| License type | Childcare center |
| Regulating agency | NC Division of Child Development and Early Education — Child Care Licensing Section (within NC DHHS) |
| Regulatory code | 10A NCAC 09 .0713 (Staff/Child Ratios for Centers) |
| Infant ratio | 1:5 (max group: —) |
| Toddler ratio | 1:6 (max group: —) |
| Preschool ratio | 1:15 (max group: —) |
North Carolina licensed childcare center: Staff-to-child ratio requirements
Licensed childcare centers in North Carolina must maintain specific staff-to-child ratios at all times as required by NC Division of Child Development and Early Education under 10A NCAC 09 .0713 (Staff/Child Ratios for Centers).
| Age group | Staff:child ratio | Max group size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infant (0–18 months) | 1:5 | — | Birth–12 months |
| Toddler (18–36 months) | 1:6 | — | 12–24 months |
| Preschool (3–5 years) | 1:15 | — | Age 3; ages 4–5 = 1:20 |
Source: 10A NCAC 09 .0713 (Staff/Child Ratios for Centers), NC Division of Child Development and Early Education. Always verify current ratios directly with DCDEE.
North Carolina licensed childcare center: Credential & training requirements
Director / Operator requirements
North Carolina childcare center directors must meet minimum education and experience requirements established by NC Division of Child Development and Early Education under 10A NCAC 09 .0713 (Staff/Child Ratios for Centers). 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 NC Division of Child Development and Early Education for the current director qualification standard applicable to your program type.
Teacher / Caregiver requirements
Lead teachers and caregivers in North Carolina licensed childcare centers must meet minimum education requirements set by NC Division of Child Development and Early Education. 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 North Carolina are typically required to complete annual continuing education hours approved by NC Division of Child Development and Early Education. CPR and pediatric first aid certification is required for most childcare center staff and must be kept current. Contact NC Division of Child Development and Early Education for the current annual training hour requirement and approved training topics.
North Carolina licensed childcare center: Facility requirements
The following physical environment standards apply to licensed childcare centers in North Carolina under 10A NCAC 09 .0713 (Staff/Child Ratios for Centers).
| Indoor space | Minimum square footage per child required; verify with DCDEE 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 North Carolina
The childcare center licensing process in North Carolina is administered by NC Division of Child Development and Early Education. The general steps are:
- Contact NC Division of Child Development and Early Education — Child Care Licensing Section (within NC DHHS) 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 DCDEE licensing analyst verifying compliance with 10A NCAC 09 .0713 (Staff/Child Ratios for Centers) physical environment requirements.
- Receive your childcare center license from NC Division of Child Development and Early Education. Each physical location requires a separate license.
Licensing contact: NC Division of Child Development and Early Education — Child Care Licensing Section (within NC DHHS).
Official resource: https://ncchildcare.ncdhhs.gov
Always be in ratio — brightwheel makes it automatic.
Brightwheel’s real-time attendance tracking alerts staff the moment any North Carolina classroom approaches ratio limits required under 10A NCAC 09 .0713 (Staff/Child Ratios for Centers).
Frequently asked questions: North Carolina childcare center licensing
Sources & references
This page was compiled from official government sources. Always verify current requirements directly with NC Division of Child Development and Early Education before making licensing or compliance decisions.
- NC Division of Child Development and Early Education — childcare center licensing
- ACF Licensing Regulations Database — North Carolina
Also in this guide: North Carolina Small Family Child Care Home Requirements, North Carolina Large Family Child Care Home Requirements, North Carolina Preschool Requirements