Is a home study required for stepparent adoption in California?

Good news — California typically waives the home study requirement for stepparent adoptions (Cal. Fam. Code § 8715). This means you won't need to go through the home study process, which saves time and money. In states that do require it, a home study for stepparent adoption is different from traditional adoption — it's essentially just a brief interview, not an invasive home inspection. Cost is typically $300–$400 when required.