Louisiana childcare licensing is administered by the Department of Education. Louisiana uses a tiered licensing system: Type I (religious/church-owned, no state/federal funds), Type II (private, federal food program only), and Type III (state/federal funded, higher standards). As of January 1, 2026 (Act 409), all non-public pre-K programs serving 3–4 year olds must be licensed as Early Learning Centers.
| Age Group | Staff : Children | Max Group Size |
|---|---|---|
| Under 1 year | 1:5 | — |
| 1 year | 1:7 | — |
| 2 years | 1:11 | — |
| 3 years | 1:13 | — |
| 4 years | 1:15 | — |
| 5 years | 1:19 | — |
| School age | 1:23 | — |
These are Bulletin 137 minimum ratios. Type III centers receiving state/federal CCDF funds must follow higher star-rated ratios (e.g., 1:4 for infants in 4-star and 5-star programs).
Enrollment Form
Complete enrollment with child information and parent/guardian contacts.
Immunization Records
Current immunization records per Louisiana DHH schedule required on file.
Medical/Health Assessment
Physician-signed health report required for enrollment.
Emergency Contact Information
Names and phone numbers of emergency contacts and authorized pickup persons.
Emergency Medical Authorization
Parental consent for emergency medical care.
Allergy and Dietary Information
Documentation of any food allergies or special dietary needs.
Medication AuthorizationConditional
Written parental authorization for any medication to be administered.
Exemption Policy
Medical and religious exemptions are permitted. Contact the Louisiana Department of Health for current exemption procedures.
Minimum Age
18 years
Background Check
Centralized CCBC (Comprehensive Child Care Background Check) system required for all staff.
Lead Teacher Education
Requirements vary by facility type and star rating. Type III centers require higher education standards. Contact LDOE for current requirements.
Assistant Education
High school diploma or GED required for most positions. Pre-service training required.
CPR / First Aid
Pediatric CPR and First Aid certification required. At least one certified staff member on-site at all times.
Continuing Education
Annual professional development required. Requirements increase with star rating level.
Director Qualifications
Director qualification requirements vary by facility type and star rating. Contact LDOE for current standards.
Inspection Frequency
At least one unannounced inspection annually. Type III facilities face more frequent reviews.
License Renewal
Annual license renewal required.
Application Process
Contact LDOE to begin the application process through the centralized CCBC background check system.
Licensing Fee
Varies by facility type and capacity. Contact LDOE for current fee schedule.
Daycare Enrollment Forms Checklist: Every Document You Need Per Child
The complete list of documents required per child, with state-specific variations.
How to Prepare for a Daycare Licensing Inspection
Step-by-step checklist covering child files, staff records, ratios, and facility safety.
Staff-to-Child Ratios by State: The Complete Comparison
Compare infant, toddler, and preschool ratio requirements across all 50 states.
Daycare Immunization Requirements by State
Required vaccines and exemption policies — medical only, religious, or philosophical.
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