Frequently Asked Questions:

Does my partner need an account too?

These courses are limited to one certificate, per parent, per course. Each parent will need to make their own account, and complete each course they want to be certified in. Please be aware of your current licensing expectations, which will be provided to you by your agency point person.

Are any trainings required every year?

The HCOPT course, which is required yearly, is reset every year on July 1st. All other courses are reset every two years. (Example: If you complete the HCOPT course on September 1st 2024, the certificate is valid until September 1st 2025, however you are eligible for recertification beginning July 1st 2025)

What kind of training do I need to maintain my license?

Each foster parent is required to complete at least 30 hours of training during a two-year period (15 hours per year), prior to the two-year renewal point. Many free and convenient training opportunities are provided and DSS recommends that each foster parent complete fifteen hours of training each year in order to maintain their foster home license. click here

What is DSS Form 2055 & 2056, and why are they important?

Foster parents issued DSS Form 2055, can consent to psychotropics EXCEPT for children age six or younger, newly prescribed antipsychotic and four or more psychotropics.

Prescription of any new psychotropics requires consent be given on DSS Form 2056.

Make sure to take DSS Form 2055 and 2056 to prescribing provider for proper consent for psychotropics.

Please refer to DSS Form 2056 and the DSS Flyer on Psychotropic Medication Policy Guidelines in the links below for additional details on this. 

DSS Form 2056

DSS Flyer on Psychotropic Medication Policy Guidelines

Additional Links:

Foster Parent Bill of Rights

The pages and files listed below are site resources