California Department of Developmental Services (DDS)

The California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is the agency through which the State of California provides services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities.

These disabilities include mental retardation, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism and related conditions. Services are provided through state-operated developmental centers and community facilities, and contracts with 21 nonprofit regional centers. The regional centers serve as a local resource to help find and access the services and supports available to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

Information About Services

The State of California has a commitment to provide services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities throughout their lifetime. Services and supports are provided through a combination of federal, state, county and local government services, private businesses, support groups and volunteers.

Non-profit organizations called regional centers provide diagnosis and assessment of eligibility and help plan, access, coordinate and monitor the services and supports. There is no charge for the diagnosis and eligibility assessment. Once eligibility is determined, most services and supports are free regardless of age or income.

Infants and toddlers who are at risk of having developmental disabilities or who have a developmental delay may also qualify for services. In addition, individuals at risk of having a child with a developmental disability may be eligible for genetic diagnosis, counseling and other prevention services.

There is a requirement for parents to share the cost of 24-hour out-of-home placements for children under age 18. This share depends on the parents’ ability to pay. For further information, see Parental Fee Program. There may also be a co-payment requirement for other selected services. For further information, see Family Cost Participation Program.

INFORMATION ABOUT THESE SERVICES AND SUPPORTS:

• The Self Determination Program:
• Information about Regional Centers:
• Information About Services

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