Rhode Island Childcare Licensing
Rhode Island Childcare Licensing Fees (2026)
Rhode Island childcare licensing carries an application fee at first licensure and, in most cases, a recurring fee at renewal. The nonrefundable initial license application fee, paid to the State of Rhode Island, is $100 for a Family Daycare Home, $250 for a Group Family Daycare Home, and $500 for a Child Daycare Center (R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-12.5-5(2)).
Licensing Agency
Rhode Island Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Care, Child Care Licensing Unit →Last updated: April 2026
Researched by the TotReady Research TeamRhode Island Licensing Fees: The Specifics
The nonrefundable initial license application fee, paid to the State of Rhode Island, is $100 for a Family Daycare Home, $250 for a Group Family Daycare Home, and $500 for a Child Daycare Center (R.I.
R.I
Rhode Island Licensing Fees at a Glance
| Application fee | The nonrefundable initial license application fee, paid to the State of Rhode Island, is $100 for a Family Daycare Home, $250 for a Group Family Daycare Home, and $500 for a Child Daycare Center (R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-12.5-5(2)). |
|---|---|
| Renewal fee | Contact your Rhode Island licensing office to confirm the current renewal fee. |
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Rhode Island Licensing Fees: Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Rhode Island childcare license cost?
The nonrefundable initial license application fee, paid to the State of Rhode Island, is $100 for a Family Daycare Home, $250 for a Group Family Daycare Home, and $500 for a Child Daycare Center (R.I. Gen. Laws § 42-12.5-5(2)).
What is the Rhode Island childcare license renewal fee?
Contact your Rhode Island licensing office to confirm the current renewal fee.
Are Rhode Island licensing fees refundable?
In most states, licensing application fees are non-refundable even if the application is denied or withdrawn. Confirm the refund policy with the Rhode Island Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Care, Child Care Licensing Unit before paying.
Rhode Island childcare licensing rules are amended regularly. This page is compiled from published Rhode Island administrative codes and statutes for informational purposes only — always verify current requirements with the Rhode Island Department of Human Services (DHS), Office of Child Care, Child Care Licensing Unit before relying on them. TotReady provides information and document templates, not legal or regulatory advice.