Foster Parent Qualifications

Foster parenting requires patience, flexibility, and the ability to provide a stable family life during a time of crisis for a child in need.

North Dakota Foster Care does not exclude anyone interested in becoming a foster parent because of race, creed, religious belief, gender identity or marital status. However, because of the importance of our work with children, foster parents must be of good character, in good physical and mental health, and capable of providing a safe living environment for children.

Prospective foster parents must complete a fingerprint-based criminal background check and a home study with interviews from a county social service office or agency approved by the department.

A foster home must be licensed.

Basic Qualifications

• Have an approved criminal background check
• Be at least 21 years of age (single or married)
• Be financially stable
• Own or rent a home or apartment
• Be with or without children of their own
• Have adequate space for a child
• Have an income adequate for own family
• Be aware that foster care is intended to be temporary
• Be willing to complete required training including trauma informed care methods
• Have ability to work as a team with social workers and other service providers
• Have ability to understand and show acceptance of the child's parents
• Can provide personal references

 

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