CPS Screening Information
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. CCI and CPA agency staff should complete an IONS screening instead; learn more.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Child Protective Services (CPS) History Request Form and Instructions
- 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:
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DHS Procedures for using GAPS (6/12/15)
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.