Membership

Religious Exemption

FACCS is approved by the State of Florida to serve eligible member programs seeking a religious exemption from child care licensure.

Under section 402.316, Florida Statutes, certain faith-based child care programs may operate under a religious exemption rather than a standard state license. To qualify, a program must be an integral part of a church or parochial school and hold membership or accreditation from a recognized organization that publishes and enforces health, safety, sanitation and minimum standards.

The role FACCS plays

FACCS is approved by the State of Florida by the Department of Children and Families to serve as a recognized religious exempting organization. FACCS publishes and enforces its own health, safety, and sanitation standards, so eligible member programs can qualify for a religious exemption through FACCS — with the assurance that standards are being met.

What exemption does & doesn't change

A religious exemption removes most state licensure requirements — but not all oversight. Exempt programs still:

Meet local health, sanitation, and safety standards.
Screen their personnel — background screening still applies, and it is the one requirement the exemption cannot set aside.
Maintain current FACCS accreditation or membership certification.
Reaffirm their standing with the state each year — confirming the program's church affiliation, its current accreditation or membership, and its background-screening compliance.
Please note: a few Florida counties — including Broward, Palm Beach, Pinellas, and Sarasota — maintain their own local licensing authorities and may not recognize the state religious exemption. For the state's official guidance, see the Florida Department of Children and Families.

Have questions about exemption?

Our team can help you understand whether your program is eligible and how FACCS membership supports it.

Office of Program Services

General information, certification, and competitions.

772-228-6205
PO Box 1065
Hobe Sound, FL 33475

Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Accreditation Office

School accreditation and co-accreditation.

772-618-1249
PO Box 1065
Hobe Sound, FL 33475

Capital Office

Legislative services and advocacy.

850-422-0065
PO Box 10009
Tallahassee, FL 32302