Who May Adopt, Be Adopted, or Place a Child for Adoption - Idaho

Date: January 2020

Who May Adopt

Citation: Ann. Code §§ 16-1501; 16-1502; 16-1503

Any adult resident of Idaho may adopt, subject to specific provisions stipulated in statute. The person adopting a child, except the spouse of a natural parent, must be at least 15 years older than adopted child or age 25 or older.

If the adopting person is married, consent of the spouse is required.

Who May Be Adopted

Citation: Ann. Code § 16-1501

Any minor child may be adopted.

Any adult may be adopted when the adopting person has sustained the relationship of a parent for a period in excess of 1 year while the adopted person was still a minor, or if the court determines a substantial family relationship has been created.

Who May Place a Child for Adoption

Citation: Ann. Code § 16-1504

The following persons may consent to the adoptive placement:

  • The parent
  • Any legally appointed custodian or guardian of the child
  • A licensed child-placing agency

Related Resources