Start with the local DCFS licensing office and its orientation. The application needs background checks, a qualified director, a budget, a program description and a floor plan; a fire safety inspection and a license study follow. No fee, but inspections, training and equipment are yours.
Checked Oct 17, 2026 against the agency’s page.
Step 4 of 6: Get the permits for your kind of business
1Set up the business
2Register for tax
3Approve the space
4Get the permits for your kind of business
5Alcohol permits
6Before the first hire
Issued by Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.
Sources and dates
DCFS licensing overview; Rule 407 licensing standards for day care centers. Checked against the agency’s page on the date shown; cities add their own fees.
Questions about opening here.
No. In Illinois it is listed for daycares.
No. In Illinois it is listed for daycares.
No. In Illinois it is listed for daycares.
No. In Illinois it is listed for daycares.
No. In Illinois it is listed for daycares.
No. In Illinois it is listed for daycares.
No. In Illinois it is listed for daycares.
No. In Illinois it is listed for daycares.
No. In Illinois it is listed for daycares.
No. In Illinois it is listed for daycares.
No. In Illinois it is listed for daycares.
No. In Illinois it is listed for daycares.
No. In Illinois it is listed for daycares.
No. In Illinois it is listed for daycares.
No. In Illinois it is listed for daycares.
No. In Illinois it is listed for daycares.
No. In Illinois it is listed for daycares.
No. In Illinois it is listed for daycares.
Yes. Start with the local DCFS licensing office and its orientation.
No. In Illinois it is listed for daycares.
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.
Step 4 of 6, get the permits for your kind of business. The steps before it: set up the business, register for tax and approve the space.
Who needs a day care center license in Illinois? | DoorWorthy
