Autism Evaluation Cost in California
California Regional Centers provide free autism evaluations to any resident regardless of income. Private-pay typically runs $2,000–$5,500; commercial insurance covers evaluations with no annual cap under SB 946.
Quick Answer
California Regional Centers provide free autism evaluations to any resident regardless of income. Private-pay typically runs $2,000–$5,500; commercial insurance covers evaluations with no annual cap under SB 946.
- Private-pay range: $2,000-$5,500 (typical about $3,500).
- Commercial insurance: $0–$1,000 typical.
- Medicaid: covered with a typical copay of $0.
Private-pay (no insurance)
For a comprehensive pediatric evaluation (history, ADOS-2, cognitive testing, written report). Updated 2026-04-21.
Commercial Insurance
$0–$1,000 typical
Typical out-of-pocket
SB 946 requires commercial plans to cover evaluations with no age limit or annual cap.
Medicaid
$0
Typical copay
Medi-Cal covers evaluations. Regional Centers also provide free evaluations regardless of income.
Wait Times
2–4 months
Private psychologist
Major center: 6–12 months (UCLA, Stanford, UCSF)
Editorial Review
Cost ranges on this page are directional estimates compiled from published price lists, public fee schedules, and manual review.
Actual charges depend on the provider, testing scope, insurance contract, and your deductible or network status. Confirm fees and prior authorization requirements before scheduling.
Last reviewed 2026-04-21 by Autism Hearts Editorial Team
Wait Times by Provider Type
- Major medical center
- 6–12 months (UCLA, Stanford, UCSF)
- Private psychologist
- 2–4 months
- Telehealth
- 2–6 weeks
Getting on multiple waitlists simultaneously is strongly recommended. Telehealth and private-practice waits are often significantly shorter than academic medical centers.
Low-Cost & Free Evaluation Options in California
Regional Centers (21 statewide)
Free evaluations under the Lanterman Act — no income limit.
UCLA Semel Institute
Los Angeles
UC Davis MIND Institute
Sacramento
Related
California Medicaid coverage details
Full breakdown of HCBS waivers, ABA benefit rules, and the state insurance mandate.
Sources
These sources support the current pricing and coverage context for California. Always confirm the latest quote directly with the provider before booking.
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