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Illinois Childcare License Requirements [2026]

Requirements, fees, and steps to get your childcare license in Illinois. Last updated 2025-01-01. Source

State License
Required
Application Fee
$0
Bond Required
N/A
License Details
License Name Day Care Center License
Issuing Authority Illinois Dept of Children and Family Services (DCFS)
Exam Required No
GL Insurance $300,000 GL minimum
Workers Comp Required if employees
Initial Fee $0
Renewal Fee $0
Renewal Period Annual
CE Required yes
CE Hours 15
Reciprocity States None
Experience Required 2
Financial Requirement Director: 60 college credit hours + 2 years experience
Note: License is free in Illinois. Background check via IDCFS. Staff must complete SIDS training. Ratios: 1:4 infants.

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