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Child Care Learning Center

The Applicant Services Unit values the opportunity to work with you during the licensure process. Please note, processing times for applications varies by application type and are processed in the order they are received. Please ensure all application information and required documentation are submitted to avoid delays or the return of applications. Failure to provide a complete application and required documentation, can result in closure or denial of the application. Applications must be submitted in PDF format via email or fax only! Postal mail and/or walk-in applications are no longer accepted. Applications should be sent in PDF format via email to CCSASUAdmin@decal.ga.gov or fax to 678-302-3043, only. For general questions about the licensing process, feel free to call Bright from the Start at 404-657-5562, and ask to speak with the consultant of the day.

Application Processing Times:

Child Care Learning Centers/Change of Locations: Minimum of 60 days
Family Child Care Learning Homes: Minimum 45 days
Change of Ownership: Minimum of 45 days

*Please note processing time starts once applications have been received, screened and confirmation receipt emails have been sent to applicants.

If you are interested in opening a Child Care Learning Center (CCLC), complete and follow ALL required steps below:

Application Part A:

  1. Completion of the Child Care Learning Center Licensing Orientation (CCO) and copy of certificate (within last 24 months). CCO registration can be found on the Georgia Professional Development System for Early Educators (GaPDS) gapds.decal.ga.gov.
  2. Completed Application for License Part A and all required documents:
    1. Copy of Active Certificate of Incorporation/Certificate of Organization
    2. Copy Articles of Incorporation/Organization
    3. Copy of Corporation by-laws or Operating Agreement
    4. Proof of building ownership or lease agreement
  3. Completed Affidavit for Lawful Presence (signed and notarized) and Verification (front and back copy)
  4. Copy of Zoning Approval dated within last 12 months from appropriate agency with local jurisdiction
  5. Completed Floor Plan w/ all required details and checklist
  6. Completed Site plan w/ all required details and checklist
  7. Completed Operation plans and checklist (Please note if you are not using BFTS forms you must submit sample copies of the following: Employee application, orientation forms and all children forms.)
    1. Operation Plan documents are not required to submit. This information will be reviewed onsite

Application Part B Requirements: (requested once Part A is approved)

  1. Completed Application for License Part B
  2. Transportation Documents (If applicable)
    1. Completed Training Certificates for center Director and Driver (if director is the driver, a second staff is required to complete training)
    2. Completed Vehicle Inspection with a pass for all Vehicles (within 12 months)
  3. State or local Fire Marshall Inspection and CO*
  4. Building Certificate of Occupancy*
  5. Staff Profile sheet with center director and all staff (Each person listed must have a completed satisfactory Criminal Record Check)
  6. Copy of Water Bill with facility address listed as site address
  7. Copy of Current Septic tank Inspection dated within 12 months (required if sewer charges are not listed on submitted water bill)
  8. Copy of Food Service Permit and Inspection (If applicable)
  9. Copy of 40-hr Director Training
  10. Copy of Director Credentials

*Note: It is the responsibility of the applicant to determine if new approvals are required and submit the documentation accordingly. Written statements from the state of or local entities must be provided as written proof in order to use prior approved documents.

Submitted applications via email will be reviewed and provided an email response status within 10 business days of receipt. Please ensure all required documents for applications are present before submission. For initial licensure and change of location applications all required documents for Part A must be received before initial approval and consultant assignments are made. Missing documents will delay the initial review process. Once received, reviewed for all Part A requirements, and assigned to an ASU consultant, processing time begins.

Documents List