Licensed Daycare in Alabama
Search 2,158 verified daycare and childcare centers across Alabama, sourced directly from Alabama Department of Human Resources — Child Care Services Division. Filter by age group, program type, and subsidy acceptance — no signup.
Alabama Childcare Licensing
In Alabama, all child care centers serving children outside the family home are required to be licensed by the Alabama Department of Human Resources — Child Care Services Division. Licensed centers undergo background checks, capacity inspections, and routine compliance reviews.
Minimum staff-to-child ratios are 1:5 for infants under 12 months, 1:7 for toddlers (12–35 months), and 1:13 for preschool (3–5 years). NAEYC-accredited centers typically operate below the state minimum.
Verify a license at Alabama Department of Human Resources — Child Care Services DivisionWhat's distinctive about Alabama: Alabama daycare costs sit among the lowest in the South (about $820/mo infant care, 33% below the national median). DHR licensing is solid but ratio caps of 1:5 infants and 1:13 preschool are looser than NAEYC recommendations — accreditation matters more here than in tighter-ratio states.
Quick licensing facts
- Regulator
- Alabama Department of Human Resources — Child Care Services Division
- Infant ratio
- 1:5
- Toddler ratio
- 1:7
- Preschool ratio
- 1:13
- Avg infant cost
- $820/mo
- Avg preschool cost
- $660/mo
Alabama Childcare Subsidies & Tax Credits
Alabama families can apply for Alabama Child Care Subsidy Program based on income and work/school status. Federal programs — the Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit, Dependent Care FSA ($5,000 cap), and Head Start — stack on top of state assistance.
Local intake line: (866) 528-1694
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Daycare in Alabama — Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know a daycare in Alabama is licensed?
What is the staff-to-child ratio in Alabama?
How much does daycare cost in Alabama?
Are subsidies available for childcare in Alabama?
How do I report unsafe conditions at a Alabama daycare?
Search 2,158 Licensed Alabama Centers
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