Quick answer: How do I start a daycare in Washington?
To start a daycare in Washington, you need a license from the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) if you care for children from birth to age 13 outside their home on a regular, ongoing basis. Complete DCYF's licensing orientation, submit your application, pass a background check and inspection, and receive an initial license.
In this guide
Washington daycare licensing at a glance
| Requirement | Family home | Center |
|---|---|---|
| Setting | Provider lives in the home; 12 or fewer children | Building or facility, open less than 24 hours a day |
| Ages served | Birth to age 13 | |
| Minimum age | 18 (licensee) | 18 (director) |
| Education | High school diploma or equivalent (licensee) | ECE state certificate or college credits, plus teaching and administration experience (director) |
| Indoor space | 35 square feet per child, plus 15 more square feet per infant or toddler in a crib or playpen | |
| Outdoor space | 75 square feet of licensed usable space per child using the play space at one time | |
| Annual license fee | $30 | $125 for the first 12 children, plus $12 for each additional child up to licensed capacity |
| License term | Six-month initial license (extendable to two years), then a nonexpiring license with annual compliance documents | |
| Apply at least | 90 calendar days before your planned opening | |
Sources: DCYF licensed provider page, WAC 110-300-0355, WAC 110-300-0100, and WAC 110-300-0401.
Do I need a childcare license in Washington?
Yes, in most cases. You need a license if you provide care for children from birth to age 13 outside their own home on a regular, ongoing basis. For family homes, the rule covers care for one or more children who are not related to the licensee on a regular and ongoing basis, or care for preschool-age children for more than four hours a day. Source: WAC 110-300-0010 and DCYF licensed provider page. The Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) licenses about 6,800 programs in the state. Source: DCYF licensed provider page.
Informal parent co-ops, and family, friends, and neighbors who watch children only once in a while, do not need a license. Source: DCYF licensed provider page.
What are the childcare license types in Washington?
- Family home. The provider lives in the home and cares for 12 or fewer children, from birth to age 13. Source: DCYF licensed provider page.
- Center. A building or facility that provides care for children from birth to age 13 for less than 24 hours a day. Source: DCYF licensed provider page.
- School-age. A program for children ages 5 to 13 when they are not in school, governed by chapter 110-301 WAC. Source: DCYF licensed provider page.
- Outdoor nature-based. A program held mostly outdoors, governed by chapter 110-302 WAC. Source: DCYF licensed provider page.
Not sure where to begin? Use our checklist for starting a daycare business.
Childcare Licensing and Compliance Checklist
Download this free checklist to simplify the childcare licensing process.
What are the childcare licensing requirements in Washington?
Who needs to complete preservice requirements?
Before licensing, applicants complete a department orientation and a background check under chapter 110-06 WAC. Providers, volunteers, and family home household members age 14 and older need documentation of a negative tuberculosis (TB) test signed within the last 12 months. Source: WAC 110-300-0105.
Family home licensee qualifications
- Licensee. At least 18 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent, and a completed preservice orientation. Source: WAC 110-300-0100.
- ECE certificates. The licensee earns an ECE initial certificate by August 1, 2030, or within five years of being licensed, whichever is later, and an ECE short certificate within two years of earning the initial certificate. Source: WAC 110-300-0100.
- Assistant and aide. Assistants who count in ratio meet the lead teacher or assistant teacher qualifications below, and aides must be at least 14 years old. Source: WAC 110-300-0100.
Center staff qualifications
- Director. At least 18 years old with an ECE state certificate (earned by August 1, 2030, or within five years of hire or promotion), two years of teaching experience, six months of administration or management experience (or a department-approved plan), and a completed orientation. Source: WAC 110-300-0100.
- Assistant director. At least 18 years old, with two years of teaching or administration experience and an ECE state certificate on the same timeline. Source: WAC 110-300-0100.
- Program supervisor. At least 18 years old with an ECE state certificate by August 1, 2030, and two years of teaching experience. Source: WAC 110-300-0100.
- College credit alternative. Directors, assistant directors, and supervisors may instead show college quarter credits based on licensed capacity: 10 credits for 12 or fewer children, 25 for 13 to 24 children, and 45 for 25 or more children. Source: WAC 110-300-0100.
- Lead teacher. At least 18 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent and a completed preservice orientation. Center lead teachers earn an ECE initial certificate by August 1, 2030, or within five years. Source: WAC 110-300-0100.
- Assistant teacher. At least 18 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent, and an ECE initial certificate within the same timeframe. Source: WAC 110-300-0100.
- Aides. At least 14 years old with a high school diploma or equivalent, or enrolled in school. Aides count in ratio under continuous oversight. Source: WAC 110-300-0100.
- Volunteers. At least 14 years old. Other personnel need a background check, a negative TB test, and program training. Source: WAC 110-300-0100.
Required training and first aid
License applicants, directors, supervisors, teachers, and aides complete child care basics training before licensing or before working unsupervised with children. Other required training includes recognizing and reporting child abuse and neglect, emergency preparedness, and prevention of exposure to blood and body fluids. Programs that care for infants add safe sleep (renewed annually) and shaken baby syndrome prevention. Source: WAC 110-300-0106.
The family home licensee, director, supervisors, teachers, and anyone counted in ratio need adult and pediatric first aid and CPR, plus infant CPR if applicable, with a live hands-on component. Staff who prepare or serve food need a current food worker card. Source: WAC 110-300-0106 and WAC 110-300-0230. Programs also need a stocked first-aid kit. Source: WAC 110-300-0230.
Space requirements
Indoor space must provide at least 35 square feet per child in attendance, plus 15 additional square feet for each infant or toddler using a crib or playpen in a center play or sleep area. Bathrooms, diaper changing areas, laundry areas, closets, stairways, hallways, and unlicensed space do not count toward capacity. Source: WAC 110-300-0354.
Outdoor play space needs at least 75 square feet of licensed usable space per child using it at one time, shade, and a fence or barrier at least 48 inches high (or the local code height) with two exits. If you cannot fit all enrolled children outdoors at once, you can rotate groups or use an off-site play area approved by DCYF. Source: WAC 110-300-0145.
Family home capacity
A family home cares for no more than 12 children, including the licensee's and staff's own children. How many you can enroll depends on your experience and whether you have a qualified assistant. Source: WAC 110-300-0355.
| Licensee experience | Working alone | With a qualified assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Less than 1 year | Up to 6 children, with no more than 3 under age 2 (if 3 are under age 2, one must walk independently) | |
| 1 to under 2 years | Up to 8 children ages 2 to 12, with no more than 4 under age 3 | Up to 9 children from birth to 12, with no more than 4 under age 2 |
| 2 or more years | Up to 10 children ages 3 to 12, or up to 12 school-age children only | Up to 12 children from birth to 12, with no more than 6 under age 2 |
A family home that cares only for children from birth to 24 months is limited to a group of eight with two staff, a 1:4 ratio, and 15 additional square feet per infant or toddler. Two staff are required when more than six children are in care and any is under age 2, when more than eight are in care and any is under age 3, or when more than 10 are in care and any is under school age. Source: WAC 110-300-0355.
Washington center ratios and group sizes
Mixed-age groups are allowed only during the first or last two hours of the day, and they follow the ratio and group size of the youngest child. Source: WAC 110-300-0356.
| Age group | Staff-to-child ratio and maximum group size |
|---|---|
| Infants (birth through 11 months) | 1:4 with a group of 8, or 1:3 with a group of 9 |
| Toddlers (12 through 29 months) | 1:7 with a group of 14, or 1:5 with a group of 15 |
| Preschoolers (30 months through 6 years) | 1:10 with a group of 20 |
| School-age (ages 5 to 12, enrolled in kindergarten or elementary school) | 1:15 with a group of 30 |
See also brightwheel's guide to childcare ratios.
How do I apply for a childcare license in Washington?
DCYF lists 11 steps from first contact to license. Source: DCYF licensing process. The steps below group them for you.
- Contact DCYF. Email the pre-licensing team at dcyf.welcome@dcyf.wa.gov. Source: DCYF licensing process.
- Set up your accounts. Register for a STARS ID in MERIT, then create a DCYF training account at dcyftraining.com. Source: DCYF licensing process.
- Complete the licensing orientation. The online orientation is available in English, Spanish, and Somali, and you choose the version for your facility type: family home, center, school-age, or outdoor nature-based. Save your certificate, which is recorded in MERIT. Take the orientation within 12 months of applying. Source: DCYF licensing process and WAC 110-300-0400.
- Complete your background check. Reply to the Provider Portal email, then complete a portable background check application in MERIT. Source: DCYF licensing process.
- Submit your application packet. A complete packet includes the application form for your license type, your orientation certificate, a business license if applicable, liability insurance if applicable, the license fee, government photo ID, a Social Security card or sworn declaration, an employer identification number (EIN) if you plan to hire, and employment and education verification. Source: WAC 110-300-0400.
- Add facility documents. Include a floor plan with emergency exits, a certificate of occupancy if applicable, septic and well water test results if applicable, lead and copper drinking water test results, your program days and hours, and resumes for the applicant, director, and supervisors. Source: WAC 110-300-0400.
- Add your policies. Submit parent and program policies, staff policies, an emergency preparedness plan, and health policies. Source: WAC 110-300-0400.
- Pass the inspection. Your application moves to the local DCYF licensing office, where a licensor completes the initial licensing inspection. Fix any items on the inspection report. Source: DCYF licensing process.
- Receive your license. DCYF issues the license once requirements are met. Source: DCYF licensing process.
How long does licensing take?
Submit your complete application packet at least 90 calendar days before your planned opening. The 90 days begin when DCYF receives a complete packet, and incomplete packets are returned. If you cannot finish within 90 days, you can withdraw and reapply, and DCYF waives the reapplication fee one time if an outside barrier you cannot control caused the delay. Source: WAC 110-300-0400.
What is an initial license?
An initial license is valid for six months and can be extended up to three more times, for a maximum of two years. Once you show compliance, DCYF issues a nonexpiring license. Source: WAC 110-300-0425.
Whether you open a center or a family home, brightwheel's new program support and childcare management software can help you launch. Compare other states in our childcare licensing requirements by state.
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 (New Program)
How much does a daycare license cost in Washington?
Washington sets licensing fees by license type. Fees are nonrefundable and are due with your initial application and every year at least 30 days before your license anniversary date. Source: WAC 110-300-0401.
- Family home. $30 per year. Source: WAC 110-300-0401.
- Center and school-age program. $125 per year for the first 12 children, plus $12 for each additional child up to your licensed capacity. Source: WAC 110-300-0401.
You can pay by check, card, or money order. Fees are billed by the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) Financial Services Administration, which sends an invoice about 90 days before payment is due. Source: WAC 110-300-0401 and DCYF maintain your license page.
How do I stay compliant with my Washington daycare license?
- Submit annual compliance documents. Every year, at least 30 calendar days before your license anniversary, pay the annual licensing fee, submit the Annual Declaration of Compliance on DCYF's form, and provide background check documentation. Forms are in the Provider Portal 90 days before your anniversary, and DCYF sends reminder emails at 90, 60, 30, and 15 days. Source: WAC 110-300-0425 and DCYF maintain your license page.
- Do not let your license lapse. If you miss the requirements, the license expires and you must submit a new application. Source: WAC 110-300-0425 and DCYF maintain your license page.
- Keep background checks current. Checks are required every five years, for new staff, when a new household member moves into a licensed family home, and when a household member turns 13. Source: DCYF maintain your license page.
- Report changes within 24 hours. Report fire or structural damage, allegations of abuse or neglect, a director or supervisor leaving, an ownership change, criminal charges, household members age 14 and older moving in or out, and changes in hours. Source: WAC 110-300-0425.
- Ask before increasing capacity. Get DCYF approval before you raise your licensed capacity. If your liability insurance ends, notify DCYF within 30 calendar days. Source: WAC 110-300-0425.
- Keep training current. Renew first aid and CPR, safe sleep training each year if you care for infants, and food worker cards before they expire. Source: WAC 110-300-0106.
Our checklist for starting a daycare business can help you stay organized.
What financial resources are available for Washington childcare providers?
Yes. Grants are financial awards from government agencies or private foundations that do not need to be repaid. You can use them for facility updates, equipment, or staff training. Review the current grants for childcare providers in Washington to find options that fit your program.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a license to care for children in my home in Washington?
Yes, if you care for children who are not related to you on a regular and ongoing basis, or care for preschool-age children for more than four hours a day. Family, friends, and neighbors who watch children only once in a while do not need a license.
How long is a Washington childcare license valid?
An initial license is valid for six months and can be extended up to three more times, for a maximum of two years. Once you show compliance, the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) issues a nonexpiring license, and you submit annual compliance documents at least 30 days before your anniversary.
How much does a Washington childcare license cost?
A family home license costs $30 per year. A center or school-age license costs $125 per year for the first 12 children, plus $12 for each additional child up to licensed capacity. Fees are nonrefundable and due with your application and each year before your anniversary.
How many children can I care for in a home daycare in Washington?
A family home cares for no more than 12 children, including your own. With less than a year of experience you can care for up to six children. With two or more years of experience and a qualified assistant, you can care for up to 12.
What training do I need to open a daycare in Washington?
You complete the DCYF licensing orientation and child care basics training, plus training on child abuse reporting, emergency preparedness, and blood and body fluids exposure. Licensees and staff counted in ratio also need current adult and pediatric first aid and CPR.
How long does it take to get a childcare license in Washington?
Submit your complete application packet at least 90 calendar days before your planned opening. The 90 days begin when DCYF receives a complete packet, and incomplete packets are returned.
Final thoughts
Securing a childcare license is a critical first step in launching a program in Washington. Designed with new childcare programs in mind, brightwheel's software streamlines operations, improves communication, and supports your program's growth from day one, and you can begin setting it up before you open.
