Get Started - How to Apply for DOR Services

The Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) is now in an order of selection (OOS). The federal government requires that an OOS process be initiated when the department does not have available resources to provide the full range of Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) services.

DOR has experienced a significant increase in the number of individuals receiving VR services, combined with the rising costs of those services. Staffing and financial resources have not grown at the same pace, creating a strain on our capacity to serve every individual to the high standard we uphold.

At this time, all new applicants who are determined eligible for services will be placed on a waiting list. OOS does not impact consumers who have an approved and signed Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) in place. Those services will continue without interruption. OOS only affects new applicants who have been deemed eligible for services. Visit the Order of Selection page for more information.

DOR continues to accept new applicants during OOS. Any Californian with a disability can apply for DOR services, and the department will determine your eligibility as usual. We are not able to accept email applications via the DOR website and the online application portal is not available. We apologize for the inconvenience.

If you would like to apply via phone or in person at a DOR office, please visit the Contact Us page and use our office locator tool to find the office closest to you. You can contact a DOR office directly for general information, guidance on the application process and to request an application.

The California Department of Rehabilitation (DOR) is here to assist you. We work with people who have disabilities to secure employment, develop or promote in their current job, and live independently in their community of choice. Our staff will work with you based on your specific goals and needs. You are the most important person in this process, and we will help you build a plan that's right for you.

  • Reaching your goals will require collaboration from you. We will coach you along the way and can assist in a variety of areas including:

  • Job search and interview skills

  • Job training and tools

  • Assistive technology

  • Connections with additional resources in the business and workforce communities.

We will help you to understand the various options available to you as we work toward your employment goals.

For information about Student Services please click here