Becoming a Child Care Provider

Learn about Illinois child care licensing requirements and explore resources to help you determine if becoming a child care provider is right for you.

Child Care Licensing in Illinois

Child care programs licensed by the state of Illinois’ Department of Family and Child Services (IDCFS) must meet foundational requirements for quality established by state licensing guidelines.

Below is an informational tool-kit to information that will help you determine if becoming a childcare provider is right for you! This tool-kit was created in partnership with the Birth To Five Illinois Region 8 team.

Licensing helps ensure that child care programs provide safe, healthy, and supportive environments for children and families.

Key Licensing Requirements

Child to staff ratios
Criminal background checks on staff
Training and education requirements for staff
Proper space for the age and number of children in care
Safe, healthy environments for children and families
Appropriate and respectful staff interactions with children

Learn More

For more information about the licensing standards and the monitoring process, visit the IDCFS website and review the information below.

Visit IDCFS Website 

Created in Partnership With

Birth To Five Illinois Region 8

What This Toolkit Helps With

  • Understanding basic licensing requirements
  • Learning what quality child care programs must provide
  • Deciding if becoming a child care provider is the right next step
  • Finding official Illinois DCFS information

Important Reminder

Always confirm current licensing requirements directly with Illinois DCFS, as rules and processes may change.