| License type | Childcare center |
| Regulating agency | Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (Bright from the Start) — Child Care Licensing |
| Regulatory code | Rules of Bright from the Start, Chapter 591-1-1 |
| Infant ratio | 1:6 (max group: 12) |
| Toddler ratio | 1:8 (max group: 16) |
| Preschool ratio | 1:10 (max group: 20) |
Georgia licensed childcare center: Staff-to-child ratio requirements
Licensed childcare centers in Georgia must maintain specific staff-to-child ratios at all times as required by Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (Bright from the Start) under Rules of Bright from the Start, Chapter 591-1-1.
| Age group | Staff:child ratio | Max group size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infant (0–18 months) | 1:6 | 12 | Infants <1 yr or not walking; uses developmental milestone (walking), not strict age |
| Toddler (18–36 months) | 1:8 | 16 | Walking toddlers to 18 mo; 19–36 mo also 1:8 |
| Preschool (3–5 years) | 1:10 | 20 | Ages 3–5 years |
Source: Rules of Bright from the Start, Chapter 591-1-1, Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (Bright from the Start). Always verify current ratios directly with DECAL.
Georgia licensed childcare center: Credential & training requirements
Director / Operator requirements
Georgia childcare center directors must meet minimum education and experience requirements established by Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (Bright from the Start) under Rules of Bright from the Start, Chapter 591-1-1. 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 Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (Bright from the Start) for the current director qualification standard applicable to your program type.
Teacher / Caregiver requirements
Lead teachers and caregivers in Georgia licensed childcare centers must meet minimum education requirements set by Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (Bright from the Start). 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 Georgia are typically required to complete annual continuing education hours approved by Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (Bright from the Start). CPR and pediatric first aid certification is required for most childcare center staff and must be kept current. Contact Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (Bright from the Start) for the current annual training hour requirement and approved training topics.
Georgia licensed childcare center: Facility requirements
The following physical environment standards apply to licensed childcare centers in Georgia under Rules of Bright from the Start, Chapter 591-1-1.
| Indoor space | Minimum square footage per child required; verify with DECAL 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 Georgia
The childcare center licensing process in Georgia is administered by Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (Bright from the Start). The general steps are:
- Contact Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (Bright from the Start) — 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 DECAL licensing analyst verifying compliance with Rules of Bright from the Start, Chapter 591-1-1 physical environment requirements.
- Receive your childcare center license from Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (Bright from the Start). Each physical location requires a separate license.
Licensing contact: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (Bright from the Start) — Child Care Licensing.
Official resource: https://decal.ga.gov/ccs/rulesandregulations.aspx
Always be in ratio — brightwheel makes it automatic.
Brightwheel’s real-time attendance tracking alerts staff the moment any Georgia classroom approaches ratio limits required under Rules of Bright from the Start, Chapter 591-1-1.
Frequently asked questions: Georgia childcare center licensing
Sources & references
This page was compiled from official government sources. Always verify current requirements directly with Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (Bright from the Start) before making licensing or compliance decisions.
- Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (Bright from the Start) — childcare center licensing
- ACF Licensing Regulations Database — Georgia
Also in this guide: Georgia Small Family Child Care Home Requirements, Georgia Large Family Child Care Home Requirements, Georgia Preschool Requirements