Private Educational Institution (PEI) | Licensing & Permit Process
A Private Educational Institution (PEI) is any private school or educational or training institution, however designated, which offers a program of college, professional, preparatory, high, intermediate, elementary, kindergarten or nursery school instruction, or any combination thereof, or any other program of trade, technical or artistic training. Any person planning to operate a PEI in Montgomery County for five (5) or more students at one time, or if there is more than one instructor, must obtain a license.
For assistance with services, email HHSMail@montgomerycountymd.gov
How does one obtain a Private Educational Institution license?
Anyone planning to operate a PEI in Montgomery County for five (5) or more students at one time, or if there is more than one instructor, must obtain a license. A license must be obtained prior to operating the PEI.
How does one obtain a Private Educational Institution license? Are there any fees?
Download and complete an Private Educational Institution Application (PDF) or complete our Online application . See the 2022 Fee Schedule for any fees that may apply.
Is there any additional information approvals that may be required?
- Use and Occupancy permit - call 240-777-0311
- Well & Septic approval (where applicable) - call 240-777-0311
- Montgomery County Fire Marshal approval - call 240-777-0311
- Maryland State Department of Education - call 410-767-0407
- Vocational training which prepares students for gainful employment -contact the Maryland Higher Education Commission at 410-974-2971
What is the process for applying for a Private Educational Institution (PEI) License?
- Submit the application, attachments and the appropriate fee.
- Incomplete applications will be returned to the applicant.
- The application and attachments will be reviewed.
- An inspection must be passed prior to the private educational institution license being issued.
Private Educational Institution (PEI) Process Guide
2. Review
- Have a Plan: to ensure we can process your documentation properly - you must have a plan. - Describe plan type.
- Review: be sure to double check all of your paperwork to ensure faster processing time.
- Submit online: We now offer an easy online form powered by Seamless Docs - (Seamless Docs sign up and documentation).We provide online applications to decrease the use of paper and our impact on the environment. PDF applications should be mailed to Licensure & Regulatory Services office (2425 Reedie Drive, 9th floor, Wheaton, MD 20902) or faxed to 240-777-3088.
3. Approval
If approved, you will hear back from us within 10 - 14 business days. The final part of the process will be to find the inspector specific to your area.
- 240-777-3986