Substitute Teaching License & Requirements in Minnesota for 2025

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Becoming a substitute teacher in Minnesota can be a flexible and fulfilling way to get involved in education. It’s an excellent opportunity to build hands-on classroom experience while supporting student learning in a variety of schools. With teacher shortages and rising classroom demands, Minnesota continues to need reliable substitute teachers, making this role in high demand.

Beyond the day-to-day benefits, substitute teaching can help you connect with local school districts and explore pathways into permanent teaching roles. In this article, you’ll find an overview of Minnesota’s licensing requirements and step-by-step guidance to help you start your journey as a substitute teacher with confidence.

Key Points About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Minnesota

Obtain a substitute teaching license in Minnesota by completing a background check and submitting an application through the Minnesota Department of Education; some districts require coursework or passing the MTLE.
The demand for substitute teachers in Minnesota remains steady due to ongoing teacher shortages, offering consistent job opportunities across urban and rural school districts.
The average salary for substitute teachers in Minnesota ranges from $120 to $160 per day, making it a practical entry point for educators seeking flexible work and classroom experience.

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

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

Understanding the minnesota substitute teacher license requirements is essential for anyone considering this role. The process involves meeting educational benchmarks and completing specific licensing steps to ensure you are qualified to support classroom instruction effectively. Below is a practical breakdown of the core requirements to guide you through becoming a substitute teacher in Minnesota.

Education Requirements: Most applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Exceptions may apply for those enrolled in teacher preparation programs or participating in certain pilot initiatives that allow alternative pathways.
Licensing Options: Minnesota offers different licenses, including a short-call substitute teaching license valid for three years and a lifetime license available to retired educators, providing flexible options depending on your career stage.
Background Checks: A thorough background check is mandatory for all applicants as part of the licensing process, ensuring the safety and well-being of students.
Application Process: To apply, submit your credentials and pay an initial processing fee of $90.25 to the Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB). Proper documentation of education and identity is required.
Local Support and Resources: While no statewide training is mandated, many school districts offer onboarding programs and ongoing support to help new substitute teachers acclimate to classroom environments.

If you are exploring alternative career paths related to teaching, you might find helpful insights on jobs for people with education degrees that align with your skills and interests.

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

In Minnesota, there are several substitute teaching permits designed to accommodate different qualifications and needs. Understanding each type can help you determine the best path if you’re interested in substitute teaching.

Short-Term Substitute Permit: This permit allows individuals to substitute teach for up to 20 consecutive school days in the same assignment without holding a full teaching license. It’s ideal for those new to substitute teaching or those who do not yet meet full licensing requirements.
Long-Term Substitute Permit: Issued to those filling a position for more than 20 consecutive days, this permit requires a Bachelor’s degree and completion of some teacher preparation coursework or equivalent experience. It allows substitutes to work in one assignment for an extended period.
Day-to-Day Substitute Permit: This is the most common permit and does not require a teaching degree. Applicants must have at least 60 college credits and pass a background check. It permits substitutes to work in various classrooms on a daily basis without committing to a long-term placement.
Emergency 1-Year Substitute Permit: Available to individuals who hold a bachelor’s degree but have not completed an approved teacher preparation program. This permit is valid for one year and can be renewed once, allowing substitutes to work while pursuing full licensure.

Understanding Minnesota’s substitute permit types is just the first step. It’s equally important to know where these roles typically land. The pie chart below from Zippia breaks down substitute teaching jobs by company type, showing that most substitutes—regardless of permit—work in the education sector.

How do substitute teachers renew their teaching permit in Minnesota?

Understanding how do substitute teachers renew their teaching permit in Minnesota is essential for maintaining eligibility and continuing classroom assignments. The Minnesota Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB) requires substitute teachers to follow a clear renewal process involving professional development and timely application submission.

Track Your License Expiration Date: All substitute teaching licenses in Minnesota expire on June 30 of the designated year. Renewals can be submitted any time after January 1 of the expiration year, but starting early helps avoid processing delays.
Complete Required Professional Development: To renew a five-year short-call substitute license, you must complete 125 clock hours of approved professional development, including training on behavior intervention, curriculum adaptations, and early signs of mental illness in children.
Work with Local Continuing Education Committees: Your completed professional development hours must be approved by your local committee, which may have specific documentation requirements.
Submit the Online Renewal Application: Use the PELSB online system to submit your renewal application along with a Conduct Review Statement, verification of your professional development, and a nonrefundable processing fee.
Maintain Legal Compliance: It is unlawful to teach with an expired license, so it is your responsibility to ensure your license is renewed on time regardless of district reminders.
Monitor Application Status Online: Check the status of your renewal and review your documented hours through the Minnesota Department of Education’s online portal.

For those considering further education to strengthen their credentials, pursuing an online bachelor's degree in special education can be a strategic step toward expanding teaching opportunities in Minnesota.

How do substitute teachers receive assignments in Minnesota districts?

Understanding how substitute teachers receive assignments in Minnesota school districts is essential for planning your workflow and maximizing opportunities. Below is a practical overview outlining the key steps and unique features of the assignment process across the state.

Online Substitute Management Systems: Most districts use platforms like Frontline Absence Management, Absence & Substitute, or SmartFind Express, which allow substitutes to view, accept, or decline assignments via web portals, mobile apps, emails, or automated calls.
District-Specific Portals and Job Boards: Some districts require registration through their own online portals where substitutes apply and access assignments directly from district HR or substitute coordinators, supplementing the larger digital systems.
Preferred Substitute Lists: Districts maintain lists of preferred substitutes based on experience, licensure, or subject expertise, giving these educators priority in notifications and job offers, particularly for long-term or specialized roles.
Priority and Assignment Rules: Assignments may be prioritized for substitutes holding specific licensure types (e.g., long-call or lifetime licenses) or with prior district experience, affecting who receives job offers first and pay scale adjustments after 30 consecutive days.
Regional Differences: Urban and suburban districts generally rely on comprehensive digital platforms, while some rural districts use direct emails or phone calls, reflecting variations in resources and technology adoption.
Day-of and Advance Assignments: Substitutes may receive urgent same-day assignments through automated notifications or secure future jobs by monitoring upcoming vacancies on online portals to better manage their schedules.
Unique Minnesota Licensing Practices: The state’s tiered licensing system—short-call, long-call, lifetime—determines assignment length eligibility, with short-call substitutes limited to 15–20 consecutive days and long-call substitutes qualifying for extended assignments and additional benefits.

Knowing how Minnesota substitutes receive assignments is important—but what drives them to accept those offers is equally revealing. The chart below from Red Rover (2024) highlights top motivators like flexibility, purpose, and schedule control, giving districts insight into how to attract and retain substitute talent effectively.

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

Substitute teaching in Minnesota can be an effective pathway to securing a full-time teaching role. It offers practical experience and opportunities to connect within school communities, which are essential for career advancement.

Building Experience: Serving as a substitute teacher allows individuals to gain firsthand knowledge of classroom dynamics and instructional strategies. This practical exposure strengthens resumes and helps create rapport with school staff, which may lead to recommendations or tips about permanent openings.
Establishing Networks: Engaging regularly with educators and administrators helps substitutes stay aware of job vacancies and demonstrate their enthusiasm for teaching. This network often becomes a vital source of guidance and encouragement during the job search.
Meeting Licensing Requirements: Minnesota requires substitute teachers to hold a valid substitute teaching license from the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board (PELSB). While this license is distinct from a full teaching license, it is a necessary credential. Transitioning to a full-time role typically demands additional certification, including passing relevant content and pedagogy exams.
Applying and Interviewing: When full-time positions open, substitute teachers should emphasize their classroom experience and adaptability during the hiring process. Staying proactive and informed about job listings greatly improves the likelihood of being hired.

One substitute teacher from Minnesota shared that the journey to a full-time teaching job was both challenging and rewarding. He described the uncertainty of waiting for openings and the pressure to prove himself during interviews while balancing substitute assignments. “It wasn’t just about covering classes; it was about showing I could lead a classroom effectively,” he explained.

His experience highlighted how persistence, relationship-building, and continuous learning made the difference. He recalled moments when administrators recognized his dedication, which kept him motivated. “Being a substitute taught me resilience and gave me a real sense of the school culture before stepping into a permanent role,” he reflected, emphasizing that substitute teaching can indeed open the door to a lasting career in education.

How much do substitute teachers make in Minnesota?

Understanding the substitute teacher license and requirements in Minnesota is essential before exploring the substitute teacher salary in Minnesota. Generally, districts require at least a valid teaching license or a substitute authorization, which varies depending on the candidate’s education and experience. Prospective substitutes often hold credentials linked to examples of education degrees, which can influence their eligibility and pay.

The average pay for substitute teachers in Minnesota ranges widely. Annual salaries typically fall between $30,400 and $49,000, with an average around $41,374, while hourly pay varies from about $19 to $28 depending on various factors. Higher earnings, up to $60,723 annually, are possible, especially for permanent substitute roles or those with advanced qualifications.

Credential Type: Permanent substitutes with full teaching licenses earn more, with Minneapolis averages around $54,443 annually, reflecting higher qualifications and commitment.
Assignment Length and Type: Long-term or prearranged assignments usually offer better pay and benefits than short-term daily roles.
District and Location Differences: Urban areas like Minneapolis and Rochester provide higher hourly rates than rural districts due to funding and demand variations.
Experience and Specialized Skills: Substitutes with prior experience, additional certifications, or who teach high-need subjects may receive premium pay or bonuses.
District Policies: Some districts offer increased pay during staff shortages or for substitutes willing to work in challenging environments.

What is the job outlook for substitute teachers in Minnesota?

The substitute teacher job outlook in Minnesota is currently robust, fueled by widespread shortages and ongoing challenges within the education system. Understanding where demand is highest can help prospective substitutes target their efforts effectively.

Statewide Teacher and Substitute Shortages: Nearly 90% of Minnesota school districts report significant shortages of both full-time and substitute teachers, creating a critical need for substitutes to fill absences and vacancies across the state.
Twin Cities Metro Area: The Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan region faces acute substitute demand due to high student enrollment, teacher attrition, and elevated absentee rates, increasing reliance on substitutes to maintain classroom continuity.
Greater Minnesota Rural Districts: Rural districts experience substitute shortages driven by limited local labor pools and economic factors, making recruitment difficult as fewer qualified candidates live nearby or are willing to commute.
Specialized Fields and Special Education: There is a notable shortage of substitutes with specialized licensure, especially in special education, as fewer licensed professionals meet stringent qualification requirements.
Impact of Pandemic and Burnout: COVID-19 has worsened shortages by increasing teacher burnout and absenteeism, resulting in sustained high demand for substitute teachers as schools recover.
Legislative Responses: Minnesota’s permanent short-call emergency substitute teacher pilot program offers more flexible substitute opportunities to help address staffing gaps.

For those interested in pursuing a substitute teacher license in Minnesota, these ongoing shortages mean ample job opportunities. Understanding local conditions can help candidates choose districts with the greatest need. Additionally, exploring specialized licensure areas may increase employability.

To plan your career path effectively, consider researching options like the ranking of cheapest online library science masters degrees that can complement educational credentials and open further opportunities in education fields. This is especially important now, given the high demand for replacement teachers in North America, as shown below.

Number of school teachers needed in North America.

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

Substitute teachers in Minnesota can access a range of structured programs such as district-led workshops, online training modules, and mentoring initiatives that target classroom management, instructional techniques, and subject-specific expertise. These professional development opportunities are designed to align with state standards and current pedagogical trends, ensuring that substitutes remain effective in diverse educational settings. Additionally, some programs offer pathways that facilitate career progression by complementing existing credentials with further specialization, which is integral for securing more permanent teaching roles. For more information on the types of teaching certifications and requirements in Minnesota, explore the various credential options available to enhance your qualifications.

What background checks and clearances are required for substitute teachers in Minnesota?

Minnesota mandates rigorous background checks and clearances as part of the substitute teacher licensing process to ensure the safety and integrity of school environments. Prospective substitutes must undergo comprehensive criminal background investigations, including fingerprinting, in accordance with state and district regulations. These procedures are designed to verify an applicant’s suitability for interacting with students and uphold the educational institution’s commitment to a secure learning atmosphere. For additional details on the full licensing process, check out how to become a substitute teacher in Minnesota.

What ethical standards do substitute teachers adhere to in Minnesota?

Substitute teachers in Minnesota are held to rigorous ethical standards to ensure professionalism and support a positive learning environment. These guidelines, aligned with state regulations and district policies, emphasize fairness, integrity, and respect for all students. Here are the core ethical responsibilities substitute teachers must consistently uphold:

Non-Discrimination and Fair Treatment: Substitute teachers must provide equal respect and opportunities to every student, regardless of their background or identity, fostering an inclusive classroom atmosphere.
Student Safety and Well-Being: Maintaining a secure and healthy environment is essential; substitutes should promptly address any safety concerns and promote student welfare throughout their assignment.
Confidentiality of Student Information: Protecting student records and personal details is mandatory, with disclosures allowed only when legally required or professionally justified.
Appropriate Discipline: Discipline should be applied fairly and consistently, aligned with school policies, to support a productive educational setting.
Integrity and Honesty: Accurate representation of qualifications and truthful communication in all professional matters are critical to maintaining trust and credibility.
Respect for Educational Content: Substitutes must deliver curriculum content faithfully without distortion, ensuring academic integrity.
Delegation Limits: Teaching responsibilities can only be assigned to other licensed educators, maintaining compliance with Minnesota licensure laws.
Licensure Compliance: Accepting assignments only within the scope of one’s valid license or provisional status is required to uphold legal and professional standards.
Accountability and Reporting: Ethical breaches can lead to disciplinary actions by the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board, emphasizing the importance of adherence.
Support for Equity Initiatives: Substitutes are expected to actively contribute to inclusive practices and equity-focused efforts that benefit all E-12 students.

When discussing these standards with a substitute teacher from Minnesota, she reflected on her experiences navigating complex classroom dynamics and the responsibility of upholding these ethics daily. “It’s not just about following rules,” she explained, “but truly respecting each student’s dignity and safety, even when you’re stepping into a new environment without much preparation.”

She recalled a day when addressing a sensitive safety issue required immediate action, reminding her how critical vigilance is. She also emphasized the importance of honesty in reporting classroom incidents and communicating with school staff, which builds trust and ensures continuity for students.

What are the benefits received by substitute teachers in Minnesota?

Understanding the substitute teacher license and requirements in Minnesota is essential for those considering this flexible role in education. The state offers specific benefits and incentives that support substitutes beyond traditional compensation. Below is a practical overview of the key advantages you can expect when working as a substitute teacher in Minnesota, highlighting both general perks and those unique to the state’s education system.

Flexible Scheduling: Substitute teaching in Minnesota allows you to select assignments that fit your availability, making it ideal for students, recent graduates, or career changers who need adaptable work hours.
Competitive Pay: While Minnesota ranks 50th nationally for substitute teacher pay, the average hourly rate is about $19.89, with some districts offering higher salaries, especially for long-term assignments.
Legal and Liability Protections: Through Education Minnesota membership, substitutes receive $1 million in liability insurance and access to employment-related legal services, providing important protection while working.
Professional Development Access: Substitutes affiliated with Education Minnesota can access training and development resources, supporting skill advancement and enhancing future job prospects in education.
Pension and Retirement Benefits: Minnesota’s Teacher Retirement Association (TRA) now includes improved pension options for qualifying substitutes, rewarding long-term service and contributing to career stability.
Long-Term Assignment Incentives: Some school districts offer bonuses, increased pay, or health plan eligibility to substitutes who commit to extended assignments, helping retain experienced educators.
Licensing Flexibility: The Short-Call Substitute Teaching License lowers entry barriers by allowing individuals with a bachelor’s degree or enrollment in teacher preparation programs to substitute teach, helping sustain the substitute workforce.

For those exploring educational pathways, Minnesota’s substitute teacher benefits align well with flexible career options and can be a stepping stone toward full teaching credentials or other roles in education. Additionally, you may find it useful to review the list of shortest doctor of education online degrees to plan your professional development alongside substitute teaching opportunities.

What are the common challenges for substitute teachers in Minnesota?

Substitute teachers in Minnesota face a variety of challenges that affect their ability to work effectively and maintain professional standards. These obstacles often stem from the unique local context and statewide education system dynamics. Below are some of the most common difficulties encountered by substitutes, highlighting areas where improvements could better support their role.

Inconsistent Scheduling: Substitute assignments are often unpredictable due to fluctuating teacher absences and reliance on automated placement systems, making steady work and personal planning difficult.
Insufficient Training and Support: Many substitutes receive limited orientation or guidance on school policies, curriculum, and classroom expectations, which can reduce their effectiveness in managing daily responsibilities.
Classroom Management Challenges: Without established relationships or full authority, substitutes struggle to handle diverse student behaviors, especially amid substitute shortages that increase pressure to maintain order.
Restricted Access to Benefits: Unlike full-time educators, substitutes generally lack health insurance, retirement plans, or paid leave, which contributes to job dissatisfaction and retention issues.
Substitute Shortage Impact: The ongoing decline in available substitutes, worsened by the pandemic, leads to unfilled positions that disrupt student learning and place extra burden on regular teachers.
Ethical Obligations Under Pressure: Despite limited preparation, substitutes must uphold confidentiality, deliver instruction, and ensure safety, balancing these duties amid stressful, unsupported conditions.
Emergency and Short-Call Programs: Pilot initiatives allow short-notice substitute work, but this can hinder adequate preparation and consistency, reflecting persistent challenges in meeting demand responsibly.

What Substitute Teachers in Minnesota Say About Their Careers

Substitute teaching in Minnesota has given me the flexibility I needed to balance work and family life. The average daily pay is competitive, which really helps, and I love being able to choose my own schedule. It feels great to contribute to education while maintaining my personal freedom. Jenna
Starting as a substitute teacher opened doors I never expected. Minnesota offers clear pathways to advance into full-time teaching positions or specialized roles, and I’ve taken advantage of every opportunity to grow professionally. This career has truly transformed my life and future. Marcus
I appreciate how Minnesota supports substitute teachers with professional development programs that enhance our skills and keep us connected to the education community. These workshops and training sessions have made me feel valued and prepared, which boosts my confidence every day in the classroom. Amina

Other Things You Need to Know About Substitute Teaching License & Requirements in Minnesota

Is substitute teaching in Minnesota a good career option?

Becoming a substitute teacher in Minnesota is a practical and flexible career choice for students, recent graduates, career changers, and education professionals. Substitutes help maintain continuity of instruction while upholding the ethical standards set by the Minnesota Department of Education, such as professionalism, confidentiality, and respect for students and policies. With steady demand statewide, this role offers valuable classroom experience, exposure to various grade levels, and competitive daily pay—typically $140 to $180 per day—while serving as a potential pathway to full-time teaching positions.

Can substitute teachers work in special education classrooms in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, substitute teachers can work in special education classrooms, but they must meet additional requirements to ensure they’re properly prepared. Many districts prefer or require substitutes in these settings to have training or experience with special education due to the need for individualized instruction, accommodations, and familiarity with students’ IEPs and behavioral supports. While a valid substitute teaching license is required statewide, actual placement depends on each district’s policies and the substitute’s qualifications to ensure compliance with federal and state special education guidelines.

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

In Minnesota, substitute teachers cannot use a single permit to teach across multiple school types, such as public, private, and charter schools. Each type of school system has distinct licensing requirements and oversight authorities, which means a permit issued for one setting typically does not transfer to another.

This separation exists to ensure that substitute teachers meet the specific standards and regulations set by each school type’s governing body, maintaining consistent educational quality and compliance with state laws.

How do substitute teachers in Minnesota handle student behavior issues?

Substitute teachers in Minnesota are expected to maintain a safe and productive classroom environment by using proactive classroom management strategies and following the established behavior policies of the school district. They typically handle minor disruptions by redirecting students, using verbal warnings, and applying non-punitive techniques such as positive reinforcement.

However, substitutes have limited authority when it comes to disciplinary actions; they generally cannot assign major consequences like suspensions or detentions without the involvement of permanent staff or administrators. According to the Minnesota Department of Education, substitutes should promptly report any serious behavior issues to the school administration to ensure consistent application of discipline policies. This approach helps maintain order while respecting the substitute’s temporary role and the school’s overall discipline framework.