Official sources and verification (11)
Last verified Oct 25, 2026. Each quotation supports the corresponding published value.
Qualifications / Required hoursDay care home applicants: 15 hours of preservice training.
Day care home applicants: 15 hours of preservice training.
Proof of at least 15 hours of required pre-service training on specific topics
Official sourceLast verified Oct 25, 2026
Qualifications / EducationHome-based applicants must submit proof of a high school diploma, GED or another degree from an accredited university or vocational school.
Home-based applicants must submit proof of a high school diploma, GED or another degree from an accredited university or vocational school.
Proof of high school diploma, GED, or other degree from an accredited university or vocational school
Official sourceLast verified Oct 25, 2026
Qualifications / InsuranceGroup day care home applicants must submit proof of liability insurance.
Group day care home applicants must submit proof of liability insurance.
Proof of liability insurance (group day care homes only)
Official sourceLast verified Oct 25, 2026
Fees / LicenseLicenses are free, however there are expenses associated with medicals and vaccinations
0
Licenses are free, however there are expenses associated with medicals and vaccinations
Official sourceLast verified Oct 25, 2026
Agency guidanceCenter directors and child care staff must also complete 15 clock hours of in-service training annually.
Center directors and child care staff must also complete 15 clock hours of in-service training annually.
The director and each child care staff member shall participate in 15 clock hours of in-service training per year.
Official sourceLast verified Oct 25, 2026
Agency guidanceHome and group-home licenses require an actual family residence; other locations need a center license.
Home and group-home licenses require an actual family residence; other locations need a center license.
Day Care home and group day care home licenses are only issued in the family home of the individual(s) applying. ... If you wish to use space away from where you and your family live, you must seek licensure as a day care center.
Official sourceLast verified Oct 25, 2026
Agency guidanceOnce approved, Centers are issued a 6-month permit
Center applicants first receive a six-month permit.
Once approved, Centers are issued a 6-month permit
Official sourceLast verified Oct 25, 2026
BoardIllinois Department of Children and Family Services
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services
Official sourceLast verified Oct 25, 2026
Continuing education hours15 hours
15
The caregivers shall complete 15 clock hours of in-service training per licensing year in accordance with the requirements in Appendix D.
Official sourceLast verified Oct 25, 2026