Georgia Childcare Daycare Inspection Prep (2026)

Georgia: unannounced inspections at least twice per year for high-risk facilities

Administrative sanctions; fines; license denial, suspension, or revocation under Georgia Code §20-1A-43

or revocation under Georgia Code §2

During a Georgia childcare inspection, staff-to-child ratios are verified: the Infant (0-12 months) age group must be staffed at no looser than 1:6.

During a Georgia childcare inspection, staff-to-child ratios are verified: the Toddler (12-18 months) age group must be staffed at no looser than 1:6.

During a Georgia childcare inspection, staff-to-child ratios are verified: the Toddler (18-36 months) age group must be staffed at no looser than 1:8.

During a Georgia childcare inspection, staff-to-child ratios are verified: the Preschool (3 years) age group must be staffed at no looser than 1:15.

During a Georgia childcare inspection, staff-to-child ratios are verified: the Preschool (4-5 years) age group must be staffed at no looser than 1:18.

Georgia inspectors verify that the parent handbook includes a written Hours of Operation policy (Days and hours the facility is open; holiday closures; late pick-up policy.) per Georgia Rules for Child Care Learning Centers §591-1-1-.19.

Georgia Rules for Child Care Learning Centers §591-1-1-.19

Georgia inspectors verify that the parent handbook includes a written Behavior Guidance and Discipline Policy policy (Positive guidance techniques used; prohibited discipline methods; progressive steps.) per Georgia Rules for Child Care Learning Centers §591-1-1-.16.

Georgia Rules for Child Care Learning Centers §591-1-1-.16

Georgia inspectors verify that the parent handbook includes a written Illness and Exclusion Policy policy (Symptoms requiring exclusion; readmission criteria; communicable disease procedures.) per Georgia Rules for Child Care Learning Centers §591-1-1-.26(4).

Georgia Rules for Child Care Learning Centers §591-1-1-.26(4)

Georgia inspectors verify that the parent handbook includes a written Medication Administration Policy policy (Procedures for administering prescription and non-prescription medications; authorization requirements.) per Georgia Rules for Child Care Learning Centers §591-1-1-.26(5).

Georgia Rules for Child Care Learning Centers §591-1-1-.26(5)

How often does Georgia inspect licensed childcare centers?

Annual; unannounced inspections at least twice per year for high-risk facilities

What do Georgia inspectors check during a childcare inspection?

Georgia childcare inspectors typically verify: (1) staff-to-child ratios are met for every age group, (2) staff CPR/First Aid certifications and background checks are current, (3) each child's file contains required enrollment, immunization, and emergency-contact records, (4) fire-drill logs are complete, (5) the parent handbook covers all required policy sections, and (6) the physical environment is free of hazards such as unsecured cleaning supplies and missing outlet covers.

What happens if a Georgia childcare center fails an inspection?

Administrative sanctions; fines; license denial, suspension, or revocation under Georgia Code §20-1A-43

How can I prepare my Georgia childcare center for an unannounced inspection?

Use the /inspection-check tool on TotReady to run a pre-inspection self-audit. Key areas: confirm all staff ratios are met and documented, verify CPR and background-check expiration dates, audit every child file for completeness, check that fire-drill logs are current, and walk the facility for physical hazards (unsecured chemicals, missing outlet covers, blocked exits).

Which handbook sections do Georgia inspectors verify?

Georgia inspectors check that the parent handbook includes these required sections: Hours of Operation, Behavior Guidance and Discipline Policy, Illness and Exclusion Policy, Medication Administration Policy. Each must be present and comply with the cited Georgia administrative code.