Texas Voc Rehab- Service Animal

What Is Vocational Rehabilitation?

Vocational rehabilitation (VR) services help people with disabilities prepare for, find and keep jobs. The Texas Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) is the state agency responsible for the delivery of the VR program in Texas. Within DARS is the Division for Rehabilitation Services (DRS). This division provides VR services. You may be eligible for services, depending upon how your disability interferes with work. VR Counselors will assist you to make informed choices of services, service providers and an employment goal to help you go to work. How Do I Apply? To apply for VR services, call, write or visit the DARS Division for Rehabilitation Services office nearest you and request an appointment to meet with a counselor. If you need help locating a DRS office in your area, you may call the DARS Inquiries Line at 1-800-628-5115. When you contact the local office, please let us know if you need translator services or other accommodations for your appointment. You may also find a list of local offices at www.dars.state.tx.us.

What Kind of Services are Available?

 Vocational rehabilitation services are provided to help bridge the gap between you and meaningful employment. Some examples of services are training, counseling, surgery, artificial arms and legs, hearing aids, transportation, sign language interpreters, on-the-job supports and help finding a job. You probably won’t need all of these services and there may be other services that you need that are not on this list. You will get only those services that will help you reach your employment goal. Your counselor will provide you with information about available options and alternatives in selecting the services you need for successful employment. 
Some Examples of Services Provided
Vocational Counseling and Guidance
Job Placement Services
Home Retrofitting
Supported Employment Services
Training
Rehab Technology
Sign Language Interpreters
Therapy
Surgery
Service Animals
***All consumers need to use comparable benefits for services, such as the VA, TWC,
GI Bill, Hazelwood Act, Pell Grant, ATCIC (MHMR), Medicare, etc. as DARS is the payer
of last resort.
 

Requirements to Use Service Animals

You may use a service animal with protection under state and federal law only if you are a person with any of the following disabilities:

  • Mental health condition
  • Physical disability
  • Intellectual or developmental disability
  • Hearing impairment, including deafness
  • Visual impairment, including blindness
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder
  • Any other condition that requires special ambulatory devices or services

Eligibility

Career Phase:
Discharges Allowed:
  • No Minimum Discharge
Military Branch:
Programs for Family Members:
Service Counties:
  • Virtual - Online Only
Services Category:
  • MH - PTSD
  • MH - Service Animals
VA Disability Rating Requirement:
  • No Disability Requirement
Vet Plus:
  • Combat Wounded