Become an Early Childhood Educator
Last updated on October 10, 2025Due to ongoing strike action, all Early Childhood Educator (ECE) certification activities are currently on hold. If you have concerns about the conduct or qualifications of a certified ECE or ECE Assistant, please email: ECERegistry.Intake@gov.bc.ca. For immediate child safety concerns, call 911.
The new My ECE Registry (video introduction) digital platform is now live, including BCeID integration and support for applicants with out-of-province and international ECE education or experience. The new platform streamlines ECE certification, improves transparency for applicants and reduces wait times. If you need assistance using the My ECE Registry portal, contact the ECE Registry at 1-888-338-6622.
Early Childhood Educators (ECEs) play a critical role in providing education and care for young children. To work as an ECE or ECE Assistant in a licensed child care facility in B.C. you must be certified by the ECE Registry.
Learn about the certificate types and requirements, and how to become certified or renew your certificate
Certificate types
- Explore which ECE certificate you may qualify for based on your education and experience
Prepare and apply for certification
- Find your application pathway and apply based on where you completed your early childhood education program
Maintain your certification
- Renew your certificate by completing the appropriate application
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If your legal name has changed, complete and submit a Change of Information form (PDF, 1MB) with a copy of your identification
ECE profession in B.C.
- Learn more about the ECE profession in B.C., including legal requirements for working in the field, professional development topics, and resources
- Find an educational institution with an ECE program that is recognized by the ECE Registry
- Learn more about ECE post-secondary program recognition
Complaints and investigations
- Make a complaint about a certified ECE or ECE Assistant
- Learn about the investigation process
Validate a certificate
- Validate a certificate online with an ECE or ECE Assistant’s first name, last name, or certificate (registration) number
Contact information
Contact the ECE Registry
PO Box 9961 STN PROV GOVT
Victoria, BC V8W 9R4
Duty to report
If you think a child is being abused or neglected, you have the legal duty to report your concern to a child welfare worker.
Phone 1-800-663-9122 any time.
Important information regarding ongoing strike action:
- Certification for Early Childhood Educators is impacted by ongoing strike action.
- As a reminder, the ECE Registry does not have the ability to exempt certification requirements. If a child care provider is concerned about certification status, they are encouraged to contact their licensing officer to discuss options.
- Child Care Providers / Licensees will still be able to verify ECE certification status online.
- We apologize for any inconvenience caused by this action and appreciate your patience.