Massachusetts childcare licensing is administered by the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Any program caring for more than 6 children under age 7 must be licensed. Massachusetts has a dedicated standalone agency (EEC) for early childhood, separate from K-12 education. SB 2265 (2025) added an educator loan forgiveness program for EEC-licensed center staff.
| Age Group | Staff : Children | Max Group Size |
|---|---|---|
| Infants (under 15 months) | 1:3 | 9 |
| Toddlers (15–33 months) | 1:4 | 8 |
| Preschool (33 months–school age) | 1:10 | 20 |
| Kindergarten | 1:13 | 26 |
| School age | 1:13 | 26 |
EEC Health and Immunization Record
Massachusetts-specific health record and immunization form required for all enrolled children.
Enrollment Form
Complete enrollment with child information, parent/guardian contacts, and authorized pickup authorization.
Emergency Contact Card
Medical contacts and authorized pickup persons required for all enrolled children.
Emergency Medical Authorization
Parental consent for emergency medical care.
Allergy and Dietary Information
Documentation of any food allergies or special dietary needs.
Transportation AuthorizationConditional
Written parental authorization if transportation is provided.
Medication AuthorizationConditional
Written parental authorization for any medication to be administered.
Exemption Policy
Medical and religious exemptions are permitted. Contact the Massachusetts Department of Public Health for current exemption procedures.
Minimum Age
18 years
Background Check
CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) and SORI (Sex Offender Registry Information) background checks required for all staff and volunteers.
Lead Teacher Education
Bachelor's degree in ECE or related field, OR associate's degree plus experience, OR EEC Lead Teacher certification required.
Assistant Education
High school diploma or GED required. Must obtain EEC certification within a set timeframe.
CPR / First Aid
Pediatric CPR and First Aid certification required. At least one certified staff member on-site at all times.
Continuing Education
20 hours of professional development annually required for all staff.
Director Qualifications
Director must hold EEC Director I or Director II certification depending on program size.
Inspection Frequency
At least one unannounced inspection annually. EEC may conduct additional inspections based on complaints.
License Renewal
License renewal required every 2 years.
Application Process
Submit application to EEC regional office. Includes background checks, health and safety inspection, and documentation review.
Licensing Fee
Varies by capacity. Contact EEC for current fee schedule.
See exactly what's missing for every child. Compliance checklists, automated parent reminders, phone document scanning. $99/month, unlimited staff.