VPK Registration is Open! Is your child turning 4? Now is the time to enroll in Florida's FREE Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK) program for the 2026–2027 School Year. Apply Today!
A child who is attending VPK through the VPK voucher program, who is in a classroom, cutting up crafts with a pair of scissors.

Florida VPK Voucher: What Parents Need to Know To Apply

VPK, or voluntary free prekindergarten, is an excellent program for young learners and their families who want to set their children on the right path for kindergarten. Florida offers this free program to any child who resides in the state. However, to qualify for the program, you’ll need to submit a Florida VPK voucher.

If you’re familiar with VPK and vouchers in other states, like Tennessee, you’ll find that the Florida VPK voucher is slightly different. In this post, we’ll discuss what makes Florida VPK unique and go over what you need to know to apply.

What is VPK?

VPK is a free voluntary prekindergarten program. Typically, the VPK program offers four-year-old learners the opportunity to develop their social and emotional skills while also focusing on math and reading. 

VPK participants arrive at their institution in the mornings, whether that’s a private school, public school, or faith-based daycare, and stay until around noon. During that time, younger learners interact and engage with a curriculum designed specifically for their age level.

Florida VPK vs. Other State PreK Programs

Florida was the first state to offer a free VPK voucher to its families. What makes Florida different compared to other states is that the Florida VPK voucher is free for all four-year-olds, regardless of their family’s income. 

This means that any four-year-old can enroll and participate in the program—provided they reach that age by September 1 of the school year. Other states, like Tennessee, place an income cap on eligibility. The income cap isn’t meant to be exclusionary. Instead, it aims to focus more on underserved children and their academic needs.

What You Need to Know to Apply for the Florida VPK Voucher

If your child turns four years old between February 2 and September 1 of the current academic year, you can apply for the Florida VPK voucher and enroll your child in any program of your choosing, regardless of location.

To apply for the voucher, simply sign into the Parent Portal through the Florida Department of Early Learning’s website. Once you’re in your account, follow the instructions to complete your application. You’ll need to provide proof of residency, like a copy of a utility bill or an insurance policy, along with a copy of your child’s birth certificate or passport. Don’t worry about providing proof of income, as eligibility is not based on income status.

Once your application has been processed and reviewed, you’ll receive a confirmation email with your voucher. If you need help or have questions about VPK, contact the Early Learning Coalition of Pinellas County for more information.