Substitute Teacher / Florida
2026 data Florida board official source

Florida Substitute Teacher License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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

What the Florida data shows for Substitute Teachers

To practice as a substitute teacher in Florida, the state licensing board requires 2,000 documented education or training hours, a passing score on a state-approved exam. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. The regulation sits under Florida's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Degree".

Upfront cost is $100 on a 5-year cycle. Florida doesn't require continuing education for this license, so upkeep costs stay confined to the renewal fee itself.

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

Licensing Requirements in Florida

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 Florida licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Florida licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Substitute Teacher in Florida? ▼
Florida's requirements cover 2000 hours of education or training, a state exam, and an initial fee of $100. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Substitute Teacher in Florida? ▼
Florida licenses substitute teachers who complete its requirements (2000 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Florida licensing board.
Can I transfer my Substitute Teacher license to Florida from another state? ▼
Florida doesn't publish a standing reciprocity policy for substitute teachers; each out-of-state application is reviewed on its own merits. Some professions fall under interstate compacts that ease portability regardless. The Florida licensing board can confirm what applies to your case.
Does Florida require a background check for Substitute Teacher licensing? ▼
A criminal background check is mandatory for substitute teacher licensing in Florida. 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.