California IEP Timeline: 60 Days, 50 Days, or 15 Days?
In California, Special Education math is often harder than Common Core math.
You hear "60 days" from one advocate. You hear "15 days" from a teacher. You might even hear rumors of a "50-day" rule (which is a myth, by the way). Meanwhile, you are just waiting for the phone to ring so your child can get help.
California Education Code (specifically EC 56043) sets very strict timelines for the IEP process. But unlike federal law, California has unique "Stop-the-Clock" rules that can turn a "60-day" timeline into a 4-month wait if you aren't careful.
Here is the definitive guide to the three clocks that matter—and how to make sure the district doesn't run them out.
Clock 1: The Referral (15 Calendar Days)
The Trigger: You send a written email or letter to the Principal or Director of Special Education saying, "I am requesting a special education assessment for my child."
The Deadline: The District has 15 calendar days to respond. They cannot just say "We got your email." They must provide you with one of two things:
- A proposed Assessment Plan (AP) for you to sign, OR
- A Prior Written Notice (PWN) legally explaining why they are refusing to evaluate.
The "End of Year" Exception
If you send your referral letter 10 days or fewer before the end of the school year, the clock stops. The district does not have to give you the Assessment Plan until the first 10 days of the next school year.
Strategy Tip: Do not send a referral letter on June 1st. You are just creating paperwork that will sit in a dark office until August. Send it in August.
Clock 2: The Evaluation (60 Calendar Days)
The Trigger: The district receives the Assessment Plan signed by YOU. (Note: The clock does NOT start when they send it to you. It starts when they receive it back. Sign it and return it immediately).
The Deadline: The District has 60 calendar days to:
- Assess your child.
- Write the reports.
- Hold the Initial IEP meeting to determine eligibility.
The "Stop-the-Clock" Curveball
This is where parents get tricked. In California, "60 Days" does not mean two months. The timeline pauses for any school break longer than 5 school days.
- Winter Break: The clock stops.
- Spring Break: The clock stops (usually).
- Summer Break: The clock definitely stops.
Example: If you sign the assessment plan on November 15th, you might think your meeting is due January 15th. But because of the 2-week Winter Break, your meeting isn't actually due until early February.
Clock 3: The "Parent Request" Meeting (30 Days)
The Trigger: Your child already has an IEP, but it isn't working. You send a letter saying, "I am requesting an IEP meeting to discuss [Issue]."
The Deadline: The District has 30 calendar days to hold that meeting.
Note: This timeline applies to meetings only, not new assessments.
The "50-Day" Myth
Many parents ask about the "50-Day Rule." This is often a confusion with Section 504 timelines or old regulations. In California Special Education, there is no 50-day rule. Stick to the 60-day count.
Initial vs. Triennial: A Critical Difference
- Initial IEPs: Follow the strict 60-day timeline from consent.
- Triennials (Re-evaluations): These are due every 3 years from the date of the last evaluation. While the "60-day" clock still applies to the assessment process, the hard deadline is the 3-year anniversary date. The district cannot "delay" a triennial past the anniversary just because of a break—they are legally required to plan ahead.
Don't Do the Math in Your Head
Calculating "60 days minus weekends minus holidays minus breaks greater than 5 days" is a headache. That is why I built a tool to do it for you.
The California IEP Timeline Calculator:
- ✅ Enter your "Consent Signed" Date
- ✅ Select your "School Break" weeks
- ✅ Output: The exact date the District is legally required to hold your meeting
If the date passes, you are owed a remedy. Know your dates.
What If You Want the Complete Strategy?
Knowing the timeline is just the start. If they miss the deadline, you have leverage. The IEP Battle Plan teaches you how to use that leverage to get more services.
- How to file a Compliance Complaint with the CDE when they are late.
- How to negotiate for "Compensatory Education" (make-up hours).
- Scripts to use when they try to rush the meeting at the last minute.
$497 one-time payment. Lifetime access.
Learn more about the Battle Plan →Frequently Asked Questions
Does the 60-day timeline include weekends?
Yes. The law specifies "60 days," which generally implies calendar days. However, the timeline pauses for school breaks longer than 5 days, which complicates the count.
What if the school says they are "short-staffed"?
Staffing shortages are not a legal exception to the 60-day timeline under California Education Code. If they are late, they are out of compliance.
Does the 15-day timeline apply to verbal requests?
No. You must put your request in writing. A verbal conversation in the parking lot does not start the 15-day clock for an Assessment Plan.
Can I request an IEP meeting anytime?
Yes. Under EC 56343(c), a parent can request an IEP meeting to review the individualized education program. The district must hold it within 30 days.
What happens if I don't sign the assessment plan?
The 60-day clock never starts. The district cannot evaluate your child without your informed written consent.
Related Resources
For more on California special education:
- California IEP Laws - The broader rights you have in CA.
- Requesting an Independent Evaluation - If the evaluation was rushed or poor.
- District Comparison - See how your district stacks up.
Legal Disclaimer: I am a parent with experience in IEP advocacy, not an attorney. This site shares information and personal experience, not legal advice. For legal representation, please consult a special education attorney in your state.