By Stevie Perkins 
In California’s fast-paced construction environment, compliance isn’t just an obligation—it’s a critical part of doing business right. One essential compliance element for contractors working on public works projects is the das 142 form. Despite its importance, many contractors overlook this required document, leading to costly delays, penalties, or disqualification from future bids.
At Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC), we believe in equipping our members with knowledge that empowers. This article will break down the purpose and process behind the das 142, explain why it’s essential for every contractor to understand before hiring apprentices, and offer practical steps to stay compliant with ease.
What Is DAS 142?
The DAS 142 form—short for Public Works Contract Award Information Form—is a mandatory document required by the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS). It is used to notify registered apprenticeship programs of upcoming job opportunities on public works projects.
According to California Labor Code Section 1777.5, contractors must hire apprentices to work at least 20% of the total hours on most public works jobs. Submitting the form ensures that certified apprenticeship programs are given the opportunity to supply qualified apprentices to fulfill that requirement.
Why DAS 142 Is Critical for Contractors
Failing to submit a form, or submitting it incorrectly, can have serious consequences for contractors. Here are a few key reasons why understanding DAS 142 is a must before hiring apprentices:
It’s the Law
California mandates that public works contractors must use apprentices from state-approved programs. Submitting the DAS 142 is part of the legal requirement to show good faith effort in meeting apprenticeship standards.
Avoid Costly Penalties
Late or missing submissions can result in:
Monetary fines
Withheld payments
Project stoppages
Future bid disqualification
Understanding and submitting the DAS 142 on time helps you avoid these costly mistakes.
Ensures Skilled Labor Supply
The DAS 142 form is not just a compliance form—it’s a way to ensure your projects benefit from trained apprentices who are ready to work. Without proper notification, apprenticeship programs can’t dispatch workers to your site, leaving you short-staffed.
Builds a Competitive Workforce
Using the DAS 142 supports a robust apprenticeship system that contributes to the long-term health of California’s construction workforce. Contractors who comply help strengthen the talent pipeline for the entire industry.
When to Submit?
Contractors are required to submit the DAS 142 form at least 72 hours (excluding weekends and holidays) before the date when apprentices are needed on a job site. However, earlier is always better.
To ensure you’re meeting deadlines:
Plan your labor schedule early
Identify which trades require apprentices
Submit the DAS 142 form well in advance of start dates
Who Must Receive?
You are required to submit the form to all state-approved apprenticeship programs in the geographic area of your job that cover the trades you will use. This means:
If your project includes electricians, you must send the DAS 142 to all electrical apprenticeship programs in your county or region.
You cannot send it to only one program and call it a day.
If no programs respond or dispatch an apprentice, it’s your duty to document your outreach and maintain those records.
How to Fill Out?
Completing the form is straightforward but must be done with care:
- Provide Contractor Info
Include business name, address, license number, and contact details. - Describe the Project
Enter the public works project name, location, and awarding body. - Identify the Trades
Specify the trades you’re requesting apprentices for (e.g., carpentry, HVAC, plumbing). - List Project Start Dates
Be clear about when apprentices will be needed. - Submit to Programs
Email, fax, or mail the completed form to all applicable programs. Save delivery confirmations.
DAS 142 Submission Checklist
To help contractors avoid mistakes, here’s a quick submission checklist:
Identify trades required for your project
Obtain the latest form from the DIR website
Fill out all fields correctly
Submit to all relevant apprenticeship programs
Keep records of all submissions and responses
Follow up if no apprentices are dispatched
Resubmit if project scope or schedule changes
Common DAS 142 Mistakes Contractors Make
Even experienced contractors can make errors when dealing with the DAS 142. Here are the most frequent missteps:
Submitting Late: Missing the 72-hour window can result in noncompliance.
Not Notifying All Programs: You must notify every relevant program—not just your preferred one.
Incomplete Forms: Skipping fields or using outdated forms can lead to rejections.
Poor Recordkeeping: Always keep copies of all forms and confirmations of delivery.
Avoid these mistakes by staying organized and developing a standardized compliance process within your team.
ABC Resources for DAS 142 Compliance
Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) offers extensive support to help its members comply with apprenticeship laws, including DAS 142 requirements:
Templates & Guides: Access to pre-filled templates and updated forms
Compliance Workshops: Training on DAS 142 and related laws
Labor Compliance Helpdesk: Expert assistance for submission and legal questions
Networking with Apprenticeship Programs: Connections to approved training programs across California
With ABC’s support, contractors can navigate submissions with confidence and focus more on growing their business.
FAQs About DAS 142
Q1: What happens if no apprenticeship program responds to my DAS 142 submission?
If no program dispatches an apprentice, you must document your outreach. Save emails, fax receipts, and letters as proof of your effort to comply. This protects you in case of an audit.
Q2: Do subcontractors need to submit a DAS 142 too?
Yes. Any subcontractor performing work in an apprenticeable trade on a public project must submit a separate DAS 142 notification form.
Q3: Can I reuse a DAS 142 form for future projects?
No. Each public works project requires its own submission. Forms must be updated with current project details and sent anew to relevant programs.
Conclusion: Be Proactive, Stay Compliant
Understanding the DAS 142 form isn’t just good practice—it’s a requirement that can make or break your eligibility for public works contracts in California. Submitting this form accurately and on time helps you avoid fines, maintain a steady flow of skilled apprentices, and build your company’s reputation as a compliant and reliable contractor.
By working with Associated Builders & Contractors, you gain access to tools, resources, and expertise that simplify compliance and ensure your team is set up for success. Don’t wait until you’re in trouble to take it seriously. Start today—understand the form, follow best practices, and keep your projects moving forward with confidence.
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