Daycare / Child Care Center Permit Requirements in Indianapolis, IN

Complete permit and license guide for starting a daycare / child care center in Indianapolis, Marion County, Indiana.

$500 -- $2000 8–16 weeks to obtain all licenses and pass inspections 6 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: .

Indianapolis / Marion County Requirements

3 requirements
1

Indiana Family and Social Services Administration — Child Care Center License

Child care centers in Indiana must be licensed by FSSA Division of Child Services. Requires background checks, health inspection, and staff ratios compliance.

$100–$300 depending on capacity6–12 weeks
Official government source
2

Indianapolis Department of Business and Neighborhood Services — Business License

Indianapolis (Marion County) requires a Commercial Zoning Certificate and may require a Business License depending on the business type. This license must be renewed annually and displayed at your place of business.

$50–$500/year depending on business type and gross revenues1–3 weeks
Official government source
3

Marion County / Indianapolis 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.

$100–$3002–6 weeks
Official government source

Indiana State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Indiana Department of Revenue — Registered Retail Merchant Certificate

Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property at retail in Indiana. Indiana charges a flat 7% state sales tax with no additional local sales tax. Register online via INBiz.

$25 one-time registration feeImmediate (online via INBiz)
Official government source
2

Indiana Background Check Requirement

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

$25–$75 per person1–4 weeks
Official government source

Federal Requirements

1 requirement
1

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

FreeImmediate (online application)
Official government source

Official Sources

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