![How to Get a Daycare License [PRO]](https://res.cloudinary.com/liaison-inc/image/upload/f_auto/q_auto:eco,w_1200:eco,w_1200/v1761288803/content/trustedcare/trustedcare-how-to-get-daycare-license-teacher-engaging-children-in-play.jpg)
How to Get a Daycare License [PRO]
How to Get a Daycare License [PRO]
How to get a daycare license
Starting your own daycare can be incredibly rewarding, but before you open your doors to eager little learners, you'll need to navigate the daycare licensing requirements in your state. Getting a daycare license is your first step toward building a safe, legal, and successful childcare business.
Whether you're planning to care for children in your home or open a larger facility, this guide walks you through everything you need to know about the licensing process.
What is a daycare license, and why do you need one?
A daycare license is a legal requirement in most states that proves your program meets minimum health and safety standards. These regulations are designed to protect children from harm and ensure they are in a nurturing environment.
Operating without the required license can lead to significant fines and even forced closure of your business. Licensing also builds trust with parents, showing them you are a professional committed to providing high-quality care.
Types of daycare licenses
Daycare license requirements vary based on the type of care you plan to offer. The two most common types are in-home or family home daycares, where you care for a small group of children in your own residence, and center-based daycares, which operate in a commercial facility.
Some states also have separate licenses for group homes, which are larger than typical in-home daycares but smaller than commercial centers. Be sure to research the specific categories in your state to find the one that fits your business model.
Daycare licensing requirements in the U.S.
While the specific rules vary from state to state, most daycare licensing bodies have similar core requirements. You will need to demonstrate that your staff, your facility, and your operating procedures all meet established safety standards. Some states also require several hours of annual ongoing training to maintain your license.
The table below outlines some of the most common requirements for a daycare license.
| Requirement category | Typical requirements |
|---|---|
| Age | At least 18 years old; some states require 21+ |
| Education | High school diploma or GED minimum; college degree often required for lead teachers and directors |
| Background checks | Criminal history; child abuse registry; FBI fingerprinting; sex offender registry |
| Training | First aid, CPR, child development, health and safety courses, and more |
| Health | Current physical exam with immunization records |
| Facility inspection | Meet health, safety, fire, and building code standards |
| Insurance | General liability insurance (often required); workers' compensation if you have employees |
| Staff-to-child ratios | Varies by state and age group (e.g., 1:4 for infants, 1:10 for preschoolers) |
Your step-by-step guide to getting licensed
While the journey to getting licensed requires careful planning, you can break it down into four manageable steps.
1. Contact your state's licensing agency
Your first step is to find and contact the agency that regulates child care in your state. This is typically a division of the Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Children and Families, or a similar state-level organization. They will provide detailed guidance, application packets, and answers to specific questions about your situation.
See our state-specific guides for additional details:
The National Database of Child Care Licensing Regulations is another fantastic resource for finding the correct contact information and websites about specific state daycare licensing information.
2. Complete the required training
Before you apply, you and any staff will need to complete all mandatory orientation and training sessions. This often includes certifications in pediatric First Aid and CPR, as well as courses on child abuse prevention and health and safety basics. Keep certificates on file for every training course you complete.
3. Prepare your business and facility
Next, you'll need to get your business in order. This includes developing a daycare business plan, creating policies and procedures for things like emergencies and daily operations, obtaining the necessary insurance coverage, and preparing your physical space. Ensure your facility meets all safety codes and is ready for a formal inspection.
4. Submit your application and pass inspection
Once you have all your documentation and training certificates, you can submit your application along with the required fee. After the agency processes your application, they will schedule a visit to inspect your facility. If you meet all the requirements for a daycare license, you will be issued your license.
How to get a license for a home daycare
The process for getting a home daycare license follows the same general steps as a center-based one but with a few unique considerations. Your home will become your place of business, so it must meet specific safety standards during an inspection.
You'll need to child-proof your entire home, secure any potential hazards like pools or firearms, and prove you have enough space for the number of children you plan to enroll. You will also need to submit to background checks for every adult living in the home, not just your employees.
For more details, see our guides dedicated solely to In-Home Daycare Requirements and How to Start a Daycare at Home.
Maintaining your daycare license
Earning your daycare license is a huge accomplishment, but the work doesn't stop there. A license is not a one-time approval but an ongoing commitment to quality and safety that requires regular maintenance to remain in good standing.
Most states require you to renew your license annually or every few years and complete a certain number of continuing education hours. You should also be prepared for unannounced inspections from your licensing agency, so it's crucial to always keep your facility, records, and staff credentials up to date.
Daycare licensing FAQs
How long does it take to get a daycare license?
The average daycare licensing process takes around 6 months from start to finish. This timeline includes completing required training, submitting your application, and passing your facility inspection.
However, the actual timeframe varies by state. Some states process applications in as little as 90 days, while others may take longer if you need to complete additional education requirements or make facility corrections after an initial inspection.
Does a church daycare have to be licensed?
Licensing requirements for opening a church daycare depend on your state's regulations. Some states exempt faith-based programs, part-day programs, or church-operated early childhood programs from licensing requirements if they're already regulated by another government agency.
However, many states do require church daycares to be licensed just like any other childcare facility. Check with your state's childcare licensing office to determine whether your church-based program qualifies for an exemption or must obtain a license.
Can I run a home daycare without a license?
In most cases, no. Operating a childcare facility without a required license is illegal and can result in daily fines, penalties, or criminal charges. States like California impose fines of $200 per day for unlicensed operations.
However, some states allow exemptions for very small operations. If you're caring for only one or two children from a single family in addition to your own, you may not need a license. Always verify your state's specific requirements before providing care.
How much does a daycare license cost?
The cost of a daycare license varies significantly based on your location and facility type. Most states charge license fees in the $100 to $200 range, with added costs for required educational programs and training.
However, your total daycare startup costs can range from $5,000 to $20,000 when becoming a home-based childcare provider or anywhere from $20,000 to several million dollars when launching a childcare center. These costs include facility preparation, equipment and supplies, insurance, training, background checks, and licensing fees.
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.