Foster Care in Indiana: The need is great

Requirements to be a Foster Parent

In Indiana, foster parents must be licensed by the Department of Child Services. The requirements for a license include:

• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Passing a criminal history and background check that includes a fingerprint-based national history
• Demonstrating financial stability
• Own or renting your own home that meets physical safety standards (e.g., fire extinguishers, adequate bedroom space, reliable transportation)
• Medical statements from a physician for all household members
• Successful completion of pre-service training requirements
• Successful completion of First Aid, CPR, and Universal Precautions training
• Positive personal reference statements
• Home visits from the Regional Licensing Specialist
• Completion of all required Casey Foster Family Assessments
• Completing all required forms within the licensing packet

Notes: There is no cost to apply to be a foster parent. You can apply to be a foster parent at local DCS office. If everything is in order, the entire licensing process can take about 4 months