Daycare / Child Care Center Permit Requirements in Providence, RI

Complete permit and license guide for starting a daycare / child care center in Providence, Providence County, Rhode Island.

$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: .

Providence / Providence County Requirements

3 requirements
1

Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Families — Child Care License

Child care centers in Rhode Island must be licensed by DCYF. Requires background checks, health and fire safety inspections, and staff-to-child ratio compliance.

$50–$1506–12 weeks
Official government source
2

City of Providence Department of Finance — Revenue Division — Business License

Providence requires a City Business License for all businesses operating within city limits. License fees are based on business type and gross revenues. 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

Providence County / Providence Building and Fire Safety Inspection

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

$100–$3002–6 weeks
Official government source

Rhode Island State Requirements

2 requirements
1

Rhode Island Division of Taxation — Sales Tax Permit

Required for all businesses selling tangible personal property or taxable services in Rhode Island. Rhode Island charges a 7% state sales tax with no local sales taxes. Register with the RI Division of Taxation online via the RI Tax Portal.

FreeImmediate (online)
Official government source
2

Rhode Island Background Check Requirement

All staff, volunteers, and household members (for family daycares) in Rhode Island 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

Related Guides