Substitute Teaching License & Requirements in Louisiana for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Substitute teaching in Louisiana offers a dynamic entry point into the state’s diverse education system. Whether stepping into classrooms for a day or covering extended absences, substitutes play a vital role in maintaining instructional continuity across Louisiana’s public and private schools.

With flexible scheduling and the opportunity to work in varied educational environments, substitute teaching appeals to both aspiring educators and professionals seeking meaningful part-time work. In this guide, we’ll cover the key licensing requirements, application steps, and district-specific expectations to help you get started as a substitute teacher in Louisiana.

Key Points About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Louisiana

Applicants must hold at least a high school diploma or GED, complete an application with the Louisiana Department of Education, and pass a background check to obtain a substitute teaching license.
The job outlook in Louisiana is positive due to ongoing teacher shortages, with substitute teaching offering flexible hours and valuable classroom experience for aspiring educators.
The average salary for substitute teachers in Louisiana ranges from $83.60 to $160 per day, making it a viable starting point for those entering the education profession.

What are the requirements to become a substitute teacher in Louisiana?
What are the different types of substitute teaching permits in Louisiana?
How do substitute teachers renew their teaching permit in Louisiana?
How do substitute teachers receive assignments in Louisiana districts?
Can substitute teaching lead to a full-time teaching job in Louisiana?
How much do substitute teachers make in Louisiana?
What certification and advanced training options are available for substitute teachers in Louisiana?
What additional resources are available for substitute teachers in Louisiana?
What is the job outlook for substitute teachers in Louisiana?
What ethical standards do substitute teachers adhere to in Louisiana?
What are the benefits received by substitute teachers in Louisiana?
What are the common challenges for substitute teachers in Louisiana?
Other Things You Should Know About the Substitute Teaching License and Requirements in Louisiana

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

To become a substitute teacher in Louisiana, candidates must meet specific educational and licensing criteria that vary by district but adhere to state guidelines. Understanding these requirements is essential for those seeking to enter this vital role in education. The following outlines the primary qualifications and procedural steps necessary for approval as a substitute teacher in Louisiana.

Educational Minimum: Applicants must have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. While statewide no college degree is mandated, some districts may require proof of college coursework or higher education for extended substitute assignments.
Background Checks and Fingerprinting: A comprehensive state and federal criminal background check, including fingerprinting, is mandatory. Each district requires its own clearance, as fingerprints are not always transferable across districts, reflecting the importance of Louisiana substitute teaching background check compliance.
Proof of Legal Work Status: Candidates must provide valid documentation, such as an I-9 form, to verify their legal eligibility to work in the United States.
Training and Ethics Course: Completion of an annual online Public Servant Ethics Course is required, typically lasting about an hour. Additional district or agency-specific training may also be necessary to cover classroom management and legal responsibilities.
District-Specific Application Process: Each school district administers its own application procedures, which often include submitting references and attending orientation sessions tailored to local policies and expectations.
Professional Development and Onboarding: Districts and staffing agencies frequently provide onboarding workshops and ongoing training to ensure substitutes are well-prepared for classroom challenges.

Prospective substitute teachers interested in advancing their qualifications may also consider pursuing further education through programs such as the list of the best online associate in education programs, which can enhance career opportunities and readiness.

The chart below lists the preferred methods of communication for substitute teachers to learn about available assignments, which is an important factor for staying prepared and responsive once you’re approved to work.

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

In Louisiana, individuals who wish to work as substitute teachers must obtain a specific permit that corresponds to their qualifications and intended duration of service. The state offers several types of substitute teaching permits designed to accommodate various educational backgrounds and employment needs.

Short-Term Substitute Permit: This permit is issued to those who want to substitute teach for up to 30 days in a single classroom assignment. It is typically suitable for individuals without a full teaching credential but who meet minimum educational requirements, such as holding at least 60 college credit hours.
Long-Term Substitute Permit: Designed for substitutes planning to work beyond 30 consecutive days in the same assignment, this permit requires a more comprehensive application process and often a background in education or teaching experience.
Emergency Substitute Permit: This category is for individuals who do not meet standard educational qualifications but can fill urgent staffing needs on a temporary basis. Applicants must comply with specific criteria set by the Louisiana Department of Education and complete required training.
Substitute Teaching License: For those seeking ongoing substitute teaching roles across multiple assignments, this license demands a bachelor’s degree and completion of state-mandated preparation programs. It allows greater flexibility and longer-term substitute employment.

How do substitute teachers renew their teaching permit in Louisiana?

How do substitute teachers renew their teaching permit in Louisiana? The process requires careful coordination between the substitute teacher and their employing school district to ensure compliance with state regulations. Understanding the Louisiana substitute teacher certificate renewal process is essential for maintaining eligibility and continuing to serve in educational settings.

Initiate the Renewal Process: Renewal requests must be initiated by the employing school district’s Human Resources Office or administration, not by the individual substitute teacher.
Complete Required Application: A Certification Renewal, Higher, or Status Change Application must be completed and signed by both the substitute and an authorized representative. This form is only available through school system HR offices and not publicly downloadable.
Verify Teaching Experience: All in-state teaching experience must be documented using the In-State Experience Verification form included in the application. Out-of-state experience requires a separate attestation form.
Provide Evidence of Effectiveness: For Level 2 or Level 3 certificates, substitutes must submit at least three years of effective performance evaluations from the last five years, documented in the state’s Compass Information System.
Submit Application and Pay Fees: The employing school system submits the completed application, verification forms, and any fees to the Louisiana Department of Education, which then opens a certification case trackable via the TeachLouisiana portal.
Tracking and Notification: Renewal status can be monitored online, with notifications sent to both the educator and the employing district to confirm ongoing eligibility.

Substitute teaching certificates in Louisiana generally remain valid for three to five years depending on the certificate level, with renewals contingent upon meeting the outlined experience and effectiveness criteria. Those interested in advancing their educational credentials may also consider pursuing the best online doctorate in higher education to enhance their professional qualifications.

How do substitute teachers receive assignments in Louisiana districts?

In Louisiana, substitute teachers receive assignments through a structured process that varies by district but commonly incorporates technology and local policies to ensure efficient placement. Below is an outline of the key steps and distinctive practices involved in how assignments are distributed to substitutes across the state.

Online Application Portals: Substitute teachers begin by applying through district-specific online portals designed to manage applications, verify eligibility, and collect necessary documentation such as education credentials and background checks.
Background Checks and Approval: Districts require completion of criminal background checks via the Louisiana State Police and often mandate drug testing before substitutes are approved to accept assignments.
Assignment Notification Systems: Many districts utilize proprietary or third-party technology platforms that notify substitutes of available assignments through email, text, or app alerts, allowing them to accept work on a first-come, first-served basis or through administrative selection.
Preferred Substitute Lists: Some districts maintain priority lists where experienced or highly rated substitutes are offered assignments first, promoting consistent work opportunities and familiarity with school environments.
Regional and District Variations: Assignment methods differ across parishes; for instance, New Orleans often uses private agencies with unique matching systems, while others like Ouachita rely on direct district management and online applications, reflecting local requirements and preferences.
On-Site Assignment Practices: In certain smaller districts or when substitute availability is limited, substitutes may receive assignments by reporting directly to a school office for immediate placement on the same day.
Continuous Support and Updates: Substitutes working through agencies or select districts benefit from ongoing communication, training, and support that help streamline scheduling and enhance job satisfaction.

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

In Louisiana, substitute teaching can be more than a temporary assignment—it often serves as a valuable pathway toward securing a full-time teaching position. Many school districts recognize the benefits of hiring substitutes who have demonstrated their skills and dedication within the local educational environment.

Gaining Experience and Building Trust: Substitute teachers have the opportunity to showcase their classroom management abilities, reliability, and flexibility. Establishing a positive reputation with school leaders and staff can significantly enhance their prospects when applying for permanent roles.
Developing Professional Connections: Working closely with full-time teachers and administrative personnel allows substitutes to form important relationships and seek guidance. These connections can increase their visibility and support during hiring processes.
Acquiring Insight into School Operations: Substitute teachers become familiar with district policies, curricular standards, and school culture. This understanding often gives them an advantage during interviews and helps align their skills with the needs of the school community.
Pursuing Open Full-Time Positions: When vacancies arise, districts frequently encourage experienced substitutes to apply, valuing their prior engagement and familiarity with the educational setting.
Meeting Certification and Compliance Requirements: Transitioning to a full-time role necessitates fulfilling all state licensing criteria, including obtaining a teaching certificate from the Louisiana Department of Education, passing background checks, and completing mandated ethics or training courses.
Engaging in Ongoing Professional Development: Participating in workshops and training opportunities demonstrates a commitment to growth, which is often viewed favorably by hiring committees.

A substitute teacher from Louisiana shared insights about this transition, describing the journey as both challenging and rewarding. He recalled the initial uncertainty of balancing substitute assignments while pursuing certification requirements, emphasizing the importance of perseverance. “It wasn’t just about showing up day-to-day,” he reflected, “but about building relationships and proving I could handle the demands of a full classroom.”

He also noted that navigating district protocols and obtaining the necessary credentials required patience and dedication, but the experience as a substitute gave him a unique perspective on student needs and school expectations. “That firsthand exposure made me confident during interviews,” he added, “and ultimately opened the door to a permanent position.” His story highlights how substitute teaching in Louisiana can effectively bridge the gap to a full-time teaching career through commitment and strategic engagement.

How much do substitute teachers make in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, obtaining a substitute teacher license typically requires a minimum of some college coursework or a bachelor’s degree, depending on the district’s policies. Many districts prefer or mandate a valid teaching certificate to qualify for higher pay rates and longer-term assignments. Understanding the requirements is crucial for individuals considering the substitute teacher salary in Louisiana, as credentials directly impact compensation.

The average pay for substitute teachers Louisiana shows considerable variation based on several factors. Generally, substitutes earn around $16.64 per hour, translating to an annual salary near $33,981 if working full time. However, pay can range from entry-level salaries of approximately $24,594 annually to top earners making up to $46,950 per year.

Credential Type: Certified substitutes earn higher daily rates, with some districts like Lafayette Parish increasing pay from $100 to $120 per day for those with teaching certificates.
Length and Type of Assignment: Long-term placements often receive better compensation than short-term or single-day assignments, reflecting the commitment required.
District and Parish Policies: Each district sets its own pay scale, leading to variations; policy changes can result in significant pay differences among neighboring parishes.
Location Differences: Urban areas such as New Orleans tend to offer higher hourly rates, sometimes up to $20, due to cost of living and demand.

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What certification and advanced training options are available for substitute teachers in Louisiana?

Substitute teachers aiming to progress in their careers can benefit from targeted professional development and specialized certification programs. Engaging in advanced training enhances classroom management, subject-matter expertise, and adaptive teaching strategies, which may facilitate a smoother transition to full-time roles. Research indicates that continuous skill enhancement through structured courses and workshops improves both instructional effectiveness and career prospects. For more detailed information on credential pathways, consult types of teaching certifications and requirements in Louisiana.

What additional resources are available for substitute teachers in Louisiana?

Substitute teachers in Louisiana can leverage a variety of support networks and professional development resources that extend beyond formal certifications. Industry associations, state-sponsored workshops, and local advocacy groups provide updated best practices for classroom management and regulatory compliance, ensuring substitutes stay current on educational policies and student engagement techniques. These platforms also offer opportunities for peer mentoring and networking, which can enhance both instructional strategies and career advancement. For practical insights into entering the field, explore how to become a substitute teacher in Louisiana.

What is the job outlook for substitute teachers in Louisiana?

The substitute teacher job outlook in Louisiana remains strong due to ongoing teacher shortages and elevated absenteeism across the state. Demand persists in multiple regions, fueled by a combination of workforce turnover, limited local hiring pools, and the need for flexible classroom coverage.

Statewide Teacher Shortages: Louisiana reported 1,145 unfilled teacher vacancies in 2025, underscoring a persistent need for substitute teachers to fill both short- and long-term gaps in classrooms statewide.
Lafayette Parish's Year-Round Openings: This parish maintains substitute teacher job postings throughout the school year, reflecting continual demand caused by high teacher turnover and absences.
Urban Districts With High Absenteeism: Larger urban districts experience significant teacher absences due to burnout and illness, creating a steady demand for substitutes to maintain classroom instruction.
Rural Areas With Limited Local Pools: Many rural parishes face challenges attracting full-time educators, increasing reliance on substitute teachers to provide consistent coverage when permanent staff are unavailable.
Growth in Early-Career Teachers: Nearly 16% of Louisiana teachers are in their first two years, a group with higher turnover rates that contribute to ongoing vacancies requiring substitute coverage.
Competitive Pay and Open Opportunities: With an average annual salary of $33,981 and wages ranging from $24,594 to $46,950, substitute teaching positions offer competitive compensation that reflects strong demand across districts.

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The chart below illustrates the most common skills presented by substitute teachers on their resumes.

What ethical standards do substitute teachers adhere to in Louisiana?

Substitute teachers in Louisiana are held to rigorous ethical and professional standards designed to foster a respectful, safe, and effective learning environment. These expectations align with policies from the Louisiana Department of Education and local school districts, ensuring substitutes act with integrity and uphold the dignity of all students and staff.

Confidentiality of Student Information: Substitute teachers must strictly protect all student records and personal information. Discussing student details outside the classroom is prohibited by law, reinforcing privacy and trust.
Compliance with District Policies: Adherence to all school and district rules is mandatory, including classroom management protocols and instructions from administrators or regular teachers, ensuring consistency and professionalism.
Completion of Ethics Training: Louisiana requires substitutes to annually complete the Public Servant Ethics Course, emphasizing ethical conduct, conflict of interest avoidance, and responsible decision-making within public education.
Promotion of Safety and Inclusivity: Substitutes are responsible for maintaining a secure and welcoming environment not only inside classrooms but also in common areas, protecting student well-being at all times.
Professional Respect and Fairness: Treating students, parents, and staff with respect and impartiality is essential, with an emphasis on avoiding favoritism or discriminatory behavior.
Thorough Reporting: At the conclusion of each assignment, substitutes must provide detailed notes about student progress, incidents, or deviations from lesson plans to support continuity in instruction.
Legal and Safety Compliance: Background checks and fingerprinting are required for every district, reflecting Louisiana’s commitment to safeguarding students against potential risks.
Avoidance of Conflicts of Interest: Substitutes must remain impartial, refraining from using their role for personal gain or preferential treatment, as reinforced in ethics training.
Ongoing Professional Development: Some districts offer additional training on ethics, laws, and classroom management to keep substitutes informed about best practices within the state.

When speaking with a substitute teacher from Louisiana who regularly fills in for high school math classes, she reflected on the nuanced challenges of upholding these ethical standards. “It’s not just about following rules,” she explained, “but understanding the impact of every decision on students’ trust and learning.”

She also described how preparing detailed end-of-day reports became a vital part of her routine, helping regular teachers pick up seamlessly where she left off. She also shared the emotional weight of maintaining confidentiality in small communities where everyone knows each other. “Balancing professionalism with empathy can be tough,” she noted, “especially when you want to support students without crossing boundaries.”

Her experience highlighted how the state’s ethics training and district policies provide a clear framework, yet the real test lies in applying these principles thoughtfully every day in diverse classroom settings.

What are the benefits received by substitute teachers in Louisiana?

Substitute teaching in Louisiana offers a range of benefits and incentives designed to attract and support educators interested in flexible employment opportunities within the public school system. These advantages cater to individuals seeking part-time or temporary teaching roles while providing access to professional growth and financial rewards.

Below is an overview of key benefits that prospective substitute teachers can expect when pursuing a substitute teacher license and working across various districts in Louisiana.

Flexible Scheduling: Substitute teachers in Louisiana enjoy the autonomy to select their workdays and preferred schools, making it easier to balance personal commitments with professional responsibilities. This flexibility is one of the primary draws for those seeking non-traditional teaching roles.
Training and Professional Development: Many school districts offer free training programs to substitute teachers, which enhance instructional skills and classroom management techniques. These opportunities help substitutes prepare for diverse teaching environments and improve their qualifications.
Compensation Structure: Standard pay for substitutes typically averages around $16.64 per hour or about $116 per day for certified substitutes. Additionally, some districts provide increased pay for long-term assignments, aligning substitute compensation with the regular teacher salary schedule after 11 consecutive working days with the same classroom.
Health Insurance and Retirement Eligibility: While substitute teachers in Louisiana may face limitations regarding health insurance options, certain districts offer access to group health plans and eligibility for state retirement benefits depending on hours worked and contract terms, providing financial security beyond daily wages.
Supplemental Income Potential: Given Louisiana’s ranking as 50th in substitute teacher salaries nationally, many educators use substitute teaching as a supplemental income source while pursuing full-time teaching certification or alternative career paths within education.

Individuals exploring substitute teaching should also consider the cost of getting teaching degree as part of their long-term career planning to maximize the benefits available through this role. This perspective is especially important when looking at how teacher absences can impact demand for reliable educators.

What are the common challenges for substitute teachers in Louisiana?

Substitute teachers in Louisiana encounter a variety of obstacles that complicate their roles and affect their professional experience. These challenges stem from systemic issues within school districts, as well as the nature of substitute teaching as a flexible yet unstable position. The following points summarize the primary difficulties faced by substitutes across the state.

Unpredictable Scheduling: Assignments for substitutes are often made last minute due to sudden teacher absences, resulting in irregular work hours and making it difficult to secure consistent income or plan ahead.
Insufficient Training: Many substitutes report little to no formal preparation before entering classrooms, which hampers their ability to effectively manage lessons and student behavior.
Limited Administrative Support: Substitute teachers frequently feel isolated, with minimal integration into school culture and inadequate backing from administrators, despite valuing such support highly.
Classroom Management Difficulties: Lack of familiarity with school policies and routines often leads to challenges in maintaining discipline and creating a productive learning environment.
Scarce Benefits: Most substitute roles are part-time or on an as-needed basis, which means substitutes rarely receive health insurance, paid leave, or other employment benefits common to full-time educators.
Manual Scheduling and Low Compensation: Some districts rely on outdated scheduling methods that increase confusion and missed opportunities, while pay rates remain lower than those of full-time teachers, complicating recruitment efforts.
Assignment Shortages: Despite statewide shortages of substitute teachers, some districts report fill rates as low as 54%, resulting in unstaffed classrooms and fewer work opportunities for available substitutes.
Inconsistent Requirements Across Districts: Variations in hiring procedures and onboarding across Louisiana’s parishes create additional barriers for substitutes seeking steady employment across the state.
Impact on Regular Staff: When substitute positions go unfilled, full-time teachers often absorb extra duties, contributing to increased burnout and operational challenges within schools.

What Substitute Teachers in Louisiana Say About Their Careers

Working as a substitute teacher in Louisiana has given me incredible flexibility to balance my family life while earning a competitive daily rate. The average pay here really supports my goals, and I love the freedom to choose assignments that fit my schedule. It’s been a rewarding way to stay connected to education without losing personal time. – Joenne
Starting as a substitute opened doors I never expected in Louisiana’s schools. Through consistent work, I gained access to advancement opportunities like long-term placements and even full-time teaching roles. It’s inspiring to see how this path can evolve into a lasting career with dedication and passion. – Hazel
I appreciate how Louisiana offers excellent professional development programs tailored for substitute teachers. Attending workshops and training sessions has enhanced my skills and confidence in the classroom, making each day more meaningful. This ongoing support truly reflects the state’s commitment to quality education. – Reeva

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

Is substitute teaching in Louisiana a good career option?

Choosing to become a substitute teacher in Louisiana offers a flexible and accessible path into the education field, especially for students, recent graduates, and career changers. According to the Louisiana Department of Education, substitute teachers play a vital role in maintaining classroom continuity and supporting student learning during teacher absences. The state requires substitutes to hold at least a high school diploma or equivalent, with many districts preferring some college experience, making entry relatively straightforward.

Additionally, substitute teaching can provide valuable classroom experience, professional networking opportunities, and supplemental income, with average daily rates varying by district but generally ranging from $83.60 to $160. This role also allows individuals to explore teaching as a career without committing to a full-time position immediately. Overall, substitute teaching in Louisiana serves as a practical and rewarding option for those seeking involvement in education while balancing other commitments.

Can substitute teachers work in special education classrooms in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, substitute teachers are generally permitted to work in special education classrooms; however, there are specific requirements and limitations. According to guidelines from the Louisiana Department of Education, substitutes assigned to special education settings must have adequate training or experience related to special education to ensure they can meet the unique needs of these students effectively.

Many school districts require substitutes in special education to complete additional professional development or hold certain endorsements, such as a special education paraprofessional certification. This is because special education classrooms often involve individualized instruction and accommodations that require specialized knowledge and skills.

While substitute teachers without special education experience can sometimes work in these roles, it is less common and usually subject to district approval. Overall, the ability for substitutes to work in special education depends on district policies and the substitute’s qualifications, emphasizing the importance of appropriate preparation to support students with disabilities.

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

In Louisiana, substitute teaching permits are generally issued with specific restrictions tied to the type of school or district in which the substitute is authorized to work. This means a single permit typically does not allow a substitute teacher to work across multiple school types, such as public, private, and charter schools, without obtaining separate authorization or permits for each. The reason for this limitation lies in the differing regulatory and certification requirements that govern various school systems within the state.

Each type of school operates under distinct policies and oversight, which necessitates tailored credentials to ensure compliance with educational standards and student safety protocols. As a result, substitute teachers must secure the appropriate permit aligned with the specific school type to legally and effectively serve in those settings.

How do substitute teachers in Louisiana handle student behavior issues?

Substitute teachers in Louisiana play a crucial role in maintaining classroom order but face specific limitations regarding student discipline. According to guidelines from the Louisiana Department of Education, substitutes are expected to follow the established behavior management plans set by the regular teacher and the school. Typically, substitutes can issue verbal warnings and apply minor classroom consequences, such as rearranging seating or assigning time to reflect on behavior. However, they generally do not have the authority to administer formal disciplinary actions like suspensions or detentions without consulting school administrators.

This limitation ensures consistency in discipline while protecting substitutes from potential conflicts. Data from several Louisiana school districts indicate that clear communication between substitutes and school staff significantly reduces behavior issues, emphasizing the importance of substitutes reporting incidents promptly to permanent staff or administrators for appropriate follow-up. Overall, substitutes serve as immediate behavior managers but rely on the broader school framework and administrative support to handle serious disciplinary matters.