The Gateways Illinois Director Credential (IDC) is for professional administrators of ECE and school-age programs. It requires specific levels of training, education, experience teaching in an ECE or school-age program, and experience as a director or assistant director in an ECE or school-age program. The Illinois Director Credential requires the completion of an Associate’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university and at least 1,200 hours of work experience as a Director or Assistant Director.
For additional information regarding the Illinois Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) Director Qualifications, pdf click here (189 KB) .
Attention: Through the Preschool Development Grant, Gateways Credential applications are FREE for a limited time on a first-come, first-served basis for those seeking new Credentials or level advancing their current Credential. This does not include renewals.
How to Apply-New & Level Advance
Steps to Apply
- Become a Gateways Registry member.
- Download the pdf Credential Application (867 KB) .
- Request your official transcripts be sent to Gateways from any accredited college or university you attended. An accredited college or university can send official transcripts electronically to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. If INCCRRA already has official transcripts on file, you do not need to resend.
- Mail these documents to:
INCCRRA/Applications
1226 Towanda Plaza
Bloomington, IL 61701
Or email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
To Renew your Gateways Credentials, click here.
For additional information regarding the Illinois Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) Director Qualifications, click pdf here (189 KB) .
