State Licensure Exemption/Documents

The Child Care Services division of Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning  (DECAL) regulates and licenses child care programs across the state.
However, programs that are owned and operated by a state agency, including the University System of Georgia (USG), may apply for and receive a licensure exemption from DECAL.

Middle Georgia State University has been granted licensure exemptions for its programs serving non-enrolled minors on all five MGA campuses.

While exempt from Bright from the Start licensure, all university-sponsored programs must meet the following State of Georgia requirements for exempt programs:

  1. Post the Exemption Letter
    Display the Bright from the Start exemption approval letter near the main entrance of your facility.
    Note: Exemption letters are campus-specific. Ensure the correct letter for your campus is posted.
  2. Post a Notice of Non-Licensure
    Clearly display a sign stating that the program is not licensed and is not required to be licensed by the State of Georgia.
    The notice must include the following details:
    • Letters at least ½ inch high
    • The department’s phone number: 404-657-5562
    • Website: www.decal.ga.gov
      Notices of non-licensure are also campus-specific.
  3. Obtain Parental Acknowledgement
    Have parents or guardians sign a Parental Agreement-State Licensure Exemption form  confirming they understand the program’s exemption status.
  4. Maintain Attendance Records
    Keep accurate attendance records for all participating minors.
  5. Retain Documentation
    Maintain both attendance records and parental advisement forms on-site while a child is enrolled and until that child reaches age 21.
  6. Provide Access to Records
    Make all required documentation available to Bright from the Start representatives upon request.

Notices of Non-Licensure