| License type | Childcare center |
| Regulating agency | Alaska Department of Health and Social Services — Division of Public Assistance — Child Care Program Office (CCPO) |
| Regulatory code | 7 AAC 57.010–57.990 (Child Care Facilities) |
| Infant ratio | 1:5 (max group: 10) |
| Toddler ratio | 1:8 (max group: —) |
| Preschool ratio | 1:13 (max group: —) |
Alaska licensed childcare center: Staff-to-child ratio requirements
Licensed childcare centers in Alaska must maintain specific staff-to-child ratios at all times as required by Alaska Department of Health and Social Services — Division of Public Assistance under 7 AAC 57.010–57.990 (Child Care Facilities).
| Age group | Staff:child ratio | Max group size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infant (0–18 months) | 1:5 | 10 | Birth–12 months |
| Toddler (18–36 months) | 1:8 | — | 12–36 months |
| Preschool (3–5 years) | 1:13 | — | 4-year-olds; 3yr verify |
Source: 7 AAC 57.010–57.990 (Child Care Facilities), Alaska Department of Health and Social Services — Division of Public Assistance. Always verify current ratios directly with AK DHSS / DPA.
Alaska licensed childcare center: Credential & training requirements
Director / Operator requirements
Alaska childcare center directors must meet minimum education and experience requirements established by Alaska Department of Health and Social Services — Division of Public Assistance under 7 AAC 57.010–57.990 (Child Care Facilities). Most states require directors to hold a combination of early childhood education (ECE) college coursework, teaching or administrative experience, and a valid background clearance. Some states require a specific director credential or permit. Contact Alaska Department of Health and Social Services — Division of Public Assistance for the current director qualification standard applicable to your program type.
Teacher / Caregiver requirements
Lead teachers and caregivers in Alaska licensed childcare centers must meet minimum education requirements set by Alaska Department of Health and Social Services — Division of Public Assistance. Requirements often include ECE college coursework or an equivalent credential (such as a Child Development Associate — CDA credential), plus ongoing continuing education. Aides or assistant teachers typically must be at least 18 years old and work under the direct supervision of a qualified lead teacher.
Annual training requirements
All center staff in Alaska are typically required to complete annual continuing education hours approved by Alaska Department of Health and Social Services — Division of Public Assistance. CPR and pediatric first aid certification is required for most childcare center staff and must be kept current. Contact Alaska Department of Health and Social Services — Division of Public Assistance for the current annual training hour requirement and approved training topics.
Alaska licensed childcare center: Facility requirements
The following physical environment standards apply to licensed childcare centers in Alaska under 7 AAC 57.010–57.990 (Child Care Facilities).
| Indoor space | Minimum square footage per child required; verify with AK DHSS / DPA for your age group and license type |
| Outdoor space | Fenced outdoor play area required; minimum square footage per child; age-appropriate equipment |
| Infant sleeping | Dedicated sleeping area; individual cribs or safe sleep surfaces for infants |
| Emergency exits | Clearly marked, unobstructed; fire evacuation plan posted; regular fire drills required |
| Background checks | Live Scan or equivalent fingerprint background check required for all staff with child contact |
| Health & safety | Health department and/or fire authority inspection required before license issuance |
How to get a childcare center license in Alaska
The childcare center licensing process in Alaska is administered by Alaska Department of Health and Social Services — Division of Public Assistance. The general steps are:
- Contact Alaska Department of Health and Social Services — Division of Public Assistance — Child Care Program Office (CCPO) to request a licensing application packet and pre-application guidance.
- Submit a completed application including facility information, disclosure forms, and background check authorization for all staff with child contact.
- Complete background checks (fingerprinting) for the owner/director and all staff.
- Obtain local fire clearance and any required health department inspection for the facility.
- Pass a pre-licensing site visit from a AK DHSS / DPA licensing analyst verifying compliance with 7 AAC 57.010–57.990 (Child Care Facilities) physical environment requirements.
- Receive your childcare center license from Alaska Department of Health and Social Services — Division of Public Assistance. Each physical location requires a separate license.
Licensing contact: Alaska Department of Health and Social Services — Division of Public Assistance — Child Care Program Office (CCPO).
Official resource: https://hss.state.ak.us
Always be in ratio — brightwheel makes it automatic.
Brightwheel’s real-time attendance tracking alerts staff the moment any Alaska classroom approaches ratio limits required under 7 AAC 57.010–57.990 (Child Care Facilities).
Frequently asked questions: Alaska childcare center licensing
Sources & references
This page was compiled from official government sources. Always verify current requirements directly with Alaska Department of Health and Social Services — Division of Public Assistance before making licensing or compliance decisions.
- Alaska Department of Health and Social Services — Division of Public Assistance — childcare center licensing
- ACF Licensing Regulations Database — Alaska
Also in this guide: Alaska Small Family Child Care Home Requirements, Alaska Large Family Child Care Home Requirements, Alaska Preschool Requirements