Substitute Certificates

Before you can apply for a substitute certificate, you should have followed step #1:  Establishing your DESE Online Profile.  Once that step is complete, you will need to follow the process below to apply for a substitute certificate:

Please begin by going to the following website:  http://www.dese.mo.gov/

1. Click “DESE Web Applications” (big green button in the middle of the page)
2. Enter your User Name and Password and click "login"
3. Under the Heading "Office of Educator Quality", click on "Licensure, (Educator Certification System)".
4. New Applications (Click the “black triangle” to the left of #3):
   1. Click “Substitute Cert.”
   2. Print the substitute application checklist that pops up in a new window, then hit "close".
   3. On the application, fill out the Professional Conduct information
   4. Type of Application:  Always select "Content Substitute".  This is the option for all substitute teaching certificates.
   5. Read the Sworn Statement
   6. Release of Educational Information:  Check “I Accept”.
   7. Select the institution where coursework was completed for this area of certification (Drop down menu).  All Missouri State Program Completers will select "Missouri State University". 
   8. Click “Submit to DESE”
   9. Click “OK”
   10. You have finished your application and may now log out of the system. 

This is the ONLY application you will need to complete in order to obtain a substitute certificate.  Do not fill out any other applications at this time, as they will be returned to you. 

You will then need to follow the steps on the application checklist.  DESE will not process a substitute certificate until you have submitted original transcripts in sealed envelopes from all institutions you have attended and have been able to verify at least 60 completed credit hours.  You will also need to have an FBI Background check completed within the last 12 months per the instructions provided.