Large Center Director Qualification Verification

Who Should Apply

Click on the below documents for further information on specific pathways to become Director qualified. 

View the child care center rules here. 

How to Apply

If you are applying for a Director Qualification for the first time, follow the steps below:

Start by logging into your PDIS account.

  • Select the Main Menu button (three lines in the far right-hand corner)
  • Select "Credentials and Qualifications"    
  • Select "My Applications"     
  • Select "New Application"
  • Select "Child Care Licensing Qualifications"
  • Select the applicable application type (i.e. Director- Large Center, Director- Large Center (Renewal) etc.)

If you are applying for a Director Qualification and already have a Credential, follow the steps below: 

Start by logging into your PDIS account.

  • Select the Main Menu button (three lines in the far right-hand corner)
  • Select "Credentials and Qualifications"    
  • Select "My Applications"     
  • Select "New Application"
  • Select “Director- Large Center” from the application type (at this time, leave the Pre-Check blank so the system can recognize that you are applying with a Credential).

If you are applying for a temporary Director Qualification, you must:

  • Have completed 8 of the 10 required ECE courses and
  • Meet the verified experience requirements which includes: 
    • 3,640 hours without a Bachelor’s Degree -or-
    • 1,820 hours with a Bachelor’s Degree
Renewals

The Department recommends starting the renewal process 3-4 months prior to your qualification expiration date.  If you are renewing your qualifications with an Early Childhood Professional Credential, please begin that process prior to submitting your Director renewal application.

Director Renewal Requirements

If you are applying for a renewal, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Completed a three-credit college course (Rule 7.702.42 C, 2 & 3) - The 3-credit college course must be completed at a Regionally Accredited institution and benefit you in your role as a Large Center Director
    • Except individuals holding an early childhood professional Credential Level IV Version 2.0 as determined by the Colorado Department of Education, directors meeting all large center director requirements in Section 7.702.42, A, in centers operating more than six (6) hours a day must complete a three (3) semester credit hour course from a regionally accredited college or university every five (5) years in a subject related to the operation of a center and must be able to demonstrate the relationship of the course taken to the operation of the center.
  • The renewal application and the official transcripts must be submitted to the Department. The renewed director letter shall expire five (5) years from the approval of the renewal application.

Renewing with the Colorado Shines PDIS Credential 

Start by logging into your PDIS account.

  • Select the Main Menu button (three lines in the far right-hand corner)
  • Select "Credentials and Qualifications"
  • Select "My Applications"  
  • Select "New Application"
  • Select "Child Care Licensing Qualifications”
  • Select “Director- Large Center” (at this time, leave the Pre-Check blank so the system can recognize that you are applying with a Credential)
Duplicate Letters

You must submit a written/digital request to receive a copy of a letter previously issued. This request must include the following:

  • Current name and all former names
  • Current address 
  • Social Security Number
  • Birthdate
  • Date (or approximate date) the original letter was issued (if known)

 

Send your request by email for a prompt response or you may submit your request by mail or fax to:

Attn: Director Qualifications
Division of Early Care and Learning, CDEC
710 S. Ash St.
Denver, CO  80246
Fax:  303-866-4453
cdec_ecdq@state.co.us

Equivalency Chart
Equivalency Chart

PDIS version 2.0 is no longer available. We will continue to accept 2.0 credential levels until they expire.

Questions? Contact Director Qualifications:

Child Care Licensing and Administration
Division of Early Care and Learning, CDEC
710 S. Ash Street
Denver, CO 80246
Phone: 303-866-4088
Fax: 303-866-4453
cdec_ecdq@state.co.us