Licensing for Child Care Programs
If you want to start your own program, licensing is one of your first steps. We’ll guide you through it.
Who needs a license?
Most child care providers must be licensed through the Minnesota Department of Human Services.
The Process
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Learn the requirements
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Complete training
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Submit application
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Prepare your space
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Pass inspection
Step 1: Explore the Opportunity
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Learn what family child care involves
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Talk with a Wayfinder
Step 2: Complete Required Training
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CPR & First Aid
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SUID & AHT training
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Pre-licensing orientation
Step 3: Get Licensed
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Apply through your county
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Complete background study
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Prepare your home or space
Step 4: Build Your Program
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Set your schedule and policies
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Prepare your space
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Enroll families
Step 5: Grow Your Business
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Increase capacity
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Participate in Parent Aware
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Access grants and supports
Your options
Family Child Care
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In your home
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Licensed through your county
Child Care Center
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Larger programs
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Licensed through the state
Step 5: Grow Your Business
-
Increase capacity
-
Participate in Parent Aware
-
Access grants and supports
Step 3: Get Licensed
-
Apply through your county
-
Complete background study
-
Prepare your home or space
Step 4: Build Your Program
-
Set your schedule and policies
-
Prepare your space
-
Enroll families
How it works
Step 1: Explore the Opportunity
-
Learn what family child care involves
-
Talk with a Wayfinder
Step 2: Complete Required Training
-
CPR & First Aid
-
SUID & AHT training
-
Pre-licensing orientation
What you'll need
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Background study
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Health & safety training
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CPR/First Aid
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Child development basics
