Register as a childminder agency in England

Skip to contents of guide

How to apply

  1. Read the childminder agency registration guidance.

  2. Apply for a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check through the Ofsted portal.

  3. Join the DBS update service and agree to Ofsted checking your DBS certificate at least once every 6 months. You have 19 days to join the service after getting your certificate, otherwise you’ll need to get a new certificate.

  4. Download, fill in and send the application form.

  5. Check whether you need to fill in and send a declaration and consent form.

  6. Prepare for your registration visit by an Ofsted inspector (see the childminder agency handbook for details on this).

Get help and advice

Contact Ofsted if you have any questions about the application process.

Ofsted
Telephone: 0300 123 1231
Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
Find out about call charges

Change your details

You must tell Ofsted if there are any changes to anyone named in your application. Email the changes to childminder.agencies@ofsted.gov.uk.