As of July 1, 2026, child care licensure is managed by the Illinois Department of Early Childhood. For providers, nothing is changing. All licensing representatives and staff remain ready to assist you. If you have questions related to licensure, please reach out to IDEC directly at Questions.IDEC@illinois.gov or your current CCR&R.

Background Checks for DCFS-licensed Agencies and Institutions Staff

New agencies and institutions (not yet licensed)

Inquiries for new agencies and institutions must be directed to the Resource Development Unit (DCFS.ResourceDevelopment@Illinois.gov) for consideration.
Once a new agency or institution is approved, Illinois DCFS will provide instructions on how to complete background checks.
Note: Please do not submit background check forms to the Background Check Unit until instructed.

Existing agencies and institutions (already licensed with a Provider ID)

Submit new background check requests for prospective employee (pre-hire) via the Background Check Portal.
Submit a license renewal background check for directors via the Background Check Portal.
Submit a staff background check via the Background Check Portal.

Applicants: Please contact your agency’s Human Resource Department representatives for updates on background check results.

The Background Check Portal allows designated administrators of the agency to:

Search the DCFS database to see if an applicant has fingerprints on file with DCFS.
Submit Authorizations for Background Checks (CFS 718-B-AI).
Allow approved administrators/executives to check the status of background checks for their employees or prospective employees.

Portal access

All Background Check Portal users must register using an email address and password. All information is confidential and shared only with authorized designated administrators.

To register: