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Frequently Asked Questions

Legal

What are my rights as a foster parent?

You can find foster parents' rights here: https://www.azleg.gov/viewdocument/?docName=https://www.azleg.gov/ars/8/00530.htm

What is a court hearing?

A court hearing is when the judge is updated about the parents’ progress on their service plan and how the child is doing in placement. Based upon these updates, the judge can make a decision regarding the child’s case plan (for example, ordering for reunification or ordering a case plan change to severance and adoption). Also, the judge may issue orders for additional services for the parents and/or the child.

When Children Are Returned Home - When the Court becomes involved in a DCS Case?

The goal of DCS is to return every child who has been removed to a safe and permanent home. The agency helps parents in solving problems and making a safe living situation for their children. Although the DCS Specialist may recommend that a child return home, the court makes the final determination about when the child is returned. DCS works diligently with families to reunify them as quickly as possible and usually continues to provide needed services for some period after family reunification has occurred.

What are a foster child's rights?

You can find foster children's rights here: https://www.azleg.gov/ars/8/00529.htm

How can I get court dates?

Your DCS caseworker can give you upcoming court information. If your case is in Maricopa County, you can call the DCS Warm Line at 1-877-543-7633 and select option 3.

What is mandated reporting and am I a mandated reporter?

Mandated reporters are defined in Arizona statute. You can find the applicable law here: https://www.azleg.gov/ars/13/03620.htm

Where are the courts located at?

You can find a list of courts here: https://www.azcourts.gov/AZ-Courts/AZ-Courts-Locator

Licensing

What happens after I am licensed?

After you receive your license, a child may be placed into your home. You will have quarterly meetings with your agency's licensing worker. Every two years, you will need to complete 12 hours of advanced training and complete the license renewal process.

Does it cost anything to get licensed?

There are no direct fees to get licensed, however there may be fees for specific parts of the licensure process, such as your copay to obtain a physician's statement.

I have criminal charges in my background; can I still be licensed?

It's possible. In order to become a licensed foster caregiver, you must be able to obtain a Level 1 Fingerprint Clearance Card through the Arizona Department of Public Safety. While there are some criminal charges that may prevent this, there are also exception processes for certain charges.

I have health problems; can I still be licensed?

All licensed foster providers must complete a physical and provide a physician's statement to their licensing agency and the Office of Licensing and Regulation.

Do I have to own a car to be licensed?

Even though you are not required to own a car to become licensed, you will need to provide transportation for the children in your care to ensure they can attend school, medical/dental appointments, etc.

I am married; does my spouse have to go through the licensing process with me?

Yes, though there are some exceptions. Please communicate with your licensing agency if you have questions about exceptions.

What does the licensing process look like?

To become licensed, you must complete Foster Parent College, which includes 15 hours of in class instruction as well as an online component. Additional tasks include fingerprinting for all adults in the home, physical exams, CPR certification, home study interviews, background checks, and more.

how long will it take me to get licensed?

On average, it takes about 4-6 months to complete the process.

Arizona Department of Child Safety