How to Become Licensed

The Child Care Licensing Program licenses both Child Care Centers (CCCs) and Family Child Care Homes (FCCHs) in California. Child Care Centers are usually located in a commercial building and Family Child Care Homes are in a licensee’s home. Only non-medical care and supervision can be provided in child care facilities and care is limited to periods of less than 24 hours.

The Child Care Licensing Program ensures that child care facilities operate according to the California Health and Safety Code and Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations in a number of ways:

  • In-person and online orientations
  • Pre-licensing inspections
  • Unannounced facility inspections
  • Complaint investigations
  • Consultations
  • Education and technical support, and
  • Follow-up inspections

Is this the right business for me?

CCIP Family Child Care Provider Stories

Person holding an infantDo you love caring for children? The California Child Care Initiative Project (CCIP) will help you launch and grow your home-based child care business. Watch these videos to learn more about the program.


Fact Sheets:

Resources:

Contact Us

Coronavirus General Question Inbox: CCLCOVID-19INFO@dss.ca.gov

Community Care Licensing Division
Child Care Licensing Program

744 P Street
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 654-1541

Child Care Advocates - (916) 654-1541
ChildCareAdvocatesProgram@dss.ca.gov


PDF of Child Care Licensing Regional Offices

CCLD Complaint Hotline

If you see something, let us know!

To file a complaint regarding a state licensed community care facility , child care facility, or home care organization, visit our Complaint Hotline Page for contact information and more.

 

CCLD Services and Notifications