Reviewed November 2026 WAC 110-300-0356(5), effective August 2019 · view rule WAC 110-300-0356(5) WAC 110-300-0455(1)–(2), effective August 2019 · view rule WAC 110-300-0455(1)–(2)
Washington child care is licensed by the Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) under chapter 43.216 RCW. Since 2019, centers and family homes follow one rule chapter, the Foundational Quality Standards (chapter 110-300 WAC), with separate chapters for school-age and outdoor nature-based programs. A license is needed to regularly care for even one unrelated child in your home. DCYF visits every program unannounced at least once a year and posts three years of inspection reports on Child Care Check.
Licensing agency: Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF), Licensing Division · public license lookup
Inspection findings public? Yes, the state publishes licensing inspection results.
License types
- Child care center (group care outside a home, birth through 12) — Chapter 110-300 WAC; chapter 43.216 RCW
- Family home child care (up to 12 children in the provider's home; 13–16 with a waiver) — Chapter 110-300 WAC; chapter 43.216 RCW
- School-age program (school-age children only) — Chapter 110-301 WAC
- Outdoor nature-based child care (preschool and school-age, outdoors at least 4 hours or half the day) — Chapter 110-302 WAC; RCW 43.216.742
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Recent and upcoming changes (2024–2027)
Washington changes child care licensing in two ways: the Legislature amends chapter 43.216 RCW, and DCYF amends the WAC chapters through rulemaking published in the Washington State Register (WSR). The 2026 session passed two bills that took effect June 11, 2026 (ESHB 2219 and EHB 2317). Where a new statute and an older rule disagree, the statute controls; DCYF said it would update its inspection checklists during summer 2026.
More mixed-age time for centers
Since June 11, 2026, centers may combine age groups for up to 2.5 hours a day on a schedule the center chooses, or up to 4 hours a day if at least 90 minutes of that time is used for staff meal and rest breaks. The ratio and group size for the youngest child in the mixed group still apply. WAC 110-300-0356(6) still reads "first two hours or last two hours" of the day; the statute controls.
Zero tolerance for opioids and drug equipment
Licensed space must be free of high-potency synthetic opioids (such as fentanyl), drug manufacturing equipment and drug paraphernalia. The law calls their presence "imminent physical harm," and DCYF must issue an immediate summary suspension of the license when it finds a violation.
Orientation waiver
DCYF must waive the preservice orientation for someone who completed the applicable orientation less than five years ago, if the orientation content and licensing process have not substantially changed and the person has had no break in service as a licensed provider or in a licensed facility.
School-day ECEAP and Head Start exemption
Since June 11, 2026, school-day ECEAP and Head Start programs located in a public school or community or technical college building, or on its premises, don't need a DCYF child care license. DCYF says this applies to programs of 6 or more hours a day, that programs taking child care subsidy must stay licensed, and that about 44 of 6,729 licensed programs qualify. Licenses aren't closed automatically.
ECE certificate deadline moved to August 1, 2030
The deadline for directors, family home licensees, lead teachers and assistant teachers to hold the required early childhood education (ECE) certificate moved from August 1, 2026 to August 1, 2030 (rule effective August 1, 2026). Until August 1, 2030, providers can also show "experience-based competency" instead of a certificate if MERIT documents their current role, continuous employment since August 1, 2021 or five cumulative years in licensed care, and completed health and safety and basics training.
SafePass tip: SafePass staff profiles store certifications and documents with expiration dates, so ECE certificates, first aid/CPR cards, food worker cards and TB screens are in one place for the licensor. SafePass does not update MERIT, Washington's workforce registry, for you.
Abuse and neglect now includes trafficking
Effective May 15, 2026, DCYF updated the definition of "abuse or neglect" used in the child care rules to match RCW 26.44.020, which now includes sex trafficking, severe forms of trafficking in persons, and female genital mutilation. Your mandatory reporting duty covers these.
Three-month training window; family home waiver capped at 16
Effective January 13, 2025, new staff have up to three months from hire to finish required health and safety training, including first aid and CPR, but must finish before working unsupervised. The same filing capped family home capacity waivers at 16 children to match the state building code.
Discipline rule rewritten
Effective January 30, 2025, DCYF amended the prohibited-discipline rule because the earlier wording did not clearly forbid providers from harming children. The rule now lists prohibited acts in detail, from threats and shaming to restricting breathing or using car seats and high chairs to confine a child.
Dual child care and foster care licenses
Since September 15, 2024, a family home may hold both a child care license and a foster family home license. DCYF assesses each application separately and sets capacity for each license.
Subsidy claims tied to attendance (July 2027)
Starting July 1, 2027, providers taking Working Connections subsidy can claim the full authorized days for a child who attended 16 or more days in a month, up to 15 days for 9–15 days of attendance, and up to 11 days for 1–8 days. DCYF must write the payment rules. Accurate daily attendance records will matter more.
SafePass tip: SafePass Kiosk check-in and check-out create a timestamped daily attendance record for every child, which you can export as a PDF. It does not file subsidy claims for you.
Who needs a license, and what kind
The Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF) licenses child care through its Licensing Division under chapter 43.216 RCW. Since August 1, 2019, centers and family homes follow one combined rule chapter, the Foundational Quality Standards for Early Learning Programs (chapter 110-300 WAC, formerly 170-300). The Legislature ordered a single set of standards in the 2015 Early Start Act. School-age programs have their own chapter (110-301 WAC), and outdoor nature-based programs have theirs (110-302 WAC). DCYF's 2026 legislative update counted 6,729 licensed programs.
When a license is required
Anyone providing child care and early learning for a group of children from birth through 12 must be licensed unless exempt under RCW 43.216.010(2). A family home license is required to care, in your home, on a regular and ongoing basis, for even one child not related to you, or for preschool-age children more than four hours a day. Relatives (as listed in RCW 43.216.010(2)(a)) don't count.
Who is exempt
Exempt: relatives and legal guardians; occasional care for a neighbor's or friend's child that isn't an ongoing business (advertising counts as business); parent co-ops that swap care; nursery schools where no child attends more than 4 hours a day; schools serving only school-age children; seasonal camps of 3 months or less a year; programs where the parent stays on site (with limits); government-run programs; tribal-licensed programs on a reservation; military programs; and, since 2026, school-day ECEAP/Head Start in public schools or colleges.
Initial license, then a nonexpiring license
New programs get an initial license valid 6 months, which DCYF can extend in 6-month steps up to 2 years. A program that shows compliance then gets a nonexpiring license. To keep it, submit at least 30 days before each anniversary date: the annual fee, a declaration that you'll keep operating and comply with the rules, and background check renewals due. Miss these and the license expires with no right to a hearing.
License fees
The rule sets the annual fee at $30 for family homes and $125 for centers covering the first 12 children plus $12 for each additional child, "or as otherwise set by the legislature." The fee is nonrefundable, due with the application and then 30 days before each anniversary.
Changes you must report within 24 hours
Report to DCYF within 24 hours: fire or structural damage; abuse or neglect allegations against you, staff, volunteers or household members; a change of director or program supervisor; a change of ownership; criminal charges or convictions; household members 14 or older moving in or out (family homes); and changes in hours, including planned closures. Ask DCYF before increasing capacity, and notify DCYF within 30 days if your liability insurance ends.
School-age and outdoor nature-based programs
Programs serving only school-age children are licensed under chapter 110-301 WAC (1:15 ratio, group of 30). Outdoor nature-based programs, which teach outdoors at least 4 hours a day or half the program day, are licensed under chapter 110-302 WAC with tighter ratios: 1:6 (group of 16) for preschoolers and 1:8 (group of 20) for school-age children, plus at least 4,000 square feet of natural space per child.
Operating without a license
If DCYF finds unlicensed care, it sends a notice to stop. You have 30 days to agree in writing to attend orientation and apply; otherwise DCYF posts on its website that you are operating without a license. Unlicensed care is a misdemeanor and can be stopped by injunction.
Staff-to-child ratios
Centers follow a ratio and group-size table by age (WAC 110-300-0356). Washington gives centers two options for infants and toddlers: a larger ratio with a smaller group, or a smaller ratio with a slightly larger group. Family homes don't have a ratio table; they are limited by licensed capacity, age mix and the provider's experience (see Group size), plus rules on when a second staff member is required. Ratios apply indoors and outdoors, on field trips, during transport, at meals, at rest and at night.
Center ratios and group sizes
Infants (birth–11 months): 1:4, group of 8; or 1:3, group of 9. Toddlers (12–29 months): 1:7, group of 14; or 1:5, group of 15. Preschoolers (30 months–6 years, not in kindergarten): 1:10, group of 20. School-age (5–12 years, in kindergarten or school): 1:15, group of 30. Children of staff count.
SafePass tip: SafePass shows a live count for each room: children checked in against staff clocked in, with an alert to directors when a room goes over ratio. Set each room's ratio to Washington's number for that room. SafePass's built-in defaults are not Washington's: its two-year-old default (1:8) is looser than Washington's 1:7 for toddlers up to 29 months, and it does not apply Washington's group-size limits for you.
Mixing ages at the start and end of the day
When a center combines age groups, it must keep the ratio and group size for the youngest child present. Since June 11, 2026 the statute allows up to 2.5 hours of mixed-age time a day on the center's own schedule, or up to 4 hours if at least 90 minutes is used for staff meal and rest breaks. The rule text (not yet updated) says the first or last two hours of the day.
Planned mixed-age classrooms
Centers may run mixed-age groups if they tell DCYF their policy and staff for the youngest child. Examples: birth–36 months 1:4 (group of 8, two staff) or 1:3 (group of 9, three staff); 12–36 months 1:7 (group of 14) or 1:5 (group of 15); 36 months through kindergarten 1:10 with a group of 20 (two staff) or 26 (three staff). One staff member in each mixed group must be a lead teacher.
When a family home needs a second staff member
Two staff are required whenever there are more than 6 children and any child is under 2; more than 8 children and any child is under 3; or more than 10 children and any child is under school age. A licensee with two years' experience may run an infant-toddler home (birth–24 months) at 1:4 with a group of 8, with a second staff member present when more than two children can't walk or more than four children are in care.
SafePass tip: SafePass Kiosk check-ins give a running count of who is in care, by child and age. Add your own children as enrolled children if you want them in the count. SafePass does not check Washington's family home age limits for you.
One staff member alone
A single staff member may care for the only group on site for up to an hour at the beginning or end of the day, if they have no other duties and a second person with a cleared background check is on site and available (or DCYF approves another plan).
Water activities
With written parent permission only. Infants in water need 1:1 staffing and continuous touch; toddlers stay within arm's length. In water over 24 inches deep, a certified lifeguard must be on duty plus one extra staff member for preschoolers and older. On outings near water over 4 inches deep (a lake or stream), bring one staff member beyond ratio, and at least one staff member must be able to swim.
Group size and family home capacity
Center group sizes are in the ratio table above. Family homes can be licensed for up to 12 children (16 with a waiver), and DCYF sets each home's capacity using square footage, the licensee's experience and training, equipment, licensing history and available staff.
Family home capacity by experience
Less than 1 year of experience: up to 6 children, no more than 3 under age 2 (and if 3, one must walk). 1–2 years: up to 8 children ages 2–12 working alone (no more than 4 under 3), or up to 9 with a qualified assistant (no more than 4 under 2). 2+ years: up to 10 children ages 3–12 alone, 12 school-age children alone, or 12 children with an assistant (no more than 6 under 2, two of whom walk). Your own children and staff's children from birth through 12 count.
Family home waiver for 13–16 children
Under the Fair Start for Kids Act, DCYF can let a family home serve 13 to 16 children. You need 3 years of experience, a nonexpiring license, 35 sq ft of indoor space per child (plus 15 for each child under 24 months), 75 sq ft of outdoor space per child, and an ECE short certificate. At 13–16 children, ratios are 1:8 for ages 2 and up and 1:6 for under 2, with no more than 6 under 2.
Indoor space
Licensed indoor space must have at least 35 square feet per child. Centers add 15 square feet for each infant or toddler using a crib or playpen in the room. Bathrooms, diapering areas, hallways used for exits, closets, laundry, stairs and space taken by office furniture don't count.
Outdoor space
Outdoor play space needs at least 75 square feet per child using it at one time, shade, a fence or barrier at least 48 inches high with no gap a 3.5-inch ball can pass through, self-closing and self-latching gates, and two exits. Inspect it visually every day. DCYF can approve rotating groups or an off-site play area.
Staff qualifications
Washington ties staff qualifications to Early Childhood Education (ECE) certificates from Washington's community and technical colleges (initial, short and state certificates) or equivalents verified in MERIT, DCYF's workforce registry. Most certificate deadlines now fall on August 1, 2030.
Family home licensee
At least 18, with a high school diploma or equivalent and the preservice requirements done when applying. An ECE initial certificate by August 1, 2030 or within five years of licensure, whichever is later, then an ECE short certificate within two years after that. Be on site at least half of weekly operating hours or name a qualified designee.
SafePass tip: SafePass staff profiles store certifications and documents with expiration dates, so ECE certificates, first aid/CPR cards, food worker cards and TB screens are in one place for the licensor. SafePass does not update MERIT, Washington's workforce registry, for you.
Center director, assistant director and program supervisor
At least 18. ECE state certificate (or equivalent) by August 1, 2030, or within five years of hire. Directors need two years as a teacher plus six months in administration. When hired or promoted they must already hold the state certificate or the college credits for the center's size: 10 quarter credits (12 or fewer children), 25 (13–24) or 45 (25 or more). The director must be on site at least half of weekly hours (up to 40).
Lead and assistant teachers
Both must be at least 18 with a high school diploma or equivalent. Lead teachers need an ECE initial certificate by August 1, 2030 or within five years of hire, and center lead teachers also need an ECE short certificate within two years after that. Assistant teachers need the ECE initial certificate on the same timeline, may work alone with documented oversight from the lead teacher, and may act as substitute lead teacher for up to two weeks.
Aides and volunteers
Aides must be at least 14, in high school or a graduate, and may count in ratio only under continuous oversight of qualified staff. Volunteers must be at least 14 (under 18 with parent permission). Regular volunteers count in ratio only after a background check, TB screen and the required training; occasional volunteers never count.
Experience-based competency (until 2030)
Until August 1, 2030, staff can meet a certificate requirement through experience-based competency documented in MERIT: active employment in the role, continuous licensed child care employment since August 1, 2021 (or five years in total), and completed health and safety and basics training.
Background checks
DCYF runs portable background checks through MERIT. Everyone must be cleared before they start work. In family homes, household members also need checks.
Cleared before the first day
Since October 1, 2020, every employee must receive DCYF background check clearance before their first day of work. Household members 16 and older need a check by the day they move in or turn 16. The check includes Washington State Patrol and FBI fingerprints and, for anyone who lived elsewhere in the last five years, interstate criminal, sex offender and child abuse registry checks.
Renewal every five years
A clearance is valid for five years, and DCYF's current guidance (FAQ revised May 2026) says checks must be renewed every five years with new fingerprints. The text of WAC 110-06-0040 still says "at least once every three years"; confirm your dates in MERIT. Keep a copy of each clearance on site.
SafePass tip: SafePass stores each staff member's background check date and flags checks more than five years old on the Compliance page. Use it as a reminder only: it does not read MERIT or submit renewals.
Minors in the program or the home
Workers aged 14–15 need a minor background check before starting. In family homes, residents aged 13–15 need one, within seven days of moving in. Minors with these checks may not have unsupervised access to children.
Fees and appeals
The person checked pays the fingerprint fees plus DCYF's $12 administrative fee. A disqualified person can request a hearing within 28 days of the written decision; the disqualification stays in effect during the appeal. Anyone with a clearance must report new convictions or charges within 24 hours.
Training hours
New staff complete preservice steps and a set of required trainings, mostly within three months of hire and before working unsupervised. After 12 months, everyone needs 10 hours of in-service training a year.
Preservice: orientation and TB screen
Applicants, family home licensees, directors, assistant directors and program supervisors complete DCYF's orientation (waived in some cases since 2026). Staff, volunteers and household members 14 and older provide TB documentation signed by a licensed health care professional within the last 12 months.
Required trainings for new staff
Register in MERIT, then complete within three months of hire and before working unsupervised: Child Care Basics (before working unsupervised), abuse and neglect recognition and reporting, emergency preparedness, serving children experiencing homelessness, and pediatric and adult first aid and CPR with a hands-on skills check. Bloodborne pathogens training comes before working with children. Infant caregivers add shaken baby/abusive head trauma and safe sleep (safe sleep every year, before caring for infants). Anyone giving medication needs DCYF's medication training first, and anyone preparing or serving food needs a food worker card.
SafePass tip: SafePass keeps dated training records in each staff profile, so you can total each person's in-service hours for the year. It tracks certification expiration dates (CPR, first aid, food worker card), reminds staff 30 days out and alerts directors when one expires.
First aid and CPR in every group
At least one staff member counted in ratio for each group must hold current adult and pediatric first aid and CPR (and infant CPR if infants are served). Proof is a card, certificate or instructor letter.
Ten hours of annual in-service
After 12 months of cumulative employment, each provider completes 10 hours of in-service training every year. Licensees, directors, supervisors and teachers hired after August 1, 2019 must complete DCYF's Enhancing Quality of Early Learning (EQEL) training within 36 months. Up to 5 extra hours can carry over to the next year.
SafePass tip: SafePass keeps dated training records in each staff profile, so you can total each person's in-service hours for the year. It tracks certification expiration dates (CPR, first aid, food worker card), reminds staff 30 days out and alerts directors when one expires.
Health and safety
Washington's health rules cover illness exclusion, handwashing, reporting incidents and supervision. Supervision is its own standard: staff must see and hear children during higher-risk activities.
Supervision
Staff must scan, check children often, position themselves to see all areas and be able to step in. Active supervision (see and hear) is required for outdoor play, water and sand play, pets, kitchen activities, field trips and public transport. Baby monitors, video and mirrors can't replace supervision. No child may be left unattended while being diapered, bottle-fed or during tummy time. Only parents, cleared staff, verified officials and people the parent authorizes may have unsupervised access.
SafePass tip: SafePass shows staff a live list of children checked in to each room, so a caregiver can confirm names and headcount at a glance.
Sending sick children home
Send home or separate anyone with a fever of 101°F or higher (100.4°F under 2 months) plus other symptoms; vomiting twice in 24 hours; diarrhea more than two stools above normal; an unexplained rash; uncovered draining sores; or lice, ringworm or scabies (until first treatment). No ear or rectal temperatures. Within 24 hours of learning of a diagnosed contagious disease, notify DCYF, the local health jurisdiction and parents in writing.
SafePass tip: SafePass can run an optional health check at check-in (temperature and symptoms) and notifies directors and parents when a child doesn't pass.
Reporting incidents
Call 911 immediately, then DCYF within 24 hours, for a missing child, a medical emergency, a medication overdose or wrong medication, fire, or poisoning (also call the Washington Poison Center). Report a death, suspected abuse or neglect, a suicide attempt or sexual contact between children to law enforcement or DCYF within 48 hours. Submit DCYF's written incident report form within 24 hours for emergency responses and serious injuries, and tell parents right away.
SafePass tip: SafePass incident reports record what happened, the action taken and first aid, notify the parent, and capture the parent's e-signature. You still phone DCYF (and 911 or the poison center where required) and file DCYF's own incident form within 24 hours.
Food allergies
For a child with a food allergy, get an individual care plan from the child's health care provider and parent listing foods to avoid, substitutes and the treatment plan. Review it before serving food. If epinephrine or other lifesaving medicine is given, call 911, and tell the parent whenever the child eats or touches a forbidden food.
SafePass tip: SafePass registration packets collect allergies and medical notes, and they show on the child's profile for staff.
Handwashing and hand sanitizer
Staff and children wash hands (warm water, soap, at least 20 seconds) at arrival, after toileting and diapering, before and after food, after outdoor play and animals, and after body fluids. Post the steps at each handwashing sink. Alcohol sanitizer (60–90% alcohol) is only for adults and children over 24 months when a sink isn't available, never instead of handwashing, and needs annual parent permission.
Facility, furniture and hazards
WAC 110-300-0165 is Washington's main hazard rule. It explicitly requires anchoring furniture that could tip.
Anchor furniture that could tip
Large objects that could fall or tip must be securely anchored, including televisions, dressers, bookshelves, wall cabinets, sideboards, hutches and wall units. Free-standing lamps must also be secured, and halogen lamps are banned.
Choking, cords and weapons
Keep items 1¾ inches or smaller away from infants and toddlers. Window blinds with looped cords are banned in licensed space (RCW 43.216.380). Keep plastic bags and cords out of reach. Centers may not have firearms or ammunition on the premises; family homes must keep them in a locked safe or a locked room, unloaded with trigger locks.
Temperature, windows, stairs and outlets
Indoor space must stay between 68 and 82°F, and tap water children can reach must be no hotter than 120°F. Windows children can reach may open only 3½ inches (not exit windows in homes). Gate stairs for infants and toddlers. Outlets children can reach must be tamper-resistant or covered, with GFCI near water. Power strips must be out of reach.
Fire safety
Arrange an annual fire inspection (local fire agency, or the State Fire Marshal form if none is available). Keep smoke detectors in each sleeping area and on each floor, carbon monoxide detectors, a backup alarm, and 2A:10BC extinguishers on each level within 75 feet of an exit. Inspect for fire hazards monthly with staff. No candles or portable heaters during care.
Chemicals
Store detergents, disinfectants, fuels and anything labeled "keep out of reach of children" in original or labeled containers, away from food, in storage that children can't get into (locking doors or another barrier). Power tools, mowers and toilet plungers and brushes must also be out of reach.
Emergency preparedness
Each program needs a written emergency preparedness plan approved by DCYF, monthly fire drills and quarterly earthquake or lockdown drills.
Written emergency plan
The plan covers fire and evacuation (floor plan, alarms, how you'll move non-walkers, relocation site, what to take), earthquakes, lockdown and shelter-in-place, keeping ratios and accounting for children, and reunification. Plan for parents being unable to reach you for up to three days, and keep a three-day supply of food, water and life-sustaining medication. DCYF approves the plan and changes to it. Review it with staff yearly (with signatures) and with parents at enrollment.
SafePass tip: SafePass's checked-in list shows who is in care right now, and parent messaging can reach every family at once during an evacuation, lockdown or reunification. SafePass does not log drills, so record fire, earthquake and lockdown drills on DCYF's form.
Drills
Hold a fire and evacuation drill every calendar month and an earthquake, lockdown or shelter-in-place drill every three calendar months, at different times of day and with different staff. Record each on DCYF's form: date, time, number of children and staff, length, and notes for improvement.
SafePass tip: SafePass's checked-in list shows who is in care right now, and parent messaging can reach every family at once during an evacuation, lockdown or reunification. SafePass does not log drills, so record fire, earthquake and lockdown drills on DCYF's form.
Exits, lighting and phone
Keep a working flashlight with spare batteries and a phone with at least 5 hours of backup power. Exit doors must open from inside without a key. Family homes need two exit paths per floor and two exits from each child care room, with exit windows of a minimum size.
Medication
Staff may give medication only with written parent consent and after DCYF's medication training.
Consent and labels
Get written, signed parent consent. Prescription medicine must be labeled for the child and come with an authorization form listing the medical need and side effects. Over-the-counter medicine must be in its original package, labeled with the child's name. Vitamins, herbal and homeopathic products and teething gels need a health care provider's authorization unless the label gives age, dose and duration. Amber teething necklaces and homemade remedies are banned. Sunscreen and diaper cream need annual parent permission.
SafePass tip: SafePass collects the parent's signed medication request electronically. Staff approve it, and each dose is logged with the time, amount and staff name, with a notification to the parent. Add side-effect notes and doses not given, which Washington's log also requires.
Medication log and storage
Keep a written log with the child's name, medication, dose, side effects, date and time given (or why not given), and the name and signature of the person who gave it. Store medicine out of reach and apart from food; lock up controlled substances. Return unused medicine to the parent.
SafePass tip: SafePass collects the parent's signed medication request electronically. Staff approve it, and each dose is logged with the time, amount and staff name, with a notification to the parent. Add side-effect notes and doses not given, which Washington's log also requires.
Immunizations
Washington's immunization requirements come from RCW 43.216.690 and the Department of Health's rules in chapter 246-105 WAC.
Immunization records
On or before the first day, and every year after, collect a medically verified Certificate of Immunization Status (CIS), a Certificate of Exemption (COE), or a current record from the Washington Immunization Information System. A child who is behind may attend if the parent gives a written plan, with exclusion if shots aren't completed within 30 days of the due date. Homeless and foster children may start while records are obtained. During an outbreak, notify parents of exempt and undocumented children, who may be excluded.
SafePass tip: SafePass lets parents upload vaccine records. Staff verify them, and the dashboard lists overdue and due-soon doses, with an exemption field. Keep the Certificate of Immunization Status (or COE) itself on file and collect it again every year.
Nutrition
Meals and snacks must meet USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) standards.
Meal schedule
Serve food every 2 to 3 hours. Children in care 5–9 hours get one meal and two snacks (or two meals and one snack); over 9 hours, two meals and two snacks (or one meal and three snacks). Offer a daily tooth-brushing activity unless the parent opts out in writing.
SafePass tip: SafePass weekly menus and meal logs show parents what was served and how much their child ate.
Menus and drinks
Follow CACFP or school meal standards and post dated menus. Serve only water, unflavored milk or 100% juice, limited to 4–6 oz a day for ages 1–6 and 8–12 oz for ages 7–12. Serve a fruit or vegetable at one or more snacks a day.
SafePass tip: SafePass weekly menus and meal logs show parents what was served and how much their child ate.
Safe sleep
Washington requires visual infant sleep checks every 15 minutes and makes providers tell all families about a safe sleep violation.
Infant safe sleep
Follow American Academy of Pediatrics safe sleep practice: put infants on their backs, nothing in the crib (no blankets, toys, pillows or bumpers), nothing draped over it, no positioners without a doctor's written order. Actively supervise by visibly checking every 15 minutes, staying within sight and hearing, with enough light to see skin color. Watch for overheating.
SafePass tip: SafePass nap logs record when each child went down and woke up, and parents see them. SafePass does not run timed sleep-check logs, so keep your 15-minute infant check record separately.
If you're cited for safe sleep
Post the violation notice for two weeks or until corrected, whichever is longer, and within five business days give every enrolled family a letter describing the violation plus written safe sleep information.
SafePass tip: SafePass messaging gives you a dated record that every family was notified. Keep a copy of the letter itself.
Cribs, mats and rest time
Cribs must meet the federal crib standards (16 C.F.R. 1219/1220) and be 30 inches apart side by side. Move sleeping children out of car seats and swings. Older children rest on mats at least 1 inch thick, 18 inches apart, head to toe, never directly on the floor. No loft beds or top bunks for children under 6. Preschoolers and younger in care over 6 hours get a daily rest period.
SafePass tip: SafePass nap logs record when each child went down and woke up, and parents see them. SafePass does not run timed sleep-check logs, so keep your 15-minute infant check record separately.
Discipline and behavior
Washington lists prohibited discipline in detail and limits restraint and expulsion.
Prohibited discipline
Banned: hitting, spanking, shaking or any physical punishment; threats, yelling, shaming, sarcasm and slurs; restricting breathing; binding, taping or confining (including in car seats or high chairs); withholding food, sleep, toileting or care; forced exercise; and isolating a child in a closet, bathroom, locked room or outside. Separation is allowed only for preschool and school-age children, under supervision, for as short a time as needed.
Restraint and expulsion
Restraint is allowed only when safety is threatened: gentle holding, as briefly as possible, never with ties, blankets, car seats or an adult's weight. Tell the parent the same day and DCYF within 24 hours, and document it. A child may be expelled only for a serious safety concern the program can't reduce with reasonable changes, following your written expulsion policy.
SafePass tip: SafePass incident reports record what happened and the action taken, notify the parent, and capture the parent's e-signature. You still report restraint to DCYF yourself within 24 hours.
Records and parent handbook
Keep most records three years, attendance five years, and the last 12 months on site.
Child records
Each child's file includes birth date, parent contacts, emergency contacts, authorized pickups, signed permissions (field trips, transportation, bathing, water activities, photos/video), enrollment dates, and a health record: immunizations, health history, care plan, medication log, doctor and dentist, consent for emergency care, and incident and injury reports with proof the parent got a copy. Update at least yearly.
SafePass tip: SafePass registration packets collect guardians, emergency contacts, authorized pickups, physician and allergy information, with a parent signature. Check the result against the full list in this rule, including the signed permissions.
How long to keep records
Keep records at least three years (attendance five years, pesticide records seven). Records from the last 12 months must be on site or at your administrative office, and older ones produced within two weeks of DCYF's written request. Includes fire and detector checks, drill records, incident and illness logs, and DCYF visit documents.
SafePass tip: SafePass keeps attendance, incident, medication and staff records with dates and times, and exports attendance reports as PDF for a licensor.
Parent handbook
Give each family written policies and keep signed proof they reviewed them. Required topics include nondiscrimination, guidance and restraint, expulsion, ratios and classroom types, hours and closures, fees, sign-in and sign-out, the emergency plan, duty to report abuse, mixed-age groups, and where to find menus, the health policy, insurance and inspection reports.
SafePass tip: SafePass can send policies to every family and keeps a dated record of parent messages. Keep the signed handbook acknowledgment the rule requires in each child's record.
What to post
Post your license, an emergency floor plan, handwashing and diapering steps, emergency numbers (911, DCYF, Poison Center, CPS), "no smoking/no vaping" signs, any waiver, insurance status, any safe sleep notice, and any enforcement or probationary notice for at least two weeks or until corrected. Also post that inspection reports for the past three years are available.
Attendance and sign-in/sign-out
Washington's attendance rule is one of the few that spells out what an electronic sign-in system must do.
Daily child attendance
Record each child's name, date, arrival and departure times, and the signature or electronic signature of the parent or authorized person at both drop-off and pick-up. A staff member signs when a child leaves for school or an outside activity. Children may stay up to 10 hours a day unless extended for the parent's work or travel. Keep attendance records five years.
SafePass tip: SafePass Kiosk records each check-in and check-out with a timestamp and who dropped off or picked up, and exports attendance reports as PDF.
Requirements for electronic attendance
Electronic systems must capture an e-signature, swipe card, PIN, biometric or similar action (or a staff note of who dropped off or picked up). They must also prove the record is authentic and unaltered, keep it secure and retrievable for the retention period, and produce a verifiable written record for each transaction.
SafePass tip: SafePass Kiosk keeps a timestamped check-in and check-out record showing who dropped off or picked up, and exports it as PDF. Ask your licensor to confirm that your setup meets each item in this rule; SafePass does not certify compliance for you.
Staff attendance by classroom
For each classroom or family home program, record each staff member and volunteer by name, their start and end times, the date, the number of children, and the staff-to-child ratio.
SafePass tip: SafePass staff time clock records and live room counts give you dated staff hours and children-per-room. Check that your export shows the ratio for each classroom the way your licensor expects.
Authorized pickups
Keep names and phone numbers of everyone authorized to pick up each child. Release children only to parents or people the parent authorized in writing or by phone.
SafePass tip: At check-out, SafePass shows staff the child's guardians and authorized pickups, with photos, and records who picked the child up.
Transportation and field trips
Programs that transport children or take field trips need a written policy and parent permission.
Trips and roll call
Routine trips may not exceed two hours a day for any child. Get written parent authorization and give 24 hours' notice of field trips. Bring health and emergency information, medication, a phone and a first aid kit, keep ratios and active supervision, and take roll every time children start and end a trip and every time they get in or out of a vehicle. Never leave a child alone in a vehicle.
SafePass tip: SafePass doesn't keep vehicle or transport logs. Use its checked-in list for headcounts and keep a separate roll-call record for each vehicle entry and exit.
Vehicles and drivers
Follow car seat laws, stay within seating capacity, keep the vehicle in safe repair with current registration and reflective triangles, and carry insurance covering driver, vehicle and passengers. Drivers need a valid license for the vehicle and a safe driving record for at least five years.
Inspections and enforcement
DCYF licensors visit every licensed program at least once each state fiscal year, unannounced. Inspection reports for the past three years appear on Child Care Check.
Annual unannounced monitoring visits
DCYF policy (effective January 1, 2026) requires a monitoring visit at least once each fiscal year (July 1–June 30), unannounced and with children present. The gap between visits can be more than 12 months. Findings on risk indicators expand the checklist. You must give licensors access to all licensed space, records, staff and children during operating hours; refusal is grounds for license action.
SafePass tip: SafePass keeps attendance, incident, medication and staff records with dates and times, and exports attendance reports as PDF for an inspector.
Compliance agreements and probationary licenses
For many violations DCYF issues a facility licensing compliance agreement (FLCA) with a correction date. You may refuse an FLCA or probationary license, but DCYF can then modify, suspend, revoke or not continue the license or fine you. On a probationary license, notify all families within five business days and new families before enrolling. Keep three years of inspection reports and enforcement notices available to parents and the public.
Fines and license actions
Fines are up to $250 per day per violation for centers and $150 for family homes ("or as otherwise set by the legislature"), due within 28 days. DCYF can also deny, suspend, revoke, modify or not renew a license, and must suspend immediately for imminent physical harm (opioids or drug equipment).
Public reports
DCYF must make inspection reports and enforcement notices public, with the corrective measures taken, and may post them online. Child Care Check shows each program's licensing inspections from the last three years. Programs must keep the same reports for the past three years available for parents.
Disputing findings and appeals
Washington has two routes: an internal review for inspection findings that aren't health and safety violations, and a formal hearing for enforcement actions.
Internal review of inspection findings
For findings that don't involve a health and safety standard, request DCYF's internal review within 10 days of the inspection report. A panel of three DCYF staff and three child care providers decides within 60 days. You can then ask the Oversight Board for Children, Youth, and Families for a final review within 10 days of the written decision.
Hearing on fines or license actions
To contest a fine, denial, suspension, revocation or modification, send a written request for an adjudicative hearing that DCYF receives within 28 days of receiving the notice, with a copy of the notice and your reasons. Late requests are generally final, with no good-cause exception. A license action usually takes effect 28 days after notice, sooner if DCYF finds children at risk.
Frequently asked questions
How many children can I watch without a license in Washington?
Washington has no small-number exemption. Regularly caring for even one child who isn't related to you, in your home, on an ongoing basis requires a family home license, as does caring for preschool-age children more than four hours a day. Care for relatives, care by legal guardians, and occasional care for a friend's or neighbor's child that isn't run as a business (advertising counts as business) are exempt. (WAC 110-300-0010; RCW 43.216.010(2))
What are the staff-to-child ratios for daycare centers in Washington?
Infants (birth–11 months) 1:4 with a group of 8, or 1:3 with a group of 9; toddlers (12–29 months) 1:7 with a group of 14, or 1:5 with a group of 15; preschoolers (30 months–6 years) 1:10 with a group of 20; school-age 1:15 with a group of 30. (WAC 110-300-0356)
How many children can a family home daycare have in Washington?
Up to 12, depending on the licensee's experience and staff: up to 6 in the first year, 8–9 in the second, and 10–12 after two years. Under-2 and under-3 limits apply, and a second staff member is needed in some cases. Homes with 3 years' experience can apply for a waiver for up to 16. The provider's own children under 13 count. (WAC 110-300-0355, -0358)
Do Washington child care staff need a degree or certificate?
Not to start. Lead and assistant teachers need a high school diploma and preservice training. Most roles must earn an early childhood education (ECE) certificate by August 1, 2030 or within five years of hire, whichever is later. Directors need an ECE state certificate. Until 2030, long-serving staff can use experience-based competency instead. (WAC 110-300-0100; RCW 43.216.757)
How often do child care background checks have to be renewed in Washington?
Every five years. DCYF portable background checks are valid five years and renewal requires new fingerprints. Everyone must be cleared before their first day. The WAC text still says three years, but the statute and DCYF's current guidance say five. (RCW 43.216.270; WAC 110-06-0040, -0041)
How often does DCYF inspect child care programs?
At least once each state fiscal year (July–June), unannounced, with children present, plus complaint and follow-up visits. (DCYF Policy 10.1.8; WAC 110-300-0035)
Where can parents see a Washington daycare's inspection reports?
On DCYF's Child Care Check (findchildcarewa.org), which shows each program's license status, licensing history and licensing inspection reports from the last three years. Programs must also keep three years of reports available on site. (RCW 43.216.687, 43.216.689)
Can a Washington daycare use an app for sign-in and sign-out?
Yes. The rule allows electronic attendance if the parent signs in and out with an electronic signature, swipe card, PIN, biometric or similar action, and the system keeps authentic, unaltered, retrievable records for five years. (WAC 110-300-0455(4)–(5), 110-300-0465)
How often do infants have to be checked while sleeping in Washington child care?
Staff must visibly check sleeping infants every 15 minutes and stay within sight and hearing. Infants sleep on their backs in a crib with nothing else in it. (WAC 110-300-0291)
How many fire drills does a Washington daycare need?
One fire and evacuation drill every calendar month, plus an earthquake, lockdown or shelter-in-place drill every three months, recorded on DCYF's form. (WAC 110-300-0470(4))
Sources
- Chapter 110-300 WAC, Foundational quality standards for early learning programs (Washington State Legislature) (accessed November 8, 2026)
- Chapter 110-301 WAC, Foundational quality standards for school-age programs (accessed November 8, 2026)
- Chapter 110-302 WAC, Foundational quality standards for outdoor nature-based child care (accessed November 8, 2026)
- Chapter 110-06 WAC, Background checks—Early learning programs (accessed November 8, 2026)
- Chapter 110-03 WAC, Administrative hearings (accessed November 8, 2026)
- Chapter 43.216 RCW, Department of children, youth, and families (accessed November 8, 2026)
- DCYF, Child Care Licensing Rule Changes (June 1, 2026) (accessed November 8, 2026)
- DCYF, Child care legislative updates (2026 session, FAQ) (accessed November 8, 2026)
- ESHB 2219, Chapter 82, Laws of 2026 (session law) (accessed November 8, 2026)
- EHB 2317, Chapter 54, Laws of 2026 (session law) (accessed November 8, 2026)
- E2SHB 1648, Chapter 281, Laws of 2025 (session law) (accessed November 8, 2026)
- SHB 2689, Chapter 264, Laws of 2026 (session law) (accessed November 8, 2026)
- WSR 26-14-116 (ECE certificate deadline moved to August 1, 2030) (accessed November 8, 2026)
- WSR 26-09-080 (abuse or neglect definition) (accessed November 8, 2026)
- WSR 25-01-087 (training window; family home capacity waiver) (accessed November 8, 2026)
- WSR 25-02-097 (prohibited discipline) (accessed November 8, 2026)
- WSR 24-17-063 (child care and foster care licenses) (accessed November 8, 2026)
- DCYF Policy 10.1.8, Conducting Child Care Monitoring Visits (effective January 1, 2026) (accessed November 8, 2026)
- DCYF, Background checks for early learning providers (accessed November 8, 2026)
- DCYF, Child Care Background Checks FAQ (revised May 2026) (accessed November 8, 2026)
- DCYF, Child Care Check (about) (accessed November 8, 2026)
- Child Care Check (provider search) (accessed November 8, 2026)
- Chapter 246-105 WAC, Immunization of child care and school children (Department of Health) (accessed November 8, 2026)
Educational information, not legal advice. Rules change and inspectors apply them to your specific program. Always confirm requirements with your state child care licensing agency: Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF), Licensing Division. How we handle your information: privacy policy.