Illinois Childcare Licensing
Illinois Childcare Licensing Fees (2026)
Illinois childcare licensing carries an application fee at first licensure and, in most cases, a recurring fee at renewal. There is no application/license fee in Illinois: the day care home rule states "There shall be no fee or charge for the license" (89 Ill. Adm. Code 406.6) and "There shall be no fee or charge for the permit" (89 Ill. Adm. Code 406.7); day care centers are likewise fee-free under 89 Ill. Adm. Code 407.
Licensing Agency
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services →Last updated: April 2026
Researched by the TotReady Research TeamIllinois Licensing Fees: The Specifics
There is no application/license fee in Illinois: the day care home rule states "There shall be no fee or charge for the license" (89 Ill. Adm.
89 Ill
Code 406.6) and "There shall be no fee or charge for the permit" (89 Ill. Adm.
89 Ill
day care centers are likewise fee-free under 89 Ill. Adm.
89 Ill
Illinois DCFS charges no fee for issuance or renewal of a day care home license, which is valid for 3 years unless revoked or surrendered (89 Ill. Adm.
89 Ill
Illinois Licensing Fees at a Glance
| Application fee | There is no application/license fee in Illinois: the day care home rule states "There shall be no fee or charge for the license" (89 Ill. Adm. Code 406.6) and "There shall be no fee or charge for the permit" (89 Ill. Adm. Code 406.7); day care centers are likewise fee-free under 89 Ill. Adm. Code 407. |
|---|---|
| Renewal fee | No renewal fee; Illinois DCFS charges no fee for issuance or renewal of a day care home license, which is valid for 3 years unless revoked or surrendered (89 Ill. Adm. Code 406.6). |
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Illinois Licensing Fees: Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Illinois childcare license cost?
There is no application/license fee in Illinois: the day care home rule states "There shall be no fee or charge for the license" (89 Ill. Adm. Code 406.6) and "There shall be no fee or charge for the permit" (89 Ill. Adm. Code 406.7); day care centers are likewise fee-free under 89 Ill. Adm. Code 407.
What is the Illinois childcare license renewal fee?
No renewal fee; Illinois DCFS charges no fee for issuance or renewal of a day care home license, which is valid for 3 years unless revoked or surrendered (89 Ill. Adm. Code 406.6).
Are Illinois licensing fees refundable?
In most states, licensing application fees are non-refundable even if the application is denied or withdrawn. Confirm the refund policy with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services before paying.
Illinois childcare licensing rules are amended regularly. This page is compiled from published Illinois administrative codes and statutes for informational purposes only — always verify current requirements with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services before relying on them. TotReady provides information and document templates, not legal or regulatory advice.