Day Care License

Most states require that day care providers meet state licensing regulations for health and safety in order to be allowed to operate. As a day care provider, you need a Day Care License to operate. However, depending on the number of children in care, a home day care provider may only be required to be registered with the relevant local state agency for child care services. Day Care License regulations and requirements differ from state to state, so you'll need to find out what the Day Care License requirements are for your state.

The fastest way to find out about Day Care License regulations for your state is to contact your state's licensing agency who will put you in contact with your local agency. They will put you in touch with the relevant licensing agency who will normally mail you a package containing all the information you need plus application forms and a document with Day Care License regulations. They may also be able to tell you whether your home daycare requires licensing or just registration. Alternatively, you can contact the National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care and Early Education to find out information about your state's home daycare child licensing regulations.