Licensed Daycare in Maine
Search 754 verified daycare and childcare centers across Maine, sourced directly from Maine DHHS — Office of Child and Family Services . Filter by age group, program type, and subsidy acceptance — no signup.
Maine Childcare Licensing
In Maine, all child care centers serving children outside the family home are required to be licensed by the Maine DHHS — Office of Child and Family Services. Licensed centers undergo background checks, capacity inspections, and routine compliance reviews.
Minimum staff-to-child ratios are 1:4 for infants under 12 months, 1:5 for toddlers (12–35 months), and 1:10 for preschool (3–5 years). NAEYC-accredited centers typically operate below the state minimum.
Verify a license at Maine DHHS — Office of Child and Family ServicesWhat's distinctive about Maine: Maine has scarce licensed daycare outside Portland and Bangor — rural families often rely on family child care homes or family-cooperative arrangements. CCSP serves families up to 85% state median.
Quick licensing facts
- Regulator
- Maine DHHS — Office of Child and Family Services
- Infant ratio
- 1:4
- Toddler ratio
- 1:5
- Preschool ratio
- 1:10
- Avg infant cost
- $1,230/mo
- Avg preschool cost
- $940/mo
Maine Childcare Subsidies & Tax Credits
Maine families can apply for Maine Child Care Subsidy Program (CCSP) 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: (207) 624-7999
Recently Verified Centers
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Daycare in Maine — Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know a daycare in Maine is licensed?
What is the staff-to-child ratio in Maine?
How much does daycare cost in Maine?
Are subsidies available for childcare in Maine?
How do I report unsafe conditions at a Maine daycare?
Search 754 Licensed Maine Centers
Free, no signup, filter by age and subsidy acceptance.