New Jersey Childcare Licensing
New Jersey Childcare Staff-to-Child Ratios (2026)
New Jersey sets a maximum staff-to-child ratio for each age band a licensed center serves. The strictest ratio applies to the youngest children: Infant (0-12 months) must be supervised at no looser than 1:4. Meeting these ratios at all times is a core New Jersey licensing condition.
Licensing Agency
New Jersey Division of Family Development, Office of Licensing →Last updated: April 2026
Researched by the TotReady Research TeamNew Jersey Staff-to-Child Ratios: The Specifics
In New Jersey, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Infant (0-12 months) age group is 1:4.
In New Jersey, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Toddler (12-30 months) age group is 1:6.
In New Jersey, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Preschool (2.5-3.5 years) age group is 1:10.
In New Jersey, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Preschool (3.5-5 years) age group is 1:12.
In New Jersey, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the School Age (5+ years) age group is 1:15.
New Jersey sets no statewide maximum group-size cap for child care centers
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.3
it regulates only staff/child ratios (under 18 months 1:4, 18 months to under 2.5 years 1:6, 2.5 to under 4 years 1:10, 4 years 1:12, 5 years and older 1:15), with no separate limit on the total number of children grouped together (N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.3).
N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.3
New Jersey Staff-to-Child Ratios at a Glance
| Infant (0-12 months) | 1:4 |
|---|---|
| Toddler (12-30 months) | 1:6 |
| Preschool (2.5-3.5 years) | 1:10 |
| Preschool (3.5-5 years) | 1:12 |
| School Age (5+ years) | 1:15 |
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New Jersey Staff-to-Child Ratios: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the infant staff-to-child ratio in New Jersey?
New Jersey requires a staff-to-child ratio of 1:4 for the Infant (0-12 months) age group.
Does New Jersey cap maximum group size?
New Jersey sets no statewide maximum group-size cap for child care centers; it regulates only staff/child ratios (under 18 months 1:4, 18 months to under 2.5 years 1:6, 2.5 to under 4 years 1:10, 4 years 1:12, 5 years and older 1:15), with no separate limit on the total number of children grouped together (N.J.A.C. 3A:52-4.3).
How many staff do I need for my New Jersey classroom?
Divide the number of children in each age group by the maximum ratio shown above, rounding up. New Jersey ratios must be maintained continuously, including during naps, meals, and transitions.
New Jersey childcare licensing rules are amended regularly. This page is compiled from published New Jersey administrative codes and statutes for informational purposes only — always verify current requirements with the New Jersey Division of Family Development, Office of Licensing before relying on them. TotReady provides information and document templates, not legal or regulatory advice.