Home Daycare Permit Requirements in Houston, TX

Everything you need to know about permits and licenses for starting a home daycare in Houston, Harris 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

$200 – $600

Estimated Timeline

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

Houston / Harris County Requirements

City of Houston — No General Business License Required

Houston does not have a general city business license requirement. Home-based daycare providers in Houston must comply with state licensing through Texas HHS Child Care Regulation. Houston has no municipal zoning code (unique among major U.S. cities), so there are no city zoning restrictions on home daycare use. Confirm there are no applicable deed restrictions or HOA rules before operating.

Cost:Free
Timeline:No city permit required; confirm deed restrictions before opening
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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 Houston/Harris County CCR regional office can be reached at 713-940-3009.

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 if you provide care for 7–12 children in your primary residence. Stricter standards apply under Chapter 747 of the Texas Administrative Code. Requires annual renewal. All caregivers must meet minimum training and certification standards.

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. Includes 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, with at least 8 hours completed before having sole responsibility for a group of children. Topics must cover child development, health, safety, and nutrition. Online courses are available through accredited providers.

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 such as the American Red Cross or American Heart Association. Must remain current throughout the permit period.

Cost:$50–$100
Timeline:Same day (courses available locally and online)
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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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