Who needs a child care center license in Rhode Island?

Issued by Rhode Island Department of Human Services, Child Care Licensing, at step 4 of 6 in the opening sequence: get the permits for your kind of business.

1 of the 20 kinds of business in Rhode Island

Contact the licensing team (401-462-3009) before filing, then submit the universal application with the zoning approval, fire marshal and Department of Health approvals, the floor plan, the director’s credentials and background checks for every staff member. The license fee is paid to the General Treasurer with the application.

Checked Oct 21, 2026 against the agency’s page.

Step 4 of 6: Get the permits for your kind of business

  1. Set up the business
  2. Register for tax
  3. Approve the space
  4. Get the permits for your kind of business
  5. Alcohol permits
  6. Before the first hire

Issued by Rhode Island Department of Human Services, Child Care Licensing.

Sources and dates

R.I. Gen. Laws 42-12.5-5; DHS universal child care application; 218-RICR-70-00-1 (child care center regulations). Checked against the agency’s page on the date shown; cities add their own fees.

Questions about opening here.