2026 data Alabama board official source

Alabama Childcare Center Director License Requirements

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

Manages childcare facilities providing care for young children.

What the Alabama data shows for Childcare Center Directors

To practice as a childcare center director in Alabama, the state licensing board requires 37 documented education or training hours, no mandatory state exam. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Alabama's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Education or Training Requirements".

Upfront cost is $79, with renewal running $64 on a 2-year cycle. The license also carries an ongoing 24-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Not typically reciprocal.

Licensing Requirements in Alabama

Education / Training Hours
Education or Training Requirements
37 hours
Exam Requirement
Not Required
Initial License Fee
$79
Renewal Fee
$64
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Alabama licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Childcare Center Director in Alabama?
In Alabama, the license path calls for 37 education/training hours, and a $79 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Childcare Center Director in Alabama?
Certification as a childcare center director in Alabama means clearing the state's checklist: 37 hours of education. The Alabama licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Childcare Center Director license to Alabama from another state?
Childcare Center Director licenses generally reciprocate as follows: Not typically reciprocal. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Alabama licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Alabama require a background check for Childcare Center Director licensing?
Background screening is part of the childcare center director licensing process in Alabama. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Childcare Center Director in Alabama?
Licensed childcare center directors in Alabama must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $64.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites