Georgia law (O.C.G.A. Section 50-36-1) requires all people applying for a public benefit to verify their lawful presence in the United States before receiving the benefit. A Bright from the Start license or registration is a public benefit issued to the owner of a child care facility each year. Therefore, the owner must submit the required verification documents before the annual license will be issued.

The director or administrator cannot complete the required documents unless that person is also an owner. Click here for easy-to-follow instructions for identifying the person(s) authorized to complete the documents and for step-by-step instructions for completing the verification process.

License fees are due December 1 of each year. You will not be able to pay your license fee until the affidavit and secure and verifiable document are received, recorded, and eligibility has been verified. Bright from the Start staff will record receipt of the documents and verify eligibility. Please allow adequate time for your verification documents to be processed. You will be notified by e-mail when you can pay your license fee which you will be able to do online or by mail. You will receive your annual license or registration after your license fee has been paid. Click here for license fee information.

If you have questions or need more information, refer to Frequently Asked Questions; send an e-mail to CCSAffidavit@decal.ga.gov; call 404-657-5562; or contact your licensing consultant. Consultants’ phone numbers are listed on the Bright from the Start website here.