Licence

Register as a childminder (Scotland)

You must register with the Care Inspectorate if you want to become a childminder in Scotland

Apply for this licence

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You must register online with the Care Inspectorate if you want to become a childminder in Scotland.

You must register if you’re paid to look after children:

  • 16 or younger
  • for more than 2 hours a day
  • in a private home

All the adults living or working at the home where you’re based must also register.

You don’t have to register to do babysitting.

The registration fee is £28. There is also an annual continuation fee of £17.

After you’ve applied

The Care Inspectorate will:

  • check your references
  • carry out Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme checks and Disclosure Scotland criminal records checks (fees apply)
  • check anyone else who will be living or working at the home
  • inspect the home

Getting your registration

You’ll receive a certificate that shows you’re a registered childminder if you’re approved. This usually takes between 2 and 3 months.

Displaying your certificate

You must keep your certificate of registration - or a copy of it - where it can be easily seen.

Fines and penalties

You could be fined £5,000, sent to prison, or both, if you work as or advertise for work as a childminder without registering.