Everything You Need To Know About the DSA Certification Process in California

Modular construction offers an efficient path to compliance for California’s school districts, addressing the need for safe, accessible, and high-quality facilities while meeting the DSA’s rigorous standards. By using parallel processes—fabricating modules off-site while preparing the construction site—projects are completed faster and at a lower cost.

One key advantage of modular construction lies in its ability to leverage DSA Pre-Checked (PC) designs—plans that have already been reviewed and approved by the DSA. These options allow for faster project completion and eliminate many back-and-forth revisions during the approval process.

PC vs. Pre-Engineered Projects: What’s the Difference?

It’s important to distinguish DSA PC designs from pre-engineered (PE) projects, as the two approaches often serve different purposes:

AMS offers a range of modular building solutions tailored to the diverse needs of schools and districts. The chart below highlights the differences between our GEN7, EVOLVE, FORM, and 2GO options, showcasing how DSA PC and PE designs align with your project’s goals for speed, customization and cost efficiency.

DSA approval is the crucial first step in California’s school construction process. Before construction begins, the DSA thoroughly reviews and approves the project’s design plans and specifications. This ensures designs align with structural, fire and accessibility codes.

Key Features of DSA Approval

• Validating compliance: Ensures that design plans adhere to state-mandated safety, accessibility and sustainability standards before construction begins.
• Focusing on critical components: Reviews structural safety, fire prevention measures and ADA compliance.
• Laying the foundation for certification: Provides a clear path to final DSA certification by addressing compliance issues early.

For modular projects, DSA-PC designs help streamline this phase by minimizing design revisions.

DSA certification is the final confirmation issued by the Division of the State Architect, verifying that a construction project has been completed in full compliance with DSA-approved plans, building codes and safety regulations. For modular buildings, this process includes off-site inspections to verify pre-fabricated units meet compliance before on-site assembly.

It’s important to differentiate between DSA approval and certification:

Using DSA Pre-Checked Designs for Faster Certification

DSA-PC designs simplify the certification process by reducing review times. For modular projects, these designs ensure quicker transitions from approval to construction, cutting months off project timelines. Same day approval is typical, although you should always anticipate delays due to unforeseen circumstances and allow for extra time.* AMS offers a range of DSA-PC modular solutions tailored to the needs of educational institutions.

DSA certification is required for a variety of public construction projects in California to ensure safety, accessibility and structural integrity in educational environments. Here are a few of the project types that require DSA certification:

The DSA certification process involves several key stages, each designed to guarantee school facilities meet California’s high standards for safety, inclusivity and durability. While the process may vary depending on the project, these are the key steps

If any deficiencies remain unresolved, the DSA issues forms like DSA 301-N or DSA 301-P, outlining missing documentation and parties responsible. These deficiencies are also added to the public Certification Box, which makes details available until all issues are resolved. Once deficiencies are addressed, projects can still achieve certification.

Who is Responsible for Certification?

Achieving DSA certification involves collaboration among multiple parties, as the chart below explains. 

The DSA certification process can be challenging, but with the right approach, it’s possible to avoid delays and keep your project on track. Here are some practical tips for a smoother experience:

1. Start early: During the planning phase, engage architects and engineers familiar with DSA modular manufacturer standards. Early collaboration helps identify potential roadblocks before they arise. Keep in mind that while DSA-PC designs can typically be approved the same day, you should always anticipate delays and allow for extra time, just in case.
2. Use pre-approved designs: Use DSA-PC designs to expedite approvals. For modular projects, work with certified plant inspectors to ensure off-site compliance and avoid on-site delays.
3. Organize documentation: Confirm that all required documents are complete, accurate and submitted on time. Missing paperwork can lead to costly delays.
4. Schedule strategically: Pre-schedule your review appointments with DSA to avoid unexpected timing issues. These dates can be booked up quickly, especially for larger projects.
5. Communicate clearly: Maintain regular, transparent communication with all stakeholders, including architects, contractors and inspectors. This minimizes missteps and ensures everyone stays aligned.
6. Work with experienced partners: Teams with DSA experience can anticipate challenges and guide districts through the process efficiently. When working with modular designs specifically, partnering with an experienced manufacturer familiar with DSA processes can mitigate obstacles and ensure compliance at every step.

Progressing through DSA certification starts with clear communication between school districts and their design teams. Asking the right questions upfront can help identify challenges early, keep the project aligned with DSA standards and avoid costly delays. Here are some key questions to consider:

• Are the site-specific designs fully compliant with DSA requirements?
  Confirm that your architect is familiar with the latest DSA standards and has incorporated them into the design from the start. Additionally, ask about potential issues related to site integration or access that could affect compliance.
• Has the modular manufacturer’s design been approved through DSA Pre-Check?
  For modular projects, pre-checked designs can significantly expedite the approval process.
  • If the design is pre-checked, ask how it will shorten the timeline and simplify reviews.
  • If not, inquire about the timeline for obtaining DSA approval for custom designs.
• Are there opportunities to use pre-approved construction plans?
  Ask whether pre-approved plans can be integrated into the project to expedite the review process and accelerate the time it takes to complete the project.
• What is the timeline for the DSA review process?
  Get a clear understanding of the estimated timeline for design reviews, plan approvals and final certification.
• How will communication between the design team, modular manufacturer and DSA-certified inspectors be handled?
  Coordination among these stakeholders is critical for meeting DSA standards. Confirm your team has a clear communication plan, including regular updates, to ensure alignment at each stage of the project.
• What contingencies are in place for delays?
  Discuss plans for handling potential delays, such as changes requested during the review process or adjustments needed during construction.
• How will documentation be managed and submitted? Confirm that your design team has a system for organizing and submitting all required DSA documentation on schedule.

With over 40 years of experience, hundreds of DSA-certified projects delivered and the largest library of pre-approved designs in California, AMS helps schools streamline approvals and cut months off project timelines. 

Our GEN7, FORM and AMS 2GO solutions are designed with efficiency in mind. Whether you’re looking for customizable permanent modular buildings or practical relocatable solutions, AMS has a pre-approved option to fit your needs.

Simplify Your Path to DSA Certification

Navigating the DSA certification process doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right knowledge and an experienced partner like AMS, school districts can confidently achieve compliance and deliver safe, modern learning environments for students and educators.

Ready to simplify your next school construction project? Let’s get started.