How to Be Foster Parents in Indiana

Foster parenting can be a difficult but emotionally rewarding experience. As a foster parent, you will provide a temporary home (typically 6 to 18 months) for children who are separated from their parents due to legal or protective removal. To be a foster parent in Indiana, you need to submit an application; undergo a physical exam, background check, family assessment and initial training; and receive licensing from the Department of Child Services (DCS).

Things You'll Need

  • Be 21 years or older
  • Stable home with room for a foster child
  • Clean criminal history
  • Financial and emotional stability

Instructions

    • 1

      Apply to be a foster parent with the Department of Child Services (DCS), Indiana Foster Care and Adoption Association (IFCAA) or a private child placement agency. This involves filling out an application packet and submitting it with proof of residency, tax records, marriage and birth certificates, prior foster experience and other required documents.

    • 2

      Pass a physical exam showing you are physically capable to care for a child.

    • 3

      Submit to and pass a criminal record and background check, including fingerprinting and sex offender registry investigation.

    • 4

      Pass a family assessment (or home study) conducted by a private agency or DCS. These assessments require an inspection of your home, well water testing (if applicable) and interviews with all members of your household.

    • 5

      Complete 30 hours of initial foster parent training, provided by DCS. These classes are free and offered at varying times to accommodate most schedules.

    • 6

      Complete first aid and CPR training, provided for free by DCS.

    • 7

      Receive a licensure recommendation from DCS or a licensed child placement agency. These recommendations are submitted to DCS for approval.

    • 8

      Obtain foster parent licensing from DCS. This process can take several weeks, depending on the number of applications under review and personnel assigned for review.

    • 9

      Attend ongoing, annual foster parent training. Regular foster parenting homes are required to complete 10 hours, while therapeutic homes must complete 20 hours.

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