Kentucky childcare licensing is administered by the Division of Regulated Child Care within the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. All facilities providing care for 7 or more unrelated children must be licensed. HB 190 (2026) introduced a Square Footage Waiver allowing high-quality providers with no safety violations in 5 years to deviate from the standard 35 square feet per child requirement for school-age programs.
| Age Group | Staff : Children | Max Group Size |
|---|---|---|
| Infants (0–12 months) | 1:5 | 10 |
| 12–24 months | 1:6 | 12 |
| 24–36 months | 1:10 | 20 |
| 3–4 years | 1:12 | 24 |
| 4–5 years | 1:14 | 28 |
| School age (full day) | 1:15 | — |
| School age (before/after school only) | 1:25 | — |
Enrollment Form
Complete enrollment with child information and emergency contacts.
Immunization Records
Current immunization records per Kentucky CHFS schedule required on file.
Medical/Health Assessment
Physician-signed health report required for enrollment.
Emergency Contact Information
Names and phone numbers of emergency contacts and authorized pickup persons.
Emergency Medical Authorization
Parental consent for emergency medical care.
Allergy and Dietary Information
Documentation of any food allergies or special dietary needs.
Medication AuthorizationConditional
Written parental authorization for any medication to be administered.
Exemption Policy
Medical and religious exemptions are permitted. Contact the Kentucky Department for Public Health for current exemption procedures.
Minimum Age
18 years
Background Check
State and federal fingerprint-based criminal background check required for all staff prior to working with children.
Lead Teacher Education
Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or relevant ECE coursework. Requirements vary by child care rating level.
Assistant Education
High school diploma or GED required. Pre-service training required.
CPR / First Aid
Pediatric CPR and First Aid certification required. At least one certified staff member on-site at all times.
Continuing Education
Annual professional development training required per CHFS standards.
Director Qualifications
Director qualification requirements set by CHFS Division of Regulated Child Care.
Inspection Frequency
At least one unannounced inspection annually.
License Renewal
Annual license renewal required.
Application Process
Contact CHFS Division of Regulated Child Care to begin the application process.
Licensing Fee
Varies by capacity. Contact CHFS for current fee schedule.
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