CDSS Programs Community Care Licensing Children's Residential How to Become Licensed

How to Become Licensed

The Children’s Residential Program licenses and monitors the following categories to ensure that they provide a safe and healthy environment for minors and nonminor dependents who are in residential care:

  • Adoption Agencies
  • Community Crisis Homes
  • Community Treatment Facilities
  • Crisis Nurseries
  • Foster Family Agencies
  • Group Homes
  • Group Homes for Children with Special Health Care Needs
  • Short-Term Residential Therapeutic Programs
  • Small Family Homes
  • Temporary Shelter Care Facilities
  • Transitional Housing Placement Programs
  • Youth Homelessness Prevention Centers

Go to Facility Types for a detailed description of the facility types.

Licensing Process Overview

Each type of facility has different requirements and timelines when it comes to licensing. However, the general process is the same. Potential applicants are encouraged to read through the following material in its totality to become familiar with the steps of the application and licensing process. It provides a step-by-step overview of the Children’s Residential Program licensing process along with links to forms, databases, and other resources.

Children’s Residential Program Licensing Applications Steps
 

Licensing Laws and Regulations

To obtain and maintain a license, the licensee must meet the requirements contained in Title 22 regulations and the Interim Licensing Standards. Applicants should thoroughly review the Title 22 regulations and Interim Licensing Standards associated with the type of license they are pursuing.

Orientation

The licensing application process is facilitated by a three-component orientation and application process. To find information on orientation schedule and registration, go to Register for an Orientation.

Forms and Publications

Several forms will need to be filled out by applicants for review by Children’s Residential Program to become licensed. What forms are required and instructions on how to fill them out are covered in the appropriate orientation.

Forms and Publications

Translated Forms and Publications

Background Check Information

The law requires a background check of all applicants, licensees, adult residents, volunteers under certain conditions, and employees of community care facilities who have contact with clients. (Note that nonminor dependents are not required to have a background check.) Background checks are managed by the Care Provider Management Branch.

Read more about the Background Check Process.

Pay Licensing Fees

A major component of the Community Care Licensing Division program budget is funded through the collection of licensing fees. This offsets the General Fund expenditure and allows the division to maintain its critical functions. Licensing fees can be paid online.