How Can I Earn an Emergency Teaching Credential?

The path for becoming a teacher will depend on the state in which you plan to teach and what type of credential you plan to seek. Emergency teaching credentials can give individuals the opportunity to substitute teach. This lesson looks at how to get an emergency teaching credential with an example from the state of California.

How to Get a Teaching Credential

Requirements to become a teacher vary from state to state. However, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, general requirements for kindergarten through high school teachers include the completion of a bachelor's degree and student teaching, as well as passing a test to measure competency and a background check.

An emergency teaching credential is usually designed for those who have a bachelor's degree, but don't necessarily have teacher-specific training. It is usually given to substitute teachers, rather than full-time employees with their own classroom. Just like traditional teacher certifications, the requirement to obtain emergency teaching credentials will vary by state. Below are some statistics to compare between substitute teachers and other grade level teachers.