2026 How to Become a Substitute Teacher in Alabama

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Becoming a substitute teacher in Alabama can be a practical way to enter education without committing immediately to a full-time teaching job or a degree program. For schools, substitutes help keep classes running when teachers are absent. For applicants, the role can provide flexible income, classroom experience, and a closer look at whether teaching is the right long-term career.

This guide explains the requirements, application steps, pay expectations, renewal process, legal limitations, and career paths for substitute teachers in Alabama. It is designed for first-time applicants, career changers, college students, retirees, and future teachers who want a clear path into the classroom.

Quick Answer: Key Things to Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Alabama

Start with your local district. Alabama substitute licenses are handled through the employing school district or private school administrator; applicants do not apply to the state independently.
Check the education rule before you apply. A high school diploma or GED is commonly listed as the baseline requirement, but some districts may prefer or require 60 college credit hours or a bachelor’s degree for certain assignments.
Expect fingerprinting and a background check. Applicants must complete an ABI/FBI fingerprint-based criminal history review before working with students.
Pay varies by district and assignment type. Daily rates may fall between $80 to $120 in some districts, while examples such as Baldwin County show higher rates of $115 to $306 depending on qualifications and vacancy length.
Substitute teaching is flexible but not always steady. You may choose available assignments, but income can change from week to week unless you secure long-term or permanent substitute work.
Professional reliability matters. Punctuality, classroom management, clear notes for the regular teacher, and respectful communication can lead to more frequent requests.

Table of Contents

Basic requirements to become a substitute teacher in Alabama
Training requirements for first-time substitute teachers
How to apply for substitute teaching jobs in Alabama
Substitute teacher pay in Alabama
How to renew or maintain a substitute license
Common substitute teacher responsibilities
How flexible substitute teaching schedules are
Benefits and protections for substitute teachers
How to move faster toward teacher certification
Ways to strengthen your substitute teaching credentials
Legal rights and limits for Alabama substitutes
Career advancement options
How to move into online teaching
Common challenges substitute teachers face
Long-term education career options
Questions to ask before applying
What Alabama substitute teachers report about the role
Are online substitute teacher training programs legitimate?
Is substitute teaching full-time employment?
Skills you can build as a substitute teacher
Should you substitute before becoming a full-time teacher?
References

What are the basic requirements to become a substitute teacher in Alabama?

Alabama’s substitute teaching process is district-driven. That means your local school system is usually your first point of contact, and it will tell you which documents, fees, and local steps apply. The state license is still important, but the employing superintendent or private school administrator must submit the substitute license application for you.

Requirement	What it means for applicants	Decision tip
Education	A high school diploma or state-approved equivalent such as a GED is commonly required. Some districts may prefer college credits, 60 college credit hours, or a bachelor’s degree.	Ask the district whether higher education affects eligibility, daily pay, or long-term substitute opportunities.
Age	Applicants must generally be at least 18 years old, although some districts may set the minimum at 21.	Verify the age rule with the district where you plan to work, not just with neighboring systems.
License	You need an Alabama Substitute Teacher License through the employing school district or private school administrator.	Do not send the state application directly unless your district specifically instructs you to do so.
Identity and employment documents	Districts may request proof of graduation, a current driver’s license, Social Security card, I-9 documents, and tax forms.	Prepare copies before visiting human resources to avoid delays.
Background review	An ABI/FBI fingerprint-based background check is required. Sources cite fingerprinting costs such as approximately $46.90 or $44.95 depending on the process used.	Follow the district’s fingerprinting instructions exactly, because using the wrong provider can slow approval.
State or application fee	Sources cite a $30 license fee and, in some application instructions, a $38 nonrefundable fee.	Confirm the current required payment with the district before submitting money or receipts.

If you see conflicting requirements online, rely on the school district’s human resources office and the Alabama State Department of Education process. Districts can add local screening steps, orientation rules, or pay categories beyond the state minimum.

If substitute teaching is part of a longer education career plan, it may also help to compare the role with future positions that require advanced credentials, including education jobs that may require a master’s degree.

What training is required for first-time substitute teachers in Alabama?

Alabama does not impose a statewide training course for every first-time substitute teacher. The required process focuses mainly on licensing, employment eligibility, and student safety. However, individual districts may provide orientation or ask new substitutes to complete local onboarding before accepting assignments.

Fingerprinting and criminal history clearance: Applicants complete a background check that includes Alabama Bureau of Investigation and FBI review, typically through an approved provider.
District-submitted Form SUB: The substitute license application, often called Form SUB, is submitted by the employing superintendent or private school administrator rather than by the applicant alone.
No universal state training class: Alabama does not require all new substitutes to complete a statewide preparation course, though districts may offer or require local sessions.
Processing time can vary: Approval may take from three days up to six weeks, depending on background check completion, local board procedures, and whether all documents are correct.
Fees apply: Applicants should plan for the application fee and fingerprinting costs before they begin.

Even when training is optional, it can be worth completing. New substitutes often benefit from practical preparation in classroom management, emergency procedures, special education awareness, student confidentiality, and using a district’s absence-management system.

If you are...	Training worth prioritizing	Why it helps
New to schools	Classroom management and school safety basics	You will be expected to keep order quickly, often without knowing students in advance.
A future certified teacher	Introductory teaching coursework or observation-based preparation	It can help you connect substitute experience to a licensure pathway.
Interested in long-term substitute work	Lesson delivery, grading expectations, and parent communication boundaries	Extended vacancies usually require more instructional consistency than one-day assignments.
Considering a degree	Accredited education coursework	A structured program can build the foundation needed for certified teaching roles.

Applicants who want to move beyond day-to-day substitute work may want to compare online teaching degree programs that fit Alabama certification goals.

How do you apply to become a substitute teacher in Alabama?

The safest way to apply is to treat the local district as the gatekeeper. Alabama districts may use different forms, board approval timelines, fingerprinting instructions, and scheduling systems. A complete application is not just about filling out Form SUB; it also requires employment documents, payment receipts, background clearance, and local approval.

Choose the district or private school where you want to work. Review its substitute teacher page or contact human resources for the current application packet.
Complete the Substitute License Application. Fill out Form SUB carefully, but follow the district’s submission instructions because the application is normally forwarded by the superintendent or administrator.
Gather supporting documents. Common items include a driver’s license copy, proof of high school graduation or equivalent, district forms, tax forms, and employment eligibility documents.
Pay the required fee. Some instructions cite a $38 nonrefundable fee through the ALSDE online payment system or by cashier’s check or money order; other sources cite a $30 license fee. Keep your receipt.
Complete fingerprinting. Districts may direct applicants to Fieldprint Alabama, with a typical cost cited as $44.95, or another approved fingerprinting process.
Wait for district and board processing. Your application may need local Board of Education approval and E-Verify employment eligibility confirmation.
Set up your substitute account. Once approved, you may receive a substitute teacher ID, login credentials, payroll access, and instructions for selecting assignments.

Application step	Common mistake	Better approach
Choosing a district	Applying based only on the closest school	Compare pay, assignment availability, grade levels, and onboarding support.
Submitting forms	Sending state paperwork directly without district approval	Ask human resources exactly where each form must go.
Fingerprinting	Using an unapproved process	Schedule fingerprinting through the provider named by the district.
Fee payment	Losing receipts	Save digital and paper copies until your license and payroll access are confirmed.
Starting assignments	Accepting jobs before understanding school procedures	Review arrival times, emergency plans, discipline rules, and technology expectations.

One realistic lesson from Alabama substitutes is that the process is manageable but detail-sensitive. The paperwork itself may be simple, but a missing receipt, wrong fingerprinting step, or delayed board approval can push back your start date. Keep a checklist and stay in contact with the district’s human resources office.

How many substitute teachers applied for permanent teaching jobs between 2019 and 2023?

How much do substitute teachers in Alabama make?

Substitute teacher pay in Alabama depends heavily on the district, your credentials, whether the assignment is daily or long-term, and whether you are classified as a permanent substitute. Pay should be evaluated by daily rate, expected number of workdays, commute time, benefits, and the likelihood of consistent assignments.

Sources cited for Alabama show an average substitute teacher salary of about $38,290 annually for permanent positions, or roughly $18.41 per hour. Many substitutes are reported in a yearly range from $28,100 to $45,300, while top earners may exceed $56,000. These figures should not be treated as guaranteed income for day-to-day substitutes because many substitutes work intermittently.

Pay measure	Figure cited	What to know before relying on it
Common daily range	$80 to $120 daily depending on district	This may reflect short-term or day-to-day substitute assignments in some districts.
Baldwin County example	$115 per day for substitutes with only a high school diploma	District examples can change, so confirm current rates directly.
Higher-qualified or certified example	Up to $180 or even $306 for extended vacancies	Higher rates may require certification, a degree, or a long-term assignment.
Permanent substitute average	About $38,290 annually, or roughly $18.41 per hour	Permanent substitute roles are different from occasional day-to-day work.
National comparison cited	Alabama average hourly wage of $14.56 versus the national average of $18.47	This comparison suggests pay is relatively low, but cost of living and district budgets also affect rates.

To improve earnings, focus on districts with higher daily rates, long-term vacancy opportunities, and pay increases for certified teachers or degree holders. If a teaching degree is your next step, compare affordable online education degree options before borrowing heavily for credentials.

How do you renew or maintain a substitute teaching certificate in Alabama?

Maintaining eligibility requires tracking your license status, background clearance, and district-specific requirements. Do not wait until assignments disappear from the scheduling system to check whether something has expired.

Use your AIM account. Create or access your Alabama State Department of Education Identity Management account and follow renewal steps through the ACE online platform when applicable.
Watch the renewal window. Renewal materials are commonly submitted between January 1 and June 30 during the certificate’s expiration year.
Keep background clearance current. Districts may require updated criminal history or fingerprint documentation before continuing assignments.
Follow district rules. Local requirements may include a renewal fee, annual orientation, substitute handbook acknowledgment, or updated employment paperwork.
Document professional development if requested. Although substitute licenses may not require specific training hours statewide, some districts may encourage or require local development activities.
Confirm approval before accepting work. Monitor your ACE or district account until your renewed status is active.

Renewal task	Why it matters	When to act
Check license expiration	An expired license may prevent you from receiving assignments.	Early in the expiration year.
Update background documents	Schools must maintain student safety compliance.	As soon as the district requests it.
Complete district onboarding	Local systems may change policies, platforms, or school safety procedures.	Before the school year or renewal deadline.
Save confirmation records	Proof of renewal can help resolve payroll or scheduling issues.	Immediately after approval.

What are the responsibilities of a substitute teacher in Alabama?

A substitute teacher’s main job is to protect instructional time and maintain a safe, orderly classroom while the regular teacher is away. The work may look simple from the outside, but a strong substitute must quickly interpret lesson plans, manage student behavior, follow school rules, and communicate clearly with staff.

Responsibility	What it usually involves	Why it matters
Following lesson plans	Delivering the teacher’s prepared activities, assignments, quizzes, or tests as closely as possible.	Students stay on pace and the regular teacher can resume instruction smoothly.
Classroom management	Enforcing school expectations, redirecting behavior, and keeping students engaged.	Safety and learning depend on consistent boundaries.
Attendance	Recording attendance according to school procedures.	Accurate records are required for safety and accountability.
Student supervision	Monitoring students during class, transitions, lunch, recess, or other assigned duties.	Substitutes share responsibility for student safety during the school day.
Technology use	Using projectors, computers, learning platforms, or classroom devices when needed.	Many lessons depend on digital materials and school systems.
Daily notes	Leaving a written summary of completed work, behavior issues, absences, and questions.	Good notes help the regular teacher recover lost context.
Policy compliance	Following confidentiality rules, emergency procedures, district policies, and state requirements.	Substitutes work with minors and must meet professional standards.

The best substitutes arrive early, read the lesson plan before students enter, learn nearby staff contacts, and avoid improvising unless the plan is missing or unsafe. If a lesson cannot be completed, explain why in your notes rather than guessing what the regular teacher would want.

How flexible is a substitute teacher’s schedule in Alabama?

Substitute teaching can be highly flexible because many districts allow substitutes to accept or decline available assignments. You may be able to choose workdays, schools, grade levels, and short-term versus longer assignments. This makes the role appealing for parents, retirees, graduate students, and people testing a career change into education.

The trade-off is income uncertainty. If you only accept preferred schools or specific days, your paycheck may fluctuate. Busy periods, teacher absences, district demand, and your reputation all affect how often you work. Long-term assignments may offer steadier income but reduce schedule freedom.

Schedule option	Best for	Trade-off
Occasional day-to-day substituting	People who need maximum control over their calendar	Income may be inconsistent.
Several days per week	Applicants who want regular income but not a full-time commitment	You may need to accept a wider range of schools or grade levels.
Long-term substitute assignment	Future teachers seeking deeper classroom experience	More responsibility and less flexibility.
Permanent substitute role	Applicants who want a school-based routine	May feel closer to full-time work without the same protections as certified teachers.

A practical approach is to start broadly, learn which schools are a good fit, and then narrow your preferences once you understand the district’s scheduling system and expectations.

How many substitute teachers want to pursue teacher certification?

What are the benefits received by a substitute teacher in Alabama?

Benefits for Alabama substitute teachers are not uniform. Some protections are tied to employment law or district policy, while health insurance, paid leave, retirement participation, and other benefits may depend on whether you are day-to-day, long-term, or permanent.

Daily compensation: Pay may range from $115 to $306 per day in cited district examples, depending on credentials and assignment type.
Workers’ compensation and injury protection: Sources note laws that provide direct medical bill payments for qualifying on-the-job injuries.
Schedule control: Many substitutes can choose available assignments that fit their calendars.
Professional exposure: Substitutes can build relationships with principals, teachers, office staff, and district leaders.
Pathway value: Classroom experience can strengthen applications for teacher preparation programs or full-time school roles.

Do not assume that substitute teaching automatically includes full employee benefits. Ask the district which benefits apply to your exact classification. If you plan to specialize in young learners, an online bachelor’s degree in early childhood education may be worth comparing as part of a longer-term career plan.

How can I fast-track my teaching certification while substitute teaching in Alabama?

Substitute teaching can help you move toward certification faster in one important way: it gives you real classroom exposure while you complete formal requirements. It does not replace an approved certification pathway, but it can help you confirm your preferred grade level, build references, and understand daily school expectations before entering a full-time teaching role.

Confirm your target certification area. Decide whether you want elementary, secondary, special education, early childhood, or another teaching field.
Review Alabama certification rules. Requirements vary by route, degree status, testing, and endorsement area.
Use substitute assignments strategically. Choose grade levels and subjects that match your future certification goals when possible.
Ask for feedback. Principals and mentor teachers can help you identify gaps in classroom management, lesson delivery, and professionalism.
Enroll only in programs that support licensure goals. Before choosing a degree or alternative pathway, verify accreditation and Alabama eligibility.

For a closer look at timing, review how long it can take to get a teaching certificate in Alabama.

How can I further enhance my credentials as a substitute teacher in Alabama?

You can become a stronger substitute by adding credentials that solve real school needs. Districts often value substitutes who can manage classrooms confidently, work with diverse learners, use technology, and support high-need subjects or student populations.

Credential-building option	When it makes sense	Potential value
Special education training	You are comfortable supporting students with varied learning or behavioral needs.	May make you more useful in high-need classrooms.
STEM-related preparation	You have math, science, technology, or engineering strengths.	Can help with subject-specific assignments and future certification planning.
ESL-related training	You want to support English learners or multilingual classrooms.	Builds skills that many schools need.
Classroom management workshops	You are new to teaching or struggle with behavior redirection.	Improves day-one effectiveness in unfamiliar rooms.
Teaching degree coursework	You plan to become a certified teacher.	Connects substitute experience to a formal career path.

Before paying for training, compare it with current Alabama teacher certification requirements so you do not spend money on credentials that will not help your goal.

What legal rights do substitute teachers have in Alabama?

Substitute teachers have important workplace protections, but they generally do not have the same job security, tenure rights, or due process protections as full-time certified teachers. The exact terms of employment depend heavily on district policy and assignment type.

License requirement: Substitutes must hold the appropriate Alabama Substitute License or a valid Professional Educator License issued through the proper process.
At-will status is common: Many substitute roles can end without the formal due process available to tenured teachers.
Limited grievance rights: Appeals or grievance procedures may be unavailable unless a district policy or agreement provides them.
Benefits are discretionary in many cases: Paid leave, insurance, and other benefits may depend on classification and district rules.
No tenure or Students First Act protections: Substitute teachers are generally not covered by tenure rights or the due process protections under the Students First Act of 2011 that apply to certified full-time teachers.
Virtual and in-person substitutes follow the same legal status: Online substitute work does not automatically create additional statutory rights.

The chart below provides context on the gender ratio among substitute teachers in Alabama and nationally.

What are the career advancement opportunities for substitute teachers in Alabama?

Substitute teaching can be a short-term job, a bridge into full-time teaching, or a way to explore education before investing in a degree. Advancement depends on your education level, certification status, district relationships, and willingness to take on more responsibility.

Next step	What you may need	Why substitutes consider it
Long-term substitute	Strong classroom record and district approval	Provides steadier experience and may offer higher daily pay.
Certified classroom teacher	Alabama teaching certificate and required preparation	Offers a clearer path to full-time pay, benefits, and job stability.
Instructional support role	Relevant training, experience, or degree	Can lead to work as an aide, intervention support staff member, or instructional assistant.
Educational specialist or curriculum role	Additional education and experience	Fits educators interested in instructional design, coaching, or program support.
Administration	Teaching experience, advanced credentials, and leadership preparation	May lead eventually to assistant principal or principal roles.

If you want the simplest possible education pathway, compare options carefully instead of assuming one program is easiest for every learner. Research.com’s guide to teaching degree pathways can help you think through that decision.

How can I transition to an online teaching role while substitute teaching in Alabama?

Substitute teaching can prepare you for online instruction because it builds core teaching skills: keeping students engaged, explaining directions clearly, adapting quickly, and managing time. However, online teaching also requires comfort with learning platforms, digital communication, virtual classroom routines, and student engagement strategies that differ from in-person classrooms.

Build technology fluency. Practice using learning management systems, video tools, digital assignments, and classroom presentation software.
Document your teaching experience. Keep a record of grade levels, subjects, long-term assignments, and technology used.
Learn online engagement techniques. Virtual teaching requires frequent checks for understanding, clear routines, and strong communication.
Check certification rules. Online teaching positions may still require the same teaching credentials as in-person roles.

For a dedicated pathway, read Research.com’s guide on how to become an online teacher in Alabama.

What challenges do substitute teachers face in Alabama?

Substitute teaching is flexible, but it is not effortless. New substitutes often underestimate how difficult it can be to manage unfamiliar classrooms, follow different school procedures, and maintain income when assignments are unpredictable.

Challenge	Why it happens	How to handle it
Inconsistent work	Assignments depend on teacher absences and district demand.	Apply to multiple eligible districts if allowed and keep your availability updated.
Different rules in each school	Schools may vary in discipline procedures, technology, arrival times, and reporting expectations.	Arrive early and ask office staff for essential procedures before class begins.
Classroom management pressure	Students may test boundaries when the regular teacher is absent.	Use the teacher’s plan, enforce posted rules, and seek staff support early when needed.
Lower pay than certified teaching	Substitute roles often do not require the same credentials or contract status.	Consider certification or long-term assignments if higher income is a goal.
Licensing and compliance details	State and district requirements must be followed correctly.	Review Alabama substitute teacher licensing requirements before applying or renewing.

Questions to ask before applying to be a substitute teacher in Alabama

Before submitting paperwork, compare districts the same way you would compare job offers. Pay matters, but it is not the only factor. Assignment availability, training support, school climate, and long-term opportunities can affect whether substitute teaching is worthwhile.

What education level does this district require for daily, long-term, and permanent substitutes?
Does a bachelor’s degree, teaching certificate, or 60 college credit hours increase the daily rate?
What are the current fingerprinting and application fees?
How long does approval usually take after all documents are submitted?
Which scheduling platform does the district use?
Can I choose specific schools, subjects, or grade levels?
Are long-term substitutes paid differently from day-to-day substitutes?
Do substitutes receive orientation, classroom management training, or emergency procedure training?
What benefits, if any, apply to day-to-day, long-term, or permanent substitutes?
Can substitute experience help me qualify for full-time openings in the district?

Are online substitute teacher training programs in Alabama legitimate?

Online training can be useful, but it is not automatically required or officially recognized for Alabama substitute licensure. A course may help you learn classroom management or teaching basics, yet the district and state licensing process still control whether you can work.

Before paying for any online substitute training, ask the district whether the course is accepted, optional, or unnecessary. If you are choosing a degree program rather than a short training course, verify accreditation and whether the program supports Alabama teacher certification goals.

Is substitute teaching in Alabama considered full-time employment?

Substitute teaching is not automatically full-time employment in Alabama. Many substitutes work on a day-to-day, on-call basis. Others may serve in long-term or permanent substitute roles that more closely resemble regular school employment. Classification matters because it can affect pay consistency, benefits, leave, and expectations.

If you need stable full-time income, ask specifically about permanent substitute openings, long-term vacancies, expected workdays, and benefit eligibility before relying on substitute teaching as your main income source.

What skills do you gain as a substitute teacher in Alabama?

Substitute teaching can build transferable skills that matter inside and outside education. The most valuable skills come from handling unfamiliar situations professionally and maintaining a productive learning environment with limited preparation time.

Classroom management: Keeping students focused while enforcing school expectations.
Adaptability: Moving between grade levels, subjects, and school cultures.
Communication: Giving clear directions and writing useful notes for the regular teacher.
Time management: Completing lesson activities within class periods.
Problem-solving: Responding calmly when lesson plans, technology, or behavior issues do not go as expected.
Professional judgment: Knowing when to handle an issue independently and when to involve school staff.

Should you substitute teach before becoming a full-time teacher in Alabama?

Substitute teaching is a smart first step if you want to test whether classroom work fits your strengths before investing in a teaching degree or certification route. It gives you direct exposure to student behavior, school routines, teacher workload, and different grade levels.

It may not be the best option if you need predictable full-time income immediately, employer-sponsored benefits, or a clearly defined career ladder without additional education. In that case, look at certified teacher pathways, instructional aide roles, or education programs that align with your financial and career timeline.

Substitute teaching may be worth it if...	You may want another path if...
You want flexible work in schools.	You need guaranteed weekly hours.
You are exploring teaching before enrolling in a program.	You already know you need full certification as quickly as possible.
You want classroom references and district connections.	You need benefits that day-to-day substitutes may not receive.
You can handle uncertainty and varied assignments.	You prefer a consistent workplace, curriculum, and student group.

What do substitute teachers in Alabama say about their careers?

Individual experiences vary by district, school culture, assignment type, and personal goals. The accounts below reflect common themes reported by substitutes: flexibility, community connection, skill growth, and the challenge of adapting quickly.

After completing substitute preparation connected with Auburn High School, I felt more prepared to enter Alabama classrooms with confidence. Working locally exposed me to different student needs and teaching styles, and the schedule flexibility helped me balance family responsibilities while still contributing to schools. The role strengthened my interest in education and gave me a better understanding of how community context shapes learning. Andy
My path started with training through Huntsville City Schools, where I learned practical classroom management and instructional support basics. Substituting in Alabama schools has allowed me to serve my community while learning how rural and urban schools operate differently. The work requires patience and adaptability, but those challenges have made me more resilient. Liza
Following a preparation course through Mobile County Public Schools, I worked in both online and traditional classroom settings in Alabama. Substitute teaching helped me build a professional network, sharpen my instructional skills, and explore future education roles. Supporting schools in underserved communities has made the work especially meaningful. Rada

Key Insights

Alabama substitute teaching starts locally. Contact the district first because the superintendent or administrator submits the license application on your behalf.
Requirements can vary. A high school diploma or GED may meet the baseline in many cases, but some districts may prefer or require 60 college credit hours, a bachelor’s degree, or certification for higher-paid assignments.
Background clearance is nonnegotiable. Fingerprinting and ABI/FBI review are central steps before working with students.
Pay depends on classification and credentials. Day-to-day, long-term, certified, and permanent substitutes may be paid differently, so compare district pay schedules before applying.
Flexibility is the main advantage, but inconsistency is the main drawback. Substitute teaching works best for people who can manage variable assignments and income.
Experience can support a teaching career, but it does not replace certification. If your goal is full-time teaching, use substitute work to build references, choose a grade level, and select the right Alabama certification pathway.

References:

Alabama Education Association. (n.d.). Certificate Renewal Information. AEA.
Cox, J. (n.d.). How to Become a Substitute Teacher. Graduate Programs for Educators.
Education-Colleges. (n.d.). Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Alabama. Education-Colleges.com.
Elevate K-12. (2024, February 20). Do Substitute Teachers Get Benefits? A Comprehensive Overview. Elevate K-12.
Kelly Education. (n.d.). 8 Transferable Skills You’ll Gain as a Substitute Teacher. myKelly.
McPherson, L. (n.d.). Alabama Teacher Certification and Career Guide. Teacher Certification Degrees.
Smith, R.S. (2022, January 27). Want to be a substitute teacher? Here’s how to apply, what pay and benefits are. AL.com.
Teaching Certification. (n.d.). Alabama Teacher Certification Renewal. Teaching-Certification.com.
Zippia. (2025, January 8). Substitute Teacher Education Requirements. Zippia.

Other Things You Should Know About Becoming a Substitute Teacher in Alabama

What are the required qualifications to become a substitute teacher in Alabama in 2026?

To become a substitute teacher in Alabama in 2026, you must have at least a high school diploma or GED. You’ll also need to pass a background check and complete a substitute teacher training program approved by the Alabama State Department of Education.

What steps should one take to become a substitute teacher in Alabama in 2026?

To become a substitute teacher in Alabama in 2026, you must hold a bachelor's degree, undergo a background check, and obtain a Substitute License from the Alabama State Department of Education. Additionally, you may be required to complete a substitute teacher training program based on the district's preference.