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Licensed Daycare in Louisiana

Search 2,054 verified daycare and childcare centers across Louisiana, sourced directly from Louisiana Department of Education — Licensing Division . Filter by age group, program type, and subsidy acceptance — no signup.

2,054
Licensed Centers
$870/mo
Avg Infant Care
$680/mo
Avg Preschool
1:5
Infant Ratio

Louisiana Childcare Licensing

In Louisiana, all child care centers serving children outside the family home are required to be licensed by the Louisiana Department of Education — Licensing 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, 1:8 for toddlers (12–35 months), and 1:14 for preschool (3–5 years). NAEYC-accredited centers typically operate below the state minimum.

Verify a license at Louisiana Department of Education — Licensing Division

Quick licensing facts

Regulator
Louisiana Department of Education — Licensing Division
Infant ratio
1:5
Toddler ratio
1:8
Preschool ratio
1:14
Avg infant cost
$870/mo
Avg preschool cost
$680/mo
Financial help

Louisiana Childcare Subsidies & Tax Credits

Louisiana families can apply for Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) 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: (225) 342-3947

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Daycare in Louisiana — Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know a daycare in Louisiana is licensed?
Every center listed here is verified against the Louisiana Department of Education — Licensing Division database. Look for the 'Licensed' badge on each profile. You can also confirm directly via the agency's lookup tool at https://www.louisianabelieves.com/resources/family-support-toolbox/searchable-database-of-licensed-providers.
What is the staff-to-child ratio in Louisiana?
State minimums in Louisiana are roughly 1:5 infants, 1:8 toddlers, and 1:14 preschool. NAEYC-accredited centers typically operate below these ceilings.
How much does daycare cost in Louisiana?
Full-time infant care averages about $870/month; preschool runs around $680/month. Costs vary by city — large metros like Louisiana trend higher than rural areas.
Are subsidies available for childcare in Louisiana?
Yes. The primary state program is Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP), reachable at (225) 342-3947. Federal options like Head Start, the Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit, and Dependent Care FSA also apply. See our subsidies guide for eligibility rules.
How do I report unsafe conditions at a Louisiana daycare?
File a complaint with the Louisiana Department of Education — Licensing Division via their website. Inspections are public record; severe violations result in license suspension.

Search 2,054 Licensed Louisiana Centers

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