ADM 140 Form – The ADM 140 Form, officially known as the Language Access Complaint Form, is a vital tool provided by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for individuals who experience language or communication barriers while accessing DMV services. Whether you’re limited English proficient (LEP) or need assistance in another language, this form ensures your concerns are heard and addressed under California law.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything about the ADM 140 Form, including its purpose, how to complete it, where to submit it, and a direct link to download the ADM 140 PDF. This article is based exclusively on official, current sources from the California DMV website (updated as of the 2024 revision).
What Is the ADM 140 Form?
The ADM 140 Form is the Language Access Complaint Form issued by the California DMV. It allows customers to formally report situations where the DMV was unable to provide adequate services due to language barriers or other communication issues.
Revised in February 2024 (ADM 140 REV. 2/2024), this two-page form helps the DMV improve its language access services in compliance with state requirements. It is available in English and multiple translated versions, including Armenian, Chinese, Farsi, Hindi, Punjabi, and others.
Purpose of the ADM 140 Language Access Complaint Form
The primary purpose of the ADM 140 Form is to document and resolve complaints related to:
- Lack of bilingual staff
- Absence of interpreter services
- Missing translated forms or materials
- No signage about available language assistance
- Any other communication barriers that prevented equal access to DMV programs and services
By filing this form, you help the DMV fulfill its commitment to providing equal access for all customers, including those who are limited English proficient (LEP) or non-English speaking.
Who Should Use the ADM 140 Form?
You should file an ADM 140 Language Access Complaint Form if:
- You visited a DMV office, called, emailed, or corresponded with the DMV and encountered language-related difficulties
- You needed assistance in a specific language (such as Spanish, Mandarin, Vietnamese, Korean, or American Sign Language) but did not receive it
- You believe the DMV failed to provide reasonable accommodations for your language needs
The form is designed for anyone—individuals, families, or representatives—experiencing barriers at any DMV location or through any service channel (in-person, phone, email, or mail).
How to Fill Out and Submit the ADM 140 Form?
Submitting the ADM 140 Form is straightforward and free. Here is a complete step-by-step guide based on the official form instructions.
Step-by-Step Guide to Completing the ADM 140 Form
- Section 1 – Complaint Process: Review the instructions. No action needed here except reading the mailing address.
- Section 2 – Contact Information:
- Provide your first name, last name, street address, city, state, and ZIP code
- Enter your phone number and email address
- Select your preferred method of contact (telephone, mail, or email)
- Section 3 – Complaint Details:
- Enter the date of the incident
- Check the method of contact (In Person, Telephone, Email, Correspondence, or Other)
- Select the language you needed assistance with (options include Armenian, Cantonese, Hindi, Korean, Mandarin, Punjabi, Spanish, Tagalog, Vietnamese, American Sign Language, or Other)
- Check all applicable language access or communication barrier issues
- If the incident occurred at a DMV office, provide the location address
- Write a clear description of the incident (include dates, times, locations, and staff involved if known)
- Sign and Date (if required by your circumstances) and mail the completed form.
Mailing Address (current as of 2024 revision):
Department of Motor Vehicles
Attn: Bilingual Coordinator, Language Access Complaint Form
2415 1st Avenue, MS F115
Sacramento, CA 95818
There is no online submission option—complaints must be mailed.
Direct Download: Official ADM 140 Form PDF
Download the latest ADM 140 Language Access Complaint Form PDF here:
https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/uploads/2024/08/ADM-140-R2-2024-ASB-WWW-8.6.2024.pdf
This is the official, most current English version directly from the California DMV. Translated versions are also available on the DMV Forms page.
DMV Language Services Policy
The California DMV follows the Dymally-Alatorre Bilingual Services Act. The department is fully committed to providing equal access to all programs and services. Services are delivered in a culturally sensitive manner using bilingual staff, translated materials, and contracted interpreters as needed.
Privacy Information and Your Rights
All information on the ADM 140 Form is optional. The DMV collects it solely to improve language access services under the Dymally-Alatorre Act. Your data is protected under the California Information Practices Act, California Public Records Act, and other privacy laws. You have the right to review and correct your personal information.
For form-related questions, contact:
Office of Civil Rights and Resolution
2415 1st Avenue, MS F115
Sacramento, CA 95818
Email: [email protected]
Escalating Your Complaint: California Department of Human Resources (CalHR)
If the DMV does not adequately address your language access request after filing ADM 140, you may escalate to the California Department of Human Resources (CalHR) Bilingual Services Program by calling (866) 889-3278. This connects you to a multilingual voicemail system for further resolution.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About ADM 140 Form
Is the ADM 140 Form free?
Yes. There is no cost to download or submit the form.
Can I submit the form online?
No. The form must be printed, completed, and mailed to the Sacramento address.
Are there versions in other languages?
Yes. The DMV provides the ADM 140 Form in multiple languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Armenian, Korean, and more. Visit the official DMV Forms page for translated PDFs.
How long does it take for the DMV to respond?
The DMV aims to address complaints promptly, but response times vary. Follow up using your preferred contact method if needed.
What if my language is not listed?
Select “Other Language” and specify your needs in the description section.
Conclusion
The ADM 140 Form plays a critical role in ensuring fair and accessible service at the California DMV for all residents, regardless of language proficiency. By using this official Language Access Complaint Form, you contribute to better services statewide while protecting your rights under the Dymally-Alatorre Bilingual Services Act.
Download your copy today and submit your complaint if you’ve experienced any language barriers at the DMV. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer directly to the California DMV website.