Find My Regional Center
Californians with developmental disabilities can access support through a statewide network of 21 nonprofit, community-based agencies called Regional Centers. These centers are responsible for determining eligibility, conducting assessments, and providing case management. They also help develop, coordinate, and purchase the services outlined in each person’s Individual Program Plan (IPP). To learn more about the services available to you, contact the Regional Center that serves your area. Visit Find My Regional Center Site
Self-Determination Program Orientation
If you’re interested in the Self-Determination Program, the first step is to attend a mandatory orientation. You can contact your local Regional Center to learn about the orientations they offer, or visit the State Council on Developmental Disabilities (SCDD), which provides statewide, universally accepted orientations in multiple languages. While completing an orientation is required to begin the transition to Self-Determination, attending does not commit you to switching programs; you may still choose to remain in the traditional system afterward. Visit SDP Orientation Schedule Site
SDP Resource Center, Disability Voices United
This website, created by Disability Voices United, is an excellent resource covering a wide range of Self-Determination Program (SDP) topics. Visit SDP Resource Center
The SDP Workbook
The SDP workbook gives you an overview of the SDP program and process, tools that you can use through your SDP journey, and other resources that you might find useful. NLACRC SDP Workbook English NLACRC SDP Workbook Spanish
Department of Developmental Services
If you want to learn more about the Self-Determination Program, including official directives, service codes and definitions, and ongoing updates, visit the Department of Developmental Services’ Self-Determination Program website. Visit DDS Site
Rights Under the Lanterman Act
The Lanterman Act is a California law that guarantees individuals with developmental disabilities the right to the services and supports they need to live full, independent lives. It affirms that people with developmental disabilities have the same legal rights and responsibilities as all other individuals under federal and state laws. The Act also tasks Regional Centers with advocating for and protecting these rights. To help individuals better understand these protections, Disability Rights California has created a manual that explains key rights under the Lanterman Act, with a focus on accessing services and supports through Regional Centers and service providers. Rights Under the Lanterman Act English Rights Under the Lanterman Act Spanish
Lanterman Act and Related Laws
Disagreement with Regional Center
Anyone aged three or older who has applied for regional center services or who is currently receiving regional center services can appeal regional center decisions they disagree with. Find out how on the Department of Development Services’ website. Visit DDS Appeals Site
The Office of the Self-Determination Program Ombudsperson is an independent resource within the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) that supports individuals and families participating in the Self-Determination Program. The Office provides information, facilitates solutions to disagreements, and helps participants understand their rights and the processes for resolving issues. While it does not make legal decisions or represent individuals in appeals, it can connect participants with Regional Centers, Financial Management Services, Independent Facilitators, or other supports to help resolve concerns. The Office also investigates complaints related to SDP implementation, reports data to the Legislature, and recommends system improvements. All communications are kept confidential unless otherwise required by law. Visit DDS Office of the SDP Ombudsperson