Substitute Teacher / District of Columbia
2026 data District of Columbia board official source

District of Columbia Substitute Teacher License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

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Fills in for absent teachers. Requirements range from diploma to license.

What the District of Columbia data shows for Substitute Teachers

District of Columbia sets the entry bar for substitute teachers at 2,000 training hours and a passing score on a state-approved exam. A background check is a standard part of the process. The credential is administered under District of Columbia's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Degree".

Upfront cost is $100 on a 5-year cycle. Continuing education is not a listed requirement for this profession in District of Columbia, so the annualized maintenance burden is lower than in states that mandate ongoing hours.

District of Columbia handles out-of-state credentials on a case-by-case basis instead of a standing reciprocity list.

Licensing Requirements in District of Columbia

Education / Training Hours
Degree
2,000 hours
Exam Requirement
Required
Initial License Fee
$100
Renewal Fee
N/A
Renewal Cycle
Every 5 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required

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Compare all states for Substitute Teacher All District of Columbia licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with District of Columbia licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Substitute Teacher in District of Columbia? ▼
District of Columbia requires 2000 education/training hours, passing an exam, and an initial fee of $100. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Substitute Teacher in District of Columbia? ▼
To become a licensed substitute teacher in District of Columbia, you must meet the state's requirements including 2000 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the District of Columbia licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Substitute Teacher license to District of Columbia from another state? ▼
Out-of-state substitute teacher credentials get a case-by-case review in District of Columbia rather than automatic recognition. Interstate compacts exist for a number of professions and might still help. Confirm the details with the District of Columbia licensing board.
Does District of Columbia require a background check for Substitute Teacher licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for substitute teacher licensing in District of Columbia. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.