Introduction
In the construction industry, compliance with state labor laws and regulations is not just good practice—it’s a legal requirement. For contractors and subcontractors working on public works projects in California, two important forms often come into play: das 142 and DAS 140. While both are linked to apprenticeship requirements, they serve very different purposes. Unfortunately, many contractors confuse the two, which can lead to costly delays, penalties, or even disqualification from projects.
In this guide, we’ll break down DAS 142 vs. DAS 140 in simple, clear terms, explain why both matter, and help you ensure you remain compliant while keeping your projects on track.
Understanding DAS 142 and Its Role
DAS 142 is an official form issued by the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS). This form is essentially a request for dispatch of apprentices from an approved apprenticeship program.
When a contractor is awarded a public works project, California law requires a certain percentage of work hours to be performed by registered apprentices. The DAS 142 is the document you submit to formally request these apprentices from an applicable apprenticeship program in your project’s trade.
When You Need DAS 142
You must file a DAS 142 before you employ apprentices on a project. Typically, it’s submitted at least 72 hours before apprentices are needed on site, excluding weekends and holidays. The form is not optional—failure to submit it can result in non-compliance with state labor codes.
Key Details on DAS 142
A proper DAS 142 submission includes:
- The name and address of the public works awarding body
- The specific trade or craft needed
- The location of the job site
- The start date and duration of apprentice employment
- Contact information for coordination
By submitting DAS 142 in a timely manner, you’re officially notifying the apprenticeship committee of your needs, ensuring a legal and qualified apprentice is dispatched to your site.
Understanding DAS 140 and Its Role
While DAS 142 is a request form for apprentices, DAS 140 is more of a notification document. This form is used to inform approved apprenticeship programs that you’ve been awarded a public works contract that will require apprentices.
The DAS 140 is essentially a courtesy and compliance document—it doesn’t request apprentices directly but notifies apprenticeship programs that there is potential need for them. This form is typically submitted within 10 days of signing the prime contract or within 10 days of subcontract award.
What Goes on a DAS 140
The DAS 140 includes:
- Your company’s contact details
- The awarding agency’s information
- Description of the project
- Estimated dates and apprentice needs (if known)
It’s worth noting that submitting DAS 140 is mandatory for all public works projects in California, even if you already have your own registered apprenticeship program or do not plan to request apprentices through the program.
DAS 142 vs. DAS 140: The Core Differences
Although these two forms are closely related, their purposes are distinct. Here’s a clear breakdown:
FeatureDAS 142DAS 140PurposeRequests apprentices for a projectNotifies apprenticeship programs about a projectWhen to SubmitAt least 72 hours before apprentices are neededWithin 10 days of contract awardRecipientApprenticeship program dispatch officeApprenticeship committees or programsOutcomeApprentices are dispatched to your sitePrograms are aware of your project and potential needs
| Feature | DAS 142 | DAS 140 |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Requests apprentices for a project | Notifies apprenticeship programs about a project |
| When to Submit | At least 72 hours before apprentices are needed | Within 10 days of contract award |
| Recipient | Apprenticeship program dispatch office | Apprenticeship committees or programs |
| Outcome | Apprentices are dispatched to your site | Programs are aware of your project and potential needs |
Why Confusion Happens
Contractors often confuse these two forms because both deal with apprenticeships and public works compliance. However, thinking one replaces the other can result in non-compliance. In reality, both forms are required in many cases to meet California’s strict labor laws.
Legal Importance of Compliance
California’s public works apprenticeship requirements are governed by the California Labor Code and enforced by the Division of Apprenticeship Standards. Failure to submit DAS 142 or DAS 140 on time can result in:
- Monetary penalties
- Withholding of contract payments
- Disqualification from bidding on future public works projects
- Damaged reputation with awarding agencies
These forms protect not just compliance but also the broader mission of promoting apprenticeship programs, which are critical for developing skilled tradespeople.
Best Practices for Managing DAS 142 and DAS 140
1. Know Your Deadlines
Mark deadlines for both forms as soon as you are awarded a contract. Late submissions are one of the most common compliance failures.
2. Submit Both Forms When Required
Even if you think your DAS 140 will “cover” your needs, remember that DAS 142 is the only form that actually triggers the dispatch of apprentices.
3. Keep Copies of All Submissions
Maintain electronic and paper records of your DAS 140 and DAS 142 submissions in case of an audit or dispute.
4. Coordinate with Your Project Manager
Make sure your project management team understands the differences between these forms so they can track them correctly.
Common Mistakes Contractors Make
Misunderstanding the Purpose
Some contractors mistakenly believe that once they submit DAS 140, apprentices will automatically be sent. This is not true—you still need to submit DAS 142 to get apprentices dispatched.
Submitting Late
Delays in submission can leave you without apprentices on the scheduled start date, which can slow project timelines and violate labor laws.
Sending to the Wrong Program
You must send your forms to apprenticeship programs approved for your specific trade in the county where the work will be performed.
How Associated Builders & Contractors Inc. Can Help
At Associated Builders & Contractors Inc., we guide contractors through the entire public works compliance process, ensuring you meet every requirement from DAS 142 and DAS 140 submissions to certified payroll reporting. Our team understands how overwhelming compliance can be, and we make it easier by providing:
- Step-by-step instructions for completing both forms
- Direct contact with approved apprenticeship programs
- Compliance tracking tools to help you stay ahead of deadlines
We’ve helped countless contractors avoid costly mistakes and maintain a spotless compliance record.
Conclusion
When it comes to public works projects in California, both DAS 142 and DAS 140 are critical for apprenticeship compliance—but they are not interchangeable. The DAS 140 notifies apprenticeship programs about your project, while the DAS 142 actually requests apprentices to be dispatched to your job site. Failing to understand the difference can lead to compliance issues, project delays, and penalties. By knowing exactly when and how to file each form, you can keep your projects on track, maintain your eligibility for future bids, and contribute to the development of skilled tradespeople in your industry.
