Important Announcement
We are pleased to announce the transition from the Provider Licensing and Designation System (PLADS) to
the new Licensing Enforcement and Designation System (LEADS).
Introduction
Licensure functions are implemented by staff of the Office of Licensing at the local levels throughout the state. The provision of substance abuse services is governed by Chapters 394 and 397 of the Florida Statutes, which provide direction for a continuum of community-based services including prevention, treatment, and detoxification services.
Licensure Services are required to administer and maintain a comprehensive regulatory process to license service providers and professionals who provide substance abuse services to individuals and families who are at risk of or challenged by substance abuse. This licensure process is governed and regulated by Chapter 397, F.S., and Chapter 65D-30, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.). Minimum standards for licensure are specified for the following program components:
- Addictions receiving facilities
- Day or night treatment
- Day or night treatment with community housing
- Detoxification
- Intensive inpatient treatment
- Intensive outpatient treatment
- Medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorders
- Outpatient treatment
- Residential treatment
- Intervention
- Prevention
- Aftercare
Specific criteria must be met in order for an agency to receive a license for any of these program components.
Now Available!
We’re pleased to announce that DCF’s new Provider Substance Use Disorder Licensing and Designation Search is now live.
What the new tool offers: SUD Provider Search Fact Sheet
Important Note: This database is intended for licensing verification and transparency. It is not quality rating and does not constitute an endorsement of any provider
Other Questions or Concerns
Please Note: This email form is not monitored 24 hours a day. Please do not use this form for issues requiring immediate attention.
DO NOT USE THIS FORM TO REPORT ANY ABUSE, NEGLECT OR EXPLOITATION OF ANY CHILD OR VULNERABLE ADULT. Florida law requires anyone with information to report abuse directly to the Florida Abuse Hotline at 1-800-962-2873 or by using our online reporting tool.
If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts, substance use disorder, mental health crises, or any other kind of emotional distress, call 9-8-8. In the event of an immediate medical emergency, call 9-1-1.
Licensure Requirements
Provider Licensure and Designations System (PLADS) is retiring on April 10, 2026.
The Department is transitioning to the new system — Licensing Enforcement and Designation System (LEADS) — that will improve the licensure process.
PLADS will no longer be accessible after the retirement date.
Once LEADS launches on April 16, 2026, all licensing and designation processes will be completed there.
The Licensing Enforcement and Designation System (LEADS)
LEADS is the Florida Department of Children and Families online licensing system for Substance Use Disorder and Receiving Facility Designation providers.
You will be able to:
- Apply for licensure online
- Track application progress
- Submit required documentation electronically
For more information, please contact your .
Helpful Resources:
Licensure Application Checklists
Credentialing Entities Currently Approved by DCF
- Certified Recovery Residence Administrator (CRRA) - The Certified Recovery Residence Administrator is responsible for the overall management of a recovery residence, including oversight of staff, volunteers, and residents.
- The Florida Association of Recovery Residences, Inc.
- The Florida Certification Board