How to Become Day Care Licensed in North Carolina

If you plan to care for more than two children who aren't related to you for more than four hours a day, you may need to be licensed in the state of North Carolina. Providing care for more than five preschool children will require a Child Care Center license. The number of children who can be cared for is determined by the indoor and outdoor square footage of the facility, local zoning ordinances, and completion of sanitation and fire inspections.

Instructions

1. Determine the type of child care program you want to offer. The application varies based on the size and type of program.

2. Contact the Division of Child Development at 919-662-4499 and request a free copy of the Basic Information for Potential Providers booklet. This booklet describes the state requirements for operating a Child Care Center in North Carolina. Contact your city or county governments for any additional requirements.

3. Complete the registration form to attend a pre-licensing workshop. The form can be found in the Basic Information for Potential Providers booklet. The pre-licensing workshop is required for anyone wanting to open a day care center. The two-day workshop will cover choosing a location for your day care center, the role of inspectors, and the caregiving requirements for young children.

4. Contact a licensing supervisor in your area. After the completion of the pre-licensing workshop, you will receive the name and number of a licensing supervisor. The supervisor will assign a child care consultant to you. Your consultant will schedule several pre-licensing visits to go over the specific requirements and regulations of running a child care center. The consultant will also assist you in filling out and completing the application forms for the license.

5. Receive your child care center license. Once all requirements have been met, the license will be issued.

References

• NC Division of Child Development