How to become a substitute teacher in Louisiana.

To become a substitute teacher in Louisiana, you'll need to meet minimum requirements like having a high school diploma or GED, passing a background check, and completing an ethics course. Louisiana does not require a teaching license or special credentialing.

Keep in mind that each district can establish additional requirements. 

Minimum Louisiana substitute teacher requirements, at a glance*:

• Certification: None required 
• Education: Minimum is high school diploma or equivalent 
• Age: 18 years old 
• Employment verification to work in the U.S. 
• Fingerprinting 
• Public Servant Ethics Course 

In addition, Kelly Education requires:

• Background check  
• Pre-hire training 
• New hire orientation 

Kelly Education works with hundreds of school districts throughout the country, including in Louisiana. We know what’s required to become a substitute teacher in Louisiana. As experts, we’re here to help you understand the entire process so you can meet the requirements.  

A deeper dive into substitute teacher requirements.

The Louisiana Department of Education (DOE) does not require or issue special certificates or permits to become a substitute teacher. 

As with most jobs, the hiring timeline can vary from a few days to a few weeks to complete. Your prompt attention and engagement are crucial to getting you into the classroom sooner.  Let's take a closer look at those steps:

How do I submit education verification?

Applicants must have a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent. No additional certifications, college degrees, or college credits are required. If you do have college credits or a degree, it’s always a good idea to share that as well.  

• Contact your school's registrar’s office early to request official transcripts to avoid delays.

• The district or institution may have a small fee.
• You'll send them to the district (or Kelly Education if your district partners with us). 

Background check and fingerprinting. 

Each district does require fingerprints to be on file with that district. So, if working in multiple districts, the substitute teacher will need to fingerprint again for the additional district.  

Because safety is important to our schools and students, Kelly Education also runs a National Sex Offender registry check and county criminal check on all applicants.  

Do I need training to substitute teach in LA?

The state of Louisiana requires teachers to take the Public Servant Ethics Course . This one-hour training can be completed online and must be repeated each year.  

In addition, Kelly Education requires that our substitute teachers complete a free pre-hire Class Smarts online training that covers topics like ethics of teaching, legal obligations of educators, and classroom management techniques.  

Additionally, substitute teachers must complete our New Hire Orientation module before they can begin working in a classroom. This paid orientation discusses Kelly Education and district-specific procedures and policies.  

What do I need for employment verification?

Like most jobs, substitute teachers must provide proof that they can legally work in the U.S.

• To verify your eligibility, you'll submit a federal I-9 form with acceptable forms of identification.

• If working with a Kelly Education district partner, one of our recruiters will help you with this step.  

Getting started with Kelly Education.

Want to become a substitute teacher in Louisiana? We’re excited to help you get started on this flexible and rewarding career path.

Simply fill out our interest form , and a Kelly Education recruiter will get in touch with you to discuss our substitute teacher jobs  near you.  

* Information subject to change. This is a general guideline. School districts may have more requirements, in addition to state requirements. 

About the Author

Kelly Education powers more than 10,000 schools across the country with a workforce that keeps students learning every day. From recruiting and hiring to workforce management and professional development, we provide qualified people for mission-critical roles in our schools.