Daycare / Child Care Center Permit Requirements in Huntsville, AL

1. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. Alabama Department of Revenue — Sales Tax License

   Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property or taxable services in Alabama. Alabama's state sales tax rate is 4%. Local city and county sales taxes are additional and can be significant (total rates range from 5–10%). Register with the Alabama Department of Revenue via My Alabama Taxes (MAT).

   Official government source

   Free·1–5 business days (online via MAT)

   Free

   1–5 business days (online via MAT)

2. Alabama Background Check Requirement

   All staff, volunteers, and household members (for family daycares) in Alabama child care facilities must undergo criminal background checks through the state and FBI.

   Official government source

   $25–$75 per person·1–4 weeks

   $25–$75 per person

   1–4 weeks

1. Alabama Department of Human Resources — Child Care Facility License

   Child care centers in Alabama must be licensed by the Alabama DHR Division of Child Care. Requires background checks, fire and health inspections, and compliance with staff-to-child ratios.

   Official government source

   $50–$150 depending on capacity·6–12 weeks

   $50–$150 depending on capacity

   6–12 weeks

2. City of Huntsville License and Revenue Department — Business License

   Huntsville requires an Occupational License for all businesses within city limits. The License and Revenue Department issues licenses annually based on projected and actual gross revenues. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

   Official government source

   $50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues·1–3 weeks

   $50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues

   1–3 weeks

3. Madison County / Huntsville Building and Fire Safety Inspection

   Child care centers must pass building inspections for safety, ADA accessibility, fire suppression, and appropriate child-proofing standards. Conducted by local fire marshal and building department.

   Official government source

   $100–$300·2–6 weeks

   $100–$300

   2–6 weeks

Official Sources

• Alabama Department of Human Resources — Child Care Facility License
• City of Huntsville License and Revenue Department

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