Direct Support Professional Training

Project Background

Since January 1, 1999, the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) has implemented mandated statewide competency-based training for direct support professionals employed in regional center vendored community care facilities (CCF). This mandate arises out of the conviction that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities receiving residential services are entitled to the highest standard of service and that direct support professionals deserve training and recognition as professionals. Direct Support Professional Training (DSPT) is provided through 4 regional Service Hubs within local communities. DSPT is free to all direct support professional staff currently working in either the first or second year of their employment at one of the regional center vendored CCFs. You should not be charged a fee for DSPT.

Any DSPT certification for a fee is not sanctioned by the state and will not meet the statutory requirement.

Resources

For questions regarding DSPT registration or Results Notification, contact the eDSPT Technical Support at 1-800-910-4604.

For more information about DSPT, you can go to the Department of Developmental Service’s website at: https://dds.ca.gov/services/dspt/, email [email protected] , or call the toll free number at 1-800-622-8904.

For DSPT implementation concerns, contact Tara Neilson, the CDE contract monitor, at: 916-445-5568 or by email at [email protected] .