3.20.01 Applying as a Foster Parent

Applies to: This policy applies to Licensing Division (LD) workers.

Chapter Number & Title:  3.20 Foster Care

Policy Number & Title:  3.20.01 Applying as a Foster Parent 

Effective Date:  July 1, 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to provide guidance on how the LD will assess competence and suitability of potential caregivers for children in out-of-home care when applications for foster home licenses are received.

Authority

42 USC § 671  State plan for foster care and adoption assistance
RCW 49.60.030  Freedom from discrimination, declaration of civil rights
RCW 74.13.250  Preservice training, foster parents
RCW 74.13.332  Rights of foster parents
Chapter 74.15 RCW  Care of children, expectant mothers, persons with developmental disabilities
Chapter 110-148 WAC  Licensing Requirements for Child Foster Homes                                     

Policy 

LD workers:

  1. Must complete the following when they receive applications for foster home licenses:
    1. Assess competence and suitability of potential caregivers to care for children or youth in out-of-home care prior to issuing foster home licenses.
    2. Verify:
      1. The licensing applicants:
        1. Submitted a completed application.
        2. Have an approved home study.
        3. Meet the requirements in chapter 110-148 WAC.
      2. Foster parents receiving foster care maintenance payments are licensed.
      3. Provider and case files are restricted, per DCYF Administrative policies:
        1. 11.25 Child Care Licensing or Approval, Program Payments and Enrollment, Foster Care Licensing, Placement, and Adoption for DCYF Employees for DCYF employees.
        2. 13.06 Records Management and Retention
  2. May not deny individuals from becoming foster or adoptive parents based on the criteria in chapter 49.60 RCW.

Resources

Caregiver Support Level and Foster Care Rate Assessment Determination policy

DCYF Administrative 11.25 Child Care Licensing or Approval, Program Payments and Enrollment, Foster Care Licensing, Placement, and Adoption for DCYF Employees policy

DCYF Administrative 13.06 Records Management & Retention 

Original Date:  September 27, 1995

Revised Date:  July 1, 2025

Review Date:  July 31, 2029    

Approved by: Ruben Reeves, Assistant Secretary of Licensing Division