How to Become a Service Provider
In order to offer services to people with developmental disabilities in California, you must go through a process called vendorization. This process ensures that all service providers meet the State’s rules and standards.
What Is Vendorization?
Starting on January 1, 2026, all regional centers must use the same standardized vendorization process. This requirement is in Section 4435.1(e) of the Welfare and Institutions Code. You’ll apply online through the Provider Directory, where you can submit required information and documents, communicate, and track your progress.
Your application will be reviewed by the regional center responsible for your service area (the county where you plan offer services). They’ll review your documents, then decide if you meet the requirements. If approved, you’ll get a vendor number and service code in the Provider Directory.
Who Can Apply?
- Potential new providers: Individuals or agencies who want to offer services.
- Existing Providers: Providers who want to add new services or expand to new areas.
- Family Members or Guardians: Individuals needing reimbursement for certain expenses for the individual served by the regional center, as applicable.
Who Cannot Apply in the Directory?
People who provide service to individuals in the Self-Determination Program cannot apply in the Provider Directory.
Please contact GGRC for more information about this program.
When should you apply for vendorization in the Directory?
You can begin the vendorization application at your convenience.
For emergency vendorization or to apply for vendorization of certain specialized facilities through the Community Placement Plan (CPP) or Community Resource Development Plan (CRDP) project, contact GGRC. We canhelp you start your application and create a login profile for the Provider Directory.
How can I prepare?
Decide what service type(s) you’d like to provide and understand the relevant laws and regulations for your experience and expertise. Vendorization follows Title 17 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR). These rules explain:
- Services that regional centers can fund
- What providers must do to qualify
- How the vendorization process works
- What is required to maintain your vendorization
Learn more about providing specific services and GGRC’s current service needs
What are the Steps to Apply?
The vendorization process is done online through the Provider Directory. Here’s what to expect:
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Create or log in to your Provider Directory Profile
- Open your browser and type: https://caddsprod.servicenowservices.com/spd
- If you’re new to the Provider Directory, create login profile.
- If you’re already registered, log in with your credentials.
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Submit Requirements
- Provide information to show you meet the basic requirements.
- Your local regional center will review your request within 15 calendar days.
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Submit Application
- If you meet the basic requirements, you’ll be asked to submit additional information and documents.
- When all requested information is received, the regional center will review your application for completeness within 30 calendar days.
- If anything is missing or incorrect, you’ll have 30 calendar days to fix it.
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Receive Decision
- After reviewing your completed application, the regional center will make a decision within 45 calendar days.
- If approved, you’ll receive your vendor number.
- If not approved, you’ll get a denial notice with steps to appeal the decision.
Important Note About Vendorization
Although the service provider may receive vendorization from the regional center, there is no guarantee that the service provider will receive referrals.