Lanterman Intake (3 years old & over)

Eligibility for Individuals 3 Years Old & Over

 The disability must have originated before the age of 18, be expected to continue indefinitely, and constitutes a substantial handicap for the individual. A developmental disability does not include solely physical, learning, and psychiatric conditions.

The eligibility criteria to qualify for services under the Lanterman Act, an individual must:

1. Have a developmental disability that originates before the age of 18.
2. Be expected to continue indefinitely (i.e., lifelong).
3. Present a substantial disability, which is defined as significant limitations in at least three of the following seven major life activities:
   • Self-care
   • Receptive and expressive language
   • Learning
   • Mobility
   • Self-direction
   • Capacity for independent living
   • Economic self-sufficiency​

Diagnoses that may qualify a person for Regional Center services include the following developmental disabilities:

• Intellectual disability
• Cerebral palsy
• Epilepsy
• Autism

A guide to California’s Regional Center System

The Department of Developmental Services, with input from the community, has made the following new packet of information for individuals and their families who are starting the intake process, or other people want to learn more about California’s regional center system.

This packet has information about the Lanterman Services Act. It’s for individuals, parents and caregivers of children or adults over 3 years old who may have or are at risk of having developmental delays or disabilities. This packet is also for people who want to learn more about the regional center system, resources, rights and how to qualify for services.

View a comprehensive overview of the Regional Center System

To access this guide in other languages, please click here to visit the DDS website.

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HOW TO APPLY?

To refer an individual 3 years old and over, please contact our Intake Department using any of the three methods below: