California · Career guide
How to become a Substitute Teacher in California
Substitute teachers fill in for absent classroom teachers on a daily, weekly, or long-term basis. The role has the lowest barrier to entry of any teaching position in most states — many require only a high-school diploma + background check + state-issued substitute permit. Pay is typically per-diem ($110-$200/day depending on the state and district), making it a flexible path into the profession.
No substitute teaching positions are open in California right now — set up an alert and we'll notify you when new postings are scraped.
Certification path in California
- Earn a bachelor's degree; subject matter competency required. Most candidates complete a teacher-preparation program either as part of their undergraduate studies or as a post-baccalaureate add-on.
- Pass the required exams. California typically requires:
- CBEST (California Basic Educational Skills Test) — Basic reading, writing, and mathematics skills
- CSET (California Subject Examinations for Teachers) — Subject matter competency for your credential area
- CalTPA or edTPA — Teaching performance assessment required for Clear Credential
- RICA (Reading Instruction Competence Assessment) — Required for Multiple Subject (elementary) credentials
Substitute permits are state-issued and have minimal educational requirements. Long-term substitutes (30+ days in one assignment) sometimes need additional approval.
- Apply for your initial license through California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC). The packet typically includes official transcripts, exam scores, a background check, and (depending on the state) a recommendation from the teacher-prep program. Visit California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) →
- Job-search in California. We'll track substitute teaching openings as districts post them; set up an alert to be notified immediately when new positions go live.
Alternative pathways in California
If you didn't follow the traditional university-route, California offers these alternate paths that may apply to your situation:
- Intern Credential: Teach while completing your credential program (district-sponsored)
- District Intern Programs: Earn your credential while employed full-time
- Career Technical Education (CTE) credentials for industry experts
- Paraprofessional to Teacher pathway
California salary context
Average teacher salary in California: $92,000/year (rank #1 nationally). Entry-level pay with a bachelor's typically starts at $45,000/year.
Role-specific premiums vary by district — special education, STEM, and bilingual roles frequently command signing bonuses or stipends. See the full California salary guide for the breakdown.