How Old Do You Have to Be to Adopt?
If you’re thinking about adoption, one of the first questions that might pop into your head is: “Am I old enough to adopt?” The good news is that adoption is open to people from a variety of different age groups, but there are some legal guidelines and agency preferences you should know about.
At A Act of Love Adoptions, we’re here to happily walk you through every step of the adoption journey. We’re a Utah-licensed nonprofit adoption agency, and we work with people from all walks of life who feel called to open their hearts and homes to a child.
Let’s explore what age requirements look like and how they can factor into your path to parenthood.
Minimum Age Requirements to Adopt
In most U.S. states, the law sets a minimum age for adopting a child, but the specifics can vary depending on where you live and what type of adoption you consider pursuing.
Here’s a quick comparison of general guidelines:
| Requirement Type | Typical Standard |
| Minimum Age (Most States) | 21 years old |
| Utah Minimum Age | 21 years old and at least 10 years older than the child |
| Federal Guidelines | No universal federal minimum, but most states follow similar rules |
| Private Agency Policies | May require 25+, depending on their criteria |
Don’t hesitate too much. If you’re under 21 and considering adoption, it’s still worth reaching out. Certain kinship or family-related adoptions may allow some exceptions depending on your unique circumstances.
Why Age Matters in the Adoption Process
Age isn’t just a number, it’s part of how agencies are able assess your readiness to parent. Being old enough to adopt ensures you have the maturity, stability, and life experience to take on this long-term responsibility.
Here’s some ways on how age plays a role:
| Consideration | Purpose |
| Emotional maturity | Helps ensure you’re ready for parenting’s challenges |
| Financial stability | Supports your ability to provide for a child |
| Long-term commitment | Ensures you’ll be available for your child as they grow |
| Compatibility with child’s age | Matching younger children with parents at appropriate life stages |
These considerations all play a part in building a healthy, lasting connection between you and your child.
Is There a Maximum Age to Adopt?
There’s no official age limit that prevents adults from adopting, but agencies may take a thoughtful approach when reviewing older prospective adoptive parents.
| Factor | How It’s Evaluated |
| Physical health | Are you well enough to care for a child? |
| Lifestyle and energy level | Can you keep up with a young child’s many needs? |
| Support system | Do you have good family or community resources to assist you? |
| Long-term care planning | Have you considered the child’s future as you age? |
In fact, many mature adoptive parents offer the advantages of life experience, financial security, and emotional resilience. We have great experience in working with families that were in their late 30’s and even early 40’s with positive outcomes.
Age and Types of Adoption
Different types of adoption can have slightly different expectations when it comes to age. Here’s a glance at how age typically factors into each different type of adoption:
| Adoption Type | Common Age Expectations |
| Private Infant Adoption | Agencies often prefer adoptive parents in their late 20s to 40s |
| Foster Care Adoption | More flexible—adults 21+ can often adopt if they meet other criteria |
| Kinship or Relative Adoption | May allow younger adopters (even under 21) depending on state laws |
| International Adoption | May have additional requirements based on country regulations |
If you’re unsure which path is right for your family, we can help walk you through the pros and cons of each one.
Let us Support You!
Whether you’re 22 and just looking at starting your family or 52 and building your family later on in life, our team is here to help you feel confident and supported.
Here’s how we can guide you:
- We provide honest, age-appropriate guidance about your eligibility
- Our team offers flexible matching options based on your lifestyle and age
- We welcome diverse family structures, including both single parents and older couples
- We’re licensed in Utah and have decades of experience supporting families of all ages
With A Act of Love Adoptions, you’re not just a number—you’re a valued part of the adoption journey.
A Little Extra Love
So, how old do you have to be to adopt? The short answer is 21 or older, but that’s just the beginning. The bigger question is: Are you ready to open your heart and home to a child?
Age is only one factor in determining whether adoption is the right path for you. If you feel called to adopt, we encourage you to reach out, ask questions, and explore all the many possibilities.
Schedule a free consultation with A Act of Love Adoptions today to learn more about your eligibility, the adoption process, and how we can support you in building a beautiful future through adoption.
