Virginia Childcare Licensing
Virginia Childcare Staff-to-Child Ratios (2026)
Virginia sets a maximum staff-to-child ratio for each age band a licensed center serves. The strictest ratio applies to the youngest children: Infant (0-16 months) must be supervised at no looser than 1:4. Meeting these ratios at all times is a core Virginia licensing condition.
Last updated: April 2026
Researched by the TotReady Research TeamVirginia Staff-to-Child Ratios: The Specifics
In Virginia, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Infant (0-16 months) age group is 1:4.
In Virginia, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Toddler (16-24 months) age group is 1:5.
In Virginia, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Toddler (2 years) age group is 1:6.
In Virginia, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Preschool (3 years) age group is 1:9.
In Virginia, the maximum staff-to-child ratio for the Preschool (4-5 years) age group is 1:10.
Virginia sets maximum group sizes for licensed child day centers distinct from ratios: 12 for birth-16 months, 15 for 16-24 months, 24 for two-year-olds, and 30 for three-year-olds through school-age-eligible, with no group-size limit for school-age-eligible through 12-year-old children (8VAC20-780-350).
8VAC20-780-350
Virginia Staff-to-Child Ratios at a Glance
| Infant (0-16 months) | 1:4 |
|---|---|
| Toddler (16-24 months) | 1:5 |
| Toddler (2 years) | 1:6 |
| Preschool (3 years) | 1:9 |
| Preschool (4-5 years) | 1:10 |
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Virginia Staff-to-Child Ratios: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the infant staff-to-child ratio in Virginia?
Virginia requires a staff-to-child ratio of 1:4 for the Infant (0-16 months) age group.
Does Virginia cap maximum group size?
Virginia sets maximum group sizes for licensed child day centers distinct from ratios: 12 for birth-16 months, 15 for 16-24 months, 24 for two-year-olds, and 30 for three-year-olds through school-age-eligible, with no group-size limit for school-age-eligible through 12-year-old children (8VAC20-780-350).
How many staff do I need for my Virginia classroom?
Divide the number of children in each age group by the maximum ratio shown above, rounding up. Virginia ratios must be maintained continuously, including during naps, meals, and transitions.
Virginia childcare licensing rules are amended regularly. This page is compiled from published Virginia administrative codes and statutes for informational purposes only — always verify current requirements with the Virginia Department of Social Services, Division of Licensing Programs before relying on them. TotReady provides information and document templates, not legal or regulatory advice.