Becoming a Child Care Provider
Have questions about becoming a licensed or registered child care provider?
Becoming a child care provider in New York involves understanding the different types of programs, meeting training and safety requirements, and completing the appropriate registration or licensing steps so you can legally care for children and, if applicable, receive subsidy payments.
Learn More by:
Contacting our specialist or viewing the OCFS resource page
Follow these steps to…
Begin Your Child Care Journey Today!
Starting a child care program is an important decision, and we are here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you are interested in becoming a licensed or registered provider, opening a child care center, or operating as a legally exempt caregiver, we provide clear information, trusted resources, and personalized support to help you understand your options and responsibilities.
Our team helps you navigate the process by explaining New York State requirements, connecting you with required trainings and orientations, and outlining health and safety standards. We can also assist with understanding background check requirements, application steps, inspections, and ongoing compliance expectations.
Step One:
Enroll & Complete the OCFS Intro to Child Care
All new child care providers in New York must complete the OCFS Introduction to Child Care orientation that covers program types, safety standards, and legal requirements.
Option One
Visit our office to complete the Orientation in person FOR FREE, and get access to further details, guidance, and support on your next steps!
Option Two
Sign In or Create an Account at:
Step Two:
Contact Child Care Clearinghouse of Niagara
For guidance on starting your child care program, training, or completing required steps, contact us so we can provide personalized support to help you become a licensed or registered provider.
Step Three:
Complete any required tasks from our specialist
Once you contact us, be sure to work with our specialist to complete any required tasks, such as training, paperwork, or background checks, to move forward in becoming a licensed or registered child care provider.
” Quality child care is an essential service that helps to form the economic backbone of New York State. “
Resources for Providers
This section offers a variety of tools, guidance, and information to support child care programs in delivering safe, high-quality care. From health and safety requirements, lead screening, and carbon monoxide detector guidance, to health care plans, allergy policies, and lending library materials, these resources help providers meet state regulations and best practices. Our Development Specialists are also available to provide personalized support, coaching, and training, helping providers strengthen program quality, enhance learning environments, and ensure the well-being and development of every child in their care.

CCFS-Inspection-Checklist-GFDC
For those interested in becoming an in-home licensed group family child care provider, please click on the link above to view an inspection checklist of items that will need to be in compliance before you can obtain a license.

For those interested in becoming a licensed day care center, please click on the link above to view an inspection checklist of items that will need to be in compliance before you can obtain a license.

CCFS-Inspection-Checklist-FDC
For those interested in becoming an in-home registered family day care provider, please click on the link above to view an inspection checklist of items that will need to be in compliance before you can obtain a registration.

Dear Provider Notifications
For providers seeking important updates, regulatory guidance, and official communication from OCFS, please click on the link above to access Dear Provider letters. These documents outline policy changes, compliance expectations, and best practices to support the operation of your child care program.

CCFS-Inspection-Checklist-SACC
For those interested in becoming a registered school-age child care program, please click on the link above to view an inspection checklist of items that will need to be in compliance before you can obtain a registration.

Facility Application and Management System (FAMS)
For providers looking to apply for, manage, or update their child care program information, please click on the link above to access the Facility Application and Management System (FAMS). This online system allows you to submit applications, track the status of your program, and maintain compliance with OCFS requirements.

