| License type | Childcare center |
| Regulating agency | Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services — Child Care Licensing — Division of Management and Finance |
| Regulatory code | LAC 67:III.Chapter 73 (Licensing Standards for Class B Child Care Centers) |
| Infant ratio | 1:6 (max group: —) |
| Toddler ratio | 1:7 (max group: —) |
| Preschool ratio | 1:10 (max group: —) |
Louisiana licensed childcare center: Staff-to-child ratio requirements
Licensed childcare centers in Louisiana must maintain specific staff-to-child ratios at all times as required by Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services under LAC 67:III.Chapter 73 (Licensing Standards for Class B Child Care Centers).
| Age group | Staff:child ratio | Max group size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infant (0–18 months) | 1:6 | — | Birth–12 months |
| Toddler (18–36 months) | 1:7 | — | 13–36 months |
| Preschool (3–5 years) | 1:10 | — | 3yr = 1:7 (transitional); 4yr = 1:10 |
Source: LAC 67:III.Chapter 73 (Licensing Standards for Class B Child Care Centers), Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services. Always verify current ratios directly with LA DCFS.
Louisiana licensed childcare center: Credential & training requirements
Director / Operator requirements
Louisiana childcare center directors must meet minimum education and experience requirements established by Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services under LAC 67:III.Chapter 73 (Licensing Standards for Class B Child 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 Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services for the current director qualification standard applicable to your program type.
Teacher / Caregiver requirements
Lead teachers and caregivers in Louisiana licensed childcare centers must meet minimum education requirements set by Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services. 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 Louisiana are typically required to complete annual continuing education hours approved by Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services. CPR and pediatric first aid certification is required for most childcare center staff and must be kept current. Contact Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services for the current annual training hour requirement and approved training topics.
Louisiana licensed childcare center: Facility requirements
The following physical environment standards apply to licensed childcare centers in Louisiana under LAC 67:III.Chapter 73 (Licensing Standards for Class B Child Care Centers).
| Indoor space | Minimum square footage per child required; verify with LA DCFS 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 Louisiana
The childcare center licensing process in Louisiana is administered by Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services. The general steps are:
- Contact Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services — Child Care Licensing — Division of Management and Finance 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 LA DCFS licensing analyst verifying compliance with LAC 67:III.Chapter 73 (Licensing Standards for Class B Child Care Centers) physical environment requirements.
- Receive your childcare center license from Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services. Each physical location requires a separate license.
Licensing contact: Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services — Child Care Licensing — Division of Management and Finance.
Official resource: https://dcfs.louisiana.gov/page/licensing
Always be in ratio — brightwheel makes it automatic.
Brightwheel’s real-time attendance tracking alerts staff the moment any Louisiana classroom approaches ratio limits required under LAC 67:III.Chapter 73 (Licensing Standards for Class B Child Care Centers).
Frequently asked questions: Louisiana childcare center licensing
Sources & references
This page was compiled from official government sources. Always verify current requirements directly with Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services before making licensing or compliance decisions.
- Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services — childcare center licensing
- ACF Licensing Regulations Database — Louisiana
Also in this guide: Louisiana Small Family Child Care Home Requirements, Louisiana Large Family Child Care Home Requirements, Louisiana Preschool Requirements