The similarities and differences between licensing and accreditation are articulated by Morgan. 15 Licensing is mandatory, whereas accreditation is voluntary. Licensing standards are minimal requirements. Accreditation standards define high quality. Licensing is designed to provide a baseline of protection for children in licensed home care and group care.
Accreditation defines a ceiling of quality.
Licensing requires 100 per cent compliance. Accreditation is based on substantial compliance. Because licensing standards are established as minimal standards, the assumption is that they must all be met with an equal level of compliance. Licensing is government regulated. Accreditation is professionally sponsored.