Are you ready to turn your love for children into a licensed family child care business? The process is easier when you break it down step by step! Here’s a simple guide to help you navigate the Family Child Care (FCC) licensing process in California, with the support of Hively.

Why Become a Licensed Child Care Provider?

Becoming a licensed family child care provider offers incredible benefits beyond just opening a business:

  • Be Your Own Boss: Create your own schedule and build a business that fits your lifestyle.
  • Make a Positive Impact: Help shape the lives of young children during their most important years.
  • Stay Home with Your Own Children: Care for your own children while earning an income. 
  • Earn Extra Income: Save on transportation, work clothing, and child care costs — all while building financial stability.
  • Build Lasting Relationships: Work closely with small groups of children, helping to foster the secure and trusting relationships they need to grow in early childhood.

If you enjoy being around children, are nurturing, dependable, energetic, and have a safe, welcoming home environment, family child care might be the perfect fit for you — and your family!

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Step 1: Attend a Licensing Orientation

Start by signing up for a Community Care Licensing Orientation. You’ll learn everything you need to know about requirements and regulations. Orientations are available online, live virtually, or in person at your local Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) office.

Step 2: Complete Required Trainings

You’ll need these three trainings under your belt:

  • Preventative Health and Safety
  • CPR and First Aid Certification
  • Mandated Reporter Training (available free online at www.mandatedreporterca.com)

Need help registering? Contact community-services@behively.org or 925-417-8733

Step 3: Gather Health Records

Get a TB test and updated immunization records for every adult living in your home. Check with your doctor to complete this step.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Prepare and submit all required forms, training certificates, health records, and your application fee. Hively staff can help you with your licensing checklist! Forms like LIC 279, LIC 279B, LIC 610A, and others are required, along with proof of orientation and training completion. 

Step 5: Complete Background Checks

Once your application is submitted, you’ll receive instructions to create a Guardian account and schedule fingerprinting for the mandatory criminal background check.

Step 6: Get Ready for Your Home Inspection

A Licensing Analyst will visit your home to make sure it’s safe and child-friendly. Use the Readiness Guide (form LIC9217) to prepare your home and ensure you meet all safety standards.

Ready to Start Your New Adventure?

Once you pass your inspection and receive your license, you can officially open your doors to families seeking high-quality child care. Plus, Hively can help you connect with families through the My Child Care Plan database and other referral programs.

For more information or personal guidance on family home child care licensing, visit BeHively.org or call 925-417-8733