The information provided on this page is a basic outline of Maryland Child Care requirements that pertain to the design and construction of Child Care Facilities in the State of Maryland. This information is a brief synopsis and does not include all of the detailed requirements needed to satisfy the governing authorities for Child Care Licensing, Building Code, Fire Code, Accessibility, or local Zoning. These guidelines are for general information and planning purposes. Contact the governing authority directly or engage a Licensed Architect to complete a full analysis of your school location.

MARYLAND Child Care Licensing Requirements 

 Child Care license obtained from:

 Maryland Department of Education Division of Early Childhood Development Office of Child Care

 306 W Redwood Street, Baltimore, MD 21201

 https://earlychildhood.marylandpublicschools.org/system/files/filedepot/12/subtitle_16_centers_comar_online.pdf

 (410) 332-0813

 License renewal is required once every two years.

Indoor Space Requirements: 35 sf per Child 

 Outdoor Space Requirements: 75 sf per child

• The approved outdoor play area must be close enough to the child care building that vehicle transportation is not required.
• If certain types of hazards, like swimming pools, traffic, cliffs and more are near the outdoor play area, there must be a fence or a barrier that is at least four feet tall.
• Play areas must be well drained.
• Commercially manufactured indoor/outdoor equipment specifically designed to be stable and safe without being fastened to the ground.

 Building Code Requirements 

CHILD FIXTURES	ADULT FIXTURES	DRINKING FOUNTAINS	MOP SINK	BATH TUB/ SHOWER
1: 15	1:50	1:100	1	1
2015 International Fire Code

 Fire Code Requirements 

 Did you know . . . 

	Written information about the child’s individual needs, that was supplied by the parents, is used by the operator to meet the child’s individual needs.		A child is allowed to travel without adult supervision if the child is above 1st grade and the parent and director both agree it is safe.		A license is nontransferable and remains the property of the office. It may be issued to a specific application for operations of the child care at a specific location.

To access Maryland Child Care requirements along with other states please see our interactive Child Care Requirements US map here.

Research completed by Calbert Design Group, LLC.  Updated 2019

Maryland Childcare Licensing Process

Welcome, aspiring childcare providers! You have made a wonderful choice to step into the gratifying world of childcare. Now, let’s guide you through the critical process of acquiring a Childcare Provider License in Maryland.

The following comprehensive guide aims to unpack every detail, every formality, and every regulation you’ll need to navigate to earn that crucial certification. It’s time to turn your passion for children’s development into a regulated, professional enterprise right here in Maryland! Hold onto your aspiration and let’s begin your journey towards being a licensed Childcare Provider.

Ever thought about pursuing a career in early childhood education? Are you passionate about providing a safe, nurturing environment for children to learn and grow?

If you are nodding in affirmative, then you might be on the path to becoming a licensed childcare provider. Specifically, if you are a resident of Maryland, or you plan to open a childcare center there, this guide will take you through step by step on how to get a Childcare Provider License in Maryland.

Understand the Childcare Licensing Requirements in Maryland

As with any professional pursuit, you need to know the initial requirements. The Maryland State Department of Education’s Office of Child Care (OCC) is the regulating body that oversees child care services in the state. You must meet the basic criteria before you can even begin to apply for a license.

You Must Be 19 or Older

First things first, you must be at least 19 years of age. This is an absolute requirement and there are no exceptions.

High School Diploma or GED

You must have a high school diploma or a General Equivalency Diploma (GED). This requirement ensures that you have the basic educational foundation for understanding the development and needs of children.

Meet the Experience Prerequisite

You should have a minimum of one year of supervised experience in a childcare setting. Alternatively, your experience could also be working in a registered family child care home or accredited camp programs.

Getting the Right Training

Once you have ensured that you meet the eligibility requirements, the next step is to get the necessary training required to become a licensed provider in Maryland. This training is divided into sections, including medical, operational, and educational training.

The Basic Health and Safety Training

This training includes everything from emergency preparedness to preventing the spread of communicable diseases. A comprehensive first-aid training, including CPR (for both children and infants), is also required.

45 Hours of Child Growth and Development Training

This course is designed to help childcare providers understand the cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development of children. The purpose is to ensure you are prepared to create a nurturing and beneficial environment for children of all ages.

9 Hours of Communication Skills Training

Communication is paramount when it comes to childcare, whether you are interacting with children, parents, or other education professionals. As part of obtaining your license, you will complete a course on effective communication skills.

Passing a Background Check

Passing a criminal background check is a critical element in the process of getting your childcare provider license. The state of Maryland takes the safety of its youngest citizens very seriously, and so should you. This is why the state requires that all childcare providers pass a comprehensive background check that includes state and national criminal history.

How to Apply for a Background Check

You will need to provide fingerprints and submit them along with a completed Criminal Justice Information System (CJIS) authorization form to the Maryland Criminal Justice Information System Central Repository.

Preparing Your Childcare Environment

Before applying for your license, you will need to ensure that your intended childcare facility, which could also be your home, meets the necessary health and safety standards set by the state’s Department of Education.

Choose the Right Location

A suitable location is important not just for the comfort of the children but also to ensure their safety. A well-ventilated, clean, and safe environment is of utmost importance.

Equip Your Classroom

Make sure you have suitable toys, learning aids, and resources that are age-appropriate. Equally crucial are cleanliness and safety of the items.

Food and Nutrition

If you plan to provide meals and snacks, you must adhere to the guidelines for maintaining hygiene and nutrition. 

The Childcare Provider License Application Process

After fulfilling all these preparatory steps, you are now ready to apply for a Childcare Provider License in Maryland. This requires a detailed application form, together with a non-refundable application fee.

Filling Out Your Application

The application form requires information about you, as well as about your staff if applicable. You’ll also need to disclose details regarding the layout of your facility, daily routines, and what learning resources and activities you’ll provide.

Payment of Fees

Payment of the necessary licensing fee, together with the application, is made directly to the Maryland State Department of Education’s Office of Child Care.

Licensing Orientation

You will also need to attend a Licensing Orientation meeting after you submit your application. This orientation will guide you through the regulations, discuss your rights and responsibilities as a childcare provider, and provide an opportunity for you to ask questions.

Gather and Organize Your Required Documentation

When preparing your application packet, be thorough and methodical. Typical documents required include:

• Proof of your completed training certifications (such as your basic health and safety, child development, and communication coursework)
• Verification of your background check clearance and fingerprint submission
• Up-to-date immunization records, both for yourself and any staff
• Documentation of prior childcare experience
• A floor plan, daily schedules, and sample activity plans for your facility
• Fire safety and health inspection certificates, if they apply
• References attesting to your character and professional experience

Make sure to review the most recent requirements and checklist available with your application forms. Confirm you have all the paperwork in order before moving ahead—this helps prevent processing delays and ensures a smoother application review.

What Does it Cost to Apply?

You’ll be pleased to learn that Maryland does not charge an application fee for a Childcare Provider License. This means you can submit your completed application without worrying about extra costs just for applying, letting you focus those valuable resources on preparing your facility and getting set up for success.

Going Through the Inspection

Once your application has been submitted and approved, your facility will be inspected by a licensing specialist from the Department of Education.

Pre-Licensing Inspection

This inspection is an assessment of your facility to ensure it meets the necessary requirements in terms of safety, health, and learning environment.

Re-inspections

Once you’re licensed, your childcare facility will be subject to occasional re-inspections to ensure compliance with regulations.

Becoming a licensed Childcare Provider in Maryland might sound challenging, but remember, each step is designed to ensure the safety and well-being of the children in your care. The goal is to equip you with the knowledge and skills that truly make a difference in the lives of the children you will care for. While the journey to becoming a licensed childcare provider may feel long, the impact you’ll make is truly priceless. Stay patient, be diligent, and soon enough, you will be a licensed Childcare Provider in the wonderful state of Maryland.

Staying Compliant as a Licensed Childcare Provider

Earning your Maryland Childcare Provider License is a huge achievement—but maintaining it is just as crucial. Ongoing compliance ensures that your facility remains a safe, nurturing place for children and keeps you in good standing with the state.

Meeting Annual and Ongoing Requirements

• Adhering to Regulations: Licensed childcare providers are expected to follow all current health, safety, and educational guidelines. This means staying updated on any changes to state requirements and ensuring your facility remains in compliance at all times.

• Regular Inspections: Each year, your facility will undergo scheduled inspections to confirm that you continue to meet Maryland‘s quality and safety standards. Don’t be surprised if there are also occasional unannounced visits—these help ensure that standards are upheld every day, not just during formal checks.

• Continuing Education: Ongoing professional development is part of the deal. Childcare providers are typically required to complete specific training each year. This might include classes in early childhood development, first aid and CPR, or instruction on updated childcare regulations. Local organizations like the Maryland State Child Care Association and the National Association for the Education of Young Children often provide training sessions and workshops that can help you keep your skills sharp and your credentials current.

• Documentation and Renewals: Every two years, you’ll need to submit updated paperwork to confirm that your facility still meets state requirements. This includes everything from proof of ongoing training to updated staff lists and facility information. Staying organized with your records goes a long way in ensuring smooth renewals.

While these requirements might sound demanding, they’re all in place to protect children and give families confidence in your services. Embrace them as part of your commitment to excellence in childcare—and remember, support is always available from local childcare associations if you need guidance or resources.