How to Apply for a Childcare License

Child care providers offer child care services in their home. These child care providers are licensed by the state in which they live to offer these services. These child care providers fulfill the requirements of their state prior to submitting an application. 

1. Enroll into and complete a four-hour pediatric CPR training course. CPR training is required for all childcare providers. If you additional child care workers, these workers are required to complete this training.


2. Enroll into and complete a four-hour first aid training course. First aid training is a requirement for all childcare providers. This training does not qualify you as a nurse, but do provide you with basic first aid skills.


3. Enroll into and complete a seven-hour safety and prevention training course. This training course provides you with information pertaining to maintaining a safe childcare facility. You learn methods of prevention to avoid accidents in the future. 


4. Submit to a tuberculosis screening. Any adults living in or visiting your home, who is present during operating hours, is required to have a tuberculosis screening. 


5. Pass a criminal background check. The childcare provider and any individual who lives in or frequently visits the home are required to pass a criminal background check. A childcare provider that associates with a convicted criminal loses their license. A childcare worker that associates with known sex offenders loses their license. A childcare applicant who lives with a known sex offender is not eligible for a license. 


6. Pass a child abuse index test. The child abuse index test establishes whether the childcare provider is qualified to handle the demands of a childcare facility. Individuals who live in or visits the childcare provider's home is required to pass the child abuse index test. 


7. Complete a childcare license application and pay required fees. The application process is posted on your state licensing board's website.


8. Pass a child care assessment inspection. Download a self-assessment inspection checklist to establish that your home is compliant with state laws and regulations. A childcare assessment inspection is scheduled when you file your license application.