Whether you’re planning to manage a daycare, direct a preschool, or lead a licensed child care facility in Florida, earning your Florida Director Credential is a critical step. This credential proves that you meet the administrative, educational, and leadership standards set by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF).
But the process doesn’t have to be overwhelming—or take a full semester to complete. NICCM offers an approved, accelerated training option that’s helped thousands of professionals earn their Florida childcare leadership license efficiently since 1994.
Here’s what you need to know.
What Is the Florida Director Credential?
The Florida Director Credential is a formal requirement for individuals who want to serve as directors of licensed child care facilities. It ensures you’re equipped to lead your center effectively, manage staff, stay compliant with state regulations, and support early childhood development at an administrative level.
Florida DCF requires that all candidates complete an “Overview of Child Care Management” course as part of the credentialing process. That’s where NICCM’s National Administrator Credential (NAC) comes in.
Why Choose NICCM’s Program?
NICCM’s National Administrator Credential is an officially approved “Overview of Child Care Management” course under Florida DCF guidelines. Unlike traditional semester-long options, NICCM’s version of this training can be completed in just 2.5 days at a LIVE event—or through a flexible, web-based distance learning format.
Better yet, the program is eligible for the TEACH Scholarship, which can cover your costs and even provide bonus funds after completion. With thousands of Florida educators already credentialed through NICCM, the program is a proven, widely recognized path to compliance.
Course Structure: What You’ll Learn
NICCM’s Florida Director Credential course is structured around five training sessions and a Praxis component. Together, these sessions deliver 45 contact hours (4.5 CEUs), covering all required topics set by the Florida Department of Children and Families.
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Session |
Units Covered |
|
Session A |
- Fiscal Management: Developing the Budget |
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Session B |
- Recruiting, Hiring & New Teacher Orientation |
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Session C |
- Center Management |
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Session D |
- Working with the Difficult Employee |
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Session E |
- New Economy Challenges & Opportunities |
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Praxis Assessment |
Guided support for completing your Praxis. Available at a NICCM event with tutoring or independently at home. |
Flexible Learning Options
NICCM understands the needs of working professionals. That’s why the Florida Director Credential course is available through:
- LIVE events(held monthly across Florida)
- Distance learning(web-based online course with 6-month access)
Each format includes expert instruction, complete course materials, and optional tutoring for those who want additional support.
Earn College Credit with UAF
Looking to add more value to your credentials? NICCM partners with UAF to offer participants the option to earn 2 college credits upon course completion. Your grade is submitted directly to UAF, and a transcript is issued monthly. Learn more about it here.
To qualify, simply complete the NAC program, submit your UAF registration, and pay a $200 fee by money order (subject to change). This transcript is then submitted with your Florida Director Credential application.
Start Your Credentialing Journey Today
There’s no need to delay your leadership goals or spend months in a traditional classroom. NICCM’s program allows you to earn your Florida childcare leadership license in days—not semesters—while staying fully compliant with DCF regulations.
To learn more about our flexible options and state-approved curriculum, explore upcoming events or view our brochure. Have questions or need help with the registration process? Contact NICCM, and our team will walk you through your next steps.
Ready to lead? Register now and fast-track your way to becoming a certified Florida child care director.