What felonies disqualify you from teaching?

Permanently disqualifying felonies in most states include: sex offenses against minors, violent crimes against children (child abuse, child endangerment), murder, kidnapping, drug trafficking near schools or involving minors, and arson at schools. Beyond these universal bars, each state has its own list — Florida (s. 1012.315) has one of the most extensive lists, while states like California and New York offer more individualized review for non-listed offenses.

Can I teach with a DUI?

In most cases, yes. A single DUI conviction — even a felony DUI — typically does not permanently disqualify you from teaching. However, the state will consider the circumstances: Was the offense school-related? Was it a pattern of behavior? Have you completed all court-ordered treatment? Most states require that your sentence, probation, and any treatment be fully completed before applying for a teaching license. Multiple DUI convictions or a DUI involving students would face much greater scrutiny.

What's the difference between private school and public school for felons?

Public schools require state teacher certification, which involves fingerprint-based background checks and review by the state Department of Education. Private schools generally are not subject to the same certification requirements — many set their own hiring standards and do not require a state teaching license. Some states require background checks for all schools (public and private), while others only mandate them for public schools. Private schools may offer significantly more flexibility for individuals with criminal records.

Does expungement help with getting a teaching license?

Yes, in many states. Some states — like California — explicitly prohibit the state licensing body from considering expunged convictions as the sole basis for denial. However, FBI background checks may still show expunged records because federal databases are not always updated after state-level expungement. Even where expungement does not fully eliminate the record from background checks, it demonstrates rehabilitation and is viewed favorably by most state review boards.

Can I be a substitute teacher with a criminal record?

Substitute teaching requirements vary significantly by state and school district. In some states, substitute teachers must hold a state teaching license (subject to the same background check and review process). In other states, substitutes need only a bachelor's degree and must pass a background check administered by the school district. School districts often have their own disqualifying offense lists, which may be more or less restrictive than the state's. Contact your local school district's HR department for their specific policy.

How long do I have to wait after a felony to teach?

There is no universal waiting period — it depends on your state and the specific offense. Some states require a minimum of 5 years after completing your entire sentence (including probation and parole). Others have no fixed waiting period but weigh recency heavily in their review. As a general guideline, your chances improve significantly after 5 years with a clean record, and convictions older than 10 years are viewed much more favorably. Permanently disqualifying offenses (sex crimes against minors, murder, etc.) have no waiting period — they bar you forever.

Do I have to disclose my criminal record on a teaching application?

Yes. Every state requires disclosure of criminal history on teaching license applications, and all states conduct fingerprint-based background checks. Failing to disclose a conviction is treated as dishonesty and fraud — which state education boards consider a serious character issue and independent grounds for denial, even if the underlying conviction itself would not have been disqualifying. Full, honest disclosure is always the best approach. Many states ask about arrests in addition to convictions.

Can I be a teacher's aide or paraprofessional with a felony?

Teacher's aides and paraprofessionals generally face the same background check requirements as teachers because they work directly with students. Most states have the same permanently disqualifying offenses for aides as for certified teachers. However, the hiring decision for aides is often made at the school district level rather than the state level, and some districts may have more flexibility in evaluating non-violent, older offenses. Contact your local school district for their specific policy.

Can I coach sports with a felony?

Coaching in public schools typically requires the same background checks as teaching. Most states require coaches — even volunteer coaches — to pass fingerprint-based criminal background checks. Permanently disqualifying offenses for coaching are generally the same as for teaching. Some states have separate coaching permits with their own review process. Coaching outside of schools (club sports, community leagues, private coaching) may have different and less restrictive requirements depending on the organization.

Can a Felon Be a Teacher?

Last updated: 2026-04-01

It depends heavily on your state and the type of felony. Most states have a list of "permanently disqualifying" offenses (violent crimes against children, sexual offenses, murder) that bar teaching forever. For other felonies, many states allow individualized review after a waiting period. The national teacher shortage is creating more flexibility in some states. Louisiana Act 409 (2025) updated teacher felony reporting requirements.

You CAN likely get a teaching license if you...

✓Non-violent felonies after waiting period (typically 5-10 years)
✓Drug possession (non-trafficking) with documented rehabilitation
✓DUI/DWI (non-school-related) after completing sentence and probation
✓Financial crimes (fraud, forgery, embezzlement) after time elapsed and restitution paid
✓Expunged records in many states — some states cannot consider expunged convictions for licensing
✓Certificate of Rehabilitation (California) — creates a presumption of fitness for licensure
✓Substitute or private school teaching (fewer restrictions than public school certification)

You CANNOT get a teaching license if you...

✗Sex offenses against minors
Every state permanently bars individuals convicted of sexual offenses against children from teaching in public schools. This is the most universally enforced disqualifier. Federal law requires states receiving education funding to conduct background checks that screen for these offenses. (All states — Adam Walsh Act (34 U.S.C. § 20911) / State Education Codes)
✗Violent crimes against children (child abuse, child endangerment)
Most states permanently disqualify individuals convicted of physical abuse, cruelty, or endangerment of a child. The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) requires states to have procedures to identify teachers with convictions for crimes against children. (Most states — State Education Codes / ESSA requirements)
✗Murder or manslaughter
Murder and voluntary manslaughter are permanently disqualifying in the vast majority of states. Some states also include involuntary manslaughter. A small number of states may allow case-by-case review for involuntary manslaughter after an extended waiting period. (Most states — State Education Codes)
✗Drug trafficking near schools or involving minors
Drug distribution or trafficking offenses that occurred near a school or involved minors are treated as permanently disqualifying in most states. Federal law imposes enhanced penalties for drug offenses within 1,000 feet of a school. (State Education Codes / 21 U.S.C. § 860 (federal school zone laws))
✗Kidnapping or false imprisonment
Kidnapping and false imprisonment are permanently disqualifying in most states, particularly when the victim was a minor. These offenses are considered fundamentally incompatible with the trust required in a teaching role. (Most states — State Education Codes)
✗Arson at schools or occupied buildings
Arson offenses — particularly those involving schools, occupied buildings, or structures where children are present — are permanently or near-permanently disqualifying in most states. Some states extend this to all arson convictions regardless of location. (State Education Codes (varies by state))

Gray areas — it depends on your state and circumstances

Drug possession (personal use, not trafficking)

Drug possession convictions are reviewed on a case-by-case basis in most states. Many states will approve a teaching license for a non-trafficking drug offense if significant time has passed (typically 5+ years), you have completed treatment, and you can demonstrate sustained sobriety. Some states require participation in a monitoring program. Marijuana possession convictions are increasingly viewed more leniently, especially in states where marijuana is legal.

DUI/DWI convictions

A single DUI typically does not prevent certification, but a felony DUI or pattern of DUI convictions raises concerns about fitness to teach. States generally consider whether the offense occurred on or near school property, whether students were present, and the recency of the conviction. Most states require completion of all court-ordered treatment and probation before applying.

Theft, shoplifting, or burglary

Non-violent property crimes are generally not permanently disqualifying but are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The board will consider the severity (misdemeanor vs. felony), whether the crime involved a position of trust (e.g., embezzlement from an employer), recency, and whether restitution has been paid. Older theft convictions with a clean record since have reasonable chances of approval.

Assault (not involving a child or student)

Simple assault or battery convictions not involving children or students are reviewed case-by-case. The circumstances matter significantly: a bar fight 15 years ago is viewed very differently from a recent aggravated assault. States consider whether the offense involved a weapon, the severity of injury, and any pattern of violent behavior.

Fraud, identity theft, or white-collar crimes

Financial crimes raise concerns about moral character and trustworthiness but are not permanently disqualifying in most states. The board examines the severity, whether the offense involved a position of trust with vulnerable populations, and evidence of rehabilitation. Teachers handle student records and sometimes finances, so these offenses get scrutiny.

Domestic violence convictions

Domestic violence convictions are treated with increasing seriousness by state education boards. While not always permanently disqualifying (unless they involved a child), they raise significant concerns about a candidate's fitness to work with students. Most states require substantial time (5-10 years), completion of treatment programs, and strong evidence of rehabilitation. A conviction under the federal Lautenberg Amendment may also restrict your ability to possess firearms, which could affect coaching or other school roles.

State-by-State Teaching License Rules for Felons

State	Permanent Bars	Waiting Period	Review Process	Notes
California	Sex offenses, violent crimes against children, controlled substance offenses involving minors	No fixed waiting period for non-barred offenses; Certificate of Rehabilitation creates presumption of fitness	Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC) conducts individualized review; applicants can petition for credential with rehabilitation evidence	Certificate of Rehabilitation (Penal Code 4852.01) is powerful — CTC must presume fitness. Expunged convictions under PC 1203.4 cannot be used as sole basis for denial.
Texas	Sex offenses, murder, aggravated kidnapping, human trafficking, continuous sexual abuse of a child	Most non-barred felonies: must wait until sentence, probation, and any deferred adjudication are fully completed	Texas Education Agency (TEA) reviews applications with criminal history; applicants submit personal statement and rehabilitation evidence	Texas Education Code § 21.058 lists specific permanently disqualifying offenses. TEA considers offense severity, time elapsed, and evidence of rehabilitation for other felonies.
Florida	Extensive statutory list under s. 1012.315 — includes sexual misconduct, lewd acts, drug trafficking, child abuse, murder, manslaughter, kidnapping, robbery, arson, and many more	Non-listed offenses reviewed individually; no fixed waiting period	Florida Department of Education reviews applications; denial can be appealed to an administrative hearing	Florida is one of the strictest states. Section 1012.315, F.S., contains one of the longest lists of disqualifying offenses in the country. Even some misdemeanors can disqualify.
New York	Sex offenses against minors, violent felonies against children	No fixed waiting period; individualized review for non-barred offenses	NYSED Office of School Personnel Review and Accountability conducts moral character review; applicants can submit rehabilitation evidence and character references	New York Education Law § 305(33) requires fingerprint-based background checks. NY considers the 8 factors under Correction Law Article 23-A (time elapsed, age at offense, seriousness, rehabilitation, bearing on job duties).
Illinois	Sex offenses, murder, child abuse, narcotics offenses, kidnapping, arson, aggravated assault in schools	Non-barred felonies: individualized review; some offenses eligible after 7 years	Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) reviews; applicants can petition for waiver with rehabilitation evidence	105 ILCS 5/21B-80 lists disqualifying offenses. Illinois allows licensure reinstatement petitions and considers whether the conviction was directly related to teaching duties.
Pennsylvania	Criminal homicide, sexual offenses, child abuse, kidnapping, aggravated assault, robbery, drug felonies	Most listed offenses: permanently barred; other offenses reviewed at 10+ years	Pennsylvania Department of Education reviews; Act 24 amended background check requirements; applicants may petition after extended time	24 PS § 1-111 (Act 34) outlines disqualifying offenses. Pennsylvania is relatively strict — most felonies appear on the prohibited list. Recent reforms have added some flexibility for non-violent offenses.
Ohio	Sex offenses, murder, voluntary manslaughter, child endangerment, drug trafficking	Non-barred felonies: minimum 1 year after sentence completion; most require 3-5 years	Ohio Department of Education conducts background review; applicants can request a preliminary determination before enrolling in a teacher preparation program	ORC § 3319.31 lists grounds for denial/revocation. Ohio offers a preliminary determination process similar to Texas's Declaratory Order — strongly recommended before investing in education.
Georgia	Sex offenses, child molestation, murder, armed robbery, kidnapping, drug trafficking	Non-barred felonies: minimum 5 years after completion of sentence	Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GaPSC) reviews all criminal history; applicants submit rehabilitation documentation	Georgia Code § 20-2-984.1 mandates criminal background checks. GaPSC considers the relationship between the offense and teaching duties, evidence of rehabilitation, and time elapsed.
North Carolina	Sex offenses involving minors, first-degree murder, crimes against nature involving minors	Non-barred felonies: individualized review; no fixed statutory waiting period	North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI) reviews; licensure can be denied, suspended, or revoked based on criminal history	N.C. Gen. Stat. § 115C-332.1 requires criminal history checks. North Carolina has some flexibility for non-violent offenses with demonstrated rehabilitation. The state board considers the educator's full history.
Michigan	Criminal sexual conduct, child abuse, murder, felony involving a minor	Non-barred felonies: reviewed on a case-by-case basis; no fixed waiting period	Michigan Department of Education reviews; Office of Professional Preparation Services makes licensure decisions	MCL 380.1535a lists disqualifying offenses. Michigan has recently expanded alternative certification pathways due to teacher shortages, which may provide additional opportunities for individuals with older, non-violent records.
Arizona	Sex offenses, crimes against children, dangerous crimes against children (ARS § 13-705)	Non-barred felonies: must complete sentence plus waiting period; typically 5 years for most felonies	Arizona Department of Education reviews; applicants may receive a provisional certificate pending full review	ARS § 15-512 requires fingerprint clearance cards. Arizona Board of Fingerprinting can grant a Good Cause Exception for some offenses. The teacher shortage has created more flexibility for non-dangerous offenses.
Washington	Sex offenses, crimes against children, murder, assault of a child	Non-barred felonies: reviewed individually; no fixed statutory waiting period	OSPI (Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction) reviews character and fitness; applicants can submit rehabilitation evidence	RCW 28A.410.090 governs character and fitness requirements. Washington conducts FBI and state patrol background checks. The state has shown increasing flexibility for non-violent offenses as teacher shortages persist.
Virginia	Sex offenses against minors, murder, felony child abuse, manufacturing/distributing drugs to minors	Non-barred felonies: individualized review; no fixed waiting period	Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) reviews; Board of Education makes final determination on contested cases	Virginia Code § 22.1-296.2 requires background checks. Virginia considers the nature and seriousness of the offense, time elapsed, age at the time of the offense, and evidence of rehabilitation.
Colorado	Sex offenses against children, child abuse resulting in death, first-degree murder	Non-barred felonies: reviewed individually; factors include time elapsed and rehabilitation	Colorado Department of Education reviews; applicants can request a pre-application determination	CRS § 22-60.5-107 governs denial of licenses. Colorado is considered moderately flexible for non-violent offenses. The state has expanded alternative licensure pathways due to teacher shortages.
Louisiana	Sex offenses, murder, child abuse, drug distribution to minors	Non-barred felonies: minimum 5 years after completion of sentence; 10 years for more serious offenses	Louisiana Department of Education (LDOE) reviews; Board of Elementary and Secondary Education (BESE) makes final decisions on contested cases	Louisiana Act 409 (2025) updated felony reporting requirements for teachers and applicants. Louisiana RS 17:15 governs background checks. The state has been updating its policies to balance public safety with addressing teacher shortages.

Alternative Ways to Teach Without a State License

Private Schools

Private and parochial schools are generally not subject to the same state teacher certification requirements as public schools. Many private schools set their own hiring standards, and some do not require a state teaching license at all. Background check requirements vary — some states require them for all schools, while others only mandate them for public schools.

Requirements: Varies by school and state. Many private schools require a bachelor's degree and subject expertise but not a state teaching certificate. Some religious schools have additional requirements.

Tutoring

Private tutoring — whether in-person or online — typically does not require a teaching license. You can work independently or through tutoring companies. Some platforms like Wyzant, Varsity Tutors, and Tutor.com conduct background checks, but their standards may differ from state education boards.

Requirements: No state license required. Subject knowledge and strong communication skills. Background check requirements vary by platform or employer.

Online Teaching

Online teaching platforms, course creation, and educational content development often do not require state teacher certification. Platforms like Outschool, Udemy, Coursera, and Skillshare allow individuals to create and teach courses. Some K-12 online schools do require state certification, so check individual employer requirements.

Requirements: Subject expertise required. State teaching license may or may not be required depending on the platform. Technology skills for creating and delivering online content.

After-School Programs & Youth Programs

After-school programs, Boys & Girls Clubs, YMCAs, community centers, and other youth-serving organizations hire instructors and mentors. These positions typically do not require a teaching license, though background checks are standard for any organization working with minors.

Requirements: Background check required (standards vary by organization). No state teaching license needed. Experience working with youth is valued. Some organizations have their own disqualifying offense lists.

Adult Education & GED Programs

Teaching adults in GED programs, adult literacy programs, ESL classes, and continuing education settings often has different (and generally less restrictive) certification requirements than K-12 teaching. Some adult education programs are run by community organizations rather than school districts.

Requirements: Requirements vary by state and program. Some states require a special adult education credential; others accept a bachelor's degree with relevant experience. Community-based programs may have fewer formal requirements.

Community College Teaching

Community colleges typically require a master's degree in the subject area rather than a K-12 teaching certificate. Hiring decisions are made at the institutional level, and while background checks are standard, community colleges may be more flexible than K-12 school districts in evaluating criminal history on a case-by-case basis.

Requirements: Master's degree in subject area (minimum). Teaching experience preferred. Background check required but evaluated at institutional level. Adjunct positions may be easier to obtain initially.

Corporate Training & Professional Development

Corporate trainers design and deliver training programs for businesses and organizations. This field does not require a state teaching license and is open to individuals with subject expertise and presentation skills. Industries with labor shortages may be particularly open to second-chance hiring.

Requirements: No state teaching license required. Subject matter expertise and communication skills. Bachelor's degree often preferred. Certifications like CPTD (Certified Professional in Talent Development) can strengthen your credentials.

How to Apply — Step by Step

Research your state's specific disqualifying offenses

Visit your state Department of Education website and review the list of permanently disqualifying offenses. Every state is different — an offense that is permanently barred in Florida (s. 1012.315) may be reviewable in California. Identify whether your conviction falls under permanent bars, waiting period offenses, or individually reviewed offenses.

Request a pre-determination or preliminary review if available

Some states (Ohio, Colorado, and others) offer a pre-application determination process that lets you find out if you are eligible for a teaching license BEFORE investing in a teacher preparation program. This can save you years of education and thousands of dollars if your conviction is ultimately disqualifying.

Gather rehabilitation documentation

Collect evidence of rehabilitation: proof of sentence completion (including probation/parole), substance abuse treatment records, community service documentation, stable employment history, educational achievements, and 3-5 character reference letters from employers, community leaders, or clergy who can attest to your character and growth.

Complete a teacher preparation program

Enroll in an accredited teacher preparation program (traditional university program or alternative certification route like Teach For America, TNTP, or state-specific programs). Most programs require background checks at admission and before student teaching placements. Be upfront about your criminal history with the program.

Pass required exams (Praxis, state-specific tests)

Complete all required licensure exams for your state and subject area. Common exams include the Praxis series, edTPA, and state-specific content tests. Your criminal history does not affect your ability to take these exams — only your ability to be licensed afterward.

Submit your license application with full disclosure

Apply for your teaching license through your state Department of Education. Disclose your entire criminal history truthfully — failure to disclose is grounds for permanent denial in most states and is viewed far more seriously than the conviction itself. Include certified court documents, your personal statement of rehabilitation, and all supporting evidence.

Complete the background check and board review

The state will run fingerprint-based state and FBI criminal background checks. If your record triggers a review, you may be asked to appear before a review panel, submit additional documentation, or participate in an interview. Processing times range from a few weeks to several months. If denied, most states offer an appeals process.

Take Action — Direct Links

Find your state Department of Education
U.S. Department of Education directory of all 50 state education agencies — start here to find your state's specific teacher certification requirements and criminal history policies
NASDTEC — State-by-state teacher licensing requirements
National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification — resources on teacher certification across all states
Teach.org — Explore teaching careers
Free resource to explore teaching careers, find certification programs, and learn about alternative pathways to teaching
Alternative Teacher Certification programs by state
Find alternative routes to certification if the traditional university pathway is not feasible — many states offer accelerated programs
National Institute for School Leadership (NISL)
Professional development and leadership programs for educators, including resources on re-entering the education field
Collateral Consequences Resource Center
Research on how criminal records affect professional licensing, including teaching — state-by-state analysis of occupational licensing barriers

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a felon be a teacher?: It depends on the state and the type of felony. Most states permanently bar individuals convicted of sex offenses against minors, violent crimes against children, and murder from teaching. For other felonies — such as non-violent drug offenses, DUI, theft, or financial crimes — many states allow individualized review after a waiting period (typically 5-10 years). The national teacher shortage is creating more flexibility in some states for non-violent offenses with demonstrated rehabilitation.
What felonies disqualify you from teaching?: Permanently disqualifying felonies in most states include: sex offenses against minors, violent crimes against children (child abuse, child endangerment), murder, kidnapping, drug trafficking near schools or involving minors, and arson at schools. Beyond these universal bars, each state has its own list — Florida (s. 1012.315) has one of the most extensive lists, while states like California and New York offer more individualized review for non-listed offenses.
Can I teach with a DUI?: In most cases, yes. A single DUI conviction — even a felony DUI — typically does not permanently disqualify you from teaching. However, the state will consider the circumstances: Was the offense school-related? Was it a pattern of behavior? Have you completed all court-ordered treatment? Most states require that your sentence, probation, and any treatment be fully completed before applying for a teaching license. Multiple DUI convictions or a DUI involving students would face much greater scrutiny.
What's the difference between private school and public school for felons?: Public schools require state teacher certification, which involves fingerprint-based background checks and review by the state Department of Education. Private schools generally are not subject to the same certification requirements — many set their own hiring standards and do not require a state teaching license. Some states require background checks for all schools (public and private), while others only mandate them for public schools. Private schools may offer significantly more flexibility for individuals with criminal records.
Does expungement help with getting a teaching license?: Yes, in many states. Some states — like California — explicitly prohibit the state licensing body from considering expunged convictions as the sole basis for denial. However, FBI background checks may still show expunged records because federal databases are not always updated after state-level expungement. Even where expungement does not fully eliminate the record from background checks, it demonstrates rehabilitation and is viewed favorably by most state review boards.
Can I be a substitute teacher with a criminal record?: Substitute teaching requirements vary significantly by state and school district. In some states, substitute teachers must hold a state teaching license (subject to the same background check and review process). In other states, substitutes need only a bachelor's degree and must pass a background check administered by the school district. School districts often have their own disqualifying offense lists, which may be more or less restrictive than the state's. Contact your local school district's HR department for their specific policy.
How long do I have to wait after a felony to teach?: There is no universal waiting period — it depends on your state and the specific offense. Some states require a minimum of 5 years after completing your entire sentence (including probation and parole). Others have no fixed waiting period but weigh recency heavily in their review. As a general guideline, your chances improve significantly after 5 years with a clean record, and convictions older than 10 years are viewed much more favorably. Permanently disqualifying offenses (sex crimes against minors, murder, etc.) have no waiting period — they bar you forever.
Do I have to disclose my criminal record on a teaching application?: Yes. Every state requires disclosure of criminal history on teaching license applications, and all states conduct fingerprint-based background checks. Failing to disclose a conviction is treated as dishonesty and fraud — which state education boards consider a serious character issue and independent grounds for denial, even if the underlying conviction itself would not have been disqualifying. Full, honest disclosure is always the best approach. Many states ask about arrests in addition to convictions.
Can I be a teacher's aide or paraprofessional with a felony?: Teacher's aides and paraprofessionals generally face the same background check requirements as teachers because they work directly with students. Most states have the same permanently disqualifying offenses for aides as for certified teachers. However, the hiring decision for aides is often made at the school district level rather than the state level, and some districts may have more flexibility in evaluating non-violent, older offenses. Contact your local school district for their specific policy.
Can I coach sports with a felony?: Coaching in public schools typically requires the same background checks as teaching. Most states require coaches — even volunteer coaches — to pass fingerprint-based criminal background checks. Permanently disqualifying offenses for coaching are generally the same as for teaching. Some states have separate coaching permits with their own review process. Coaching outside of schools (club sports, community leagues, private coaching) may have different and less restrictive requirements depending on the organization.

Disclaimer: This is informational only, not legal advice. Teacher certification laws vary by state and change frequently. Each state Department of Education has its own rules, processes, and disqualifying offenses. Contact your state Department of Education or a qualified attorney specializing in professional license defense for advice about your specific situation.