Do I need a license to open an adult day center in Georgia, and what are the rules?
Yes. Unless exempt, an adult day center in Georgia needs a license from DCH, one for each center. The fee rule lists $250 for social programs and $350 for medical programs, plus a $300 application fee. Rules include one staff member for every 8 participants and a registered nurse for adult day health.
Adult day centers are licensed by DCH’s Healthcare Facility Regulation Division under Chapter 111-8-1 and the Adult Day Center for Aging Adults Licensure Act. Each center needs its own license, and it cannot be transferred.
Exempt programs include those that are unpaid, serve only one or two participants, serve only people with developmental disabilities, or run qualifying respite care.
Fees, from Rule 111-8-25:
- $300 application fee.
- License fee: $250 for social programs, $350 for medical programs.
- A 25 percent discount if you hold current accreditation from a DCH-approved group.
Key rules in the initial-adoption version of Chapter 111-8-1:
- At least one staff member or volunteer for every 8 participants.
- Adult day health centers must employ a registered nurse who assesses participants and oversees their plans. Any LPN works under an RN.
- At least one staff member with first aid and CPR on site at all times.
- At least 35 square feet of usable floor space per participant.
- One toilet for every 12 participants, quarterly fire drills, and records kept at least three years.
That rule text is from 2014. The rule may have changed. Read the current Chapter 111-8-1 before you sign a lease.
How CareBravo® helps
Adult Day Health is coming to CareBravo in November 2026.
Sources
- Rules and Regulations for Adult Day Centers, Chapter 111-8-1 (initial adoption) · Georgia DCH
- General Licensing and Enforcement Requirements, Rule 111-8-25 (fee schedule) · Georgia DCH
- Personal Care Homes (DCH program page) · Georgia DCH
Reviewed by Beth Bledsoe, Care Business Advisor®, 28 Oct 2026. Rules change. Confirm with your state Medicaid agency before you act.
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