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DCYF is tracking federal actions that may affect programs serving Minnesota children and families. Get verified facts, current status, and how services continue.

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Child Care Center Licensing

Intro

Licensed child care centers offer care and early learning in a nonresidential setting, such as a school or dedicated facility. These centers serve groups of children and are staffed by trained professionals who follow the state's health, safety and education standards. The Department of Children, Youth, and Families is responsible for licensing child care centers and monitoring them for compliance with licensing requirements.

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Report a concern at a licensed child care center
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Sections

News and updates

Licensing moves to DCYF: Child Care Licensing is now part of the Department of Children, Youth, and Families. Learn more about the transition.

Applicant information session set for February 24: DCYF Licensing is hosting a webinar February 24 on applying for a child care center license in Minnesota. Learn more and register.

Child Care Regulation Modernization report published: DCYF has released a legislatively mandated report as part of its multi-year effort to modernize child care licensing. Learn more about the Child Care Regulation Modernization project.

News archive

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Apply for a child care center license

Operating a child care center can be a rich, rewarding experience. There are many things to consider when deciding whether operating a child care center is right for you. DCYF has developed resources to help you understand the application process, pre-licensing visits, and key considerations for the first year of operation. Learn more about applying for a child care center license.

Review licensing standards

Minnesota rules and statutes outline regulations for licensed child care centers, including:

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Resources for providers

Connect with us

 

Project updates

Child Care Regulation Modernization

DCYF has released a legislatively mandated report as part of its multi-year effort to modernize child care licensing. The report outlines proposed licensing standards, highlights key changes from current requirements, and identifies considerations for implementation. Learn more about the Child Care Regulation Modernization project.

Provider Hub

The Provider Hub is the online system to apply for new licenses and manage existing licenses, including requesting changes, adding users and submitting information for the annual licensing review. Visit the Provider Hub webpage to learn how to log in or begin an application in the Provider Hub.

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