Becoming a surrogate mother is a profound and life-changing decision—one that allows women to play a vital role in helping hopeful parents build the families they’ve been dreaming of. Through the surrogacy process, the surrogate carries a baby who is not biologically hers, using an embryo created from the intended parents’ or donors’ genetic material. With more families turning to this option each year, the need for compassionate, qualified surrogates is greater than ever.
To ensure the safety, health, and success of everyone involved—the surrogate, the baby, and the intended parents—it’s essential that all surrogates meet specific qualifications. These requirements aren’t arbitrary; they’re based on medical best practices, ethical considerations, and legal standards designed to protect everyone’s well-being.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the requirements to be a surrogate: physical and emotional health standards, state-by-state regulations, how the screening process works, and how to get started on your journey.
What Are the Basic Requirements to Be a Surrogate Mother?
Surrogacy agencies follow strict criteria to ensure that only women who are physically, emotionally, and mentally prepared are approved for this incredible responsibility through surrogacy screening. Here’s a closer look at the requirements to be a surrogate:
Age and Reproductive History
- Ideal age range: 21–37 (at Surrogacy by Faith); some agencies accept up to 40
- Must have given birth to at least one healthy child
- Should have had no major complications in previous pregnancies
This ensures that the surrogate’s body has already demonstrated its ability to carry a pregnancy safely and that she understands the physical and emotional aspects of childbirth.
Physical Health Standards
Surrogates must be in excellent overall health:
- Body Mass Index (BMI) of 29 or lower
- Free from chronic health conditions like unmanaged diabetes or high blood pressure
- No use of tobacco, recreational drugs, or alcohol during the pregnancy
- No history of sexually transmitted infections within the past year
These physical requirements are critical to a healthy pregnancy and successful embryo transfer.
Mental and Emotional Wellness
Surrogacy is not only physically demanding—it’s also deeply emotional. That’s why agencies look for women who:
- Are in stable mental health
- Have not used antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications in the past 12 months (per agency policy)
- Can pass a psychological screening administered by a licensed professional
- Have a strong support system at home (partners, family, friends)
Your ability to handle stress, communicate openly, and stay emotionally grounded is key to a positive surrogacy journey.
Curious about what might disqualify someone from becoming a surrogate? Learn more about Common Surrogate Disqualifications.
Additional Qualifications Aligned with Agency Values
At Surrogacy by Faith, we also ask surrogates to align with a few additional values-based criteria:
- Willingness to carry a pregnancy to term unless the life of the mother or baby is in danger
- A genuine calling to the surrogacy process—many of our surrogates describe it as a personal mission to help others grow their families
These values help ensure that both the surrogate and the intended parents are entering the process with mutual respect and aligned intentions.
Medical Evaluations
- Medical records review
- OB/GYN clearance
- Fertility clinic testing (hormones, uterus, infectious disease panel)
Psychological Evaluation
- Conducted by a licensed mental health professional
- Includes interviews, questionnaires, and review of history
Background Check and Home Assessment
- Criminal background check for surrogate and adult household members
- Home visit (in-person in SoCal; virtual elsewhere)
State-by-State Surrogacy Requirements
One of the most important factors in gestational surrogacy is location. That’s because surrogate requirements by state can vary widely. Here’s what you need to know:
Surrogate Requirements in California
California is one of the most surrogacy-friendly states in the U.S. Here’s why:
- Commercial surrogacy is fully legal
- Courts offer strong protections for intended parents and surrogates
- Legal parentage can be established before birth
Learn about surrogacy costs in California here.
Requirements in Other States
Surrogacy by Faith also works with surrogates in several other states that support gestational surrogacy. Here’s a quick overview:
- Texas: Gestational surrogacy in Texas is legal and supported by favorable legislation. Courts recognize surrogacy contracts, and pre-birth orders are commonly granted.
- Florida: Another surrogacy-friendly state, Florida allows for legally enforceable contracts and pre-birth parentage orders.
- Illinois: Known for its comprehensive surrogacy laws, Illinois offers strong protections and a smooth legal process.
- New York: Recently legalized compensated gestational surrogacy under the Child-Parent Security Act. Surrogates and intended parents have clear legal pathways. Learn more in our guide on surrogacy in New York.
- Nevada, Oregon, and Colorado: These states also support gestational surrogacy with favorable laws and reliable legal procedures.
States with Restrictions
Some states pose legal or logistical challenges for surrogacy:
- Michigan: Commercial surrogacy is prohibited. Only altruistic (uncompensated) arrangements are permitted, and even these can be risky due to unclear legal standing.
- Louisiana: Only allows altruistic surrogacy for married heterosexual couples using their own genetic material.
- Nebraska: Compensated surrogacy contracts are not enforceable.
How to Apply to Become a Surrogate
So, how do you get started? Here’s a simple breakdown of the steps involved in becoming a surrogate:
- Submit an initial inquiry form online
- Share your medical history and lifestyle information
- Complete all screenings (medical, psychological, background, home)
- Get matched with intended parents who align with your values
- Begin the legal and medical phases
From day one, you’ll be supported by a knowledgeable, compassionate team. We’re here to answer your questions, advocate for you, and walk with you through every milestone.
The Full Surrogacy Journey (Post-Approval)
Once you’re approved, the real magic begins:
- Matching with intended parents based on compatibility, values, and preferences
- Signing a legal contract that protects your rights and outlines responsibilities
- Beginning the IVF cycle, including medications and embryo transfer
- Enjoying a supported, monitored pregnancy, with medical care and agency check-ins
- Delivery and post-birth recovery, plus continued support from our team
This journey is one of shared trust, gratitude, and deep purpose.
Compensation and Coverage
We believe surrogates should be generously compensated for their time, effort, and love. Surrogacy by Faith provides:
- Competitive base compensation
- Additional allowances for embryo transfer, maternity clothes, travel, and more
- 100% of medical costs covered by the intended parents
- All legal and counseling fees covered as well
We also offer personalized support from a team that includes former surrogates and professionals who understand what you’re experiencing.
Why Choose Surrogacy By Faith?
Surrogacy by Faith offers something truly unique. Here’s what sets us apart:
- Support at every step
- Matching with like-minded intended parents
- A team with real-life surrogacy experience
- Respectful guidance rooted in compassion and purpose
Our goal is to ensure that this journey is not only safe and successful—but also meaningful.
Is Surrogacy Right for You?
Becoming a surrogate is a beautiful calling. It’s an act of love, generosity, and faith. If you feel moved to help a family grow, we invite you to take the first step. You don’t need to have all the answers—just a willing heart and a strong foundation.
Surrogate Mother Requirements FAQs
Can I be a surrogate if I’ve had a C-section?
Yes. One or two C-sections are typically acceptable if they were without complications.
Do I need insurance?
No. All pregnancy-related medical expenses are covered by the intended parents. You do not need to use your own insurance. Learn more in our guide on surrogacy insurance.
How long does the process take?
From application to delivery, the process usually takes 12–18 months. Screening and matching may take 1–3 months, followed by the medical and pregnancy phases. Learn more in our guide on how long the surrogacy process takes.
Choose Surrogacy By Faith
Becoming a surrogate isn’t for everyone—but for the women who feel called, it can be one of the most rewarding experiences of their lives. You’re not just carrying a baby—you’re carrying someone’s dream. Let us walk with you. If you’re interested in becoming a surrogate or pursuing parenthood through surrogacy, fill out our surrogate form or intended parent form today.