Childcare Licensing Glossary

Background Check (CBC)

A criminal-history and child-abuse registry search required for all childcare staff and, in most states, household members in a family child care home.

Last updated: June 2026

Compiled by the TotReady Research Team

Definition

A CBC (criminal background check) is required before a person can work or volunteer unsupervised with children in a licensed childcare program. It typically includes a fingerprint-based FBI check, a state criminal history search, and a check of the state's child abuse and neglect registry. In family child care homes, most states also require background checks for all household members 18 and older. Some states use a tiered system — a provisional hire while checks are pending — but the person usually cannot be alone with children until results clear. Requirements vary by state, and a disqualifying offense in one state may not be disqualifying in another.

This rule varies by state. The definition above describes the general concept used across U.S. childcare licensing. The specific thresholds, requirements, or definitions attached to Background Check (CBC) differ by state — check your state licensing page or the cited data tables for the exact rule in your state.

Related terms

Mandated Reporter

A person in a defined professional role — including all childcare workers — who is legally required to report suspected child abuse or neglect to authorities.

Provisional License

A temporary license issued to a new childcare program that allows it to operate while completing initial requirements — typically valid for 6–12 months.

Frequently asked questions

What is Background Check (CBC) in childcare licensing?
A criminal-history and child-abuse registry search required for all childcare staff and, in most states, household members in a family child care home.
Does Background Check (CBC) vary by state?
Yes. Background Check (CBC) rules differ across states. A criminal-history and child-abuse registry search required for all childcare staff and, in most states, household members in a family child care home. Check your state's licensing agency for the exact requirements that apply to your program.
Where can I find the Background Check (CBC) rules for my state?
Your state's childcare licensing agency publishes the current rules in its administrative code or licensing regulations. TotReady's state pages at /states cover key licensing topics by state, and the /data section has cited 50-state tables for ratios, training hours, capacity limits, fees, and exemption thresholds.
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