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Registered Childcare Homes

Registered childcare homes provide regular care in the caregiver’s home for up to 6 children under age 14 and up to 6 more school-age children. Regular care means "at least four hours per day, three or more days a week, for three or more consecutive weeks -or- four hours a day for 40 or more days in a period of 12 months." The number of children allowed in a registered childcare home depends on the ages of the children. No more than 12 children can be in care at any time, including the caregiver's children.

Applicants must pass background checks and complete an overview of regulation before they apply. CCL issues a registration only after an inspection to make sure the provider is meeting the standards that apply. CCL inspects registered childcare homes every two years (or every one year if the home accepts child-care subsidies from the Texas Workforce Commission). CCL also investigates any allegation of violations of licensing laws, rules, or minimum standards.

Listed Family Homes

Listed family homes provide regular care in the caregiver’s home for one to three unrelated children under 14 years old. Regular care means "at least four hours per day, three or more days a week, for three or more consecutive weeks -or- four hours a day for 40 or more days in a period of 12 months." Providers must be at least 18 years old and go through an application process that includes a criminal background check and getting a "listing" permit from CCL. 
These providers do not have to meet minimum standards or take training. CCL does not routinely inspect listed family homes, but does investigate reports that:

  • There is an immediate risk to the health or safety of a child.
  • The home is providing childcare for too many children. 
  • A caregiver gave a child medication without the parent’s or guardian's written permission.