The Limited Examination and
Appointment Program (LEAP)
State Internship Program (SIP)


DOR is committed to encompassing positive changes that result in increased community-based, integrated employment opportunities for individuals with significant disabilities. This priority reflects the standard that all citizens, including individuals with significant disabilities, are capable of full participation in community life including integrated employment. To guide these standards forward, DOR has collaborated with the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) and Department of Developmental Services (DDS) to launch the Limited Examination and Appointment Program (LEAP) State Internship Program (SIP).

This program provides an alternate eligibility process for people with significant intellectual and developmental disabilities to gain employment with the State of California. This program allows the implementation of a more extensive and assistive "on-the-job-certification" approach compared to the standard LEAP certification and exam methods.

This program grants each selected applicant to receive a paid internship, on-the-job coaching, and career guidance on their way to receiving a prosperous career in civil service. During this internship, these qualified interns will develop the skills and abilities needed to meet the Minimum Qualifications of their intended job classification. Upon completion of the LEAP SIP, each successful applicant can obtain their list eligibility for hire by the State of California to apply for State agency positions.

LEAP SIP allows a State agency an opportunity to integrate a fully diverse workforce and contribute to the goals of incorporating any and all qualified applicants into their workplace employment standards. With the LEAP SIP, integrating candidates with significant disabilities can be more possible than ever before.

Connect with DOR’s Workforce Development Team to learn more about LEAP and the LEAP State Internship Program.