California Daycare Regulations
Staff-to-Child Ratios
| Age Group | Ratio |
|---|---|
| Infants (0-12 months) | 1:4 |
| Toddlers | 1:6 |
| Preschool | 1:12 |
Staff Qualification Requirements
| Position | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Director | Director permit from Commission on Teacher Credentialing |
| Lead Teacher | 12 units ECE or Child Development |
| Annual Training | 15 hours annually |
State-Specific Notes
Title 22 regulations. Centers must have a Licensed Provider permit. Separate requirements for family child care homes vs centers.
Background Check Requirements
California requires comprehensive background checks including:
- State criminal history check
- FBI fingerprint check
- National Sex Offender Registry check
- Child abuse/neglect registry check
Key Resources
- Official licensing website
- Contact your local licensing specialist for specific questions
- Review current regulations before applying for or renewing your license
Keep Current
Regulations are updated periodically. Sign up for notifications from Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) to stay informed of changes.