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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 via DECAL KOALA only! Postal mail and/or walk-in applications are no longer accepted.

You can establish a DECAL Koala account by clicking on the link below and then following the instructions on the webpage.

DECAL Koala - https://www.decalkoala.com/Default

All required documents must be uploaded to the online application before it may be submitted for review. In the table below are some of the documents required for the Initial application.

 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:

Child Care Learning Center Application:

  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) decal.ga.gov.
  2. Completed Application for License and all required documents:
    • Active and Compliance registration status with the Secretary of State https://sos.ga.gov/
    • Copy of Active Certificate of Incorporation/Certificate of Organization
    • Copy Articles of Incorporation/Organization
    • Copy of Corporation by-laws or Operating Agreement
      Also, for corporations, all information listed on the application regarding your corporation should match the information listed with the Secretary of State. This can be verified at https://sos.ga.gov/
  3. Proof of building ownership or lease agreement
    • Homeowner association letter (if applicable)
  4. Completed Affidavit for Lawful Presence (signed and notarized) and Verification (front and back copy)
  5. Copy of Zoning Approval dated within last 12 months from appropriate agency with local jurisdiction
  6. Completed Floor Plan w/ all required details and checklist
  7. Completed Site plan w/ all required details and checklist
  8. 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.)
    • Completed Operation Plan Checklist. Operation Plans documents are not required to submit. This information will be reviewed onsite
  9. Transportation Documents (If applicable)
    • Completed Training Certificates for center Director and Driver (if director is the driver, a second staff is required to complete training)
    • Completed Vehicle Inspection with a pass for all Vehicles (within 12 months)
    • Vehicle Registration
    • Vehicle Insurance
  10. State or local Fire Marshall Inspection and CO*
  11. Building Certificate of Occupancy*
  12. Staff Profile sheet with center director and all staff (Each person listed must have a completed satisfactory Criminal Record Check)
  13. Copy of Lead Teacher Credentials (TCC, CDA, AA, BA, Diploma Transcripts, Professional Learning Plan, etc.)
  14. Copy of 40-hr Director Training
  15. Copy of Director Credentials (TCC, CDA, AA, BA, Diploma Transcripts, etc.)
  16. Director’s CPR and First Aid
  17. Director’s 10-Year Work History
  18. Copy of Water Bill with facility address listed as site address
  19. Copy of Current Septic tank Inspection dated within 12 months (required if sewer charges are not listed on submitted water bill)
  20. Copy of Food Service Permit and Inspection (If applicable)

*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.

Please ensure all required documents for the application are present before submission. Missing documents will delay the initial review process. Once received, reviewed for all application requirements, and assigned to an ASU consultant, the processing time begins.

Documents List