How to Get a Daycare License: Requirements, Steps, Inspections and Timeline

To get a daycare licence: contact your state or local childcare licensing agency, choose the right licence type (family home, group home or center), complete any required orientation and training (CPR, first aid, child development), pass background checks for everyone in the home or facility, prepare a safe space that meets requirements, write policies and records, submit the application and fees, and pass health, fire and licensing inspections. Requirements vary by location.

Common licence types

Typical requirements

• Minimum age and education/experience of provider or director
• Background checks (fingerprinting) for staff and household members
• CPR and first aid certification
• Health and safety training, mandated reporter training
• Space requirements (indoor and outdoor square footage per child)
• Safety: smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, outlet covers, secure storage, safe sleep
• Ratios and group sizes
• Written policies: emergency plans, illness, discipline, meals, pickup
• Records: enrolment forms, immunisations, attendance, incident reports
• Health and fire inspections

Step-by-step process

1. Contact the licensing agency and attend orientation
2. Complete training and certifications
3. Prepare the space and equipment
4. Write policies and a parent handbook
5. Complete background checks
6. Submit the application and fees
7. Pass inspections
8. Receive licence; keep up with renewals and unannounced visits

Costs and timeline

Fees vary by state and licence type; total time often ranges from a few weeks to several months depending on training, inspections and facility readiness.

Staying compliant

Track staff training, ratios, records and renewal dates; software helps (see How to manage daycare communication).

(Overall startup: How to start a daycare.)

Frequently asked questions

How do I get a daycare license?

Contact your licensing agency, complete orientation and training, pass background checks, prepare a safe space, write policies, apply and pass inspections.

How long does it take to get a daycare license?

Often a few weeks to several months depending on location and readiness.

How much does a daycare license cost?

Fees vary by state and licence type, plus costs for training, background checks and safety upgrades.

Can I run a daycare without a licence?

Many places allow caring for a very small number of unrelated children without a licence, but limits are strict; check local rules.

What training do daycare providers need?

Commonly CPR, first aid, health and safety, safe sleep, child development and mandated reporter training.

Do daycare licences need renewal?

Yes, typically with ongoing training, inspections and updated records.