How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in Minnesota
Last updated April 23, 2026 - Reviewed by Autism Hearts Editorial Team
Quick Answer
A complete guide to autism evaluations in Minnesota, covering Early Intervention, DHS Medicaid waivers, MN's insurance mandate, and diagnostic centers including Mayo Clinic and Children's Minnesota.
- Reviewed by Autism Hearts Editorial Team.
- Last updated April 23, 2026.
- Primary topic: how to get autism diagnosis in Minnesota.
Editorial Review
This guide is reviewed by the Autism Hearts editorial team and written to help families move from research into practical next steps.
It is educational content and should not replace medical, legal, insurance, or educational advice from licensed professionals and official state agencies.
Last reviewed April 23, 2026 by Autism Hearts Editorial Team
Medical Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
If you're looking for how to get an autism diagnosis in Minnesota, the state has the globally renowned Mayo Clinic in Rochester alongside strong Twin Cities programs at Children's Minnesota and M Health Fairview. Minnesota's Medicaid waiver system is administered county-by-county, and families should apply to their county social services early to access supports.
How to Get an Autism Diagnosis in Minnesota: Your First Steps
Start with your child's pediatrician and request a referral. At the same time, contact Minnesota's Early Intervention program if your child is under age 3. In Minnesota, EI is coordinated through counties and school districts rather than a single hotline — contact your county social services or school district directly. Free evaluations; no autism diagnosis required.
For children age 3 and older, contact your local school district. Minnesota districts must evaluate within 30 school days of a written request at no cost.
Search diagnostic providers in Minnesota →
Choosing an Evaluation Center in Minnesota
- Mayo Clinic (Rochester): World-renowned; exceptional autism evaluation program. Patients travel from across the country. 10–18 month waits; worth the wait for complex presentations.
- Children's Minnesota (Minneapolis/St. Paul): The primary pediatric hospital for the Twin Cities; developmental and behavioral pediatrics. 8–14 month waits.
- M Health Fairview / University of Minnesota Medical Center (Minneapolis): Strong academic program; 9–14 month waits.
- Gillette Children's Specialty Healthcare (St. Paul): Specialty pediatric hospital; good for children with co-occurring medical needs; developmental-behavioral program.
- Hennepin Healthcare (Minneapolis): Public health system; Medicaid-friendly; shorter waits for eligible patients.
- Private Practice Psychologists: Strong network in the Twin Cities metro; typical waits of 2–4 months.
Minnesota-Specific Programs and Rights
Early Intervention — Ages 0–3: Contact your county social services or local school district. Free evaluations and services; no diagnosis required.
School District Evaluation — Ages 3–21: 30 school days to complete at no cost after written request.
Minnesota DHS Medicaid Waivers — All Ages Minnesota's Department of Human Services (DHS) administers several HCBS waivers:
- CADI Waiver (Community Alternatives for Disabled Individuals): For adults with physical or developmental disabilities living in the community; covers personal care, day services, and employment supports.
- DD Waiver (Developmental Disabilities Waiver): For individuals with DD including autism; covers residential services, day programs, and community supports.
- CDCS (Consumer Directed Community Supports): A self-directed component within Minnesota's waiver system allowing families to hire their own workers.
- Brain Injury Waiver: For individuals with acquired brain injuries.
Contact your county social services office to apply for waiver eligibility. Waitlists vary by county and waiver type.
Minnesota Vocational Rehabilitation Services (VRS) — Age 14+: Job coaching, education support, and career planning. Apply through the VRS website.
Minnesota Autism Insurance Mandate: Minnesota's mandate (enacted 2009) requires state-regulated health plans to cover autism diagnosis and treatment including ABA therapy with no annual dollar caps. Self-funded employer ERISA plans may be exempt.
Autism Society of Minnesota (AuSM): AuSM provides community support, advocacy, and resources for autistic people and their families across the state. Their helpline and resource directory are valuable starting points.