| License type | Childcare center |
| Regulating agency | North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services — Early Childhood Services — Child Care Licensing |
| Regulatory code | N.D. Admin. Code 75-03-14 (Child Care Centers); NDCC §50-11.1 |
| Infant ratio | 1:5 (max group: —) |
| Toddler ratio | 1:6 (max group: —) |
| Preschool ratio | 1:12 (max group: —) |
North Dakota licensed childcare center: Staff-to-child ratio requirements
Licensed childcare centers in North Dakota must maintain specific staff-to-child ratios at all times as required by North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services under N.D. Admin. Code 75-03-14 (Child Care Centers); NDCC §50-11.1.
| Age group | Staff:child ratio | Max group size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infant (0–18 months) | 1:5 | — | Birth–12 months |
| Toddler (18–36 months) | 1:6 | — | 12–36 months |
| Preschool (3–5 years) | 1:12 | — | 3yr = 1:12; 4yr = 1:14 |
Source: N.D. Admin. Code 75-03-14 (Child Care Centers); NDCC §50-11.1, North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services. Always verify current ratios directly with ND HHS.
North Dakota licensed childcare center: Credential & training requirements
Director / Operator requirements
North Dakota childcare center directors must meet minimum education and experience requirements established by North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services under N.D. Admin. Code 75-03-14 (Child Care Centers); NDCC §50-11.1. 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 North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services for the current director qualification standard applicable to your program type.
Teacher / Caregiver requirements
Lead teachers and caregivers in North Dakota licensed childcare centers must meet minimum education requirements set by North Dakota Department of Health and Human 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 North Dakota are typically required to complete annual continuing education hours approved by North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services. CPR and pediatric first aid certification is required for most childcare center staff and must be kept current. Contact North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services for the current annual training hour requirement and approved training topics.
North Dakota licensed childcare center: Facility requirements
The following physical environment standards apply to licensed childcare centers in North Dakota under N.D. Admin. Code 75-03-14 (Child Care Centers); NDCC §50-11.1.
| Indoor space | Minimum square footage per child required; verify with ND HHS 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 North Dakota
The childcare center licensing process in North Dakota is administered by North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services. The general steps are:
- Contact North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services — Early Childhood Services — 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 ND HHS licensing analyst verifying compliance with N.D. Admin. Code 75-03-14 (Child Care Centers); NDCC §50-11.1 physical environment requirements.
- Receive your childcare center license from North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services. Each physical location requires a separate license.
Licensing contact: North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services — Early Childhood Services — Child Care Licensing.
Official resource: https://hhs.nd.gov/human-services/provide-services/early-childhood
Always be in ratio — brightwheel makes it automatic.
Brightwheel’s real-time attendance tracking alerts staff the moment any North Dakota classroom approaches ratio limits required under N.D. Admin. Code 75-03-14 (Child Care Centers); NDCC §50-11.1.
Frequently asked questions: North Dakota childcare center licensing
Sources & references
This page was compiled from official government sources. Always verify current requirements directly with North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services before making licensing or compliance decisions.
- North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services — childcare center licensing
- ACF Licensing Regulations Database — North Dakota
Also in this guide: North Dakota Small Family Child Care Home Requirements, North Dakota Large Family Child Care Home Requirements, North Dakota Preschool Requirements