Substitute Teacher / Minnesota
2026 data Minnesota board official source

Minnesota 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 Minnesota data shows for Substitute Teachers

Becoming a licensed substitute teacher in Minnesota means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 2,000 training hours, a passing score on a state-approved exam, plus a background history check. Minnesota regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Degree".

The initial price tag is $100 every 5 years. Minnesota doesn't require continuing education for this license, so upkeep costs stay confined to the renewal fee itself.

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

Licensing Requirements in Minnesota

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Substitute Teacher in Minnesota? ▼
Minnesota'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 Minnesota? ▼
Certification as a substitute teacher in Minnesota means clearing the state's checklist: 2000 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Minnesota licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Substitute Teacher license to Minnesota from another state? ▼
Out-of-state substitute teacher credentials get a case-by-case review in Minnesota rather than automatic recognition. Interstate compacts exist for a number of professions and might still help. Confirm the details with the Minnesota licensing board.
Does Minnesota require a background check for Substitute Teacher licensing? ▼
Minnesota 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.