How to start a daycare in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF) licenses child care centers in Wisconsin. These are the steps, each with the state's own page.

Steps checked on the state's own pages, November 4, 2026.

Opening a child care center in Wisconsin, step by step

  1. Send an Expression of Interest

    Set up an account in the Child Care Provider Portal. Send your Expression of Interest there.

    Source: Starting a Licensed Child Care Program in Wisconsin

  2. Get a building inspection

    Your building must meet Wisconsin's commercial building codes. Keep the inspection report on file.

    Source: Group Child Care (GCC) Licensing Rule Book

  3. Check local zoning

    Ask your city or local zoning office about permits or building plan reviews.

    Source: Procedure for Obtaining an Initial License to Operate a Group Child Care Center (DCF-P-PFS3066)

  4. Write your policies

    Develop written policies and procedures for your program.

    Source: Procedure for Obtaining an Initial License to Operate a Group Child Care Center (DCF-P-PFS3066)

  5. Complete background checks

    The owner and a director who can supervise staff need final eligibility before a license.

    Source: Procedure for Obtaining an Initial License to Operate a Group Child Care Center (DCF-P-PFS3066)

  6. Work with a pre-licensing consultant

    Work with a pre-licensing consultant before you apply. Together you finish the initial licensing checklist.

    Source: Group Child Care (GCC) Licensing Rule Book

  7. Apply at least 60 days before you open

    Send your application at least 60 days before you plan to open.

    Source: Group Child Care (GCC) Licensing Rule Book

  8. Complete the licensing visit

    Your regional licensing specialist contacts you after you apply to set up a visit.

    Source: Procedure for Obtaining an Initial License to Operate a Group Child Care Center (DCF-P-PFS3066)

At a glance

Who licenses centers
Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF). Licenses child care for 4 or more children under age 7, including group child care centers.Source: Procedure for Obtaining an Initial License to Operate a Group Child Care Center (DCF-P-PFS3066)
Group child care center
13 or more children who are not related to youSource: Group Child Care (GCC) Licensing Rule Book
Application form
Given to you once pre-licensing help is doneSource: Group Child Care (GCC) Licensing Rule Book
First license
Probationary, for 6 monthsSource: Group Child Care (GCC) Licensing Rule Book
Background checks
Everyone 10 or older who works with children or lives at the centerSource: Procedure for Obtaining an Initial License to Operate a Group Child Care Center (DCF-P-PFS3066)

Good to know

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Questions, answered

How do I start a daycare in Wisconsin?

The first step: Send an Expression of Interest. All 8 steps are on this page, each with the state's own link.

Who licenses child care centers in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin Department of Children and Families (DCF). Licenses child care for 4 or more children under age 7, including group child care centers.

About this page

Steps checked on the state's own pages, November 4, 2026.

This page is a summary of the state's own pages. It is not legal advice, and rules change.

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