Top 5 Tools That Got Me Licensed (And I Still Use Today)
Because if it didn’t work under pressure… I wouldn’t still be using it.
These are the 5 tools that helped me get through it—and the same tools I still use, even now.
Licensing your a ARF is already a whole thing. Between the policies, walkthroughs, and the fire inspector giving you that look—you need more than just paperwork.
You need gear that doesn’t fall apart, jam, or make you second guess whether you’re ready.
Fireproof Document Organizer
This one was non-negotiable. Your P&I logs, resident intake packets, and license all need to be secure. If there’s a fire, the first thing I’m grabbing is this organizer.
The Printer That’s Still Kicking
Daily logs. House rules. Cleaning schedules. Staff calendars. I didn’t expect to print this much, but here we are.
A Time Clock That Did the Job
Before I set up a digital system, I needed a way to track DSP hours. This old-school solution worked great for our first month and helped me stay compliant.
The Binder That Saved My Sanity
I needed something that could hold hundreds of printed policies, emergency contact sheets, and my Program Design. This 3-inch D-ring binder sat proudly on my desk during inspection.
Clean. Clipped. Passed inspection.
My Laminator (The Unsung Hero)
I laminated everything—fire drills, chore charts, and emergency contacts. Inspectors love a laminated sign. It screams, “I’m organized and serious.”
