Applying for a Day Care License

Application Process

The application process takes approximately 60 - 90 days to complete from when you first inquire about a family child care license. The first step in the licensing process is to go to the Sourcewell licensing webpage and complete STEP 1 in the licensing process: Sourcewell - Family Child Care for New Providers. 

Once STEP 1 has been completed you'll receive instructions on how to complete STEP 2, which is an online self-paced orientation that reviews the rules and statues around family child care licensing.

If you have any additional questions regarding the process, please email: 

Licensing@sourcewell-mn.gov

or call 218-895-4120 to speak with a regional licensing specialist.

Requirements

You must be at least 18 years of age to apply for a family child care license. Reference letters, health report, and background studies are done on the applicant. Background studies are also conducted on any family members 13 years or older residing in the child care home.

Fees & Inspection

Crow Wing County charges a licensing fee of $50 for a one-year license and the Background Study Division charges a fee per background study. An initial licensing inspection will be conducted prior to becoming licensed by a Regional Licensing Specialist.

Contact

Crow Wing County partners with Sourcewell for all family child care licensing services. Find licensing information and forms on the Sourcewell website

Contact licensing@sourcewell-mn.gov or call 218-895-4120.