DDS Resources are available in the following languages: Español (Spanish), 繁體中文 (Traditional Chinese), 简体中文 (Simplified Chinese), Tagalog, Tiếng Việt (Vietnamese) and 한국어 (Korean).
DDS works to ensure services are available to Californians with developmental disabilities through California’s 21 regional centers. Services are supposed to be person-centered and meet the many different needs of consumers. Services should also reflect each individual’s choices to lead independent and productive lives within their communities.
Below is a brief overview of important programs and services. For questions and more information, you can contact the program and request free verbal and sign language interpretation and written translation services in your own language.
Regional Center Eligibility & Services
Regional centers provide assessments, determine eligibility for services, and offer case management services. Regional centers also develop, purchase, and coordinate the services in each person’s Individual Program Plan.
Click here to contact your Regional Center and get free help in your language.
Self-Determination Program
The Self-Determination Program allows participants the opportunity to have more control in developing their service plans and selecting service providers to better meet their needs. If you are interested in participating in the Self-Determination Program reach out to your regional center for more information on how to get started.
Contact: sdp@dds.ca.gov for more information or for free help in your language.
Early Start
The Early Start program is California’s early intervention program for infants and toddlers with developmental delays or at risk for having a developmental disability and their families. Early Start services are available statewide and are provided in a coordinated, family-centered system.
Parents, caregivers, and families can contact 800-515-2229 or earlystart@dds.ca.gov for free help in their language.
Office of the Lanterman Ombudsperson and the Self-Determination Ombudsperson
The Offices of the Lanterman Ombudsperson and the Self-Determination Ombudsperson can help regional center clients and their families when they have problems accessing their services.
Contact 877-658-9731 or Ombudsperson@dds.ca.gov for more information and free help in your language.
If you are in the Self-Determination Program, contact 877-658-9731 or SDP.Ombudsperson@dds.ca.gov for more information and free help in your language.
Appeals & Complaints
DDS is committed to resolving problems and concerns when they occur.
Anyone aged 3 or older who has applied for regional center services, or who is currently receiving regional services, can appeal regional center decisions here.
There are other types of complaints you can file regarding your rights, Title 17, “Whistleblower” and Early Start services. Contact 833-538-3723 or appeals@dds.ca.gov for more information on what kind of complaint you need to file and free help in your language.
Last modified: October 23, 2024
