Age: Be at least 18 years old.

Residency: Reside in the home where care will be provided.

Experience: Have at least one year of experience as a licensed Small Family Child Care Home provider or as a teacher or director of a licensed Child Care Center.

Attend a mandatory orientation session, available online or in-person, to understand the licensing process and requirements.

Preventive Health Practices: Complete 16 hours of training, including pediatric CPR, pediatric first aid, and preventive health practices, from an approved provider.

Mandated Reporter Training: Complete training on recognizing and reporting child abuse.

Safety Measures: Ensure your home meets health and safety standards, including childproofing, having appropriate safety equipment, and maintaining cleanliness.

Fire Safety Clearance: Obtain a fire safety clearance from your local fire department.

Complete and submit the Application for a Family Child Care Home License (LIC 279) along with the required forms and nonrefundable application fee.

All adults residing or working in the home must undergo criminal background checks, including fingerprinting and clearance from the Department of Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Tuberculosis (TB) Clearance: All adults must provide evidence of a negative TB test result, conducted within the past year. This ensures that individuals are free from active tuberculosis, safeguarding the health of children in care.

Immunization Requirements: Effective September 1, 2016, California law mandates that all child care employees and volunteers be immunized against:

1. Measles

2. Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

3. Influenza (Flu): The influenza vaccine is required annually; however, individuals may decline the flu vaccine by providing a written statement.

If you rent or lease your home, inform your landlord of your intent to operate a Family Child Care Home.

Business License: Verify if a local business license is needed.

Licensing Program Analyst Visit: After your application is reviewed, an analyst will inspect your home for compliance with licensing standards.

Enrollment Forms: Gather all necessary forms for enrolling children (e.g., emergency information, consent forms).

Policies and Procedures: Establish written policies for your child care program.

Upon successful completion of all the above steps and approval from the CDSS, you will receive your Large Family Child Care Home license.