impression on hiring teams.

Limits of Substitute Certificates: Certificates for substitute teaching are only for temporary roles and don’t qualify someone to be a permanent teacher. They won’t automatically convert into full-time credentials.

Getting a Provisional Certificate: To go full-time, you need a provisional teaching certificate. This involves meeting educational standards and passing necessary tests to prove you’re ready for a permanent role.

One Year Teaching & District Recommendation: After earning the provisional certificate, you have to complete a year of teaching and get a recommendation from the school district. This step confirms your experience but doesn’t guarantee a job.

Applying for Professional Certification: Once those requirements are done, you can apply for the official professional teaching certificate, which is essential for full-time work in Kentucky’s public schools.

Ongoing Professional Growth: Full-time teachers keep their skills sharp through continuing education, something substitutes should be ready for if they want to advance.

When I chatted with a substitute teacher from Kentucky, he shared how the journey felt like climbing a steep hill. “At first, it was all about proving I could handle the classroom chaos and build trust with the staff,” he said. Navigating the certification process was tricky. “Lots of paperwork and tests to pass,” he recalled—but completing that first year on a provisional certificate gave him confidence.

“The recommendation from the district felt like a real thumbs-up, even though the job wasn’t guaranteed right away.” He mentioned how balancing substitute work while studying for tests was stressful, but ultimately rewarding. His story shows that with patience and persistence, substitute teaching can definitely open the door to a full-time teaching career in Kentucky.

How much do substitute teachers make in Kentucky?

If you’re wondering about the average substitute teacher salary in Kentucky, it typically sits around $36,690 per year. That breaks down to about $17.64 an hour, but job boards like Indeed show a lower typical rate closer to $13.60 per hour, which varies a lot depending on district and assignment.

Here are some key factors that affect how much substitute teachers get paid in Kentucky:

Credential Type: Your education level and certification matter a lot. For example, Boone County Schools set daily rates from $110 up to $154 based on your rank, with higher pay for those holding a Master’s degree plus extra credits.
Assignment Length: Long-term subs (20+ consecutive days) usually get paid more, following the certified teacher salary schedule that takes experience and rank into account.
District and Location Differences: Urban areas or districts with higher living costs tend to offer better daily rates, while rural spots might pay less, with a range roughly between $110 and $154 per day.
Retired Teacher Rates: Retired teachers substituting get paid according to a special Daily Wage Threshold set by the Kentucky Teachers Retirement System, which can differ from usual substitute pay.

Substitute teacher salaries in Kentucky can vary from about $16,500 to nearly $60,000 annually, depending on these factors. If you’re interested in teaching and want to boost your pay, looking into credential upgrades is a smart move. Also, for those exploring education careers, check out the ranking of cheapest online education degrees to find affordable pathways into teaching.

What is the job outlook for substitute teachers in Kentucky?

The job outlook for substitute teachers in Kentucky is looking pretty strong right now, thanks to ongoing staffing challenges and statewide teacher shortages. If you’re curious about substitute teacher jobs Kentucky demand, here’s a quick breakdown of where the need is highest and why:

Widespread Teacher and Staff Shortages: Kentucky reported 447 vacant licensed educator positions and 1,766 classified support staff vacancies for the 2023-2024 school year. Many districts are leaning heavily on substitutes to keep classrooms running smoothly amid these gaps.
Rural and Appalachian Areas: Eastern Kentucky faces tough hiring challenges due to limited local talent pools and economic struggles, making substitute teachers crucial for covering absences and vacancies.
Special Education and Early Childhood Focus: There’s a big shortage of special education teachers and early childhood educators, with over 300 vacancies as of September 2024. Qualified substitutes who can handle specialized instruction are in great demand here.
School Districts with High Absenteeism: Some urban districts and those with fast enrollment growth see higher teacher absences due to burnout or health issues, increasing reliance on substitutes to maintain education continuity.
Pulaski County (Science Hill Independent): Interestingly, Science Hill Independent is one of the very few districts fully staffed as of September 2024, highlighting how rare it is to find Kentucky districts without substitute needs.

Kentucky is also working to make it easier to become a substitute by lowering qualification requirements and expanding training programs. If you’re exploring a Kentucky substitute teaching career outlook, these moves mean more opportunities are opening up now and soon. For those interested in further education options to boost their credentials, check out affordable online masters degrees in educational leadership that can help advance your teaching career.

There were 1.35 million substitute teachers available to work in 2023.

What ethical standards do substitute teachers adhere to in Kentucky?

Substitute teachers in Kentucky follow a strong set of ethical guidelines to keep classrooms respectful, safe, and fair. These standards, backed by state laws and local policies, help build trust between educators and students while ensuring everyone feels supported and protected.

Protecting Student Privacy: Subs must keep all student info confidential and never share personal or academic details without permission, sticking closely to state ethical codes.
Creating a Safe, Welcoming Space: It’s important to foster an environment free from bullying or discrimination where every student feels physically and emotionally secure.
Following Rules and Policies: Substitute teachers are expected to respect all district and state regulations, with consequences for ignoring school rules or administrative instructions.
Keeping Professional Boundaries: Maintaining clear limits in interactions with students helps uphold respect and prevents conflicts or misunderstandings.
Reporting Concerns: Any suspicion of abuse or policy violations must be reported immediately, prioritizing student safety above all else.
Avoiding Conflicts of Interest: Subs should not let personal relationships or benefits influence their professional decisions to maintain fairness and credibility.
Modeling Integrity: Honesty, fairness, and respect are expected at all times to support the reputation of Kentucky’s education system.
Adhering to Kentucky-Specific Codes: The state’s binding Professional Code of Ethics and the Model Code of Ethics for Educators guide substitutes uniquely, ensuring high ethical standards.

When I spoke with a substitute teacher from Kentucky about her experience, she shared how these ethical expectations shape her day-to-day work. As a high school math sub, she often faces the challenge of stepping into different classrooms with varied cultures, but she finds that sticking to these standards helps her connect with students and staff quickly.

“It’s about respect first,” she said. “Knowing I’m responsible for protecting student info and keeping that safe space makes me feel like I’m really part of the team, even if I’m just there for a day.” She also mentioned how reporting concerns can be tough but knowing it safeguards kids gives her confidence. Her story highlights how these ethical rules aren’t just paperwork—they’re vital to building trust and making a positive impact in Kentucky’s schools.

To see the diverse educational backgrounds that support these ethical practices, take a look at the chart below showing the most common majors among substitute teachers.

What are the benefits received by substitute teachers in Kentucky?

From flexible hours to solid pay and even retirement benefits, Kentucky’s system supports substitutes in a way that’s pretty unique compared to other states. Here’s a quick rundown of the key benefits you can expect when stepping into a substitute teaching role.

Competitive Daily Pay Rates: Substitute teachers typically earn around $17.64 an hour, which adds up to roughly $36,690 a year if you work regularly. Plus, long-term assignments (20 days or more) come with better pay rates based on official teacher salary schedules, especially if you have a valid Kentucky teaching certification.
Flexible Work Schedules: One of the best parts about substitute teaching is the flexibility—you get to choose when and where you work. This makes it perfect for students, parents, or anyone seeking part-time substitute teacher benefits Kentucky offers without committing to a full-time role.
Retirement Benefits: Unlike many states, Kentucky allows substitute teachers in public schools to earn retirement credit through the Teachers’ Retirement System (TRS), even if you’re working part-time. Retired teachers who come back as substitutes get paid according to the Kentucky Teachers Retirement System’s Daily Wage Threshold.
Multiple Pathways to Certification: Kentucky offers a variety of substitute teaching certificates, including ten-year, five-year, and emergency options. This means a wide range of people—from those with just a high school diploma to those with advanced degrees—can qualify to substitute teach.
Access to Professional Development: Many school districts provide training, mentoring, and workshops for substitutes to keep skills sharp and stay updated on classroom management and technology. This professional growth opportunity is a great bonus if you’re considering a long-term career in education.
Valuable Experience and Networking: Substitute teaching exposes you to different classrooms and school environments, helping build professional networks. It’s an excellent way to gain experience and potentially move into full-time teaching roles down the line.

If you’re curious about what are the easiest education degree programs to help you fast-track into substitute teaching or other education roles, check out this helpful guide from what are the easiest education degree programs.

What are the common challenges for substitute teachers in Kentucky?

From unpredictable schedules to limited support, substitutes often have to juggle a bunch of challenges that affect both their experience and the students they teach. Here’s a quick look at some of the main issues that those stepping into Kentucky classrooms face every day.

Inconsistent Scheduling: Substitutes frequently get called in at the last minute, making it hard to plan ahead or balance other commitments. Communication gaps between schools and substitutes sometimes leave classes without coverage, which can be frustrating for everyone involved.
Lack of Training or Support: Many substitutes find themselves in classrooms without enough preparation or ongoing training. While some resources exist, like those from the Kentucky Center for School Safety, they aren’t always easy to access or customized for substitute teachers.
Classroom Management Struggles: Handling student behavior can be tricky when you don’t have a relationship with the kids or clear routines to follow. The absence of detailed lesson plans or emergency contacts adds to the challenge.
Limited Access to Benefits: Since substitutes are often seen as temporary staff, they usually miss out on things like health insurance, retirement plans, or paid leave. This lack of perks can discourage people from sticking with substitute teaching long-term.
Staffing Shortages and Increased Pressure: Kentucky schools are dealing with ongoing staff shortages, which means substitutes are in high demand but often underpaid and expected to do more. Some districts have boosted salaries for certain roles, but substitutes still face tough conditions.
Emergency Personnel Programs and Lowered Standards: To fill gaps, some areas allow people with just a high school diploma or GED to substitute. This broadens the pool but can lead to less experienced teachers in classrooms, creating extra challenges for schools.

What Substitute Teachers in Kentucky Say About Their Careers

Working as a substitute teacher in Kentucky has given me incredible flexibility to balance my family life while earning a competitive average salary. The ability to choose my assignments means I can stay engaged in education without sacrificing personal time. It’s truly empowering to have control over my schedule. – Clyde
Starting as a substitute teacher opened doors I never expected. Kentucky's school districts encourage substitutes to grow, offering pathways into full-time teaching roles and leadership positions. This career has become more than a stopgap; it’s a real opportunity for advancement. – Darren
Kentucky provides excellent professional development programs for substitute teachers, which helped me sharpen my classroom management and instructional skills. The ongoing training makes me feel confident and valued, even as a part-time educator. It’s rewarding to continuously improve while supporting students’ learning. – Richie

What additional training opportunities can substitute teachers pursue in Kentucky?

Substitute teachers can further enhance their instructional skills and career prospects by taking advantage of specialized training programs and professional development seminars offered throughout the state. These opportunities focus on advanced classroom management techniques, modern instructional strategies, and adapting to diverse learning needs without duplicating existing certification information. Educators are encouraged to explore structured workshops, mentorship programs, and continuing education courses provided by local educational institutions and districts. Reviewing the types of teaching certifications and requirements in Kentucky can help identify complementary credentials that contribute to long-term career growth.

What legal protections and liability issues should substitute teachers in Kentucky consider?

Substitute teachers must understand their legal rights and responsibilities to protect both themselves and their students. This includes being aware of district-specific policies regarding incident reporting, classroom conduct, and contractual obligations. It is essential to review employment contracts thoroughly and consider seeking advice on liability coverage or personal insurance if needed. Staying informed about local and state regulations, as well as any available union support or professional legal resources, can help in managing risks effectively. For additional guidance on these aspects and to learn about the broader certification process, explore how to become a substitute teacher in Kentucky.

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

Is substitute teaching in Kentucky a good career option?

Becoming a substitute teacher in Kentucky is a flexible and accessible way for students, recent graduates, and career changers to enter the education field. Substitutes must follow ethical standards that emphasize professionalism, confidentiality, and respect for students and school policies, creating a safe and supportive learning environment.

According to the Kentucky Department of Education, they play a vital role in keeping classrooms running smoothly, often stepping in on short notice to support diverse student needs. With steady demand and ongoing shortages in many districts, substitute teaching offers valuable experience, networking opportunities, and meaningful contributions to education while allowing for work-life balance.

Can substitute teachers work in special education classrooms in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, substitute teachers can work in special education classrooms; however, districts often require additional qualifications or training due to the specialized needs of these students. The Kentucky Department of Education emphasizes that substitutes placed in special education settings should possess a thorough understanding of individualized education programs (IEPs) and behavior management strategies.

While a standard substitute teaching license allows placement in general education classrooms, school districts may implement policies that prioritize substitutes with special education experience or endorsements for these roles. This approach ensures that students with disabilities receive appropriate support and continuity in instruction. According to recent data from Kentucky school districts, substitutes with relevant special education training are in higher demand, reflecting an ongoing effort to improve educational outcomes for students with disabilities.

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

In Kentucky, a substitute teaching permit is typically limited to a specific type of school, such as public, private, or charter schools. This means that holding one permit does not generally allow a substitute teacher to work across multiple school types. The reason for this restriction is that each school type operates under different regulations, standards, and often distinct certification requirements set by the Kentucky Department of Education.

These differences ensure that substitute teachers meet the specific needs and policies of each educational environment, maintaining consistent quality and compliance. Therefore, to substitute teach in multiple school types, an individual would need to obtain the appropriate permits or certifications for each category.

How do substitute teachers in Kentucky handle student behavior issues?

Substitute teachers in Kentucky are expected to maintain classroom order and manage typical student behavior issues by following the established rules and disciplinary procedures set by the host school. When confronted with minor disruptions, substitutes often use non-punitive strategies such as redirection, positive reinforcement, and clear communication to address behavior concerns. However, their authority to discipline students is generally more limited than that of full-time teachers; substitutes typically cannot assign formal punishments such as detention or suspension without the involvement of the school administration.

According to guidance from the Kentucky Department of Education, substitutes must promptly report significant behavior problems to the regular teacher or school officials to ensure proper follow-up. This approach helps maintain a safe and productive learning environment while respecting the procedural limits placed on substitute teachers within Kentucky’s public schools.

References:

Clark, J. (2024). Ky. substitute teachers would no longer need college credits, under bill approved in House committee. LPM.org
Cornell Law School. (2025). 16 KAR 2:030 - [Effective until 2/27/2027] Substitute teachers. CLS
GoTeach KY. (n.d.). Substitute Certificate Five Year. GoTeach
Henderson County Schools. (2025). Teaching Certification. HCS
Kentucky Teacher. (n.d.). Digging deeper into the educator workforce shortage. Kentucky Teacher
Kentucky School Boards Association. (n.d.). No substitutes? Districts work to fill shortages. KBSA
Oldham County Schools. (2025). Salary Schedules. OCS
Renew a Teaching License. (n.d.). Renew a Teaching Certificate in KY. RTL
TeachingCertification.com. (n.d.). Kentucky Teacher Certification Renewal. TeachingCertification.com
Zippia. (2025). Substitute Teacher Demographics. Zippia