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Foster Parent Requirements and Qualifications

While every state and Devereux center has its own requirements and regulatory practices, a few of the high-level qualifications you will need to become a foster parent include:

  • Be 21-plus years of age
  • Have a birth certificate
  • Be a citizen or permanent resident of the U.S.
  • Obtain/pass a fingerprint clearance and a criminal background check (criminal and child abuse) for all household members over the age of 18
  • Demonstrate the ability to meet financial expenses without a reliance on foster care reimbursement
  • Have homeowner’s or renter’s insurance
  • Complete a home study process
  • Pass a safety inspection of the residence
  • Own an operable vehicle with a valid registration and insurance, or assure dependable transportation needs
  • Have marriage or divorce certificate or documentation, if applicable
  • Show proof of a physical healthcare examination
  • Complete pre-service foster parent training
  • Provide personal references


Learn more about becoming a foster parent


Apply to become a foster parent