Steps in becoming licensed

1.The licensing process begins with orientation*, which can be a group meeting or an individual meeting with a licensor, depending on where you live. At orientation you will receive information about:

• The licensing process;
• Providing child care;
• Resources to help you through the licensing process; and
• Linkages to training and other supports.

At orientation you will be encouraged to think about why you want to do child care. You'll want to assess your:

• Business skills;
• Abilities to work with children;
• Determination, personality, experience and finances; and
• Particular child care space.
  

2.You will receive a license application, instructions about how to fill out the application and other related information. The licensor(s) conducting the orientation will explain how to complete the application form and what other information you must send in with the application. There is a $24 application fee. You will also be asked to fill out a Criminal Background Check form.

3. Once you send in your application, Dept of Early Learning (DEL) has 90 days to act on your application. If you are applying for a home license, a DEL licensor will contact you to schedule an inspection. The DEL licensor and a DEL health specialist will come to your center to inspect it. They will also talk with you about how you plan to offer child care. Throughout the whole licensing process, DEL staff will work closely with you.

4. During the licensing process you might also want to be in touch with your local Child Care Resource and Referral Agency. Resource and referral agencies maintain a current list of licensed child care centers and homes so they can make child care referrals for parents and guardians needing child care. Agencies also offer a variety of services both for potential and already-licensed child care providers.

Orientation

Provider orientation schedules by region.

For more information go to the DEL licensing web page.