GHCA

California

Group Home Requirements

Official State Website

Licensing Agency

California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division

License: Group Home

Key Requirements & Qualifications

4 items
  • 1

    Administrator Qualifications and Duties (84064): 21 years of age or older; good moral character; ability to exercise good judgment; ability to comply with regulations; criminal record clearance; health screening; high school diploma or GED; 15 college units or 1 year experience in a group home; 40 hours of administrator certification training; pass administrator certification exam.

  • 2

    Personnel Requirements (84065): Criminal record clearance; health screening; tuberculosis test; first aid and CPR certification; training in child care and supervision.

  • 3

    Staff/Child Ratios (84065.5): Sufficient staff to ensure the health, safety, and supervision of children; specific ratios may vary based on the needs of the children and the program.

  • 4

    Physical Environment (84087): Safe and sanitary buildings and grounds; adequate space for children's activities, sleeping, and personal belongings; fire safety clearance; appropriate fixtures, furniture, equipment, and supplies.

Governing Law & Regulatory Code

California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 6, Chapter 5View Official Text

Click the code above to open the official state regulations website in a new tab.

Official State Resource

Visit the official state government website to access current application forms, full regulatory text, and contact information for the licensing agency.

Open Official Website

https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/community-care/group-homes

Fees & Costs

Initial Application Fees: 1-15 beds: $182|16-30 beds: $303|31-60 beds: $605|61-75 beds: $758|76-90 beds: $908|91-120 beds: $1210|121+ beds: $1513|Annual Fees: 1-15 beds: $91|16-30 beds: $152|31-60 beds: $303|61-75 beds: $378|76-90 beds: $454|91-120 beds: $605|121+ beds: $757|Other Fees: Late fee: 50% of annual fee.|Location change fee: 50% of application fee.|Probation fee: 100% of annual fee.

Getting Started Checklist

Research state-specific requirements
Contact the licensing agency
Complete required training/education
Pass background checks
Secure appropriate facility/location
Obtain liability insurance
Submit license application
Pass facility inspection

Important Notice

Regulations change frequently. Always verify current requirements directly with the state licensing agency before submitting applications. This information is for educational purposes only.