North Carolina Daycare Ratios and Maximum Group Sizes

North Carolina child care center ratios (single-age groups)

Source

These figures come from North Carolina Administrative Code 10A NCAC 09 .0713 (Staff/Child Ratios for Centers), last amended effective November 1, 2024, administered by the North Carolina Division of Child Development and Early Education.

Last verified: October 2026

Rules that can change these numbers

When age groups are combined, the ratio for the youngest child applies to the whole group. Children of all ages may be grouped together for the first and last operating hour of the day if the youngest child's ratio is maintained. Centers may choose separate multi-age group ratios after notifying the Division. Centers located in a residence follow different ratios. The ratio for each classroom must be posted where parents can see it.

Track staff-to-child ratios in Caredence

Caredence compares the children checked in to each classroom with the staff checked in to that room, using the children-per-staff limit your center sets for the room, and shows an over-ratio warning when there aren't enough staff. It doesn't apply state rules automatically, so use the figures above to choose each room's limit.

Check another location with the state ratio calculator, or see how Caredence supports daycare compliance.

For a national overview, read the staff-to-child ratios by state guide.