text: Each state has varying legal requirements.\nIt is easiest when the non-custodial parent has no wish to object and will sign over their rights willingly.\nSometimes there is a stipulation that the custodial parent and stepparent have to be married for a certain length of time before they can apply.\n\nHere is a good website from the US Department of Health and Human Services:\n\nhttp://naic.acf.hhs.gov/pubs/r_step.cfm