Directions for Applying for an Initial Substitute Authorization

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BoEE Online Application System Directions

Before You Begin

The following requirements need to be met and have the appropriate documentation:

  1. Official transcripts from a U.S. Department of Education-accredited college or university documenting 60 or more semester credit hours, or an associate degree.
  2. Official transcript for the Iowa Substitute Teaching Authorization course through an approved provider. See the Substitute Authorization Course Providers section of this page.
    1. If you are completing a teacher preparation program, we will also accept a letter from your college or university verifying that you have met the substitute authorization course requirements. Upload this letter in place of the substitute authorization course documentation.
    2. We can also waive the course if you have student teaching cited on your transcripts. Upload the cited documentation in place of the required substitute authorization course.
  3. Mandatory reporter training for child abuse and completion certificate.
  4. Verification of Citizenship or Work Authorization
    1. U.S. Citizens must provide one of the following:
      1. A valid U.S. passport; or
      2. A valid driver's license and Social Security card.
    2. Non-U.S. Citizens must provide documentation verifying their legal presence in the United States and authorization to work in the United States.

Completing the Online Application

  1. Go to the Apply webpage under Educator Licensure.
    1. Have your folder number ready if you already hold a license.
    2. Use the License Search if you are unsure of you folder number or unsure if you have one.
  2. From the Apply webpage, select either:

    1. Create a new account (if you have never use our online application system)

      or

    2. Log In (if you already have an account)
  3. Once you have created an account or logged in, select New Application or Renew.
  4. Confirm your profile information and select Next.
  5. Select Apply for a new License
  6. Select Substitute
  7. Select First Iowa Substitute Authorization (use if you have not completed a teacher preparation program)
  8. The system will now have you:
    1. Agree to creating an application, read through the instructions and scroll to the red X’s.
    2. Complete a checklist
      1. This is where you will agree to FBI fingerprinting and click on BOEE Instructions for using Fieldprint to schedule your appointment. Note: There is a code in the instructions you will need. If you hold a license with the BOEE you won’t need to do fingerprinting again.
      2. It is important to read each checklist question so you create an accurate application.
    3. Upload the required documents.
    4. Pay the fees/Submit application.