Oregon childcare licensing is administered by the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC), a standalone agency established in 2023. Any center serving 4 or more children must be certified. SB 1583 (2024/2025) significantly expanded Oregon's Childcare Business Navigator program and created a new Early Learning Hub grant system improving access in rural and tribal communities.
| Age Group | Staff : Children | Max Group Size |
|---|---|---|
| Infants (under 12 months) | 1:4 | 8 |
| Toddlers (12–24 months) | 1:4 | 8 |
| 2 years | 1:4 | 8 |
| Preschool (3–4 years) | 1:10 | 20 |
| 4–5 years | 1:10 | 20 |
| School age | 1:15 | 30 |
Enrollment Form
Complete enrollment with child information and emergency contacts.
Immunization Records
Current immunization records per Oregon Health Authority schedule required on file.
Health Assessment
Physician-signed health assessment required within 30 days of 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 exemptions only. Oregon eliminated non-medical exemptions for child care in 2019.
Minimum Age
18 years
Background Check
Oregon criminal background check and ORCHARDS child abuse registry check required for all staff and volunteers.
Lead Teacher Education
Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or relevant ECE coursework required for lead teachers. DELC may require specific Oregon Registry credentials.
Assistant Education
High school diploma or GED required. Pre-service orientation 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. Contact DELC for current hour requirements.
Director Qualifications
Director must meet DELC education and experience requirements. Oregon Registry Step 6 or higher recommended.
Inspection Frequency
At least one unannounced inspection annually.
License Renewal
Annual certification renewal required.
Application Process
Contact Oregon DELC to begin the application process.
Licensing Fee
Varies by capacity. Contact DELC for current fee schedule.
See exactly what's missing for every child. Compliance checklists, automated parent reminders, phone document scanning. $99/month, unlimited staff.