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CA Childcare Staff-to-Child Ratios

California childcare centers are licensed by Community Care Licensing (CCL) under Title 22 regulations. As the most populous state, CA has comprehensive childcare requirements.

Updated February 2026·8 min read

California Ratio Requirements

California's Community Care Licensing Division sets minimum staff-to-child ratios under Title 22, Division 12, Chapter 1. These apply to all licensed childcare centers in California.

Age GroupStaff:Child RatioMax Group Size
Infants (0-18 months)1:412
Toddlers (18-30 months)1:612
Preschool (30 mo - 4 yrs)1:12No limit*
School-Age (5+ years)1:14No limit*

* No maximum group size, but ratio must always be maintained. Source: California Title 22

Key CA Compliance Points

  • California requires at least one staff member to have 12+ ECE units
  • Directors must have a Child Development Site Supervisor Permit or equivalent
  • All staff need current CPR and pediatric first aid certification
  • Live Scan fingerprinting required through DOJ and FBI

Important Note

California has different licensing categories (Infant Centers, Child Care Centers, School-Age Programs). Make sure you're following the regulations specific to your license type.

CA Licensing Resources

For official California childcare licensing information:

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