2026 data Arizona board official source

Arizona Childcare Center Director License Requirements

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

Manages childcare facilities providing care for young children.

What the Arizona data shows for Childcare Center Directors

Arizona's path to childcare center director licensure runs through 100 hours of approved instruction with no mandatory state exam, plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. Arizona folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Education or Training Requirements".

Budget $171 to get started, plus $129 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 24 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

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

Licensing Requirements in Arizona

Education / Training Hours
Education or Training Requirements
100 hours
Exam Requirement
Not Required
Initial License Fee
$171
Renewal Fee
$129
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 Arizona licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Childcare Center Director in Arizona?
In Arizona, the license path calls for 100 education/training hours, and a $171 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Childcare Center Director in Arizona?
Arizona licenses childcare center directors who complete its requirements (100 education hours). Verify the latest details with the Arizona licensing board.
Can I transfer my Childcare Center Director license to Arizona from another state?
Here's how reciprocity typically plays out for childcare center directors: Not typically reciprocal. Many occupations are additionally covered by interstate licensing compacts that ease cross-state moves. Check with the Arizona licensing board for how this applies to you.
Does Arizona require a background check for Childcare Center Director licensing?
Background screening is part of the childcare center director licensing process in Arizona. 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 Arizona?
Licensed childcare center directors in Arizona must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $129.

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