Arizona Adoption Myths & Truths
(For DCS, Stepparent, and Second Parent Adoptions — Not International Adoptions)
Myth: If I’m on the child’s birth certificate as a stepparent or second parent, I don’t need to adopt.
Truth: A birth certificate alone does not guarantee your parental rights. Adoption creates a permanent legal relationship that cannot be undone without a court proceeding. Without adoption, your parental status could be challenged — especially if the biological parent’s rights have not been terminated.
Myth: I must be married for at least one year before I can adopt my stepchild.
Truth: Arizona law does not require you to be married for a full year. If you’ve been married less than a year, the court requires a more in-depth social study before approving the adoption.
Myth: If I’m already the child’s foster parent, I don’t need a social study.
Truth: An adoption social study is always required in every adoption, but much of the same information will already have been gathered during your foster home licensing process. Your foster home study itself is not reused for adoption, but DCS can use similar background information. Note: In certain cases, the court may waive the social study requirement.
Myth: I have to be certified to adopt in Arizona.
Truth: Certification is required in most cases, but there are exceptions.
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Close relatives (grandparents, adult siblings, aunts/uncles)
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Current foster parents
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These exceptions are allowed under A.R.S. § 8-105(N). Even when certification is not required, the court may still require a social study.
Myth: My background must be spotless to adopt.
Truth: All adoptive parents must pass a fingerprint-based criminal background check. Certain felony convictions may disqualify you, but not all past issues will. Each case is considered individually.
Myth: LGBTQ+ individuals or couples can’t adopt in Arizona.
Truth: Arizona law does not prohibit LGBTQ+ individuals or couples from adopting. Decisions are based on the child’s best interests, not sexual orientation or gender identity. Note: You cannot adopt jointly if you are not married and this applies to all adoptions types.
Myth: Only married couples can adopt.
Truth: Single adults — including single LGBTQ+ individuals — may adopt in Arizona.Arizona Adoption FAQs
(Practical questions about the process)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be certified to adopt?
Usually yes, but exceptions exist for close relatives and foster parents under A.R.S. § 8-105(N). Even if certification isn’t required, a social study may still be.
If I’m already a foster parent, do I still need a social study?
Yes. Adoption always requires a social study, but much of the information may overlap with what DCS already has. The court can sometimes waive this requirement. If you have a DCS adoption, there is no cost for this, if you are doing any other type of adoption you will be responsible for the costs (not to worry we have great referral partners that will take care of you).
How much does adoption cost?
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DCS adoptions: $0 (DCS pays attorney fees)
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Stepparent or second parent adoptions: Generally $2,500 (not including termination of parental rights, if needed)
How long does the process take?
Most adoptions can be finalized in 60–90 days, depending on custody history and court scheduling.
What happens to the child’s birth certificate?
It is amended to list the adoptive parent(s) names if they desire or it can remain unchanged if they do not want it amended. Some states take longer than others to process the new birth certificate, and there is usually a fee.
What about Social Security?
You can obtain a new Social Security card reflecting the child’s new name. Changing the number is possible but involves a more detailed process.