Applicants - Licensing Process

The following is an overview of the licensing process. Once you apply to be a foster parent, a licensing worker will be assigned to you and guide you through the process.

1) Attend or view informational meeting

Attend a live or pre-recorded informational meeting.

2) Complete paperwork

Your licensor will mail you copies of all needed documents. Electronic copies is available upon request.

  • Complete the paperwork in its entirety and return it to Washington County Community Services.
  • Provide three references, including addresses and phone numbers.

Once we receive your paperwork, a licensor will contact you within two weeks to schedule an initial meeting to review the documents. Completing some paperwork in advance is helpful.

If you have misplaced forms or need additional copies of the forms, visit licensing forms online.

3) Background study

Verifying identity

You will receive data collection forms with your paperwork. These completed forms will be used to start the background study process. All household members 13 or older must complete a background study. After your identity is verified, your licensor will initiate the background study and provide a fingerprint authorization form, if applicable.

Have your fingerprints taken

Minnesota laws require all household members who are18 years and older to be fingerprinted. After your licensor has provided you with a fingerprint authorization form, you may take it to a fingerprinting location of your choice.

You are required to pay a $9.50 fee online using your debit/credit card or in-person by check or money order. Appointments are not required.

Learn more about Background Studies.

4) Schedule a home safety inspection

Your licensor will contact you to conduct a home safety inspection as you begin the licensing process.

Before your license is issued, you must meet the foster care safety checklist requirements, including:

  • Store weapons in a locked area, out of reach and sight of children.
  • Store ammunition separately.
  • Have a phone (cell or landline) in the home at all times.
  • Install an unlocking device on locked doors.
  • Provide tri-fold guards for any fireplaces.
  • Set water temperature to not exceed 120°F.
  • Have a 2A:10BC or larger fire extinguisher.

To help you prepare, it may be useful to review the Home Safety Checklist (PDF).

5) Complete training

To receive your license, you must complete these mandatory trainings:

  • In-home orientation with licensor.
  • Mental health (online training).
  • Prudent parenting (online training).
  • Sudden Unexpected Infant Death/Abusive Head Trauma—if caring for children 5 years old and younger.
  • Car Seat Safety—if caring for children 8 years old and under.

Visit Training Requirements for New Applicants for detailed information.

6) Social worker will complete home study

Once background studies, paperwork and training is completed, the licensing social worker will complete your home study. The primary purpose of a home study is to ensure that each child is placed in a suitable home and that good matches are made between children and families.

  • All adults and children ages 7 years old and older will be interviewed. 
  • For a smooth home study assessment, please complete the autobiography included in your initial licensing packet.

7) Minnesota Department of Human Services approval

After all parts of the licensing process has been completed, your licensor will send a recommendation to the Minnesota Department of Human Services for approval. You will be notified by mail once you are licensed.