Guide to start the process#

Information in this section includes the:

• application process
• documentation that needs to be submitted with a centre-based early childhood service licence application.
• required statutory declaration
• sole trader declaration.

This is only a guide. More information may be needed to help assess your application.

Find out who needs a licence to operate an early learning service.

Licences to operate in early childhood education and care

There is a lot of work that needs to be done before thinking about applying for an early childhood service licence.

The below information sets out what you need to do.

Regional statistics and other information#

Look at the Education Counts website to get an idea of how many and what types of early childhood service are already in your area, to assess demand.

Information about early childhood services – Education Counts

Read our guides#

Our guides have more information about early childhood services and how to start a centre-based education and care service.

Guides for starting an early childhood service

Talk to us#

Once you have done your research, contact your regional Ministry of Education office to talk to us. We will tell you more about the application process and answer any questions you may have.

Talking to us gives your application the best chance of being successful.

Regional offices