Substitute Teaching Frequently Asked Questions

1) How do I know which substitute license I am eligible for?

If you have previously held a standard Kansas teaching license, you will want to apply for a standard substitute license. It requires completion of an approved teacher preparation program.

If you have a bachelor’s degree or coursework unrelated to education, you will want to apply for an emergency substitute teaching license.

2) What is a teacher preparation program?

A teacher preparation program is a complete (typically degree) program at a four-year college/university with courses in content, pedagogy, and a student teaching internship.

3) Can I send in my application and fingerprint card separately?

Yes. The application and fingerprint card can be mailed separately or together in the same envelope. Two separate fees are required. Please do not combine the application fee and background check fee on one personal check or money order. Mail can be sent to:

Teacher Licensure and Accreditation
Landon State Office Building
900 SW Jackson, Suite 106
Topeka, KS 66612

4) I am applying for my first emergency substitute teaching license. How long will it be valid?

Your first emergency substitute teaching license will be valid through the current school year, expiring on June 30th.

5) Can I send my transcript directly to KSDE?

Electronic transcripts can be sent directly from the college/university to (etranscripts@ksde.org). Official paper transcripts should be mailed directly to you, leave them in the sealed envelope, and include them with the application. Paper transcripts issued to student are acceptable. A printout of an electronic transcript is unofficial and not acceptable. Transcripts can be mailed to: 

Teacher Licensure and Accreditation
Landon State Office Building
900 SW Jackson, Suite 106
Topeka, KS 66612

6) How long will it take for the license to process?

Standard processing time for any application received is 4-8 weeks, depending on application and call volume which is highest from May-August. Applications are processed in the order received. They cannot be expedited.

7) Can I track the progress of my application?

Yes. You can track the progress of an application via the Educator License Lookup on our website by clicking here.

8) Where can I view or print my license?

You can also view and/or print your license via License Lookup on our website by clicking here.

9) How do I apply to be a substitute teacher with my local school district?

You will want to contact the school district office where you are interested in substitute teaching for employment information. Licensure does not guarantee or make you immediately eligible for employment.

10) My license expired. Do I need another fingerprint background check and background check fee?

Yes. If a license expires, a fingerprint background check and background check fee is required. To avoid a lapse in licensure, always consult the renewal requirements printed on the license and submit an application for renewal prior to expiration.

11)   Do I have to submit an application for renewal of my emergency substitute license?

Yes. Any license action requires the submission of an application and processing fee. Emergency substitute renewal applications can be submitted beginning in February of the expiration year.

12)   How long will the renewed license be valid for?

Each renewal of an emergency substitute teaching license will be valid for two school years, expiring on June 30th.

13) I hold a standard teaching license. Do I need to apply for a substitute teaching license to substitute teach?

No. You can substitute teach with a standard teaching license.

Office/Building Hours:
M-F 8am - 5pm

Send all mail to:

Teacher Licensure and Accreditation
Landon State Office Building
900 SW Jackson, Suite 102
Topeka, KS 66612

Licensure Operator 

TLALicense@ksde.org
785-296-2288

Click here for the Teacher Licensure and Accreditation Directory

 

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