The FAD worker must evaluate prospective foster parents' relationship status according to DFPS Rules, 40 TAC §700.1502.

If a couple lives together, only one person is required to apply and become verified as a foster parent. However, the FAD worker must assess and verify both persons during the home screening process.

There is no minimum amount of time that a couple must be married or living together for the couple to be verified. However, during the couple's home screening, the FAD worker must:

 •   assess the stability of the couple's relationship; and

 •   discuss how fostering could affect the dynamics of the couple's relationship.

DFPS Rules, 40 TAC §700.1502