Licensed Daycare in South Carolina
Search 2,275 verified daycare and childcare centers across South Carolina, sourced directly from South Carolina DSS — Division of Child Care Services . Filter by age group, program type, and subsidy acceptance — no signup.
South Carolina Childcare Licensing
In South Carolina, all child care centers serving children outside the family home are required to be licensed by the South Carolina DSS — Division of Child Care Services. Licensed centers undergo background checks, capacity inspections, and routine compliance reviews.
Minimum staff-to-child ratios are 1:6 for infants under 12 months, 1:8 for toddlers (12–35 months), and 1:18 for preschool (3–5 years). NAEYC-accredited centers typically operate below the state minimum.
Verify a license at South Carolina DSS — Division of Child Care ServicesQuick licensing facts
- Regulator
- South Carolina DSS — Division of Child Care Services
- Infant ratio
- 1:6
- Toddler ratio
- 1:8
- Preschool ratio
- 1:18
- Avg infant cost
- $870/mo
- Avg preschool cost
- $680/mo
Top Cities for Daycare in South Carolina
View all cities →South Carolina Childcare Subsidies & Tax Credits
South Carolina families can apply for South Carolina Voucher Program (ABC Quality) 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: (800) 476-0199
Recently Verified Centers
View all 2,275 →Charleston Smart Start Academy #35
Gable
Charleston Little Angels #36
Gadsden
Explorer Kids Charleston #37
Gaston
Charleston Generations Daycare #38
Gilbert
Charleston KinderSmile #39
Great Falls
Active Kids Charleston #40
Greeleyville
Charleston Playhouse Academy #41
Heath Springs
Charleston Learning Center #42
Holly Hill
Charleston Childcare Academy #43
Hopkins
Charleston Little Stars Daycare #44
Horatio
Charleston Rainbow Learning Center #45
Irmo
Charleston Bright Futures Daycare #46
Jenkinsville
Daycare in South Carolina — Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know a daycare in South Carolina is licensed?
What is the staff-to-child ratio in South Carolina?
How much does daycare cost in South Carolina?
Are subsidies available for childcare in South Carolina?
How do I report unsafe conditions at a South Carolina daycare?
Search 2,275 Licensed South Carolina Centers
Free, no signup, filter by age and subsidy acceptance.