Substitute Teaching License & Requirements in Virginia for 2025

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Being a substitute teacher in Virginia will give you a unique opportunity to engage with diverse classrooms while contributing meaningfully to the education system. This role can be both fulfilling and flexible, allowing you to gain valuable experience without the long-term commitment of a full-time teaching position. And Virginia is a great place to be one as its educational institutions often seek substitutes to ensure continuity in learning.

This article will provide you with a clear overview of the necessary steps and requirements for becoming a substitute teacher in Virginia. It will help you make informed decisions as you embark on a journey towards a future career.

Key Points About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Virginia

Virginia requires substitute teachers to hold at least a bachelor’s degree and obtain a substitute teaching license, typically issued by the local school division’s human resources department.
The job outlook in Virginia is steady due to ongoing teacher shortages and increased demand for flexible, qualified substitutes across diverse school districts.
Substitute teachers in Virginia earn an average salary around $100 to $125 per day, making it an accessible entry point into education with room for growth and experience.

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

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

Becoming a substitute teacher in Virginia involves meeting specific educational and licensing criteria designed to ensure that candidates are prepared and qualified to support classroom instruction effectively. These requirements include:

Minimum Age and Education: Applicants must be at least 18 years old and hold a high school diploma or GED, establishing a baseline for educational readiness.
Experience Requirements: Candidates need two years of full-time postsecondary education or two years of work experience with children, ensuring relevant exposure to educational environments or child-related work.
Application Process: Prospective substitutes apply online through their target school district, often providing professional references to demonstrate reliability and competence.
Background Check and Fingerprinting: A thorough criminal background check and fingerprinting are mandatory, reflecting a strong commitment to student safety.
Orientation and Training: Districts require attendance at orientation sessions covering policies, classroom management, and emergency procedures, with some agencies offering additional training to better prepare substitutes.
Licensing for Long-Term Assignments: While no formal teaching license or certification exam is required for daily substitute teaching, those assigned for more than 90 consecutive days must hold a valid teaching license to maintain instructional quality.

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

Virginia offers several types of substitute teaching permits, each designed to accommodate different qualifications and teaching needs. Understanding these options can help prospective substitutes determine the best path to enter the classroom.

Daily Substitute License: This permit allows individuals to substitute teach on a day‑to‑day basis without holding a full teaching license. It requires a high school diploma or equivalent and is ideal for those seeking occasional substitute work.
Annual Substitute License: Intended for those who plan to substitute teach more regularly, this license requires either 60 college credit hours or a bachelor's degree. It grants permission to substitute for an entire school year in any grade or subject area.
Career Switcher Alternative License: Designed for professionals transitioning into education, this permit enables individuals with subject matter expertise but no teaching experience to work as substitutes while pursuing full licensure.
Temporary License: Issued to candidates who have been offered a teaching position but have not yet completed all licensure requirements. While primarily for full-time teachers, it can sometimes apply to long-term substitute roles.

These permit options reflect Virginia’s flexibility in addressing the varying backgrounds of substitute teachers, recognizing that quality instruction can come from diverse experiences and educational paths.

How do substitute teachers renew their teaching permit in Virginia?

Understanding how do substitute teachers renew their teaching permit in Virginia is essential for maintaining active status and continuing to contribute effectively in classrooms. The renewal process is structured to ensure that substitute teachers remain current with educational standards and professional development throughout their careers.

Meeting the Virginia substitute teacher license renewal requirements involves these clearly defined steps designed to uphold the quality of instruction:

Understand License Type and Term: Since July 1, 2018, substitute teaching licenses in Virginia are issued for ten years instead of five. Renewals must comply with the newer ten-year standards, which require accumulating 270 professional development points.
Accumulate Professional Development Points: Substitute teachers must earn 270 points through activities such as accredited graduate courses, workshops, or approved professional development aligned with their educational goals and competencies.
Satisfy Statutory Renewal Requirements: In addition to points, substitutes must complete state-mandated trainings like child abuse recognition and technology standards to meet statutory obligations.
Obtain Required Approvals: All professional development activities should be pre-approved by the chief executive officer or designee of the employing school division to ensure compliance with local and state standards.
Document and Submit Renewal Materials: Maintaining thorough records, including transcripts and certificates, is essential. Renewal applications are submitted online through the VALO portal starting January 1 of the license expiration year.
Observe Reciprocity and Deadlines: Professional development points earned in one Virginia school division count statewide, providing flexibility. Timely submission after January 1 of the expiration year is crucial to avoid license lapses.

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How many substitute teachers want to pursue teacher certification?

How do substitute teachers receive assignments in Virginia districts?

In Virginia, the process by which substitute teachers receive assignments reflects a thoughtful blend of technology, policy, and regional adaptation designed to support both educators and school districts efficiently. Understanding these steps can help prospective substitutes navigate the system with greater ease and confidence.

Online Application Portals: Most districts require substitutes to register and submit all necessary documents through centralized online job portals, streamlining application management and ensuring compliance with state requirements.
Approval and Onboarding: After meeting education criteria and passing background checks, substitutes join district-approved pools and often attend orientation sessions to align with local policies and classroom expectations.
Automated Assignment Systems: Assignments are typically managed via automated platforms, including district-specific tools or third-party services like Absence Management, which notify substitutes through calls, emails, texts, or apps for quick job acceptance.
Priority and Preferred Lists: Certain districts use preferred substitute lists that prioritize reliable or subject-expert substitutes, allowing them early access to assignments and fostering stronger school-substitute relationships.
Assignment Acceptance Process: Substitutes review details such as location and lesson plans before accepting jobs, with most assignments filled on a first-come, first-served basis unless priority systems apply.
Regional Variations: While automation is common, some rural or smaller districts may rely on manual notifications via calls or emails, reflecting Virginia’s diverse educational landscape.
Technology and Innovation: Mobile-friendly platforms enable substitutes to manage availability and accept assignments flexibly, enhancing transparency and job satisfaction across the state.

The chart below shows how most substitute teachers in the U.S. want to learn about available substitute teaching assignments.

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

In Virginia, substitute teaching often serves as a valuable stepping stone toward securing a full-time teaching position. While it does not automatically result in permanent employment, the substitute role offers key opportunities to build experience and professional connections within school communities.

Here are some key things to remember:

Practical Classroom Experience: Serving as a substitute allows educators to hone their classroom management and instructional skills while adapting to various school environments across the state.
Building Professional Relationships: Frequent substitute assignments increase visibility among school leaders and staff, which can lead to referrals or early notice of full-time vacancies.
Regulatory Limits on Assignments: Virginia law restricts substitutes to a maximum of 90 school days in the same position per year, encouraging schools to seek licensed teachers for longer-term needs.
Applying for Full-Time Roles: Substitutes are eligible to apply for permanent teaching openings as they arise, often gaining an advantage due to proven reliability and familiarity with the school culture.
Mandatory Background Checks: Both substitutes and full-time teachers must undergo fingerprinting and background screening to ensure student safety.
Certification Assessments: Transitioning to a permanent role requires passing professional teaching evaluations as mandated by the Virginia Board of Education.
Orientation and Additional Training: New full-time teachers, including those promoted from substitute positions, participate in district orientation and any required ongoing professional development.

A substitute teacher from Virginia shared that moving from substitute to full-time was both challenging and rewarding, explaining, “At first, it felt like being on the sidelines, but each day in the classroom was a chance to show what I could do.”

Navigating the 90-day limit meant juggling assignments at different schools, which tested his adaptability and perseverance. He emphasized the value of building relationships with administrators and passing certification assessments to prove his commitment and skills. The relief and excitement of finally attending orientation as a full-time teacher marked a new chapter, showing how substitute teaching can open doors with patience and professionalism.

How much do substitute teachers make in Virginia?

Understanding the substitute teacher license and requirements in Virginia involves recognizing how compensation aligns with qualifications and experience. When considering the substitute teacher salary in Virginia, the average pay range typically falls between $30,700 and $49,600 annually, with hourly wages near $18.36. This range reflects a combination of factors influencing earnings throughout the state. These factors include:

Credential Type: Substitute pay varies based on credentials, with those holding full teaching licenses or advanced degrees often earning higher daily or long-term rates compared to individuals with provisional credentials or only a high school diploma.
Length and Type of Assignment: Longer-term assignments generally offer increased daily pay—sometimes exceeding $267—alongside potential benefits, compared to short-term or day-to-day roles.
District Policies: Each school district sets its own pay rates based on local budgets, demand, and cost of living, resulting in significant variation across Virginia’s urban, suburban, and rural areas.
Location Differences: Geographic location plays a key role, with areas like Charlottesville offering hourly wages above $20, while other regions may provide lower compensation. Northern Virginia and metropolitan vicinities tend to pay the most.

For those exploring "how much do substitute teachers make in Virginia," it is wise to evaluate local district pay scales and consider pursuing higher credentials or longer assignments. Additionally, candidates might benefit from reviewing a ranking of affordable online education degree programs to enhance qualifications and access better pay opportunities within the education field.

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

In Virginia, substitute teachers can access targeted training and skill-building programs that enhance instructional effectiveness and classroom management. Districts, educational organizations, and accredited institutions offer workshops, seminars, and online courses specifically tailored to the substitute teaching role. These opportunities enable educators to update their teaching methods, adapt to diverse classroom settings, and meet evolving educational standards. Pursuing advanced credentials through our article on the types of teaching certifications and requirements in Virginia further supports career advancement while broadening instructional expertise.

What is the job outlook for substitute teachers in Virginia?

The substitute teacher license and requirements in Virginia align closely with the state's growing demand for substitute educators. The substitute teacher job outlook in Virginia is notably strong due to persistent teacher shortages and increasing student populations across diverse regions. Understanding where this demand is most acute can guide prospective teachers in making informed career decisions.

Northern Virginia - High Enrollment and Diverse Needs: Rapid population growth in areas like Fairfax and Loudoun counties leads to frequent teacher absences and a significant need for substitutes to maintain classroom continuity.
Richmond Metropolitan Area: Teacher Shortages and Urban Challenges: The Richmond area faces high teacher turnover and absenteeism, with a limited pool of qualified substitutes contributing to ongoing staffing difficulties.
Hampton Roads: Limited Local Hiring Pool: Competition with private sector jobs and a shortage of certified educators make recruiting substitutes challenging in Norfolk and Virginia Beach districts.
Southwest Virginia: Rural Staffing Difficulties: Smaller populations and fewer qualified applicants result in acute substitute shortages, amplified by high vacancy rates in full-time teaching positions.
Statewide: Persistent Teacher Vacancies: The 2022–23 school year saw a shortage of 3,573 teachers statewide, fueling demand for substitutes to cover both temporary and long-term vacancies.

These regional differences highlight the varied landscape of substitute teaching opportunities in Virginia. For those considering entering this field, exploring pathways such as the most affordable masters degrees in teaching online can enhance qualifications and improve prospects. With districts implementing incentives and enhanced training programs, the outlook for substitutes remains promising, especially in areas where staffing challenges persist.

What ethical standards do substitute teachers adhere to in Virginia?

Substitute teachers in Virginia are entrusted with maintaining a professional and ethical presence that fosters a respectful and effective learning environment. Their role demands adherence to principles that safeguard students’ well-being and uphold the integrity of the educational system. The Virginia Department of Education’s guidelines emphasize these core responsibilities, which form the foundation of ethical conduct expected from substitutes.

Confidentiality and Privacy: Protecting student information is paramount. Substitute teachers must ensure that all student records and personal details remain confidential, reinforcing trust among students, parents, and staff.
Creating an Inclusive Environment: It is vital to cultivate a classroom atmosphere free from bias, where diversity in race, culture, ethnicity, and religion is respected and valued. This inclusiveness encourages open dialogue and equal learning opportunities for all students.
Adherence to District Policies: Substitute teachers are required to follow the protocols and regulations established by local school districts and the Virginia Department of Education. This includes managing sensitive topics carefully and maintaining impartiality during classroom discussions.
Avoiding Conflicts of Interest: Maintaining the school’s reputation and the educational mission involves steering clear of any actions that could be interpreted as conflicts of interest. Substitutes must prioritize the welfare of students and colleagues in all professional interactions.

A substitute teacher from Virginia reflected on her experiences navigating ethical demands, describing how balancing student confidentiality with effective communication was often challenging in fast-paced schools. “There’s a deep responsibility in knowing when to speak up and when to protect privacy,” she shared, adding that fostering inclusivity and addressing cultural differences helped create safer spaces for students.

“It’s about more than just teaching lessons—it’s about modeling respect and fairness,” she continued. Her story shows that beyond rules and policies, the heart of ethical substitute teaching is genuine care and professionalism that supports student success in Virginia’s diverse classrooms.

What are the benefits received by substitute teachers in Virginia?

Exploring the benefits and incentives tied to substitute teaching in Virginia reveals a rewarding pathway for those considering flexible work in education. Understanding these advantages can help prospective substitutes assess how this role fits within their career goals and personal circumstances. Below is an overview of common benefits and some unique incentives that make substitute teaching in Virginia appealing.

Flexible Scheduling: Substitute teaching offers significant flexibility, allowing educators to select assignments that align with their personal availability. This flexibility is especially valuable for individuals balancing other commitments or seeking part-time work options.
Competitive Pay Rates: Pay varies by district and qualifications, with long-term substitutes holding a bachelor’s degree or active Virginia teaching credentials earning notably higher rates. For instance, licensed substitutes in some areas can earn up to $37.30 per hour.
Additional Compensation for Classified Staff: Certain districts like Prince William County provide unique incentives such as an extra $7.50 per hour for full-time classified employees who substitute during their regular hours.
Access to Health Insurance for Substitute Teachers in Virginia: Some permanent substitute roles come with health benefits, including medical and dental coverage similar to full-time staff plans, offering valuable security for those in longer-term positions.
Retirement Plan Eligibility: Long-term substitutes may qualify for contributions to the Virginia Retirement System (VRS), enhancing future financial stability beyond immediate earnings.
Professional Development Opportunities: Substitute teachers often have access to training and development resources sponsored by districts, supporting growth and effectiveness in the classroom.
Pathways to Full-Time Employment: Serving as a substitute frequently acts as a stepping stone toward permanent teaching roles, allowing individuals to gain experience and build relationships within school communities.
Recognition of Qualifications: Higher pay and preferred assignments are available to substitutes with formal credentials, reflecting the state’s emphasis on educational qualifications.

For those interested in expanding their credentials and exploring options and jobs with a masters in education degree, this role can be an effective entry point and a source of valuable experience.

How many substitute teachers transitioned to teaching in other districts?

What are the common challenges for substitute teachers in Virginia?

Substitute teaching in Virginia presents a range of challenges that affect both the educators and the schools they serve. These issues, often reported by local districts and educators, underscore the complexities of maintaining a stable and effective substitute workforce. The following points highlight some of the most common difficulties faced by substitutes across the state.

Unpredictable Scheduling: Substitute teachers frequently deal with last-minute assignments or cancellations, making it difficult to maintain consistent work and personal scheduling. This irregularity impacts financial stability and long-term commitment to substitute roles.
Substitute Teacher Shortages: Many Virginia districts struggle to keep enough substitutes, a problem intensified since the pandemic. This shortage increases pressure on regular staff and sometimes forces administrators to cover classes, disrupting school operations.
Limited Benefits Access: Unlike full-time educators, substitutes rarely receive benefits such as health insurance or paid leave, which discourages many from viewing substitute teaching as a sustainable career path and contributes to high turnover.
Insufficient Training: Most substitutes receive minimal preparation before entering classrooms, often limited to basic onboarding and background checks. This lack of comprehensive training leaves them ill-equipped to manage classrooms effectively or navigate school policies.
Classroom Management Challenges: Managing unfamiliar students and routines without established relationships can lead to discipline issues and diminished instructional effectiveness, especially in schools with high teacher absenteeism.
Low Pay and Wage Concerns: Despite some recent pay increases, such as in Fairfax County, substitute wages remain low compared to job demands and living costs, contributing to financial uncertainty for many substitutes.
Communication and Support Deficits: Substitutes often feel undervalued due to poor communication regarding assignments and expectations. Strong administrative support and clear communication are critical for improving substitute retention.
Regional Specific Challenges: Areas serving military families face additional difficulties, including frequent relocations and restricted access, which complicate recruitment and retention efforts uniquely within these communities.

What are the pathways for career growth beyond substitute teaching in Virginia?

Substitute teaching often serves as a launching pad toward more stable, long-term roles in education. Proactive strategies—such as pursuing advanced certifications, participating in targeted professional development programs, and seeking mentorship from seasoned educators—can significantly enhance career prospects. Building a robust network with administrators and peers further opens pathways to opportunities in full-time classroom instruction or administration. For additional details on foundational requirements and strategic career steps, explore how to become a substitute teacher in Virginia.

Here's What Substitute Teachers in Virginia Have to Say About Their Careers

Working as a substitute teacher in Virginia has given me the flexibility I needed to balance my family life while still earning a competitive salary. On average, substitute teachers here make around $100 per day, which is great for part-time work with meaningful impact. I love knowing I can step in and make a difference whenever schools need me. Kylie
Starting as a substitute teacher opened doors I didn’t expect, including opportunities to move into full-time teaching roles and leadership positions within the school district. Virginia’s school systems really value substitutes and often provide pathways for career advancement. It’s rewarding to see how this job can evolve beyond just day-to-day classroom coverage. Hunter
The professional development programs available to substitute teachers in Virginia are exceptional. Through workshops and training sessions, I’ve grown my classroom management skills and stayed current with educational best practices, which truly boosts my confidence and effectiveness in the classroom. This commitment to ongoing learning makes me feel respected and supported in my role. Georgia

Other Things You Should Know About Substitute Teaching License & Requirements in Virginia

Is substitute teaching in Virginia a good career option?

Becoming a substitute teacher in Virginia offers a flexible and practical entry into education, especially for students, recent graduates, and career changers. Substitutes play a vital role in maintaining instruction while upholding professionalism, confidentiality, and respect for all students. According to the Virginia Department of Education, daily rates often range from $90 to $130, reflecting the value placed on qualified substitutes.

This role provides valuable classroom experience, networking opportunities, and exposure to different grade levels and subjects, all while meeting steady demand in larger districts and supporting schools in delivering consistent learning.

Can substitute teachers work in special education classrooms in Virginia?

In Virginia, substitute teachers can work in special education classrooms, but there are specific requirements and considerations. According to the Virginia Department of Education, substitutes assigned to special education settings should have appropriate training or experience related to the needs of students with disabilities. This ensures they can effectively support individualized education programs (IEPs) and manage diverse learning needs.

While a general substitute teaching license permits work across various classrooms, school divisions often prefer or require substitutes in special education to have additional qualifications or prior experience in special education to maintain a high standard of care and instructional support. Thus, while it is possible for substitutes to work in special education, readiness and suitability are key factors determined at the district level.

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

In Virginia, a substitute teaching permit is generally specific to the type of school or educational setting for which it is issued, meaning you cannot use a single permit to substitute teach across multiple school types such as public, private, or special education institutions. This limitation exists because each school category often has distinct regulatory requirements and standards for substitute teachers, reflecting differences in curriculum, student needs, and administrative policies.

Consequently, substitute teachers must obtain the appropriate permit or authorization that corresponds to the specific school type where they intend to work, ensuring they meet the necessary qualifications and comply with state and local education guidelines.

How do substitute teachers in Virginia handle student behavior issues?

Substitute teachers in Virginia play an important role in keeping classrooms orderly but have limited authority to handle serious behavior issues compared to full-time teachers. They’re expected to follow the classroom rules and lesson plans provided, using positive strategies like clear communication, consistent expectations, and calm redirection for minor disruptions.

According to the Virginia Department of Education, formal disciplinary actions such as suspensions or detentions must be handled by permanent staff or administrators. Substitutes are encouraged to document incidents and report them promptly, ensuring a safe learning environment while respecting the boundaries of their temporary role.

References:

Kelly Education. (n.d.). How to become a substitute teacher in Virginia. myKelly.
Roach, J.C. (2023, January). Monthly Labor Review: Substitute teachers needed: closing the gap on supply versus demand. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Rockingham County Public Schools - Virginia. (n.d.). Become a Substitute! RCPS.
United States Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 3). Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics | 25-3031 Substitute Teachers, Short-Term. BLS.
Virginia Beach City Public Schools. (n.d.). Substitute Guidelines/Procedures. vbchools.com.
Virginia Beach School Board. (n.d.). Substitute Teachers 4-90.1. VB School Board.