How do I become a foster parent?

The steps to becoming a licensed foster parent are:

Call: Place the call to 211 and a representative from a foster care agency will contact you.

Discuss: The representative will answer your questions, as well as get basic information from you.

Orientation: Attend a short orientation to help decide whether foster parenting is for you.

Physical: Pass a physical to show you are in good physical and mental health.

Background check: Pass a local, state and federal background check.
 
Home study: A foster care certifier is assigned to inspect the home. This process includes an interview with all household members, a fire inspection, a home safety audit, reference checks, a credit check, and a medical exam report.

Training: Pass 36 hours of specialized training prior to licensing and up to 60 hours of training in each two-year license period.

Recommendation: The foster care agency recommends licensing to the state.

Licensing: The state issues a foster parent license, good for two years and renewable.

Placement –The first foster child is placed in your home.