Substitute Teacher / Kentucky
2026 data Kentucky board official source

Kentucky 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 Kentucky data shows for Substitute Teachers

Kentucky's path to substitute teacher licensure runs through 2,000 hours of approved instruction and a passing score on a state-approved exam, plus a criminal history screening. Kentucky folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Degree".

Budget $100 to get started on a 5-year cycle. Continuing education is not a listed requirement for this profession in Kentucky, so the annualized maintenance burden is lower than in states that mandate ongoing hours.

Kentucky evaluates out-of-state credentials case-by-case rather than through a published reciprocity list.

Licensing Requirements in Kentucky

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Substitute Teacher in Kentucky? ▼
Kentucky'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 Kentucky? ▼
Kentucky licenses substitute teachers who complete its requirements (2000 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Kentucky licensing board.
Can I transfer my Substitute Teacher license to Kentucky from another state? ▼
Kentucky evaluates out-of-state substitute teacher licenses on a case-by-case basis. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the Kentucky licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does Kentucky require a background check for Substitute Teacher licensing? ▼
Kentucky does require a background check before issuing a substitute teacher license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.

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.