To start a childcare program in California, you must obtain a license from the Child Care Licensing Division (CCLD). You will need to choose between a Family Child Care Home license (for in-home care) or a Child Care Center license (for commercial facilities), complete an orientation, and pass a facility inspection.
Do I need a childcare license in California?
You need a childcare license in California if you provide care to children from more than one family other than your own. You are legally "license-exempt" only if you care for your children, a relative's children, or the children of just one other family.
The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) manages these licenses to ensure health and safety compliance.
Family Child Care Home (FCCH)
This license allows you to operate a childcare program in your primary residence. It is divided into two categories:
- Small Family Child Care Home: Care for up to 8 children.
- Large Family Child Care Home: Care for up to 14 children (requires an assistant).
Child Care Center (CCC)
This license is for operating a childcare program in a commercial building. Centers typically have higher capacity limits and stricter staffing requirements compared to home-based programs.
Streamline your operations and save time with a childcare management software like brightwheel. Simplify your billing processes, increase enrollment, and improve communication with families with this easy-to-use software. Maintain classroom ratios with the scheduling feature and centralize your record keeping on one place.
Childcare Licensing and Compliance Checklist
Download this free checklist to simplify the childcare licensing process.
Childcare licensing requirements in California
In addition to having a childcare business plan, you must also comply with state licensing requirements. California has strict requirements regarding provider age, education, and staff-to-child ratios.
Family Child Care Home requirements
To run an in-home program, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Live in the home where care is provided
- Pass a criminal background check (and TB test)
- Complete 16 hours of Pediatric Health and Safety training
- For Large Home licenses: Provide proof of at least one year of experience as a licensee or teacher.
Family Child Care Home capacity requirements
The following are the capacity regulations for small and large family childcare home licenses:
- Small family childcare home capacity: Only four infants (0-24 months) or six children. The six children must not be more than three infants and three older children over 2 years old. Also, you can consider a home capacity of eight children. In this case, you must not have more than two infants and six older children, two of which must be school age children. Lastly, a landlord's consent and written parent notification are necessary when caring for more than six children.
- Large family childcare home capacity: Twelve children, including not more than four infants (0-24 months) and eight 2-year-old children. You’ll also need a qualified assistant, at least 14 years old. A large family child care home can also accommodate up to 14 children. This option requires no more than three infants (0-24 months) and 11 children over 2 years old. Lastly, you need a landlord's consent and written parent notification when caring for more than 12 children.
Childcare Center staff requirements
Centers must employ qualified staff. A Director typically requires:
- 12 semester units in early childhood education (ECE)
- 3 units in administration
- 4 years of teaching experience
Childcare Center capacity requirements
Below are the staff-to-child ratio requirements regarding infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and school-age children:
Infant ratios:- One teacher for four infants (1:4)
- One fully qualified teacher and two aides for 12 infants (3:12)
Toddler ratios:
- One teacher for six toddlers (1:6)
- One fully qualified teacher and one aide for 12 toddlers (2:12)
Preschool ratios:
- One teacher for 12 children (1:12)
- One teacher and one aide for 15 children (2:15)
- One fully qualified teacher and one aide for 18 children (2:18)
School-age ratios:
- One teacher for 14 children (1:14)
- One fully qualified teacher and one aide for 28 children (2:28)
Getting your childcare license is just the beginning. Launching your program takes planning, tools, and reliable support. That’s why brightwheel offers a dedicated New Program Experience designed to guide you every step of the way. With our all-in-one platform, you can simplify enrollment, set up billing plans, and stay on track for a smooth, successful opening.
I would say that if you are a new program that you should definitely jump on brightwheel and just experience it. It’s tools that help make your life easier as the owner and director. There’s no reason not to, with the cost and the effectiveness, it’s 100% a yes for me." Crystal D., Owner & Director at Lil’ Ranch Hands Family Childcare Home in Minco, OK
As I build my new program, the billing features are a game changer. I can easily invoice parents, and everything is automatically tracked—especially helpful come tax season.” Emily K., Owner of Emily Finzen Childcare in Lake Benton, MN
Experience Curriculum allows you to lean into creativity while following the curriculum. It’s all right there, it’s all prepared for you, and then you can lean into it.” Leinani G., Owner of Creative Minds Learning Academy in Bothell, WA
Brightwheel helps us in every way possible. From their onboarding and support team to the features that keep us organized, on track with planning, and communicating smoothly as a team to parents and each other. I couldn't imagine a better management system for our program." Harida H., Administrator at Play Pals Daycare in Maumee, OH
Childcare license application in California
The application process in California is thorough and involves several key steps.
Click here for California child care laws and regulations.
Step 1: Attend an orientation
You must attend an official licensing orientation. There are separate orientations for Family Child Care Homes and Child Care Centers. This introduces you to the regulations you must follow.
Step 2: Submit your application package
After orientation, you will submit your application. This includes:
- Forms: Multiple forms covering criminal records, disaster plans, and facility sketches.
- Proof of training: Evidence of health and safety course completion.
- Fees: A non-refundable application fee.
- Center-specific documents: Centers must also submit personnel policies, parent handbooks, and financial information.
Step 3: Pass the inspection
A Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) will inspect your facility. They check for safety hazards, proper fencing, fire safety equipment, and toxic storage security.
How to stay compliant with daycare licensing requirements in California
After you’ve secured a license to start and operate a daycare business in California, you will need to renew your operating license annually to remain compliant. Submit your license renewal payment before your facility’s anniversary date via online payment, money order, or check. You’re liable for a late payment fee if you don't submit your annual fee on time. Late fees include an extra 50% of the annual license renewal fee. You are also required to pay a $25 fee if you change your facility’s capacity or 50% of the application fee if you move to a different location.
Funding resources for your childcare business
As you go through the licensing process, you may find grants and other funding to help launch or grow your business. Unlike loans, grants are financial awards from government agencies or private foundations that do not need to be repaid. This makes them an ideal option for enhancing your program's quality and accessibility.
You can use grant funding for facility improvements, new equipment, or staff professional development. Because available resources vary by state, it is crucial to research grants for childcare providers in California to identify the best opportunities for your business.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a Small and Large Family Child Care Home?
A Small Family Child Care Home can care for up to 8 children and requires one provider. A Large Family Child Care Home can care for up to 14 children but requires a second adult assistant to be present.
How much are the licensing fees in California?
For Family Child Care Homes, the application fee is roughly $73 (small) to $140 (large). For Childcare Centers, fees range from approximately $484 to over $2,400 depending on capacity. These fees are subject to change, so always check the CDSS fee schedule.
Do I need a degree to run a home daycare in California?
No, you do not need a college degree to operate a Family Child Care Home. You only need to meet the age, background check, and 16-hour health and safety training requirements.
Start a daycare business in California
Starting a daycare in California can be both a challenging and rewarding endeavor, but with the right preparation, tools, and resources, you can set your program up for success. By understanding licensing requirements, developing a strong business plan, and utilizing helpful tools like brightwheel, you'll be well on your way to achieving your goals.
If you're ready to take the first steps or need guidance along the way, remember that learning how to start a daycare in California is a journey that begins with careful planning and a passion for making a difference in children's lives.
