How to Become a Foster Parent

Look no further for a straightforward answer to the question, “What does it take to become a foster parent?” When making the decision of whether foster care is right for your family, it’s important to know what to expect.

Foster Parent State Licensing Qualifications

Certain requirements for becoming a foster parent include being at least 18 years old, passing background and reference checks, completing training, and completing the home study process. Foster parents must be able to use sound judgment like a prudent parent and must demonstrate a responsible, stable and emotionally mature lifestyle.

• You can be single, married or have a domestic partner. If two adults are presenting as a couple, then both must go through the approval process.

• You can own or rent a home, condo, or apartment of any size, but you must provide a safe living environment, which includes adequate room for a child.

• You can work inside or outside the home. Couples with both partners working outside the home are also eligible to be foster parents.

• You must have sufficient income to support your current family.

• You must be able to physically care for a child or youth.

• You must pass child abuse and criminal background checks required by state and federal laws.

• You must be able to work with the department and caseworkers and be willing to complete ongoing training.

Visit dphhs.mt.gov for more information straight from the State.

Steps of Licensing

Step 1: Fill Out an Application

To begin the process of becoming a licensed foster parent, you will need to follow several important steps. First, reach out to your local child welfare agency or the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) to express your interest. They will guide you through the initial requirements and provide you with an application to fill out and return.

Step 2: Submit to a Background Check

To ensure prospective foster parents are safe and responsible enough to care for a child, the Department of Health and Human Services will require you to fill out a Release of Information form and a fingerprint card for the Department of Motor Vehicles, Child Protective Service (CPS) and criminal background checks. You will also need to complete a Personal Statement of Health for yourself and each member of your household.

Step 3: Complete Your Training

Next, you will need to complete a series of online training sessions designed to prepare you for the challenges and rewards of fostering. These sessions will cover topics such as child development, trauma-informed care and effective communication with children and their families. Training is essential, as it equips you with the skills needed to support a child in your care. For additional training resources, visit the Child Bridge Resource Library.

Step 4: Participate in Your Home Study and Family Interview

After completing the training, you will undergo a home study. This process involves a thorough assessment of your living situation, family dynamics, and overall readiness to foster. A social worker will visit your home to ensure it meets safety standards and is a suitable environment for a child. They will also conduct interviews with you and your family members to understand your motivations and parenting style.

Step 5: Receive Your Foster Care License

Once the paperwork, home study, background checks and interviews are complete, you will receive your foster care license! This license allows you to officially welcome a child into your home. Remember, the journey doesn’t end here; ongoing support and training will be available to help you navigate the challenges of fostering.

Step 6: Stay Connected

Finally, stay connected with your caseworker and other foster parents. The support of a foster care community can be invaluable as you navigate this new role, and you don’t have to build that community by yourself. Child Bridge offers many events, trainings and other opportunities to get plugged into an established network of foster families.  

Fostering can be a rewarding experience, and with the right preparation and support, you can make a positive impact in a child's life.

(Source: https://dphhs.mt.gov/assets/cfsd/StepbyStep.pdf)

The licensing process takes an average of 90-120 days. Once you receive your foster care license, you can get a call about a placement at any time afterward. Foster parents can either accept or deny a placement for any reason and can specify preferences such as a child’s age range or gender during the licensing process.