To start a daycare in North Carolina, you must obtain a license from the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE). Options include a Family Child Care Home (2–9 children) or a Child Care Center. The process involves a pre-licensing workshop, background checks, and an onsite inspection.
Do I need a childcare license in North Carolina?
You need a license if you provide regular care (more than four hours a day, at least once a week) for three or more children unrelated to you.
License types
- Child Care Center (CCC): Facilities caring for three or more children. This includes "Centers Located in a Residence" (CLIR) which care for 3–12 children.
- Family Child Care Home (FCCH): Care provided in a residence for two to nine children.
Childcare Licensing and Compliance Checklist
Download this free checklist to simplify the childcare licensing process.
Childcare licensing requirements in North Carolina
North Carolina has established specific guidelines and regulations to ensure the safety, well-being, and development of children in licensed childcare facilities.
Family Child Care Home requirements
- Age: Must be at least 21 years old
- Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Background check: Criminal background checks for the operator and all household members over 15
- Training: CPR and First Aid certification, plus ITS-SIDS training if caring for infants
- Staff:child ratios:
- 0-12 months - 1:5
- 12-24 months - 1:6
- 2-3 years - 1:10
- 4-5 years - 1:20
- 5 years and older - 1:25
Child Care Center requirements
- Director qualifications: Must be 21+ with an associate degree or higher in early childhood education (or related field) and administrative experience
- Lead teachers: Must be 18+ with a high school diploma and the North Carolina Early Childhood Credential (NCECC) or equivalent
- Staff:child ratios:
-
- 0–12 months - 1:5
- 12-24 months - 1:6
- 2–3 years - 1:10
- 3-4 years - 1:15
- 4–5 years - 1:20
- 5 years and older - 1:25
-
Childcare license application in North Carolina
Applying for a childcare license in North Carolina requires meeting specific qualifications and following a structured process to ensure compliance with state regulations.
1. Attend a pre-licensing workshop
You must register for and attend a pre-licensing workshop specific to the type of license you are seeking.
- FCCH workshop fee: ~$75
- Center workshop fee: ~$135
2. Contact a consultant
After the workshop, you will be assigned a specific point of contact. Reach out to the Lead Child Care Consultant for your county to schedule pre-licensing visits.
3. Prepare your site
Ensure your location meets zoning, fire, sanitation, and building codes. You will need written permission from your landlord or HOA if applicable.
4. Submit application and fees
Complete the application packet provided by the DCDEE. Once approved for a license, you must pay the annual license fee online.
Annual License Fee Schedule:
- Family Child Care Homes: $52.00
- Centers (0–12 capacity): $52.00
- Centers (13–50 capacity): $187.00
- Centers (51–100 capacity): $375.00
- Centers (101+ capacity): $600.00
5. Initial assessment
A consultant will conduct an initial assessment of your facility. If you meet all requirements, you will be issued a temporary license (usually valid for six months) before receiving a full license.
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
How to stay compliant with a daycare license in North Carolina
To remain compliant with a daycare license in North Carolina, it is essential to adhere to the state's health, safety, and staffing regulations. Regularly inspect your facility to ensure it meets sanitation and safety standards, such as proper ventilation, clean equipment, and age-appropriate materials.
Maintain required staff-to-child ratios and ensure all employees meet qualifications, including background checks and training certifications. Keep accurate records of attendance, incidents, and vaccinations to be prepared for inspections by the Division of Child Development and Early Education (DCDEE).
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. Grants don't have to be repaid and can be used towards expanding or enhancing the quality and accessibility of your program.
The available resources vary by state so it is crucial to research and understand the grants for childcare providers in North Carolina to make informed decisions about which ones to apply for.
Frequently asked questions
How many children can I care for in a Family Child Care Home in NC?
You can care for a maximum of nine children, but specific age ratios apply (e.g., no more than five preschool-age children if you also have school-age children).
Do I need a degree to open a daycare in North Carolina?
For a Family Child Care Home, a high school diploma is sufficient. For a Child Care Center, the director typically needs at least an associate degree in an early childhood field.
Start your North Carolina daycare the right way
Securing the proper license is the first step in starting a daycare in North Carolina and staying compliant with state regulations.
With the right preparation, you can build a North Carolina daycare that thrives for years to come—and brightwheel can simplify the process. Our childcare management software is designed with new programs in mind, offering intuitive tools to streamline operations, strengthen family communication, and plan for growth from day one. Whether you’ve just received your license or are about to enroll your first group of children, you can start setting up your systems in brightwheel before you open.
