| License type | Childcare center |
| Regulating agency | Alabama Department of Human Resources — Office of Child Care Licensing |
| Regulatory code | Alabama Admin. Code Ch. 660-5-26 (Standards for Day Care Centers) |
| Infant ratio | 1:5 (max group: 10) |
| Toddler ratio | 1:6 (max group: —) |
| Preschool ratio | 1:12 (max group: —) |
Alabama licensed childcare center: Staff-to-child ratio requirements
Licensed childcare centers in Alabama must maintain specific staff-to-child ratios at all times as required by Alabama Department of Human Resources under Alabama Admin. Code Ch. 660-5-26 (Standards for Day Care Centers).
| Age group | Staff:child ratio | Max group size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infant (0–18 months) | 1:5 | 10 | Birth–12 months |
| Toddler (18–36 months) | 1:6 | — | 12–30 months |
| Preschool (3–5 years) | 1:12 | — | 3yr = 1:12; 30–36mo = 1:10 |
Source: Alabama Admin. Code Ch. 660-5-26 (Standards for Day Care Centers), Alabama Department of Human Resources. Always verify current ratios directly with AL DHR.
Alabama licensed childcare center: Credential & training requirements
Director / Operator requirements
Alabama childcare center directors must meet minimum education and experience requirements established by Alabama Department of Human Resources under Alabama Admin. Code Ch. 660-5-26 (Standards for Day Care 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 Alabama Department of Human Resources for the current director qualification standard applicable to your program type.
Teacher / Caregiver requirements
Lead teachers and caregivers in Alabama licensed childcare centers must meet minimum education requirements set by Alabama Department of Human Resources. 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 Alabama are typically required to complete annual continuing education hours approved by Alabama Department of Human Resources. CPR and pediatric first aid certification is required for most childcare center staff and must be kept current. Contact Alabama Department of Human Resources for the current annual training hour requirement and approved training topics.
Alabama licensed childcare center: Facility requirements
The following physical environment standards apply to licensed childcare centers in Alabama under Alabama Admin. Code Ch. 660-5-26 (Standards for Day Care Centers).
| Indoor space | Minimum square footage per child required; verify with AL DHR 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 Alabama
The childcare center licensing process in Alabama is administered by Alabama Department of Human Resources. The general steps are:
- Contact Alabama Department of Human Resources — Office of Child Care Licensing 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 AL DHR licensing analyst verifying compliance with Alabama Admin. Code Ch. 660-5-26 (Standards for Day Care Centers) physical environment requirements.
- Receive your childcare center license from Alabama Department of Human Resources. Each physical location requires a separate license.
Licensing contact: Alabama Department of Human Resources — Office of Child Care Licensing.
Official resource: https://dhr.alabama.gov
Always be in ratio — brightwheel makes it automatic.
Brightwheel’s real-time attendance tracking alerts staff the moment any Alabama classroom approaches ratio limits required under Alabama Admin. Code Ch. 660-5-26 (Standards for Day Care Centers).
Frequently asked questions: Alabama childcare center licensing
Sources & references
This page was compiled from official government sources. Always verify current requirements directly with Alabama Department of Human Resources before making licensing or compliance decisions.
- Alabama Department of Human Resources — childcare center licensing
- ACF Licensing Regulations Database — Alabama
Also in this guide: Alabama Small Family Child Care Home Requirements, Alabama Large Family Child Care Home Requirements, Alabama Preschool Requirements