Quick answer
Training decisions by the California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) depend on the vocational objective, individual needs, and applicable requirements. Private-school and graduate training require attention to additional rules and prior written supervisory approval.
What to do
Explain what skills or credential are needed for the employment outcome.
Compare public and private options that could meet the documented need.
For a private option, address the applicable exception, such as better meeting needs, lower overall cost, lack of a public option, or significant delay.
Ask for an itemized decision covering tuition, required materials, and other requested services.
Clarify grant assistance, applicable approvals, and authorization before committing funds.
Limits and deadlines
9 CCR 7154 permits advanced training but does not guarantee a specific degree or provider. 9 CCR 7155 contains private-institution criteria and the prior-approval rule.
A finding that training is generally relevant does not establish every requested service or amount. Payment rules, individual evidence, and current federal requirements must be considered together.
Background, examples & sources
Documents to gather
- Program comparison
- Employment requirements
- Itemized budget
- Financial-aid information
- Individualized plan for employment (IPE) and proposed authorizations
Fictional example
A fictional learner compares two laboratory-technician programs. One starts later and lacks a required accessible lab arrangement. The learner documents those differences and asks for an individualized funding decision.
Free official help and a next step
Free independent Client Assistance Program (CAP) help is available through Disability Rights California; use the official CAP link below. Availability and scope are determined by CAP.
Use the related worksheet to organize your questions. I can also help you organize documents or prepare for an authorized administrative process; see Consumer Advocacy under Services. This educational guide does not file anything or create a client relationship.
Official information
- 9 CCR 7154: Training services (California regulation)
- 9 CCR 7155: Public/private institutions and approval (California regulation)
- 34 CFR 361.48(b)(6): Training and grant efforts (Federal regulation)
- California CAP: Disability Rights California (Official assistance)
Last source review: 2026-10-09 · Primary-source review complete for the stated scope
Current agency guidance and cited California CCR database text; review October 9, 2026
Your next step
Reconcile tuition and education payments — free worksheet.
Free help with vocational rehabilitation disputes