CONNECT Provider Portal Resources and Information
The DBHDS CONNECT Provider Portal is a secure, paperless platform that enables providers and applicants to manage every aspect of the licensing process. Through the portal, authorized users can submit new applications and license modifications, track application status, renew licenses, respond to corrective action plans, review background check outcomes, and communicate directly with DBHDS Licensing staff in a secure environment.
CONNECT Help
Please allow up to two business days for the Help Desk staff to respond to your issue.
Provider Training and Regulatory Technical Assistance
New CONNECT Provider Portal Help Desk Protocols (April 2022)
Provider Search
Use the DBHDS Provider Search System to find licensed providers by using a range of search criteria.
Subscribe to Email List
Subscribe to receive the latest licensing news and updates directly in your inbox.
Regulations and Guidance
Pending Exempt Action
The State Board of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services approved this Exempt Action to amend 12VAC35-105 to incorporate federal mobile Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) requirements into Virginia regulations. For more information about exempt regulatory actions, please visit the Virginia Regulatory Town Hall website.
Regulations
Rules and Regulations For Licensing Providers by DBHDS (12VAC35‑105)
Regulations for Children’s Residential Facilities (12VAC35-46)
Regulatory Reduction Actions Effective 6/19/25
PowerPoint – General Regulatory Reduction Actions (12VAC35-105)
Recorded Presentation – General Regulatory Reduction Actions (12VAC35-105)
PowerPoint – Children’s Regulatory Reduction Actions (12VAC35-46)
Recorded Presentation – Children’s Regulatory Reduction Actions (12VAC35-46)
Regulatory Guidance
LIC 16: Guidance for A Quality Improvement Program (November 2020)
LIC 17: Guidance for Serious Incident Reporting (November 2020)
LIC 18: Individuals with Developmental Disabilities with High Risk Health Conditions (June 2020 )
LIC 19: Corrective Action Plans (CAPs) (August 2020)
LIC 20: Guidance on Incident Reporting Requirements (August 2020)
LIC 21: Guidance for Risk Management (August 2020)
Initial Applicants
The Initial Applicant section provides step-by-step instructions and resources to help prospective providers successfully complete the licensing process.
The DBHDS CONNECT Provider Portal is a secure online system that gives applicants access to their information and enables direct communication with DBHDS Licensing staff regarding applications.
DBHDS is currently prioritizing the review of initial applications for services most needed across the Commonwealth. Applicants should carefully review the current Prioritization List of licensed services and the Application Document Matrix, which outlines the documents required for submission.
In a memo issued by DBHDS, effective November 7, 2025, any applicant submitting a new application for a Priority 1 or Priority 2 service must:
Complete the DBHDS Initial Applicant Orientation Training; and
Successfully complete the proctored Comprehensive Knowledge Exam with a score of 85% or higher.
Initial Applicant Orientation Training Resources
Instructional Guidance: Initial Applicant Orientation Training
Initial Applicant Orientation Quick Links
Initial Applicant Orientation Checklist (to be submitted to the Office of Licensing)
2026 Comprehensive Knowledge Exam Dates – Initial Applicant Orientation Training (February 2026)
Once submitted, applications will be placed on the waitlist. To view your status, log into the DBHDS CONNECT Provider Portal and select View Application Waitlist. Please note that applications may not be processed in chronological order, as state initiatives may shift prioritization in the review process.
Additional Initial Applicants Resources
Resources related to health inspections conducted by the Virginia Department of Health (VDH)
Please contact VDH directly with any questions related to the resources
These resources are intended for use by those applicants who serve food and need to determine if they should contact VDH for a health inspection.
Home and Community Based Services (HCBS)
Home and community-based services (HCBS) provide opportunities for individuals to receive Medicaid waiver services in their own home or community rather than in institutions or other isolated settings. Providers of group homes, sponsored residential, supervised living, and group day services available in a Developmental Disabilities (DD) waiver must demonstrate full compliance with HCBS settings requirement in ALL settings in order to receive reimbursement for services. (42 CFR Part 430, 431). New providers are required to review the HCBS Toolkit to help develop your HCBS policies. Providers must also submit their HCBS policies to: hcbscomments@dmas.virginia.gov for internal review prior to enrolling with Medicaid as a DD waiver provider and in order to receive reimbursement for services.
For additional information: Department of Medical Assistance Services
New Providers HCBS Overview: Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Settings Rule
New Settings Guidance: CMS Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Regulations: Developmental Disability (DD) Waivers
If you have additional questions related to HCBS please contact: hcbscomments@dmas.virginia.gov
Training and Regulatory Technical Assistance
DBHDS offers training and regulatory technical assistance on topics such as
- Crisis Services
- Quality Improvement
- Risk Management
- Behavioral Health Enhancement
- ASAM
- CHRIS and Serious Incident Reporting
- Mortality Review Committee
Contact Information
P.O. Box 1797, Richmond, VA 23218
Office (804) 786-1747
Fax (804) 692-0066
Office of Licensing Staff Contact Information
OL Website Index
The OL Website Index is a tool that can be used to search for documents/resources located on the OL website. Users can download the index and filter by topic area, diagnosis group and/or date then click on the hyperlink to view each document/resource. An updated version of the OL Website Index is published at least semi-annually.
FOIA
The Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), located § 2.2-3700 et. seq. of the Code of Virginia, guarantees citizens of the Commonwealth and representatives of the media access to public records held by public bodies, public officials, and public employees. A FOIA request is required for information regarding closed providers.
Complaints
DBHDS values the citizens of Virginia and appreciates the input provided by community members and service providers. DBHDS is committed to delivering the highest quality of service to all stakeholders. Concerns and complaints will be handled promptly and in accordance with established procedures.
