How to Start a Daycare in Nevada

Starting a daycare requires hard work, careful planning, and the proper licenses. You must carefully follow Nevada's childcare licensing procedures to protect yourself and your business and show the families in your community that you’re committed to providing quality child care.

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Do I need a childcare license in Nevada?

Starting a daycare requires more than simply finding a location and choosing a business name and structure. You also need to be properly licensed.

Nevada law requires that educators acquire a childcare license to start a daycare business or provide care for more than four children in exchange for payment. Nevada's childcare licensing requirements and regulations help educators create supportive, nurturing learning environments that promote children's growth and development.

Six types of childcare facilities are regulated under Nevada law:

• Family care: Family care facilities are held in a provider's home. Licensed family care facilities require a curriculum and can provide care for up to six children.
• Group care: Like family care facilities, group care facilities are held in a provider's home and require a curriculum. Licensed group care facilities require an additional educator. Group care facilities can provide care for up to 12 children.
• Accommodation facilities: Accommodation facilities are businesses that provide child care to customers for up to three hours. Customers are required to remain on the business' premises while their children are being cared for.
• Childcare centers: Childcare centers are standalone facilities that have a curriculum and provide all-day childcare.
• Institutions: Institutions provide care and housing to at-risk youth. Institutions provide children with education, food, shelter, medical care, and dental care.
• On-sites: On-sites are businesses that only provide child care to the children of their employees.

Licensed childcare facilities in Nevada can enroll in the Nevada Department of Education's Silver State Stars Quality Rating & Improvement System (QRIS). This free, voluntary system helps families find high-quality child care that fits their needs and provides childcare centers with coaching, quality improvement grants, advancement bonuses, and national accreditation support to help them create high-quality programs.

Childcare licensing requirements outside of Washoe County, Nevada

Daycare facilities outside of Washoe County, Nevada, must satisfy the licensing requirements of Nevada's Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Public and Behavioral Health to receive a daycare license.

Licensing training

Before applying for a daycare license, you must complete the Licensing Application Process (LAP) training. To complete LAP training, you must register for an NVeLearn account, watch a video, and take a short test. After completing the LAP training, you’ll receive a certificate and be able to begin the license application process.

Hiring requirements

• New hires must be fingerprinted by your local law enforcement agency within 24 hours of being hired. You must notify Nevada Childcare Licensing of the new hire using the Change in Personnel form. Then, you must submit a completed Background Check Consent and Release form signed by law enforcement and the daycare director and have each new hire complete a background check. There is an $11.50 processing fee for each background check. The fee can be paid using the ALIS system.
• New hires must complete a negative tuberculosis test before they may begin work.
• New hires may only be left unattended with children once a provider has received a clearance memo from Nevada Childcare Licensing.
• Within two weeks of being hired, the new hire must be provided with an oral and written orientation to the facility, policies and procedures, and childcare licensing requirements. This must be documented with signatures and dates and kept in the employee’s file.
• Completed applications for new hires must be made available to the Nevada Registry upon completing all hiring requirements.

Staff training

Within 90 days of being hired, daycare staff must complete CPR and first aid training and training in the signs of illnesses or blood-borne pathogens for the ages of all the children in your facility. They must also receive three hours of training in child development, guidance or discipline, and recognizing and reporting child abuse. Staff members working with infants one-year-old or younger need to receive sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) training.

Within your daycare's licensing year, all staff members need to complete at least two hours of training in nutrition, obesity prevention, or physical activity.

Staff-to-child ratios

All educators and volunteers who have completed a background check and taken first aid training and signs of illness training can be counted in staff-to-child ratios, as can teachers under the age of 18.

A fully qualified educator over 18 must always supervise each volunteer and educator under 18.

Child care centers operating from 6:30 am to 9:00 pm

If a room contains children of varying age groups, the ratio is determined by taking the average age of all the children in the room. Additionally, if more than six children of varying ages are present in a room, at least two staff members must be on duty.

Family child care homes

With approval from Child Care Licensing, a family care home may provide care for up to three additional children between the ages of six and 16 before and after school. The provider's own children under the age of 10 must be counted as additional children.

Group child care homes

With approval from Child Care Licensing, a group care home may provide care for up to three additional children between the ages of six and 16 before and after school.

Home-based childcare licensing requirements in Washoe County, Nevada

Daycare facilities in Washoe County, Nevada, must satisfy the licensing requirements of the Washoe County Department of Social Services to receive a daycare license. Washoe County defines family child care homes as any facility in an occupied private residence where the licensee resides and care is provided to at least two but no more than six children. A group child care home is any facility in an occupied private residence where the licensee resides and regularly provides direct care for no less than seven but no more than 12 children. 

With prior written permission by Washoe County Human Services Agency (HSA), Child Care Licensing, a home provider may also provide before- and after-school care for up to three hours, for up to three school-age children, in addition to the number stated on the facility’s license.

Home-based childcare facilities require an application, license fee, background checks, initial training, insurance verification, and approval from Washoe County Child Care Licensing to become licensed.

The typical timeline for a home-based childcare license, from application to licensure, is three to six months.

Staff training and qualifications

• Providers at home-based childcare facilities must be at least 18 years old
• Caregivers must be at least 16 years old. Caregivers who are under 18 cannot supervise other staff
• No more than half of the caregivers in a facility can be under 18 years old
• Caregivers who are under 18 years old must have completed a course in child development that is approved by the Nevada Registry or must be currently enrolled in a course in child development that is approved by the Nevada Registry and complete the course while employed at the facility
• There must be at least one CPR-certified caregiver on duty at all times
• Home providers and staff members must complete 23 initial training hours and 24 training hours yearly based on their licensure date. College courses in early childhood education can be counted as 15 training hours per credit taken

Initial training requirements include:

• Child abuse and neglect course (minimum two hours)
• Signs of illness (including blood-borne pathogens) course (minimum two hours)
• Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) training (minimum two hours)
• Shaken baby syndrome (minimum one hour)
• Medication administration and allergies (minimum two hours)
• Building/physical premises safety (minimum two hours)
• Emergency preparedness (minimum two hours)
• Transportation (minimum one hour)
• Wellness (obesity/nutrition/physical activity) (minimum two hours)
• CPR (minimum two hours, must be completed in person)
• First aid (minimum two hours)
• Child development or guidance and discipline (three hours), specific to the age range served by the facility

Staff-to-child ratios and group sizes

Home-based childcare facilities in Washoe County, Nevada, must maintain specific staff-to-child ratios and group sizes.

Family child care homes

• One caregiver must be on duty at all times. An alternate caregiver must be available in case of an emergency
• Any children who reside in the facility under 3 years old are counted in the staff-to-child ratios

Group child care homes

• Any children who reside in the facility under 3 years old are counted in the staff-to-child ratios

Insurance requirements for home-based childcare facilities

Home-based childcare facilities must carry a $300,000 liability insurance plan for the number of children served.

Center-based childcare licensing requirements in Washoe County, Nevada

Washoe County, Nevada allows center-based daycares to provide care for 13 or more children in a designated childcare facility. A childcare center’s capacity is determined by the center’s square footage indoors and outdoors and the number of sinks and toilets within the center at the time of licensure.

Childcare centers require an application, license fee, background checks, initial training, insurance verification, approval from Washoe County Child Care Licensing, and inspections and approvals from the Washoe County Health District, Fire Department, Building Department, and Zoning Department to become licensed.

The typical timeline for a center-based childcare license, from application to licensure, is nine to twelve months.

Staff training

All educators and staff members must complete 23 initial training hours and 24 training hours every year thereafter based on their date of licensure. College courses in early childhood education can be counted as 15 training hours per credit taken.

Initial training requirements include:

• Child abuse and neglect course (minimum two hours)
• Signs of illness (including blood-borne pathogens) course (minimum two hours)
• Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) training (minimum two hours)
• Shaken baby syndrome (minimum one hour)
• Medication administration and allergies (minimum two hours)
• Building/physical premises safety (minimum two hours)
• Emergency preparedness (minimum two hours)
• Transportation (minimum one hour)
• Wellness (obesity/nutrition/physical activity) (minimum two hours)
• CPR (minimum two hours, must be completed in-person)
• First aid (minimum two hours)
• Child development or guidance and discipline (three hours), specific to the age range served by the facility

Director qualifications

Childcare centers in Washoe County, Nevada must have an approved director before a license can be issued.

There are multiple ways to meet the qualifications of a director:

• Hold an associate degree or a higher degree in early childhood education and have at least 1,000 hours of verifiable experience in a childcare facility
• Hold an associate degree or a higher degree in any field other than early childhood education, have completed at least 15 semester hours in early childhood education or related courses, and have at least 2,000 hours of verifiable experience in a childcare facility
• Hold a high school diploma or a general educational development (GED) certificate, have completed at least 15 semester hours in early childhood education or related courses, and have at least 3,000 hours of experience in a childcare facility
• Hold a current credential as a Child Development Associate, with an endorsement for preschoolers, infants, or toddlers, as appropriate, which has been issued by the Council for Professional Recognition or its successor organization, and have at least 2,000 hours of verifiable experience in a childcare facility
• Have another equivalent combination of education and experience approved by Washoe County HSA Child Care Licensing
• Directors must also have at least 1,000 verifiable hours in an administrative position or have completed a course or other training in business administration

Staff-to-child ratios and group sizes

Center-based childcare facilities in Washoe County, Nevada, must maintain specific staff-to-child ratios and maximum group sizes.

From 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

From 9 p.m. to 6:30 a.m.

Every staff member must stay awake while on duty at night.

Insurance requirements for center-based childcare facilities

Childcare centers must carry a $1,000,000 liability insurance plan.

Childcare license application in Nevada

To obtain a childcare license outside of Washoe County, Nevada, you must complete the following requirements:

Step 1: Obtain a business license

Before you can start a daycare in Nevada, you need to register your business and obtain a business license through Nevada’s SilverFlume business portal. A business license is separate from a daycare license; it registers your business with the State of Nevada and allows you to file business taxes.

The Nevada Secretary of State recommends developing a business plan before you apply for a business license. Having a solid business plan for your daycare will help you complete the business license application process. 

Step 2: Complete the online Licensing Application Process (LAP) training

Before applying for a childcare license, you need to pass the Licensing Application Process (LAP) training. The online training consists of a video and a test on Nevada’s childcare licensing process. After passing the test, you’ll receive a certificate of completion and be able to complete the daycare licensing process.

Step 3: Complete the initial licensing application

After you’ve completed the LAP training, contact your local childcare office at (775) 684-4463 in Northern Nevada or (702) 486-3822 in Southern Nevada to receive a Web ID by mail. After you’ve received a Web ID, you can create an account on Nevada’s online childcare licensing and certification system and complete the initial licensing application for your center. There is a $50 fee for an initial license.

Step 4: Submit your fingerprints and background check

Each member of your staff over 18 years old must complete a Consent & Release form and background check, and submit a fingerprint card and a money order to the Nevada Department of Public Safety Criminal History Repository. Contact your local fingerprinting agency for fee and payment information.

After you’ve completed the background checks and fingerprinting, you’ll need to send a copy of your Consent and Release form and fingerprint card(s) to Child Care Licensing to be audited.

After Child Care Licensing has reviewed your documentation, you will be notified of your facility’s background clearance status.

Step 5: Work on your disaster plan

Your daycare’s disaster plan outlines the procedures that you and your staff will follow in an emergency. Your facility’s disaster plan must include:

• The director’s and staff’s duties
• Procedures for evacuating staff members and children to a safe location with adequate supplies to care for the children, including medications and families’ contact information
• A transportation plan

Step 6: Complete a health inspection and fire inspection

The State Fire Marshal, the State Board of Health, and your local government will inspect your facility to ensure your compliance with safety, environmental health, building, and zoning codes.

Step 7: Schedule an initial licensure inspection

After you’ve completed the inspections and submitted your documentation, Child Care Licensing will contact you to schedule an initial licensing consultation.

Childcare license application in Washoe County, Nevada

To obtain a childcare license in Washoe County, Nevada, you must complete the following requirements:

Step 1: Request a licensing application

Contact Washoe County HSA Child Care Licensing at (775) 337-4470 to inquire about the licensing process and request an application.

Step 2: Complete background checks

Contact Washoe County HSA Child Care Licensing to start the comprehensive background check process.

Step 3: Submit a zoning inquiry

Inform licensing if you find a potential building for a childcare center before signing a lease so the licensing worker can submit a zoning inquiry.

Step 4: Complete your application form

Submit your application form and licensing fee to the Washoe County Human Services Agency. Licensing fees vary depending on your center’s capacity.

After these steps are completed, your assigned licensing worker will support you throughout the rest of the licensing process.

Childcare license fees in Nevada

Childcare license fees in Washoe County, Nevada

Once you’ve been approved for a childcare license, develop your marketing strategies to reach prospective families in your community who might be interested in childcare services. When you’re ready to enroll children in your program, administrative software such as brightwheel's center management feature can help you streamline the admissions process, simplify paperwork, and easily access children's and staff members' records.

How to stay compliant with a daycare license in Nevada

To stay compliant with your daycare license outside of Washoe County, Nevada, you must renew your license annually through the ALIS system no later than 45 days before the license expiration. There is a $50 late fee for a license renewal application that is received or postmarked later than 30 days before the license expiration.

How to stay compliant with a daycare license in Washoe County, Nevada

To stay compliant with your daycare license in Washoe County, Nevada, you need to renew your license annually through the ALIS system no later than 60 days before the expiration of the license. There is a $50 late fee for a license renewal application that is received or postmarked later than 30 days before the license expiration. The Washoe County Human Services Agency may issue an additional administrative fine if your renewal application hasn’t been submitted before the current license expires.

Funding resources for your childcare business

As you go through the licensing process, you may come across grants or other funding resources that can help fund your childcare business. A grant is an often overlooked financial resource given by a government agency or private foundation that does not need to be repaid. This makes them an attractive funding option if you are looking to expand or enhance the quality and accessibility of your program.

Grants provide funding that can be used towards a variety of purposes, such as improving facilities, purchasing new equipment or materials, or offering professional development opportunities for staff. The available resources vary by state so it is crucial to research and understand the grants for childcare providers in Nevada to make informed decisions about which ones to apply for.

Final thoughts

Starting a daycare is a rewarding and fulfilling way to enrich your community. By carefully following Nevada's childcare licensing requirements and receiving a daycare license, you can show families in Nevada that your program provides quality child care they can trust.