Licensed Daycare in California
Search 8,879 verified daycare and childcare centers across California, sourced directly from California Department of Social Services — Community Care Licensing Division . Filter by age group, program type, and subsidy acceptance — no signup.
California Childcare Licensing
In California, all child care centers serving children outside the family home are required to be licensed by the California Department of Social Services — Community Care Licensing Division. Licensed centers undergo background checks, capacity inspections, and routine compliance reviews.
Minimum staff-to-child ratios are 1:4 for infants under 12 months, 1:6 for toddlers (12–35 months), and 1:12 for preschool (3–5 years). NAEYC-accredited centers typically operate below the state minimum.
Verify a license at California Department of Social Services — Community Care Licensing DivisionWhat's distinctive about California: California has the country's second-most expensive daycare ($1,800/mo infant) and the strictest staffing requirements among large states. CalWORKs Stage 2 subsidies serve working families up to ~85% state median — well into middle income.
Quick licensing facts
- Regulator
- California Department of Social Services — Community Care Licensing Division
- Infant ratio
- 1:4
- Toddler ratio
- 1:6
- Preschool ratio
- 1:12
- Avg infant cost
- $1,800/mo
- Avg preschool cost
- $1,240/mo
Top Cities for Daycare in California
View all cities →California Childcare Subsidies & Tax Credits
California families can apply for CalWORKs Child Care + APP (Alternative Payment Program) based on income and work/school status. Federal programs — the Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit, Dependent Care FSA ($5,000 cap), and Head Start — stack on top of state assistance.
Local intake line: (916) 651-6195
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Daycare in California — Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know a daycare in California is licensed?
What is the staff-to-child ratio in California?
How much does daycare cost in California?
Are subsidies available for childcare in California?
How do I report unsafe conditions at a California daycare?
Search 8,879 Licensed California Centers
Free, no signup, filter by age and subsidy acceptance.