Substitute Teaching License & Requirements in Utah for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Over 4,200 individuals currently serve as substitute teachers in Utah, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). With schools facing intermittent shortages and absences, the need for reliable substitute educators continues to rise across the state.

Yet, the path to securing a substitute teaching license—through navigating coursework requirements, fingerprinting protocols, and application procedures—often remains unclear to prospective candidates.

This article aims to demystify Utah’s substitute teaching license process by presenting a clear, step-by-step roadmap tailored to 2025.

Key Points About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Utah

Applicants must hold at least a high school diploma or GED and complete a background check; some districts require additional training or provisional licenses for substitute teaching in Utah.
Utah’s substitute teaching job outlook is positive due to steady student enrollment growth and frequent teacher absences, ensuring consistent demand statewide.
The average salary for substitute teachers in Utah ranges from $100 to $130 per day, making it a viable entry point for education careers in a supportive academic environment.

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

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

Utah maintains a decentralized approach to substitute teacher licensing and requirements, with no statewide certification or license mandate. Instead, individual school districts determine eligibility criteria, resulting in some variation across the state. Prospective candidates should be aware of the common educational and procedural requirements that underpin the substitute teacher role.

Minimum Education: Most districts require at least a high school diploma or equivalent; some prefer candidates holding a bachelor’s degree, though a four-year degree is not universally mandatory.
Application Process: Candidates must submit an application to the specific school district, often including official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and applicable fees.
Background Check and Fingerprinting: A successful criminal background check and fingerprinting are mandatory to ensure student safety, coordinated by the hiring district.
Employment Eligibility Verification: Candidates must provide documentation verifying their eligibility to work in the United States, following standard federal requirements.
District-Specific Training: While state-level training is not required, some districts or staffing agencies require pre-hire training and orientation covering teaching ethics, legal responsibilities, and classroom management.
Local Support Resources: Many districts offer onboarding resources, handbooks, and training workshops. Agencies such as Kelly Education provide specialized online modules to support substitute teachers.

It is important to note Utah does not require an examination or prior teaching experience to become a substitute teacher. Candidates interested in the field may find it helpful to explore whether is getting education associate degree easy as part of their preparation process. Consulting local district human resources offices remains essential to clarify substitute teacher requirements in Utah and access available support services.

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

Utah offers distinct substitute teaching permits designed to accommodate various educational backgrounds and experience levels. These permits ensure that substitutes meet specific standards aligned with the needs of local school districts.

The different types of substitute teaching permits available in Utah include:

Short-Term Substitute Permit: Intended for individuals who fill in for less than 20 consecutive days in a single assignment, this permit requires at least 60 semester hours of college credit or an associate degree.
Long-Term Substitute Permit: Granted to those substituting for more than 20 consecutive days, this permit demands a minimum of a bachelor’s degree and adherence to additional state certification requirements.
Emergency Substitute Permit: Designed for candidates who may not yet meet all standard qualifications but are authorized to substitute temporarily during urgent staffing shortages, subject to specific district approvals.
Temporary Substitute Permit: Available for individuals with limited teaching credentials or those pursuing certification, this permit allows substitution while completing required coursework or assessments.

How do substitute teachers renew their teaching permit in Utah?

For educators seeking to understand how do substitute teachers renew their teaching permit in Utah, it is essential to follow a structured process mandated by the Utah State Board of Education. The renewal ensures that substitute teachers meet ongoing professional standards and remain qualified to serve in Utah’s public schools.

Below are the key steps involved in the Utah substitute teacher license renewal process.

Renewal Timeline: Applications must be submitted between January 1 and June 29 of the license expiration year. Early renewal is not allowed, but expired licenses can be renewed without penalty at any time.
Documenting Renewal Hours: Substitute teachers need to accumulate 60 to 100 renewal hours through approved professional development or continuing education activities, with each hour counting as one renewal point.
Administrator Verification: A licensed administrator, free from conflict of interest, must verify all renewal hours by signing the renewal form to confirm the accuracy of the reported activities.
Ethics Review: Completion of the USBE Educator Ethics Review within the year preceding renewal is mandatory to maintain adherence to professional ethics and state regulations.
Online Renewal Submission: Renewals are processed via the Utah Schools Information Management System (USIMS), where educators submit forms, upload documents, and pay fees.
Record Retention: Teachers must retain the original signed renewal form and supporting documentation for at least 12 months post-renewal, as audits by USBE may occur.
Ongoing Background Monitoring: Continuous enrollment in background checks is required by Utah law to sustain eligibility for substitute teaching assignments.

To put this renewal process in perspective, the chart below shows the average tenure of substitute teachers in the U.S.

How do substitute teachers receive assignments in Utah districts?

In Utah, substitute teachers receive assignments through a coordinated and technology-enabled system that varies by district but maintains several consistent practices to ensure efficient placement. Below are the key components of how substitute assignments are managed across Utah school districts:

Assignment Notification Systems: Many districts, including Salt Lake City School District (SLCSD), utilize automated calling and online platforms such as SmartFind Express to notify substitutes of available assignments, enabling rapid acceptance or declination.
Mobile and Phone Access: Districts like Granite School District provide substitutes with mobile app options, such as the Frontline app, and phone-based access to view and accept jobs, offering flexibility and real-time updates.
Priority and Preferred Lists: Some districts implement priority systems that favor substitutes with consistent work histories or specialized skills, while SLCSD requires active substitutes to accept at least one job every 90 days to maintain eligibility for priority calls.
Regional and District Differences: Policies differ across districts; for example, Jordan School District emphasizes compensation for canceled assignments and mandates fingerprinting and background checks per state law, while SLCSD requires district-specific training within 20 days of hire.
Assignment Timing and Flexibility: Assignments may be offered as early as 6:00 in the morning, reflecting the unpredictable nature of absences, with substitutes having the option to refuse assignments and encouraged to communicate availability for optimal placement.
Use of Background Checks and Compliance: All districts require substitutes to complete criminal background checks and comply with state administrative rules, ensuring safety and regulatory adherence across Utah.

Those interested in advancing their qualifications may explore what is the best online teaching degree program to complement their substitute teaching credentials.

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

Substitute teaching in Utah serves as a viable entry point for educators aiming to secure full-time teaching roles. The experience gained through substitute assignments is highly valued by school districts, which often consider substitutes as promising candidates for permanent positions.

Acquiring Practical Experience: Substitute teachers develop essential classroom management and instructional skills across multiple subjects and grade levels, enhancing their qualifications for full-time roles.
Establishing Professional Connections: Consistent substitute work enables educators to build relationships with school administrators and staff, whose positive evaluations can strengthen applications for permanent positions.
Familiarity with District Protocols: Participation in required trainings and orientations helps substitutes understand district-specific policies and resources, signaling readiness for full-time responsibilities.
Fulfillment of Employment Criteria: Eligibility for advancement requires substitutes to maintain active status through periodic work, complete annual training, and pass background and fingerprint checks as mandated by state and district regulations.
Application Process for Full-Time Roles: When vacancies arise, substitutes are encouraged to apply through official district channels, leveraging their experience and internal recommendations.
Demonstrating Reliability and Effectiveness: A consistent record of dependable service, particularly in extended assignments, positions substitutes favorably for long-term teaching opportunities.

One substitute teacher from Utah shared insights on his journey, highlighting both challenges and rewards. He reflected on the initial uncertainty of balancing various classroom environments and the pressure to quickly adapt to different teaching styles, yet emphasized how these experiences cultivated his resilience and versatility.

"Each day brought new hurdles," he noted, "but also a deeper understanding of student needs and school culture." He described the emotional satisfaction of forming connections with students and staff, which motivated him to pursue a full-time role.

How quickly do substitutes typically transition to permanent teaching?

How much do substitute teachers make in Utah?

The average substitute teacher pay in Utah is approximately $18.49 per hour, which equates to an annual salary near $38,458 as of June 2025. The utah substitute teacher salary range varies widely, with reported earnings from $28,200 at the 25th percentile to $45,500 at the 75th percentile, and top earners reaching up to $56,443 annually.

Hourly and Daily Rates by District: Pay differs significantly based on the school district; for instance, Granite School District offers hourly wages between $19.18 and $25.84, with daily rates ranging from $134.26 to $180.88 for a seven-hour day.
Credential Type: Substitute teachers with higher qualifications or teaching licenses receive increased compensation, as seen in districts like Granite, which rewards associate, bachelor’s, or teaching degrees with higher pay.
Length of Assignment: Long-term assignments generally yield additional pay; Granite School District adds $15 more per day for 10–34 day assignments and $50 extra for assignments beyond 35 days.
District and Location Differences: Urban districts such as Salt Lake City and Davis tend to offer higher daily rates, with Salt Lake City paying between $140 and $220 per day depending on length and credentials.
Job Market and Opportunities: Utah ranks last among states for substitute teacher salaries, which may limit job openings, yet the variability in pay suggests opportunities exist for advancement based on experience and demand.

Those considering substitute teaching in Utah might explore obtaining an elementary education degree online to improve qualifications and increase earning potential within this salary landscape. As shown in the chart below, academic ceredentials play a vital role in a substitute teacher's earning potential.

What professional development options are available to substitute teachers in Utah?

Substitute teachers seeking to advance their careers can benefit from targeted professional training and continuing education opportunities that enhance classroom management skills and instructional techniques. In addition to district-provided workshops and seminars, various accredited programs offer specialized short courses designed to address contemporary challenges in education. Educators are encouraged to investigate emerging training modules and enroll in advanced instructional programs which may further qualify them for expanded roles. For instance, exploring the different types of teaching certifications and requirements in Utah can help identify credentials that not only broaden their expertise but also serve as stepping stones toward permanent teaching roles.

How do I navigate the substitute teaching application process in Utah?

Candidates should confirm all district-specific documentation requirements, complete background checks, and secure any necessary training before applying. A well-organized portfolio and timely communication with local human resources departments can facilitate a smooth transition. For more detailed steps on preparation and compliance, refer to how to become a substitute teacher in Utah.

What is the job outlook for substitute teachers in Utah?

The substitute teacher job outlook in Utah remains robust due to ongoing statewide demand driven by multiple factors. This demand creates opportunities for those pursuing flexible employment or entering the education profession. Key areas with the highest substitute teacher demand in Utah include:

Salt Lake City School District: Ongoing Demand Due to Absenteeism and District Policies – The district requires substitutes to work at least one day every 90 days to stay active, reflecting a steady need to cover frequent teacher absences and maintain educational continuity.
Granite School District: High Absentee Rates and Emergency Measures – Acute shortages during events such as the omicron surge led to calls for community support and executive orders allowing state employees to serve as substitutes, highlighting persistent staffing challenges.
Statewide (Including Rural and Fast-Growing Areas): Teacher Shortages and Enrollment Growth – Utah faces significant teacher shortages worsened by population growth and limited local hiring pools, increasing reliance on substitutes in rapidly expanding and rural regions.
General Trend Across Utah: Increased Substitute Placement to Address Vacancies – Many districts rely on substitutes daily to fill short- and long-term vacancies, sometimes covering entire school years without full-time teachers, underscoring the critical role substitutes play in school operations.

Given this strong substitute teacher demand in Utah, individuals interested in entering education will find ample opportunities. For those considering further qualification, programs featured in the ranking of affordable online library science masters degrees can complement teaching credentials and enhance career prospects in educational settings.

To highlight the impact of this ongoing demand, the image below shows how public schools in Utah cover classes during staff shortages.

How are public schools covering classes during shortages?

What ethical standards do substitute teachers adhere to in Utah?

Substitute teachers in Utah are held to stringent ethical standards designed to protect student welfare and uphold professional integrity. These standards encompass confidentiality, inclusivity, adherence to district rules, and maintaining appropriate professional boundaries.

Utah’s regulations, supported by legislative measures, emphasize consistent training and accountability to ensure substitutes contribute positively to the educational environment.

Student Confidentiality: Substitute teachers must safeguard all student information, avoiding disclosure of academic records or personal details except to authorized personnel, in compliance with state law and district policies.
Creating a Safe and Inclusive Environment: Teachers are expected to foster classrooms where every student feels respected and valued, with a growing emphasis on sensitivity to diverse backgrounds and family structures.
Compliance with District Policies: Substitutes must follow all local school rules and ethics codes, including mandatory training on conduct standards, especially when employed through staffing agencies.
Maintaining Professional Boundaries: Private communication with students outside approved channels is prohibited to prevent boundary violations, ensuring interactions remain professional and transparent.
Avoiding Conflicts of Interest: Accepting gifts or favors that could influence teaching impartiality is forbidden, aligning with the Utah Public Officers’ and Employees’ Ethics Act.
Ensuring Fair Treatment: Ethical conduct requires equitable treatment of all students, firmly opposing any form of discrimination or harassment.
Reporting Obligations and Accountability: Substitutes must promptly report suspected abuse or unsafe conditions and understand that ethical breaches may lead to disciplinary measures, including dismissal.
Responsible Use of Technology: Communication with students via personal devices or social media is restricted to official channels to protect privacy and maintain professionalism.
Commitment to Professionalism: Utah districts reserve the right to enforce disciplinary actions for unethical behavior, reinforcing the expectation of integrity in every assignment.
State-Specific Training Requirements: Legislative efforts such as SB198 mandate sensitivity and ethics training for substitutes, particularly those hired externally, highlighting Utah’s dedication to ethical standards.

When I spoke with a substitute teacher from Utah who regularly covers high school math classes, she emphasized how following the state’s ethical guidelines helps her navigate different classrooms while respecting each school’s culture and policies.

She also shared that maintaining confidentiality can be challenging, especially with sensitive student issues, but knowing the boundaries builds trust with students and staff. Sensitivity training also helped her appreciate diverse student backgrounds and create a safe, respectful classroom atmosphere, showing how Utah’s ethical standards protect students and support a positive environment for substitutes.

What are the benefits received by substitute teachers in Utah?

Substitute teaching in Utah offers a variety of benefits designed to support and incentivize educators who choose this flexible career path. Understanding these benefits is essential for individuals considering substitute teaching roles, as they can significantly enhance job satisfaction and financial stability. The following overview highlights key perks and incentives commonly available to substitute teachers in Utah, reflecting policies from various districts across the state.

Flexible Scheduling: Substitute teaching allows educators to select assignments that fit their personal availability, making it an attractive option for those seeking part-time or occasional work, including students and retirees.
Competitive Daily Rates: Pay rates in Utah are competitive, with averages around $18.49 per hour. Some districts, such as Granite School District, offer tiered pay scales based on education level, rewarding licensed teachers with higher hourly wages.
Long-Term Assignment Bonuses: Many districts provide additional compensation for extended service. For example, Jordan School District increases daily pay for substitutes working 10 to 34 consecutive days and offers a larger bonus for those serving 35 or more days consecutively.
Cancelation Compensation: To mitigate lost income from last-minute cancellations, some districts compensate substitutes for a minimum number of hours if assignments are canceled shortly before the start time, ensuring some financial stability.
Professional Development and Training: Ongoing training is often required, such as the annual sessions mandated in Salt Lake City School District, which help substitutes develop skills and remain prepared for classroom challenges.
Job Security and Renewal: Active substitutes frequently benefit from automatic status renewal, simplifying re-employment and providing consistent opportunities within districts like Salt Lake City.
Retirement and Health Benefits: While most substitute teachers do not qualify for full-time employee benefits, some districts may offer limited access to retirement plans or health insurance based on minimum work hours, though this varies by location.

These benefits make substitute teaching a viable and rewarding option for many education professionals in Utah. Prospective substitutes seeking to enhance their qualifications and potentially increase their salary with online masters degree in education will find these incentives particularly advantageous when evaluating their career options.

What are the common challenges for substitute teachers in Utah?

Substitute teachers in Utah encounter a range of challenges that affect their performance and job satisfaction. These issues are common to substitute teaching nationwide but are intensified by conditions specific to Utah’s education system. Below are the primary obstacles faced by substitutes working within the state:

Inconsistent Scheduling: Substitute teachers often experience unpredictable and irregular work assignments, making it difficult to organize their schedules and maintain stable income. This variability contributes to financial uncertainty and added stress.
Insufficient Training and Support: Many substitutes report feeling inadequately prepared due to limited professional development and minimal institutional backing. This lack of preparation complicates effective classroom management and the delivery of lesson plans.
Classroom Management Challenges: Managing student behavior can be particularly demanding when substitutes are unfamiliar with the school environment or student dynamics. This difficulty can hinder their ability to maintain engagement and uphold instructional continuity.
Restricted Access to Benefits: Unlike full-time educators, substitute teachers often do not receive benefits such as health insurance or retirement plans, which can affect their financial security, especially if substitute teaching constitutes their primary source of income.

Utah’s acute shortage of substitute teachers exacerbates these challenges, driven by rising teacher absences and the ongoing struggle to fill daily vacancies. Incentives like financial bonuses have been introduced to attract more substitutes, underscoring the critical nature of this workforce gap within the state’s public education system.

What Substitute Teachers in Utah Say About Their Careers

Choosing to be a substitute teacher in Utah has given me the flexibility I needed to balance work and family life perfectly. The average salary is competitive enough to support my goals, and I appreciate how each day brings a new experience and classroom. It’s truly rewarding to make an impact while managing my own schedule. Jazz
Starting as a substitute teacher in Utah opened doors I didn’t expect. The opportunities for advancement into full-time teaching roles and specialized educational positions have been encouraging, and the district’s support throughout my journey has been invaluable. It’s a career path that offers real growth if you’re willing to pursue it. Symone
Utah’s professional development programs for substitute teachers are fantastic and have helped me refine my skills and stay current with educational trends. The training sessions are practical and engaging, which makes me feel confident stepping into any classroom. This ongoing learning has made my substitute teaching experience deeply fulfilling. Arlena

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

Is substitute teaching in Utah a good career option?

Choosing to become a substitute teacher in Utah offers a practical and flexible entry point into the education field, especially for students, recent graduates, or career changers. According to the Utah State Board of Education, substitute teaching provides valuable classroom experience and the opportunity to build professional connections within local school districts.

Utah's growing student population, which increased by over 10% in the last decade, drives a steady demand for qualified substitutes, making this role a stable option in the state's education labor market. Additionally, substitute teachers in Utah typically enjoy competitive daily rates ranging from $100 to $140, depending on the district, while benefiting from flexible schedules that can accommodate other commitments.

Can substitute teachers work in special education classrooms in Utah?

In Utah, substitute teachers can work in special education classrooms; however, placement often depends on the substitute’s qualifications and the specific needs of the student population. The Utah State Board of Education requires substitutes to hold at least a valid substitute teaching license, but working in special education may require additional training or experience with students who have disabilities.

Therefore, while it is possible for substitute teachers to work in special education classrooms, successful placement usually depends on demonstrated competency or specific district policies designed to protect the quality of special education services.

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

In Utah, a substitute teaching permit is typically issued for a specific school district or educational setting, which means that one permit does not generally allow a substitute teacher to work across multiple types of schools, such as public, charter, and private institutions. This limitation exists because each school type or district may have distinct administrative requirements, policies, and background check processes that must be individually fulfilled.

Consequently, substitute teachers must obtain separate permits or approvals for each school type or district where they wish to work, ensuring compliance with local regulations and maintaining the safety and standards expected in different educational environments.

How do substitute teachers in Utah handle student behavior issues?

Substitute teachers in Utah are expected to maintain a positive and orderly classroom environment by using proactive strategies such as clear communication of expectations, consistent routines, and positive reinforcement to manage student behavior. When behavioral issues arise, substitutes typically follow the established classroom management plans set by the regular teacher or school administration.

However, substitutes face limitations in disciplinary authority; they generally cannot impose formal disciplinary actions such as suspensions or detentions without administrative support. Instead, they must report significant behavior concerns to school officials or permanent staff for further intervention.

References:

BLS. (2025). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: Utah. data.bls.gov.
ClickView. (2024, October 25). 9 Classroom Management Strategies for substitute teachers. clickvieweducation.com.
Davis School District. (n.d.). Subsystems Home Page. davis.k12.ut.us.
Granite School District. (2025, April 1). Human Resources. graniteschools.org.
Ginis, A. (2024, September 30). How to manage disruptive behavior as a substitute teacher - Swing Education. swingeducation.com.
Needs Focused Teaching. (n.d.). Classroom management for supply teachers, substitute teachers. needsfocusedteaching.com.
Park City School District. (n.d.). Substitute Information. pcschools.us.
PublicSchoolWORKS. (2024, October 23). Preparing substitute teachers for success - PublicSchoolWORKS. corp.publicschoolworks.com.
Salt Lake City School District. (n.d.). Substitutes. slcschools.org.
Senya. (n.d.). How To Become a Substitute in Utah. senya.app.
Zippia. (2025, January 8). Substitute Teacher Demographics and Statistics [2025]: Number of substitute teachers in the US. zippia.com.