Prerequisites for Obtaining Certification
Complete all the requirements of the approved Substitute Authorization course.
Has achieved at least one of the following:
- A minimum of an associate's degree or 60 semester hours through a regionally-accredited institution OR
- Holds a Paraeducator Certification from the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners.
You can download an Instruction Sheet to help you complete the application.
Authority
- You will have the authority to substitute teach for a contracted teacher out on leave in any subject grades PK-12.
- You will not be able to serve as a long-term substitute.
- You will be limited to 10 days in a row in a 30-day period in the same assignment.
- You cannot fill open positions.
- Paraeducators who hold a paraeducator certificate with the limited substitute authorization may serve as a substitute only in their own special education classroom. If the paraeducator holds a full substitute authorization, they may serve as a substitute teacher in any classroom except Driver’s Ed.
Term of Certification
A Substitute Authorization is valid for five years.
Step 1: Complete Substitute Authorization Course
The Substitute Authorization course addresses the four components that the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners requires: Classroom Management, Strategies for Learning, Diversity and Ethics. For a list of statewide offerings and to register, visit:
Substitute Authorization – AEA Remote Learning Courses
Step 2: Submit an Application to the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners
The application instructions and assistance will be provided during the Substitute Authorization course. The Iowa Board of Educational Examiners’ application system is entirely online at its website.
Background Check & Fingerprinting
All new applicants for Iowa licensure must undergo a background check and fingerprinting as part of the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners’ application process. The application fee is currently $85, and the background check fee is $35 (+ a $3 convenience fee), payable to the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners (fees subject to change by BOEE). Applicants will complete their background screenings through Iowa Fieldprint and pay a fee of $34.35.
Licensure
Visit the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners' website for information about the licensure application and renewal process.
Employment Opportunities
Once you have obtained your Substitute Authorization, you can apply to your preferred school district(s).