Restricted Short-Term Substitute Permit Renewal

A Restricted Short‑Term Substitute Permit allows qualified individuals in counties with a substitute‑shortage waiver to substitute teach for up to 10 consecutive days. The permit is valid for a one (1) year period from July 1–June 30. 

Before You Apply

Prior to applying for renewal, you must:

• Be employed in the West Virginia public school system
• Complete substitute renewal training

General Requirements

To apply, you must:

• Be a U.S. Citizen or hold eligible documentation (see Policy 5202, Minimum Requirements for the Licensure of Professional/Paraprofessional Personnel and Advanced Salary Classifications)
• Be at least 21 years old
• Be physically, mentally, and emotionally qualified
• Be applying for renewal in a county with a substitute shortage waiver on file
• Have recommendation from the county Superintendent

Required Training

You must meet one of the following options:

• Complete 12 clock hours of substitute teacher renewal training approved by the employing county or through our eLearning platform (WVLearns)
• Complete (6) semester hours of coursework related to the public school program on an official transcript

Please note: Training or coursework must be completed after the last effective date of your permit and within five (5) years of applying for renewal.

Application Submission

For instructions on how to apply for a license to work in West Virginia public schools, follow the steps detailed in the certification application process.

If this is your first time using our Certification Portal, you will need to register. Follow the instructions for first-time applicants.