Introduction
As a child care provider in California, staying up-to-date with licensing requirements, regulations, and policy updates is essential for maintaining compliance and providing quality care. However, navigating the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) website can sometimes feel overwhelming with its wealth of information spread across multiple pages.
This guide serves as your roadmap to finding the most important CDSS resources quickly and efficiently. We've organized the information based on what providers typically need most, with direct links to save you time and effort.
Quick Reference Guide: Where to Find What You Need
If You Need To: | Go Here First: | Direct Link |
Find recent licensing updates | ||
Look up specific regulations | ||
Understand how regulations are interpreted | ||
Check capacity requirements | Fact Sheets | |
Download required forms | Community Care Licensing: (LIC) | |
Report an incident | Incident Reports | Form LIC 624 (Center) / Form LIC 624B (FCC) |
Find COVID-19 guidance | COVID-19 Updates | |
Access provider resources | MyChildCarePlan |
Understanding Provider Information Notices (PINs)
Provider Information Notices (PINs) are one of the most important resources for staying current with licensing requirements. These notices communicate important regulatory changes, clarify existing regulations, offer guidance during emergencies, and share important health and safety information.
Types of PINs
There are two main categories of PINs you should be aware of:
CCP (Child Care Program) PINs: Specifically for child care providers
CCLD (Community Care Licensing Division) PINs: For all licensed facilities, including child care
How to Find the Most Relevant PINs
The CDSS publishes dozens of PINs each year. Here's how to quickly find what matters most to you:
Recent Critical Updates (2025)
CCP PINs (Child Care-Specific)
PIN 25-04-CCP - Child Care Licensing Webinars
PIN 25-03-CCP - SB 234 Child Care Licensing Webinars
PIN 25-02-CCP - Governor's Proclamation of a State of Emergency and Implementation of Waivers
PIN 25-01-CCP - 2024 Chaptered Legislation Affecting Child Care Facilities
CCLD PINs (All Licensed Facilities)
PIN 25-04-CCLD - Fee Waivers in Response to the January 2025 Fires and Windstorm Conditions
PIN 25-03-CCLD - Guardian Training Webinar for Licensees and Providers
PIN 25-01-CCLD - Winter Storm Preparedness
How to Find PINs by Topic
PINs are organized by year on the CDSS website, but you can find relevant PINs by searching for specific topics:
Health & Safety PINs
Search for terms like "heat," "fire," "disaster," "safe sleep," or "communicable disease"
Examples: PIN 23-18-CCP (Communicable Disease Mitigation), PIN 24-08-CCLD (Water Safety)
Licensing Requirement PINs
Search for terms like "capacity," "ratios," "background check," or "forms"
Examples: PIN 24-02-CCLD (Background Check Practices), PIN 24-01-CCP (Single License Requirements)
Business Operation PINs
Search for terms like "fees," "waiver," "webinar," or "technical assistance"
Examples: PIN 25-04-CCLD (Fee Waivers), PIN 25-04-CCP (Licensing Webinars)
Emergency & Special Circumstance PINs
Search for terms like "emergency," "waiver," or "temporary"
Examples: PIN 25-02-CCP (Emergency Waivers), PIN 25-01-CCLD (Winter Storm Preparedness)
Tips for Finding PINs Quickly
Note the PIN number format: Year-Number-Division (e.g., PIN 25-04-CCP)
Check translation links below PINs for non-English versions
Use Ctrl+F (Windows) or Cmd+F (Mac) to search the PIN page for keywords
Remember: The most recent PINs appear at the top of the list
Navigating Laws and Regulations
The regulatory framework for child care in California consists of two main components:
Health and Safety Code vs. Title 22 Regulations
Health and Safety Code
Primary legislation passed by the California Legislature
Establishes the legal authority and framework for child care licensing
Sets broad requirements and definitions
Can only be changed through the legislative process
Title 22 Regulations
Detailed rules developed by the Department of Social Services
Implements the laws established in the Health and Safety Code
Contains specific day-to-day operational requirements
Can be modified through the regulatory process without legislative action
Key Health and Safety Code Sections
Chapter 3.4 California Child Day Care Act - Establishes the basic framework
Chapter 3.5 Child Care Centers - Legal requirements specific to centers
Chapter 3.6 Family Child Care Homes - Legal requirements specific to home-based care
Title 22 Regulations
Title 22 regulations contain the specific operating requirements for licensed child care facilities. Understanding the structure of these regulations can help you quickly find the information you need:
Article 1: General Requirements and Definitions
Article 2: Licensing
Article 3: Application Procedures
Article 4: Administrative Actions
Article 5: Enforcement Provisions
Article 6: Continuing Requirements (contains most day-to-day operational requirements)
Article 7: Physical Environment
Subchapter 1: General Requirements and Definitions
Subchapter 2: Licensing
Subchapter 3: Application Procedures
Subchapter 4: Enforcement Provisions
Subchapter 5: Administrative Actions
Subchapter 6: Continuing Requirements (contains most day-to-day operational requirements)
Operation of a family child care home (§102417)
Capacity limitations (§102416.5)
Personal rights (§102423)
Staffing requirements (§102416)
Health-related requirements (§102417(e))
Food service requirements (§102417(f))
You can access the complete Title 22 regulations on the Official Westlaw Regulations page.
Evaluator Manual
The Evaluator Manual explains how Community Care Licensing analysts interpret and apply regulations. This resource has been reorganized and is now divided into:
Most Helpful Sections
Reference Material - Contains interpretations and guidance on how licensing analysts apply regulations in practice
Appendices - Includes implementation plans for chaptered legislation and other supporting documents
Provider Information Notices (PINs) - Collected announcements of regulatory updates and guidance
The Evaluator Manual is particularly useful when you need clarification on how a regulation will be applied during inspections. Access the full manual through the CDSS Evaluator Manual page.
Finding Answers to Policy Questions
When you have specific questions about implementing regulations, here's where to look:
Illness Policies
Primary resource: Title 22 Regulations under "Health Related Services" (§101226 for Centers, §102417(e) for Homes)
For communicable disease guidance: PIN 23-18-CCP "Announcing New Guidance From California Department Of Public Health For Communicable Disease Mitigation"
Discipline Approaches
These sections clearly prohibit corporal punishment, humiliation, intimidation, and withholding basic needs
Medication Administration
PIN 22-02-CCP covers best practices for Incidental Medical Services
Medication consent forms (LIC 9221) available in the Forms section
Important Note: The California Code of Regulations, Title 22 remains the ultimate authority for licensing requirements. Always refer to the specific regulations for your license type when questions arise.
Essential Documentation and Record-Keeping
Proper documentation is critical for maintaining compliance. According to CDSS Form LIC 311D "Forms/Records to Keep in Your Family Child Care Home" and LIC 311A "Records to be Maintained at the Facility," providers must maintain the following records:
For Family Child Care Homes
Children's Records
Identification and Emergency Information (LIC 700)
Consent for Medical Treatment (LIC 627)
Immunization records (California School Immunization Record CDPH 286)
Parent Notification of Rights (LIC 995A) with signed receipt
Individual Infant Sleeping Plan (LIC 9227) for infants up to 12 months
Sleep logs for infants up to 24 months (sample sleep log form from CCHP)
Documentation for special health needs (medication consents, etc.)
Facility Records
Current facility license prominently displayed
Emergency Disaster Plan (LIC 610A)
Earthquake Preparedness Checklist (LIC 9148)
Documentation of fire/disaster drills (conducted every six months) (sample drill log form from CCHP)
Unusual Incident/Injury Reports (LIC 624B)
Child Care Facility Roster (LIC 9040)
Personnel records (TB clearances, background checks, training certificates)
Proof of property ownership or landlord consent forms
Items to Post
For Child Care Centers
Children's Records
Personnel Records
Administrative Records
Sign-in/sign-out sheets (kept for at least 30 days)
Facility license displayed prominently
Updated menus posted
Daily activity schedule
Emergency Disaster Plan (LIC 610)
All required forms can be downloaded from the CDSS Forms page.
Preparing for Licensing Visits
Understanding what to expect during licensing visits helps ensure ongoing compliance:
Regular Inspection Frequency
According to PIN 24-03-CCP, most facilities receive an inspection at least once every three years
Some facilities require annual inspections (those on probation, with compliance plans, etc.)
An additional 30% of facilities are randomly selected for annual inspections
Facilities receiving government funding may have more frequent visits
Inspection Process
For information on the inspection process, refer to PIN 21-25-CCP, which details the Compliance and Regulatory Enforcement (CARE) Tools used during inspections
New providers can learn about the pre-licensing inspection process in PIN 22-05-CCP regarding the CARE Pre-Licensing Tool
If you have questions about the inspection process, contact your local Child Care Program Regional Office as mentioned in PIN 24-03-CCP.
Understanding Citations and Deficiencies
If Licensing finds a problem (called a "deficiency") during a visit, you will receive written notification:
Types of Deficiencies
Type A: Serious deficiencies that present an immediate or substantial threat to health or safety
Type B: Less serious violations that could potentially become serious if not addressed
Type C: Technical violations that do not present an immediate or potential risk
(Source: California Department of Social Services, Facility Evaluation/Visit, Evaluator Manual. Also referenced in "Know the Law: When Licensing Finds a Problem at Your Family Child Care Home" by Child Care Law Center.)
Citation Documentation
For routine visits: Form LIC 809 (Facility Evaluation Report)
For complaint investigations: Form LIC 9099 (Complaint Investigation Report)
Signing these forms acknowledges receipt but does not indicate agreement with the findings
(Source: Child Care Law Center, "Know the Law: When Licensing Finds a Problem at Your Family Child Care Home," p. 2)
Possible Licensing Actions
Verbal or written consultation (for minor issues)
Citation with a plan of correction
Civil penalties (monetary fines)
Administrative actions (suspension or revocation of license)
(Source: California Department of Social Services, Facility Evaluation/Visit, Evaluator Manual, NO. 08RM-02 § 3-4400 at 26; and Child Care Law Center, "Know the Law: When Licensing Finds a Problem at Your Family Child Care Home," p. 2-3)
Civil Penalties
Penalties may be assessed for uncorrected violations ($50-$150 per violation per day)
For repeated violations within a 12-month period, immediate penalties may be assessed
Civil penalty assessments are documented on Form LIC 421
(Source: California Department of Social Services, Form LIC 421 "Civil Penalty Assessment"; and California Health & Safety Code § 1597.56)
Your Rights as a Licensee
As a licensed provider, you have specific rights when interacting with Community Care Licensing:
During Licensing Visits
To be treated professionally, with dignity and respect
To be informed of the purpose of any visit or communication
To receive complete and accurate reports of any observed deficiencies
Appeal Rights
You have the right to appeal any citation, investigation finding, civil penalty, or administrative action
Appeals must be submitted in writing within 15 business days of receiving a citation or penalty
Appeals should include all available supporting documentation
How to File an Appeal
Submit a written request for formal review to your Regional Office within 15 business days
Include all available supporting documentation with your request
If dissatisfied with the Regional Manager's decision, you may appeal to the Program Administrator within 15 business days
For more information about your rights as a licensee, review Form LIC 9058 (Applicant/Licensee Rights) available on the CDSS website.
Emergency Preparation and Response
California child care providers must be prepared for various emergencies.
Key Emergency PINs
Heat emergencies (typically issued each summer)
Wildfire preparedness and evacuation
Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS)
Winter storm preparation
Earthquake safety
Emergency Notification System
CDSS uses the Everbridge system to notify providers about emergencies. For information about this system, refer to:
PIN 24-06-CCLD - Use Of The Everbridge Emergency Notification System To Notify Licensees And Providers Of Disasters And Emergencies (Supersedes PIN 23-11-CCLD)
Make sure your contact information is current with CDSS to receive timely emergency notifications.
Background Check Requirements
Background checks are a critical part of maintaining licensing compliance:
Guardian System Resources
CDSS now uses the Guardian system for background checks. Refer to these specific PINs:
PIN 24-02-CCLD - Updated Guardian & Background Check Best Practices (Supersedes PIN 22-06-CCLD)
PIN 21-05-CCLD - New Background Check Website
Training and Professional Development
CDSS requires ongoing training for licensed providers:
Required Trainings
Pediatric Health & Safety:
First-time licensees complete 16 hours total:
8 hours of Preventive Health and Safety Training (including lead exposure prevention)
4 hours of Pediatric First Aid
4 hours of Pediatric CPR/AED
Renewal requirement: Every two years, providers must complete 4 hours of Pediatric First Aid and 4 hours of Pediatric CPR
Must be obtained from an EMSA-approved training program (EMSA Child Care Provider page)
Mandated Reporter Training (AB1207):
Required for all child care providers in licensed facilities
Consists of two parts:
General Training module (2 hours) - required prerequisite
Child Care Providers module (2 hours) - profession-specific training
Includes final exam requiring 80% or higher to pass
Certificate provided upon completion
Available in English and Spanish
Language accessibility note: Providers with limited English proficiency are not required to take the training if it's not offered in their primary language. Contact the Department about translation options, especially if your language meets the five percent requirement.
For language access assistance, contact the Child Care Law Center
Access training at California Mandated Reporter Training
Webinar Opportunities
CDSS regularly hosts webinars on compliance topics. Recent webinars have focused on:
Guardian system training (Watch recording - Guardian Basics All Provider Webinar 02.28.24 - YouTube)
Child care licensing requirements
Training announcements are typically shared through Provider Information Notices and the CDSS MailChimp subscription service.
Action Steps for Providers
Bookmark this key page: CDSS Provider Information Notices
Set a regular schedule (monthly or quarterly) to check for new PINs relevant to your facility type
Update your contact information with CDSS to ensure you receive emergency notifications
Join the CDSS MailChimp subscription service for automatic updates (see PIN 19-09-CCLD)
Keep digital or physical copies of important PINs that affect your ongoing operations
Additional Resources
MyChildCarePlan.org Provider Resources: Provider Resources
California Child Care Resource & Referral Network: rrnetwork.org
California Resource & Referral Network Technical Assistance: Contact your local R&R agency for help interpreting regulations
Child Care Law Center: childcarelaw.org - Legal information specific to child care providers
Last updated: March 2025. This guide is intended as a navigational resource only and does not replace the need to review and comply with all applicable laws and regulations.