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FosterHub AZ

Launch Plan

What's ahead.

Documents, benefits, and housing options that become part of your story at 16, 17, and 18. Start here.

These come up later — good to know now.

Documents You'll Need

When you age out, these pieces of paper matter. Start collecting now — it's easier than scrambling later.

Birth certificate

You need this to get almost everything else — start here.

How to get it

  1. 1.Ask your caseworker first. DCS can request your birth certificate for free on your behalf.
  2. 2.If that doesn't work, contact the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) directly.
  3. 3.Call (602) 364-1300 or go to azdhs.gov to order a copy online.
  4. 4.It's free for foster youth in Arizona — if anyone tries to charge you, remind them of A.R.S. §8-514.06.

Contact: ADHS Vital Records: (602) 364-1300

Social Security card

Needed for jobs, benefits, and your state ID. Your number may already be in your DCS file.

How to get it

  1. 1.Ask your caseworker for your Social Security number — it should be in your case file.
  2. 2.To get a physical replacement card, go to ssa.gov or call 1-800-772-1213.
  3. 3.Bring your birth certificate when you apply (or ask your caseworker to help).
  4. 4.Replacement cards are free — you can get up to 3 per year.

Contact: Social Security Administration: 1-800-772-1213

State ID / driver's license

Get your birth certificate and Social Security card first — you'll need both.

How to get it

  1. 1.Get your birth certificate and Social Security card before you go.
  2. 2.Visit an Arizona MVD office or start at azmvdnow.gov.
  3. 3.Ask your caseworker about a fee waiver — foster youth often qualify.
  4. 4.Bring proof of Arizona address (a letter from DCS on their letterhead works).

Contact: AZ Motor Vehicle Division: azmvdnow.gov

Immunization records

Schools and some jobs require these. Your caseworker may already have them.

How to get it

  1. 1.Ask your caseworker — DCS is required to keep your immunization records.
  2. 2.Check with your school's health office — they often keep records on file.
  3. 3.If you still can't find them, Arizona has a statewide registry. Call ADHS at (602) 364-3630.
  4. 4.Any doctor or clinic you've visited can also provide records of shots they gave you.

Contact: AZ Immunization Registry: (602) 364-3630

Extended Foster Care (EFC)

In Arizona you can voluntarily stay in foster care until 21 for housing, monthly stipend, and an extended support team. It's not automatic — you have to sign in. Ask your caseworker about EFC at 17.5.

Education and Training Voucher (ETV)

Up to $5,000/year for college, trade school, or certification programs. You apply each year, and the state deadline matters. Apply early; funds are limited.

Current cycle deadline

July 31, 2026