# How do I find an autism evaluation near me, and what does it cost?

> The three doors to an evaluation (your pediatrician, early intervention and your school district) and how to get through waitlists.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/finding-an-autism-evaluation
By The Autism Kit team · Reviewed by [BCBA NAME], BCBA · Updated 2026-09-27

**Short answer:** There are three main ways in. Your pediatrician can refer you to a specialist for a medical evaluation. If your child is under 3, your state's early intervention program evaluates development at no cost to families. If your child is 3 or older, your public school district must evaluate for special education when you ask. You can start more than one at once.

**Key takeaways**
- **Three doors:** your pediatrician, **early intervention** (under 3), and your **school district** (3 and older). -
  Early intervention and school evaluations are **free to families**. - You can **use more than one door at the same
  time**. - **Get on waitlists early**, and start support while you wait.

## Where do I start?

Pick the door that fits your child's age, and don't be afraid to knock on more than one.

| Door | Who it's for | How to start | Cost to you |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Pediatrician referral | Any age | Ask for an autism screening and a referral to a specialist | Depends on insurance |
| Early intervention (Part C) | Under 3 | Call your state's program; you don't need a referral | Evaluation is free |
| School district | 3 and older | Ask in writing for a special education evaluation | Free |

## How does early intervention work?

Every state runs an early intervention program for babies and toddlers under 3, under a federal law called IDEA Part C. Anyone can make a referral, including parents.[1]

The program evaluates your child's development at no cost. If your child qualifies, they can get services like speech or developmental therapy, often at home. **An autism diagnosis isn't required** to qualify.[2] Find your state's contact on the ECTA Center's list.[1]

## How do I ask my school district for an evaluation?

For children 3 and older, public school districts must evaluate children who may need special education, even if they aren't enrolled there yet.[2]

1. **Write a short letter or email** to the district's special education office. Say you're requesting an evaluation for special education, and why.
2. **Date it and keep a copy.** Timelines usually start when the district gets your written consent.
3. **Share what you've noticed** and any reports you have.

Your state's Parent Training and Information Center can help for free, including with letters and meetings.[3]

  Say "I'm requesting a special education evaluation" in writing. A general worry mentioned in passing may not start the
  process.

## Who does medical autism evaluations?

Developmental pediatricians, child psychologists, child psychiatrists and pediatric neurologists do medical evaluations, often in children's hospitals, university clinics and autism centers.[4] Ask your pediatrician for a referral, and ask your insurer which clinics are in network.

## How do I get through long waitlists?

**Try:**
- Get on two or three waitlists at once
- Ask to be called for cancellations
- Ask whether a psychologist in private practice can see you sooner
- Start early intervention or a school evaluation now

**Skip:**
- Waiting for a diagnosis before asking for any help
- Assuming the first clinic is your only option
- Losing track of who you called and when

**Call your doctor sooner if....** your child loses skills, stops responding to people, or you have safety concerns. Tell the clinic too, since some
  prioritize urgent cases.

Free printable: [Free printable: appointment notes](https://theautismkit.com/printables/appointment-notes.pdf)

## What can I do today?

- [ ] Call your pediatrician and ask for a referral
- [ ] Contact early intervention (under 3) or email your school district (3+)
- [ ] Get on at least two waitlists
- [ ] Start your appointment notes

Wondering what happens on the day? Read [How is autism diagnosed in children?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/how-is-autism-diagnosed)

## Common questions

### How much does an autism evaluation cost?

It varies widely. Early intervention and school evaluations are free to families. Medical evaluations are often covered by insurance or Medicaid with a referral, but out-of-pocket costs can be high. Ask the clinic and your insurer before booking.

### Is a school evaluation the same as a medical diagnosis?

No. A school evaluation decides whether your child qualifies for special education services. A medical evaluation decides whether your child meets criteria for autism. Many families get both, and each can help the other.

### The waitlist is months long. What can I do?

Get on more than one list, ask to be called for cancellations, and start early intervention or a school evaluation in the meantime. Those services don't need a medical diagnosis.

## Sources

1. Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center: State Part C (early intervention) coordinators. https://ectacenter.org/contact/ptccoord.asp
2. Center for Parent Information and Resources: Evaluating children for disability (IDEA). https://www.parentcenterhub.org/evaluation/
3. Center for Parent Information and Resources: Find your Parent Center. https://www.parentcenterhub.org/find-your-center/
4. CDC: Diagnosing autism spectrum disorder. https://www.cdc.gov/autism/diagnosis/index.html

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.