Washington Childcare Licensing

Washington Childcare Background Check Requirements (2026)

Every adult with unsupervised access to children at a licensed Washington childcare center must clear a multi-part background check before being counted in ratio. Washington requires 3 distinct screening components.

Licensing Agency

Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families →

Last updated: April 2026

Researched by the TotReady Research Team

Washington Background Check Requirements: The Specifics

Washington childcare licensing requires the following pre-employment screening for staff: Washington State Patrol background check.

Washington childcare licensing requires the following pre-employment screening for staff: FBI fingerprint check.

Washington childcare licensing requires the following pre-employment screening for staff: DCYF Background Check Central Unit check.

Washington Background Check Requirements Checklist

  • Washington State Patrol background check
  • FBI fingerprint check
  • DCYF Background Check Central Unit check

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Washington Background Check Requirements: Frequently Asked Questions

What background checks does Washington require for childcare staff?

Washington requires the following screenings: Washington State Patrol background check; FBI fingerprint check; DCYF Background Check Central Unit check.

Do background checks need to be repeated in Washington?

Many states require periodic re-screening (often every 5 years) in addition to the initial check. Confirm the current Washington re-screening interval with the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families.

Who must be screened at a Washington center?

Any staff member, substitute, or volunteer with unsupervised access to children must clear the required Washington screenings before working with children.

Washington childcare licensing rules are amended regularly. This page is compiled from published Washington administrative codes and statutes for informational purposes only — always verify current requirements with the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families before relying on them. TotReady provides information and document templates, not legal or regulatory advice.