Steps to Become a Foster Parent

In order to ensure that we’re matching the right children with the right families, there are a few important steps to becoming a foster parent.

  1. Attend an information meeting
  2. Submit a pre-service application
  3. Participate in an initial interview
  4. Successfully complete pre-service training
  5. Participate in a home-study

Requirements to Become a Foster Parent

In order to become certified as a therapeutic foster care parent, you must meet state licensing requirements. These include:

  1. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age and be a Maryland resident
  2. Applicants can be single or married
  3. Applicants must have a car
  4. Applicants must be financially stable
  5. Applicants must have a landline telephone
  6. Applicants must have adequate space for the foster child without disrupting the usual sleeping and living arrangements of the family. A child may share a room with another child of similar age and sex
  7. Applicants must have a High School diploma or GED
  8. Applicants and any adults residing in the home 18 years or older must be fingerprinted for a criminal background check
  9. Applicants and all household members must have an initial medical examination including TB clearance
  10. Day care and/or domiciliary care cannot be provided in the applicant’s home
  11. Applicants may not smoke in the home

You must also sign agreements relating to the use of firearms, child abuse and neglect, discipline, and providing respite and/or foster care.