Home › North Carolina › Childcare License

Childcare License in North Carolina: Cost, Steps & How to File

Every North Carolina business owner eventually needs to answer the childcare license question: what does it cost, how long does it take, and where do I actually file? This page answers all three with the current North Carolina numbers, plus the government link to start the application.

Typical cost

$25–$2000

Timeline

60–180 days

Renewal

Annual, with unannounced inspections

Who needs it

in-home daycare providers and childcare centers

Steps to get a childcare license in North Carolina

Step 1: Determine license type based on capacity — family daycare (small, in-home, up to 6-14 kids depending on state) vs center (larger, commercial space)
Step 2: Complete state-required orientation and training (usually 15-40 hours)
Step 3: Complete pediatric CPR and first aid certification
Step 4: Pass fingerprint and background check for you and every adult in the home (or every staff member)
Step 5: Home safety inspection (fire, water temperature, medication storage, outdoor space, fencing)
Step 6: Immunizations up to date for you and your household
Step 7: Get childcare business liability insurance (many providers require this)

Required documents

CPR/first aid cert
Training completion cert
Background check clearance
Health/immunization records
Home safety inspection
Emergency plan

Where to file in North Carolina

Business filings: https://www.sosnc.gov/divisions/business_registration
Secretary of State: https://www.sosnc.gov
Tax authority: https://www.ncdor.gov
Labor/workforce: https://www.nccommerce.com

Heads up: A common North Carolina mistake: assuming this childcare license covers your city and county requirements too. It usually doesn't. Check your city's business division separately — most cities in North Carolina require their own general business license on top of state filings.

Related permits in North Carolina

Business License in North Carolina Employer Registration in North Carolina

Frequently asked questions

How much does a childcare license cost in North Carolina?

Typical cost ranges from $25–$2000. The exact fee depends on your specific business type, city, and any expedited processing you choose.

How long does it take to get a childcare license in North Carolina?

Most North Carolina applications complete in 60–180 days. Same-day or next-day processing is often available for an added fee at the state level.

Do I need a childcare license if I'm just starting a home business in North Carolina?

In most cases, yes — even home-based businesses in North Carolina are subject to the same state filing rules. Local rules (city and county) may add a home occupation permit on top.

This page reflects general North Carolina filing rules as of 2026. Fees and processing times change; verify the current amounts with the linked state agency before filing.