The following documents provide guidance regarding the processing of criminal records checks (CRC) / child protective services (CPS) history checks on prospective foster and adoptive parents, substitute caregivers, and volunteers, as well as decisions as to whether or not employees may perform services under a contract with DHS.
- CPA foster families, substitute caregivers, and volunteers should complete the CPS Screening process. Be sure to read the latest "Updates" below prior to submitting your requests, to ensure that they can be processed.
- For foster families at initial approval, upload the screening form and agency cover letter in GA+SCORE and then email the CPS Screening Unit at cpsscreening@dhs.ga.gov. Please review the sample completed CPS application form to review how the information is required to be listed prior to submitting your request.
- For foster families at re-evaluation after a home has been approved, use the Addenda screen in GA+SCORE to submit the screening request; you do not need to email the screening unit.
- For substitute caregivers, volunteers, and frequent visitors, email the screening form directly to the unit at cpsscreening@dhs.ga.gov. You will need to include the agency letterhead, completed CPS application, and name/FH# for the foster family the applicant will be providing for support for.
- As of September 2020, CCI and CPA agency staff should complete an IONS screening. This process replaces the CPS/CPSIS requirement.
- To submit an IONS request go to https://ionsrequestportal.dhs.ga.gov/General. Please read and follow the instructions tab and all pop ups to submit your request. If you have questions, send them to IONS.Helpdesk@dhs.ga.gov.
- Please ensure that the required documents are available:
- Request on Agency Letterhead indicating the purpose of the request and applicant’s name
- Agency License (issued by RCCL)
- Applicant Form (9/1/2019) (Right click and Save As... for editable PDF)
- The updated instructions for completing the CPS Screening Process are available here: CPS Screening Process Instructions (updated 8/1/2025).
Updates and Instructions:
- Memo on CPS application form change (effective 9/27/2018)
- Memo on CPS application signatures (effective 8/20/2018)
- Memo on CPS application responses (7/23/2018)
- Memo on CPS application process change (effective 11/1/2017)
- Sample completed CPS application form (effective 9/27/18)
- CAR/CPS/PVA Training Materials (6/27/2016)
Other Helpful Information:
-
DHS Procedures for using GAPS (6/12/15)
- Consent for Release of Information
-
State Child Abuse Registries (Adam Walsh Check)
In Georgia, private providers cannot submit Adam Walsh checks directly to other states. These requests should go through the CPS Screening Unit.
