Home Daycare Permit Requirements in Dallas, TX

Complete permit and license guide for starting a home daycare in Dallas, Dallas County, Texas.

$250 -- $700 8–16 weeks to complete training, background checks, inspections, and receive state permit 7 requirements

Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. Last verified: March 12, 2026.

Dallas / Dallas County Requirements

1 requirement

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.

$50–$100 (varies by zoning district)1–3 weeks

Official government source

Texas State Requirements

5 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.

$35 application fee + $1 per child of permitted capacity (annual renewal fee also applies)8–16 weeks from application to permit issuance

Official government source

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.

$35 application fee + $1 per child of permitted capacity (annual renewal fee applies)8–16 weeks from application to permit issuance

Official government source

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.

$40–$50 per person (fingerprinting fees)1–4 weeks

Official government source

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.

$0–$100 depending on providerCompleted before permit issuance

Official government source

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.

$50–$100Same day (courses available locally)

Official government source