Starting a Child Care Program
Applicant Services welcomes the opportunity to assist you through the licensing process.
Please note that application processing times vary depending on the type of application. Applications are reviewed in the order they are received. To avoid delays, please make sure all required information and supporting documents are included when you submit your application. Incomplete applications may be returned, closed, or denied.
All applications must be submitted online through DECAL KOALA.
Postal mail and walk-in applications are not accepted.
To create a DECAL KOALA account, click the link below and follow the instructions on the website:
DECAL KOALA: https://www.decalkoala.com/Default
Before submitting your application, be sure to upload all required documents to the online system. The list below highlights some of the documents needed for an initial application.
If you have general questions about the licensing process, please 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.
Getting Started: Applications and Training Requirements
A Family Child Care Learning Home (FCCLH) is a child care program operated in a private home for less than 24 hours per day. It provides care for 3 to 6 children under age 18 and receives payment for those services.
A Child Care Learning Center (CCLC) is a child care program that provides care for 7 or more children under age 18 for less than 24 hours per day and receives payment for those services.
Before applying, prospective providers should review the Applicant’s Guide for the type of program they plan to operate. The Applicant’s Guides linked below contain important information about application requirements, training, and the licensing process.
Apply for a Family Child Care Learning Home
To apply for a Family Child Care Learning Home License, review the Family Child Care Learning Home Applicant Guide and follow the Steps for a Successful Family Child Care Learning Home Application. The guide includes important information about the licensing process, required training, and application requirements.
To begin the process, click here: Family Child Care Learning Home
Apply for a Child Care Learning Center
If you are opening or building a new Child Care Learning Center that is not currently licensed or operating, review the Applicant's Guide to Licensing. This guide provides information about licensing requirements, application procedures, and other helpful resources.
To begin the process, click here: Child Care Learning Center
Apply for a Child Care Learning Center Change of Location
If you currently hold a Child Care Leaning Center License and plan to move your program to a new address, you must complete and submit an online Child Care Learning Center Change of Location application.
To begin the process, click here: https://www.decalkoala.com/Default
Apply for a Family Child Care Learning Home Change of Location
If you currently hold a Family Child Care Learning Home License and plan to move your program to a new address, you must complete and submit an online Family Child Care Learning Home Change of Location application.
To begin the process, click here: https://www.decalkoala.com/Default
Taking Over a licensed Child Care Learning Center – Change of Ownership
If you are purchasing a child care program that is currently licensed and operating, you must submit an online Child Care Learning Center Change of Ownership Application. This application is required before ownership of the program can be transferred. Forms and additional information are available at:
https://www.decal.ga.gov/CCS/ChangeofOwnership.aspx
Training Requirements
Before applying for a license, be sure to review the required training for your program type. Information about pre-service and ongoing training requirements is available at:
Visit Training Requirements (ga.gov)
Forms
For additional guidance, sample forms, and other helpful resources, visit:
https://www.decal.ga.gov/BftS/FormList.aspx
Rules and Regulations
All licensed child care programs must comply with Georgia's rules and regulations. Requirements vary by program type. Current rules and regulations can be found at:
Rules and Regulations
Criminal Records Checks
Before hiring employees, review the Before You Hire a New Employee document and the information available on the Criminal Records Check page. These resources provide important details about background check requirements, including:
- Criminal Records Check applications
- Live Scan fingerprinting instructions
- Notices about application updates and changes
- Additional guidance for child care providers and staff
All criminal records check forms, instructions, and related information can be found on the Criminal Records Check page.
https://www.decal.ga.gov/CCS/CriminalRecordsCheck.aspx