Understanding Daycare Licensing

Full License

The standard license issued to facilities that meet all requirements. Usually valid for 1-3 years and requires renewal.

What it means: The facility has passed inspection and meets all current standards.

Provisional/Temporary License

Issued to new facilities or those working to correct violations. Usually valid for 6 months to 1 year with conditions.

What it means: Not necessarily a red flag for new facilities, but ask what conditions apply.

Registered/Certified (Home Daycare)

Some states use "registration" rather than "licensing" for home daycares. Requirements may be less stringent than full licensing.

What it means: The provider has met minimum requirements but may have less oversight than licensed centers.

License-Exempt

Providers who legally operate without a license. This includes relative care, some religious programs, and small home daycares below the licensing threshold.

What it means: No state oversight. You must do all due diligence yourself.

Correction Required

The facility is given a timeframe to fix the issue—anywhere from immediate to 30 days depending on severity. Most violations are corrected promptly.

Follow-Up Inspection

Inspectors return to verify corrections. If the issue persists, more serious actions may follow.

Fines and Penalties

Repeated or serious violations can result in fines. Some states publish fine amounts; others keep them confidential.

Probation or Suspension

Severe or persistent violations can lead to probationary status or temporary suspension of the license while issues are addressed.

Does licensing guarantee quality care?

No. Licensing ensures minimum safety and health standards are met, but it doesn't guarantee quality interactions, curriculum, or developmental appropriateness. Think of it as a floor, not a ceiling. A licensed facility is legal and meets basic safety standards, but quality varies widely. Look for accreditation, observe during visits, and check references for quality indicators beyond licensing.

Should I avoid daycares with violations in their history?

Not necessarily. Minor violations are common and often reflect documentation issues rather than care problems. What matters is: the severity of violations (was it a paperwork issue or a child safety concern?), whether the same violation recurs, how quickly corrections were made, and the facility's overall pattern. A facility with occasional minor violations that are quickly corrected may be excellent. Repeated serious violations are a red flag.

How do I know if a home daycare is licensed?

Ask to see the license—licensed providers are required to display it. Also verify through your state's online database. Be aware that many states have "license-exempt" thresholds—a provider caring for fewer than a certain number of children (often 3-6) may not need a license. This is legal but means less oversight. Ask directly: "Are you licensed, registered, or license-exempt?"

What if a daycare won't show me their inspection reports?

Inspection reports are public records in most states—you can find them online through your state's licensing database even if the facility is reluctant to share. If a provider refuses to discuss their inspection history at all, that's a yellow flag. Transparent providers are usually happy to explain any violations and how they were addressed.

Are unlicensed daycares always bad?

Not always, but they require more caution. Some license-exempt providers offer excellent care—they may be experienced professionals who keep groups small by choice. However, without licensing oversight, you bear all responsibility for verifying safety, checking references, and ongoing monitoring. Ask why they're not licensed, conduct thorough reference checks, and visit unannounced after enrollment.

How often should I check licensing status?

Check annually or whenever you have concerns. Licenses can expire, be suspended, or have new conditions added. Many state databases show the most recent inspection results and any pending actions. Some states offer email alerts when new inspections are posted. If you notice concerning changes at your daycare, checking licensing status is a good first step.

What's the difference between a violation and a citation?

Terminology varies by state, but generally a "violation" means something was out of compliance with regulations during an inspection. A "citation" is the formal written notice documenting that violation. Some states use these terms interchangeably. What matters is the content: what was wrong, how serious it was, and whether it was corrected.

Can I visit a daycare unannounced to check on my child?

Yes, and licensed facilities are typically required to allow parent access during operating hours. This is both a legal requirement and a quality indicator—good daycares welcome parent involvement. If a facility resists unannounced visits or makes you feel unwelcome, that's a significant red flag. Your right to see your child should never be restricted.

Do licensing requirements apply to after-school programs?

It depends on the state and program type. Many states license after-school care programs, especially those for younger children. School-operated programs and some recreational programs may be exempt. Check your state's specific rules. Even if licensing isn't required, many after-school programs voluntarily meet licensing standards for credibility and insurance purposes.

What if my state has weak licensing requirements?

Some states have notably weaker childcare regulations than others. If you're in such a state, look for providers who voluntarily exceed minimum requirements. Ask about NAEYC or NAC accreditation, staff qualifications, and self-imposed standards. Many excellent providers maintain higher standards than the law requires because they believe it's right for children—those are the providers you want.