How to get a 504 plan for ADHD in California
What a 504 plan is, how it differs from an IEP, and how to request one for your child.
Earl Johns, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner and founder of Wellthy Psychiatry & Wellness
✓ Medically reviewed by Earl Johns, MSN, PMHNP-BC
A 504 plan can give a student with ADHD the support they need to succeed in class. Here’s how it works and how to request one.
What a 504 plan is
A 504 plan comes from Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, a federal civil rights law. It gives students with a disability, including ADHD, accommodations in a general education classroom.
504 plan or IEP?
An IEP, under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, provides specialized instruction. A 504 plan provides accommodations, such as extra time or preferential seating, without special education services. Many students with ADHD do well with a 504 plan.
How to request one
Put your request in writing to your child’s school and ask for a 504 evaluation. The school reviews records, grades and input from teachers and parents, then meets with you to decide on eligibility and accommodations.
Accommodations that often help
Extended time on tests, breaks during long tasks, a quieter testing space, written instructions, check-ins with a teacher and reminders for assignments.
How we can help
A clear diagnosis and a letter describing how ADHD affects learning can support your request. We provide ADHD evaluations and school letters for kids and teens. Book a free 15-minute phone consult to get started.
This article is for general education and isn’t medical advice. If you’re in crisis, call or text 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or call 911.
About the author
Earl Johns, MSN, PMHNP-BC
Board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner · UCSF-trained · Founder of Wellthy Psychiatry & Wellness
Earl provides LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent-affirming psychiatric care, blending medication management, therapy and whole-person approaches. He sees clients in San Francisco and by telehealth across California.
Keep reading
Related posts
Adult ADHD testing in California: what a private evaluation includes
Wondering if you have ADHD as an adult? Here’s what a private ADHD evaluation in California looks like, from history to objective testing.
Can a nurse practitioner prescribe ADHD medication in California?
Yes. Here’s what psychiatric NPs can prescribe in California, how ADHD evaluations work, and what to expect.
ADHD and time blindness: practical tools that help
Why time can slip away with ADHD, and simple strategies to make it more visible.
ADHD medication options: stimulants and non-stimulants
An overview of how ADHD medications work, common options and what to expect when starting treatment.