Home Daycare Permit Requirements in Dallas, TX

Everything you need to know about permits and licenses for starting a home daycare in Dallas, Dallas County, Texas.

Important Disclaimer

This information is for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Permit requirements, fees, and timelines may change. Always verify current requirements directly with your local government authority before making business decisions.

Last verified:

Estimated Total Cost

$250 – $700

Estimated Timeline

8–16 weeks to complete training, background checks, inspections, and receive state permit

Dallas / Dallas County Requirements

City of Dallas Home Occupation Permit

Dallas zoning ordinances regulate home-based businesses, including daycare operations. A home daycare may require a home occupation permit to verify compliance with zoning regulations for residential areas. Contact the Dallas Development Services Department to confirm requirements for your specific zoning district before accepting children into care.

Cost:$50–$100 (varies by zoning district)
Timeline:1–3 weeks
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Texas State Requirements

Texas HHS Registered Child Care Home Permit

Required to provide care for 1–6 unrelated children in your primary residence. Texas Health and Human Services Child Care Regulation (CCR) issues this permit after a pre-application training course, background checks on all household members age 14+, fire/safety inspection, CPR/first aid certification, and proof of liability insurance. The Dallas/North Texas CCR regional office handles applications for Dallas County.

Cost:$35 application fee + $1 per child of permitted capacity (annual renewal fee also applies)
Timeline:8–16 weeks from application to permit issuance
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Texas HHS Licensed Child Care Home Permit

Required to provide care for 7–12 children in your primary residence. Must comply with all minimum standards under Chapter 747 of the Texas Administrative Code. More stringent inspection and compliance requirements apply compared to a registered home.

Cost:$35 application fee + $1 per child of permitted capacity (annual renewal fee applies)
Timeline:8–16 weeks from application to permit issuance
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Background Checks (Texas HHS CCR)

All household members age 14 and older and any employee with unsupervised access to children must pass a background check through Texas HHS CCR, including the Central Registry for child abuse/neglect, FBI fingerprint check, and sex offender registry search.

Cost:$40–$50 per person (fingerprinting fees)
Timeline:1–4 weeks
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Pre-Service Training (24 Clock Hours)

All child care home operators must complete 24 hours of pre-service training before accepting children. At least 8 hours must be completed before having sole responsibility for a group of children. Topics must include child development, health, safety, and nutrition.

Cost:$0–$100 depending on provider
Timeline:Completed before permit issuance
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Pediatric First Aid and CPR Certification

All primary caregivers must hold a current pediatric first aid and CPR certification from an approved provider (American Red Cross, American Heart Association, etc.). Must remain current throughout the permit period.

Cost:$50–$100
Timeline:Same day (courses available locally)
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Federal Requirements

EIN (Employer Identification Number)

Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC/corporation. Also required to accept CCDF childcare subsidy payments. Free from the IRS.

Cost:Free
Timeline:Immediate (online application)
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Official Sources

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