Requirements for Foster Parenting in Texas

Foster parents open their homes to children who must be removed from their biological families because of any number of dysfunctional situations. Becoming a foster parent is a challenging and rewarding process, requiring love, sacrifice and a willingness to advocate for a child's needs. Texas has detailed requirements for an individual to become a licensed foster parent.

  1. Age and Finances of Foster Parents

    • An individual must be at least 21 years old, and he must be able to support his household financially.

    Application Process for Foster Parents

    • Those interested in foster parenting must first attend an informational meeting. Next, they should complete a foster parent application, which can be obtained from the Department of Family and Protective Services. Staff are available to assist in this process.

    Interview and Background Check For Foster Parents

    • A person must share information with a social worker about her history and current lifestyle and submit herself to a criminal background check.

    References for Foster Parents

    • A person must provide personal references from friends and relatives.

    Home Study for Foster Parents

    • A person must allow for a home study that includes a safety evaluation of her home and interviews with all of her family members. This study will confirm that she has the living space and that she and her family have the personal ability to care for foster children.

    Training for Foster Parents

    • A person must complete free training for foster parents covering how to work productively with neglected and abused children. Texas requires perspective foster parents to complete training in universal precautions and psychotropic medication and to obtain certification in first aid and infant/child/adult CPR. Continuing education is also required.

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