2026 data Washington board official source

Washington Childcare Center Director License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

Manages childcare facilities providing care for young children.

What the Washington data shows for Childcare Center Directors

To practice as a childcare center director in Washington, the state licensing board requires 97 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 Washington's professional licensing framework, which classifies training as "Education or Training Requirements".

Upfront cost is $167, with renewal running $126 on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 24 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

Reciprocity is available: Not typically reciprocal. Compared to the profession-wide pattern, the numbers above should be cross-checked against other states before relocating — licensing cost, training hours, and exam requirements vary enough that a different state may cut thousands of dollars and months of training from the path. The state board, not this page, is the final authority; verify every field below with the official regulator before you pay fees or enroll in training.

Licensing Requirements in Washington

Education / Training Hours
Education or Training Requirements
97 hours
Exam Requirement
Not Required
Initial License Fee
$167
Renewal Fee
$126
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
0

License Reciprocity

Not typically reciprocal

Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Washington licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Childcare Center Director in Washington?
Washington requires 97 education/training hours, and an initial fee of $167. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Childcare Center Director in Washington?
To become a licensed childcare center director in Washington, you must meet the state's requirements including 97 hours of education. Contact the Washington licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Childcare Center Director license to Washington from another state?
Washington has reciprocity provisions: Not typically reciprocal. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the Washington licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does Washington require a background check for Childcare Center Director licensing?
Yes, Washington requires a criminal background check as part of the childcare center director licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Childcare Center Director in Washington?
Licensed childcare center directors in Washington must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $126.

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

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